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Game preview: The Rangers take on a resurgent Devils squad

By Steve Paulus

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 09: Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers checks Nico Hischier #13 of the New Jersey Devils during the first period at Madison Square Garden on January 09, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 09: Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers checks Nico Hischier #13 of the New Jersey Devils during the first period at Madison Square Garden on January 09, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers . (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers . (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

Game three of the pandemic season features the New York Rangers taking on the New Jersey Devils who have yet to lose a game in regulation.  The Rangers are coming off a dominant bounceback win against the Islanders while the Devils split a series with the Boston Bruins, losing one game in a shootout and winning the second in overtime.

In a season that promises to be a series of tests for this young Rangers team, this game is another one.  The Blueshirts are expected to finish ahead of New Jersey in the standings, but don’t tell the Devils that.  For the Rangers, this will be a test of their ability to be consistent instead of the erratic team that started last season.

A COVID-19 game postponement

It’s doesn’t affect the Rangers, but tonight’s game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Nashville Predators has been postponed.   Here is the official statement from the NHL:  “The decision was made out of an abundance of caution to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and game day personnel and in consultation with medical experts.”

The Central Division has been the only one affected by the pandemic.  The Dallas Stars have yet to play a game, with their first four postponed when 17 members of the team tested positive.

So far, the only Ranger still out of action due to the pandemic is prospect Justin Richards.

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