For the last time this year, the New York Rangers will suit up in their jerseys and take to the ice.
While most National Hockey League fans have the playoffs to look forward to, Rangers fans do not. Instead, those that choose to watch will turn their attention to the Blueshirts' final game of the season — this time against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Here's three things to watch out for during the Rangers' last game of the year.
3. The Future of the Rangers
With the postseason officially out of the question for the Rangers, a lot of young talent has seen more action than normal. For instance, Blueshirt fans have seen the return of 19-year-old Gabe Perreault, more time on ice for Brennan Othmann and 22-year-old Matt Rempe's first multi-point game in his career.
Additionally, AHL regular Matthew Robertson also saw his league debut come against the Florida Panthers.
This trend is only expected to continue in the last game of the year and throughout the offseason.
2. Igor Shesterkin in Net
As revealed by New York Rangers Head Coach Peter Laviolette, the regular starting goaltender Igor Shesterkin will be getting the nod for the Blueshirts during the Thursday night contest. This is predicted, as not only is it the Rangers' final matchup of the year but they are also seeking to avoid the sweep by the Lightning (5-1, April 7th and 6-2, Dec. 28th).
The Russian goaltender currently has five shutouts out of his 26 wins throughout the 2024-25 NHL season. He also boasts a .917 career save percentage.
1. Will Artemi Panarin see Action?
The New York Post's Mollie Walker, asked Laviolette about the recent alleged sexual assault claim and settlement and whether it would impact Artemi Panarin's playing time against Tampa Bay. According to Katie Strang with The Athletic, New York Rangers team-leader Artemi Panarin allegedly sexually assaulted a Rangers' employee last year.
While Laviolette did not reveal much, one has to think that the Rangers franchise wouldn't want to close out the year with heavy boos overflowing towards the ice and/or Panarin specifically.
If the Rangers have any morals left, they'll keep Panarin off the ice today
— SmithBriniGrafLund (@2MINIHULK) April 17, 2025
How to Tune In
Puck drop at Madison Square Garden is slated for the last time this season at 7:00 P.M. EST. The contest is available locally on MSG Networks, for streaming via ESPN+ and Fubo and be sure to tune into our Twitter for live updates.