New York Rangers: Storylines to watch out for in Carolina opener

1. Battle of the Goaltenders

Yes, we’re starting with an obvious one but this will continue to be a huge talking point until a decision is made prior to puck drop.

Just who will get the start in goal for the New York Rangers?

Rewind a year ago and the mere thought that Henrik Lundqvist wouldn’t be the answer to the above question would be unthinkable, mainly because I don’t think anyone expected the Blueshirts to be here right now.

But throw in the emergence of future King of MSG, Igor Shesterkin, and you can understand why a previous certainty is now anything but.

To be honest, you could make a strong argument that the Rangers do have an undisputed starter but it is the Prince rather than the King who should go in Game 1 against the Canes.

After all, Shesterkin has cleared every obstacle in his young career so far, thriving in every situation and absolutely lighting up the NHL.

The phenom is 10-2-0 in 12 starts with a 2.52 GAA and a .932 SV% in his rookie year and is very much the future of this franchise, although the 24-year-old looks set to be the present too.

There is a significant caveat to consider, however.

And that is Lundqvist’s stellar resume when it comes to facing the Hurricanes, against whom the veteran has absolutely excelled.

Or, to put it more bluntly, Lundqvist absolutely owns Carolina.

He is an impressive 33-12-1 with a 2.00 Goals Against Average and a .934 Save Percentage in his career against the Canes, while Lundqvist also ruled the day against the same opponents this year.

Let’s not forget either that Lundqvist boasts a wealth of postseason experience, and that could prove crucial in a Best-of-Five series.

But Shesterkin is the rising star and it does seem likely that the long-term heir to the throne will start Game 1, with Lundqvist a luxury fallback option if one is needed.