In what is sure to be a tough matchup, the New York Rangers are currently in Texas ahead of their rapidly approaching Dec. 20th matchup against the Dallas Stars.
The Stars currently boast a record of 19-12-0, most recently coming off a 5-3 loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs. New York's record leaves much to be desired when compared to the Stars. The Rangers are currently 15-15-1 — having now lost three in a row and five of their last six games. They are 3-11-0 in their last 14 games.
But, changes have recently been made to try and rectify the situation.
We've seen former captain Jacob Trouba traded to the Ducks, and most recently, Kaapo Kakko traded to Seattle in exchange for draft picks and defenseman Will Borgen.
But records, recent matchups and roster changes aside, Mason Marchment is obviously the opposing team's player to watch ahead of the Friday night matchup.
Mason Marchment
Dallas Stars' left wing Marchment exited Wednesday's game against Toronto in the third period due to an unspecified injury. He has since been deemed a game-time decision for play against the Rangers.
Should he see action on the ice, the Canada native is currently one of the Stars offensive leaders.
Marchment has tallied 27 points for the 2024-25 campaign so far, only behind teammate Matt Duchene with 30. His 27 points are combined between 15 assists and 12 goals across 30 games played (+11) .
With fan-favorite enforcer Matt Rempe being recalled from Hartford and deemed to see play in Dallas, Marchment would likely be who Rempe faces off with on the ice should a fight take place.
Rempe said to the New York Post's Mollie Walker post morning skate that he intends to be a menace on the Texas ice.
"“I want to be myself, bring a lot of energy, bring speed, physicality — just play my game. Bring some youthful energy and try to do the best I can do. Go have fun, play hard, get under other team’s skin. Try to be a menace. Be good.”"Matt Rempe, Dec. 20th post morning skate
Marchment is the Stars biggest player on their roster. He is 6'5" and weighs 212 pounds. Rempe is also the biggest player on New York's roster — being listed as 6'9", 255 pounds.
Should Marchment be unavailable for play against the Rangers, Rempe would likely face off against the next biggest guys on the team — either Okar Back (6'4", 202 lb), Jamie Benn (6'3", 206 lb), or Roope Hintz (6'3", 213 lb).
How to Tune In
Puck drop for the Stars hosting the Rangers is slated for 8:00 p.m. EST, tonight — Friday, Dec. 20. The game will be streamed via ESPN+ and be sure to tune into our Twitter for live updates.