Who is the player to watch against the New York Islanders?

The Battle of New York returns, with the New York Rangers slated to travel to UBS Arena in Elmont on Tuesday evening.

According to moneypuck.com, the Rangers have around a 44% chance of making the playoffs via a Wild Card spot. Following the break in play due to the 4 Nations Face-Off, the Blueshirts suffered an embarrassing loss on the road at Buffalo and followed it up with a win against last place Pittsburgh.

The Rangers' record now improves to 28-25-4 compared to the Islanders 25-24-7. Though the Islanders are in fact coming off a 4-3 loss against the Dallas Stars.

Records and recent matchups aside, Anders Lee is obviously the opposing team's player to watch ahead of the Feb. 25th game.

Anders Lee

Left wing and captain Lee was named the 15th captain in Islanders history Oct. 4, 2018 and led them to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, finishing the season with 51 points (28 goals, 23 assists) in 82 games. He is a six-time King Clancy finalist and the third Islanders player to win the award.

On the season he is currently tied with Bo Horvat for the team-leader, both with 41 points. Lee's are across 23 goals and 8 points in 56 games of action (+15).

Off the ice, Lee won the 2024 King Clancy Memorial Trophy presented annually to the NHL player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community. As winner, he received a $25,000 donation to benefit the charity or charities of his choice. Among the charities he's helped is the Jam Kancer in the Kan Foundation, hosting events to help raise money in the fight against cancer.

Lee has played for the Islanders his entire career. The Minnesota native was drafted as the No. 152 overall pick in the 2009 draft. He has been active with the New York franchise ever since 2012 and will certainly get enjoyment in playing against a fellow New York franchise such as the Rangers.

How to Tune In

Puck drop is set for 7:30 p.m. EST in Long Island for the Tuesday night contest. The matchup will be available for streaming via ESPN+.