After winning the first two games of the road trip, the New York Rangers return to action tonight against the Calgary Flames. Calgary (10-6-3) is off to a hot start this season and is coming off a 2-1 shootout win over the Islanders.
With the win in Vancouver, New York has won three in a row and six out of eight. It looks to keep the ball rolling and secure a winning record on the road trip.
Here's three Rangers to watch tonight:
1. Mika Zibanejad
In Vancouver, Zibanejad had his best 5v5 game of the season. It was only the fourth time since his new contract kicked in that he recorded both a goal and assist at 5v5. The assist was a big one, coming on a beautiful passing play that Chris Kreider buried, giving New York the 4-3 lead.
The line of Zibanejad, Kreider and Reilly Smith played their best game at even strength this season, and they look to build on it tonight. It starts with Zibanejad, who is obviously the main playmaker on the line. If they're able to continue connecting, New York is a much better hockey team.
2. Will Cuylle
Cuylle has 14 points (six goals, eight assists) in 17 games this season after having only 21 all of last season. He's going to shatter his career-high point total, and the way he's playing, he might break it by the end of November.
What's been most impressive for the 22-year-old is his 200-foot game, and on Tuesday night against the Canucks, he made a hit then a few seconds later finished a breakaway goal. Each game, Cuylle continues to improve and that's huge for the Rangers.
Assuming Filip Chytil returns soon, the line of Cuylle, Chytil and Kaapo Kakko should continue producing. Even with Johnny Brodzinski replacing Chytil the past few games, the line has been one of the top in the league.
3. Artemi Panarin
The Breadman was held scoreless for the second time this season against the Canucks, and if his play indicates anything, he should get back on the scoresheet tonight. Though two other lines played exceptionally against Vancouver, Panarin, Vincent Trocheck and Alexis Lafreniere is still the most dangerous line the Blueshirts have.
Panarin has went four games without a goal, but he's been shooting the puck. Look for this line to produce over the next few games.