Three Rapid Takeaways from the Rangers' 5-0 Loss Against New Jersey

Monday afternoon saw another unfortunate loss for the New York Rangers in the return of the Battle of the Hudson River.

In New Jersey, the Rangers quickly lost control and fell to the Devils — 5-0. New York (16-17-1) has now lost 13 of their last 17 games.

While there isn't much good to be discussed, let's take a look at three rapid takeways from the afternoon matchup.

1. The Chris Kreider Scratch

At the Prudential Center, veteran Chris Kreider was designated a health scratch ahead of the game. It was his first healthy scratch of the year.

While the decision certainly made waves across the news cycle and social media given the fact that Kreider is New York's longest-tenured player — it is worth mentioning that he ranks eighth on the Rangers with 12 points, has scored just once in the last nine games.

"At the end of the day, we're not playing a brand that we need to play in order to be successful," head coach Peter Laviolette said postgame on the Kreider scratch. "He's a guy that we count on to help deliver that. For me, those conversations aren't easy, but that's the decision that I made today."

2. Livvy Dunne in Attendance

Social media sensation and Louisiana State University gymnast Olivia "Livvy" Dunne attended the Battle of the Hudson River and witnessed the Rangers get absolutely crushed.

Dunne is a Westwood, New Jersey native and attended the game in a custom Stadium Series Devils Jersey. She previously trained at ENA in Paramus growing up.

3. The Hughes Video Postgame

Devils superstar center Jack Hughes was the No. 1 draft pick in 2019 — going to the New Jersey devils.

The New York Rangers had the second pick of the draft. They opted instead for Kaapo Kakko who has since been traded to the Seattle Kraken.

At the time of the draft, Rangers fans cheered across Madison Square Garden when Kakko's name was called.

Following the 5-0 loss, the Devils chose to play a video depicting that specific event — with Hughes looking on with a smile.

Up Next

Following the brief holiday break, let's hope the Rangers can get back on track when they travel to Tampa Bay to take on the Lightning (currently 18-11-2). Puck drop is slated for 7:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, Dec. 28.