The New York Rangers are set to host the Pittsburgh Penguins in an important Metropolitan Division clash on Friday night. In the two meetings between the rival teams this season, the Rangers have emerged victorious both times.
Here's three ways the Rangers can keep their perfect record against the Penguins?
1. Win the First Period
One of the keys to victory all season for the Blueshirts has been to win the first 20 minutes of the game. When leading after the first period, the Rangers have played to the tune of a 15-2-2 record. Last season, New York mastered the comeback. Almost every game felt within reach, no matter the score or situation. On the other side of the coin, this year the Penguins have been vulnerable when ahead, losing 13 games after having a lead.
2. Win the Special Teams Battle
The Rangers and Penguins are inverse of each other on special teams. Pittsburgh has the sixth ranked power play and 17th penalty kill, while New York has the No. 6 ranked penalty kill and 19th power play. Whichever team has the man advantage will be tasked with breaking an evenly matched unit. The Rangers' powerplay was given a boost with the addition of J.T. Miller, who has been impressive in his first handful of games back on Broadway. As he becomes more comfortable and further develops chemistry with players like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, the Rangers should see their fortunes improve on the man advantage. Pittsburgh's average penalty kill presents a strong opportunity for the New York power play to find their groove.
3. Attack Pittsburgh in Deep
Earlier this week, the Penguins dealt defenseman Marcus Pettersson to the Vancouver Canucks. While they still have stars such as Erik Karlsson and Kris Letang on their blueline, these aging offensive behemoths are mortal in their own end. Players like Miller, Will Cullye, and perhaps even Matt Rempe will be key for the Rangers. Their ability to dump the puck behind Pittsburgh's net and attack will be incedibly valuable in a game featuring a weak Penguin defense corp.
The Rangers have a favorable matchup against a depleted Pittsburgh team that could be without Sidney Crosby. Playoff teams win games like this. It's time for the New York to prove it.