The New York Rangers are looking for a win to move them up from being tied for last place in the Metropolitan Division with a win in a Saturday night matchup in Tampa Bay. Before we look at the top 3 keys to victory in the Blueshirts' return to the ice after the holiday break, here's how to watch the epic matchup.
- Date: 12/28/24
- Time: 6:00 p.m. EST
- Where: Amalie Arena
- Betting Odds: The Rangers are 11-23 against the spread, while the Lightning are 17-15 against the odds. Moreover, the Rangers are 8-9 against the spread on the road, while the Lightning are 8-8 against the odds at home. The Rangers are 14-19-1 against the over/under, while the Lightning are 14-14-4 against the over/under.
- Live Streaming: fuboTV has live NHL games on ESPN which you can stream from your phone, television, and all your favorite devices. The game will also be available on ESPN+.
1. More Success from Artemi Panarin
Left winger Artemi Panarin is currently the team-leader for the Rangers. The Breadman currently has 37 points on the 2024-25 campaign so far off of 15 goals and 22 assists.
Though, he has only played in 32 out of 34 games so far on the season (-7). Seeing Panarin produce more on a consistent basis on the ice against the Lightning would really make a win a lot easier.
2. A New Attitude
As previously mentioned, the Rangers are currently tied in last place in the division with the New York Islanders. They have 33 points as a result of a 16-17-1 record.
With Kaapo Kakko and Jacob Trouba gone, it's easy to figure that team morale is probably at an all-time low.
But following Friday's practice, head coach Peter Laviolette said to the media that despite the recent losses — the Rangers are still trying to remain fun and loose in the rink.
"I do think you need structure. I do think you need systems. you've got to bring some fun and some looseness back into the game as well," Laviolette said. "When it comes to open ice and attacking the game, the governor's off the golf cart. It's rip it and that's it"
3. More Saves from Shesterkin
Igor Shesterkin signed an eight-year, $92 million contract with the New York Rangers in early December. It has an average annual value of $11.5 million, making him the highest-paid goaltender in NHL history.
Shesterkin has started 25 games of the current season so far, boasting a .913 save percentage and 722 saves against 791 shots faced. Though, he only has one shutout on the year in addition to allowing 69 goals in total.
While he could certainly use more help across the ice and with his defensive line, more saves from Shesty in Tampa Bay would be an essential key to victory.