Rangers at Islanders: Game Preview

Time: 7 PM

Location: Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Long Island, New York

One Last Time At The Barn

For possibly the last time ever, the Rangers will travel to “The Barn” to take on their hated rivals in the New York Islanders. The Rangers come off a thrilling overtime win against the Chicago Blackhawks. The Islanders also come off an overtime win as they beat the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Islanders are currently three points ahead of the Ranges and in the last battle of the season this maybe the most crucial battle in recent memory.

The Islanders and their fans have been floating on cloud nine this season. The team has been one of the best in the NHL and this has sparked a stronger following of the team. In their last season at the Coliseum, the team looks to go out with a bang before they head to Brooklyn and the Barclays Center. The team has been led by their two biggest stars, goalie Jaroslav Halak and captain John Tavares. These two have carried this team through the tough streches this season. The Islanders might get a boost after a game last night as forward Kyle Okposo may return from an eye injury. The Islanders need to win to create a bigger gap between them and the Rangers.

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The Rangers enter a must win game on Tuesday especially if they want to win the division. The Rangers have played unexpectedly well in the absence of star goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. Backup Cam Talbot has been stellar in goal and with his shutout in Chicago he showed the rest of the NHL that he can play at the highest level. Latest addition, Keith Yandle has played well since being acquired at the deadline. The team has also been helped by rookie Kevin Hayes. Hayes has brought size, scoring, and depth to this year’s Rangers team. The Rangers need to win to make a statement that they still own New York.

Key Players

Rangers: Dan Boyle, Defenseman- Dan Boyle has had a rough first season in New York. He has battled injuries, illness, and himself as he has struggled to stay on the ice for a consistent amount of time. Boyle had a great run in San Jose and when the Rangers signed the 39 year old they thought the production would continue. Well it has not turned out the way the Ranger has envisioned but Boyle can rewrite the script by producing when the team needs him the most,che playoff stretch.

Islanders: John Tavares, Forward- The captain of the Islanders has had a season to remember. Tavares has carried his team most of this season and as a result is being considered for the Hart Trophy. Tavares can help his legacy with the Islanders greats by beating the Rangers and getting to and winning the Stanley Cup Finals. Tavares has a lot of pressure on him and we will see how he reacts to this pressure during a crucial time of the season.

Predictions

Both teams are evenly matched which calls for a great game. This game should be another instant classic especially after a 6-5 Rangers comeback win the last time these two faced off. Both teams will have to work their power plays and they must have their forwards play quality defense in this contest. Expect another high scoring affair as the Rangers win this one 4-3 to pull within one point of the Islanders.

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