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Who do the New York Rangers want to play in the playoffs?

By Jake Mozarsky

Mar 4, 2022; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) celebrates a goal with center Mika Zibanejad (93) and left wing Alexis Lafrenire (13) against the New Jersey Devils during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2022; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) celebrates a goal with center Mika Zibanejad (93) and left wing Alexis Lafrenire (13) against the New Jersey Devils during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports /
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 19: Braden Schneider #45 of the New York Rangers skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Madison Square Garden on January 19, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

The Rangers could face these next two teams if they make it t the Eastern Conference Finals.  If it does happen, New York could face challenges, but they have the capability to overcome.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Look, the Leafs are loaded. Austin Matthews is playing like a Hart Trophy frontrunner. They have studs up and down the lineup. Their power play is also statistically the best in the league currently. I don’t think anyone would be happy about playing Toronto.

But, this team always finds a way to fold in the playoffs. Toronto will be haunted by the “not again” mantra, no matter who they play.

Also, the Rangers looked good against them in their three meetings (even the loss). New York matches up well against Toronto, and they have the fire power to send the Leafs’ home and keep Toronto’s Stanley Cup drought going.

Lastly, goaltending is Toronto’s biggest weakness. Jack Campbell started the season strong, but has cooled off, making a  major issue for Toronto. The Rangers should have the stability of Igor Shesterkin, and this matches up very well compared to whoever Toronto puts in the crease.

Florida Panthers

Florida is also an incredibly talented team. They have one of the top Art Ross candidates in Jonathan Huberdeau, a defense that is much improved and Sergei Bobrovsky has been good.

I don’t think the Rangers would want to play Florida, especially because of the talent Florida boasts. But, they have a few things that favor New York.

First, almost every game would be a home game. There are many Rangers fans in Florida, and in recent years they always show up to games and one can see all the blue in the stands. Second, New York played well in their three meetings against the Panthers this year, posting a 2-1 record, with both wins coming at home.

I do think if these teams meet, home ice will be more important than it seems.

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