Top 3 keys to victory for the Rangers against the Utah Hockey Club
The Rangers have gotten off to a great start, but can they maintain it? Here are three keys to beating the Utah Hockey Club.
The New York Rangers face off against the newly formed Utah Hockey Club on Saturday night, in the 2024-25 season home opener. After dismantling the Pittsburgh Penguins in their first game of the year, the Rangers look to continue their winning ways against a red-hot Utah team that seemingly has nothing to lose.
Let's break down three keys for a Rangers victory.
Continue settling in
The Rangers were excellent in their first game of the season. Every member of the team looked like they were already in mid-season form. Against this hot Utah team, they are going to need to continue settling in, just like they were against Pittsburgh.
The major key here is goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who was perfect in game one. He needs to be on his toes in this one, as Utah has scored the most goals on the year with 10, tying the Boston Bruins. Shesterkin will have his hands full with a sneaky-good team against him.
Utah is a good team
Utah is proving to be an excellent team this season. The former Arizona Coyotes have found new life in their re-brand to Utah. With a die-hard fan base already behind them, they are thriving off of their energy and solidifying themselves as a sleeper team that could make waves next May and June.
This is the first time these two teams are meeting in this circumstance. But, the Rangers were 2-0 against the Coyotes last season, and much of their did remain intact in the move. This should be an interesting match-up, as the eyes will be on the Blueshirts not being a fluke in game one.
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It's opening night at MSG
It does not get any better than this. Opening night, at the world's greatest arena, Madison Square Garden. The blue carpet will be packed before pre-game, the energy and vibes will be immaculate once the Rangers faithful attend their seats inside MSG, and the sound culminating from the 18,000 strong inside will help push the Rangers to a win.
The Rangers were 30-11 at home last season, and have to replicate that once again this season. If they want to make it back to the Stanley Cup playoffs and live up to the expectation of being favorites to win it all this year, they have to take care of the opposition at home.