New York Rangers’ fans are used to long-term rivalries with local teams like the New York Islanders and the New Jersey Devils. Could some new, unexpected conflicts with other teams arise this season?
Although the NHL season is practically always unpredictable, it’s definitely looking like a power shift could be occurring this season. A team that got swept in the first round defeated the defending Stanley Cup champions by nine goals.
The Vegas Golden Knights, predicted by many to finish last overall at the end of the season, won their first two games in regulation. The Nashville Predators made it to the Stanley Cup Final last year and fans expected them to continue their success, have yet to win a game. What does this mean for the New York Rangers?
Along with a power shift in the NHL comes new rivalries. Suddenly, playing certain teams won’t just be an automatic tally in the win column. This rings true especially for the New York Rangers, in a Metropolitan Division jam-packed with talented teams.
While the Rangers have made improvements over the offseason, the majority of the league has done the same thing. Whether it’s because of a traded player, one of the teams improving, or an outdoor game, the Rangers could be forming some new rivalries, and seeing some grow, in the upcoming season. Here are five teams that the Rangers’ rivalry with could grow this season.