The New York Rangers’ strong performance on the road has contributed to their excellent start this season. Aiming for their first four consecutive road wins in over 90 years, the Rangers will seek to inflict a fourth straight defeat on the struggling Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night.
With a record of 4-0-1, their best start since 2008-09 when they began 5-0-0, the Rangers are the only team in the Eastern Conference yet to lose in regulation. They are also 3-0-0 on the road, matching their success from the 1931-32 season. Veteran forward Mika Zibanejad expressed confidence in the team’s potential, stating, “We trust that we have a good team in here, and I think everyone is ready to work every game.”
After a 4-1 win against Toronto on Saturday, the Rangers have outscored their three road opponents 15-3. Forward Reilly Smith noted, “Every game we’re taking steps in the right direction,” emphasizing the team’s commitment to improvement.
New York has gone 3-0-1 against Montreal since suffering a 2-1 loss at home in January 2023. Artemi Panarin has been particularly effective, scoring three goals and providing 15 assists during a nine-game point streak against the Canadiens. Zibanejad has tallied five points in five games this season and has performed well against Montreal recently.
On the other hand, the Canadiens have allowed one goal in their two victories but have conceded 20 goals in their four losses. Following a 4-3 shootout loss to the New York Islanders, they are currently on a 0-2-1 streak, having been outscored 14-7.
Despite these challenges, rising star Cole Caufield is among the league leaders with six goals in six games and recently scored twice in a game. Caufield acknowledged the need for improvement in the team’s overall game but praised their efforts on Saturday.
The Canadiens need to enhance their 5-on-5 performance, having allowed most goals during this situation, while their opponents are struggling on the power play at just 2-for-22.
In terms of goalkeeping, Montreal’s Sam Montembeault started strong with two wins but has since allowed eight goals in two losses. Meanwhile, Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin has had a solid season with a 3-0-1 record and one shutout, having saved 116 of 124 shots faced. Backup Jonathan Quick contributed as well, making 29 saves in a win against Detroit last Thursday.
