Rivalries are made, not born. The rivalry could be based on location or recent playoff meetings. For the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils, it’s a rivalry that started back in 1982. Memorable moments provided to the tri-state from the rivalry. Rather it was in the regular season or the playoffs.
For years the Devils had successful runs in the playoffs. Starting with their goaltender Martin Brodeur and their three Stanley Cup Championships in 1994-95, 1999-00 and 2002-03.
Single season success adds to a rivalry. The Rangers have had success against the Devils in the 237 meetings (113-89-27-8). Yes, the 27 represents ties.
It wasn’t until after the lockout the Rangers found their future goaltender. For the years to follow, the Rangers and Devils matchups turned into a Henrik Lundqvist and Brodeur showdown. Both goaltenders were proving that teams could rely on their netminders.
With the Metropolitan Division being as tight as it is, every point counts. The Rangers head across the Hudson River to take on the Devils tonight. With that in mind, here are the top five in Henrik Lundqvist’s career against the Devils.