The New York Rangers started the season strong, scoring 31 goals in their first six games, but they encountered their first setback after a disappointing outing. After their least productive game of the season, the Rangers are looking to avoid back-to-back losses when they face the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday night.
New York enjoyed a 5-0-1 start, registering a minimum of four goals in each game—a franchise record for the best points streak at the beginning of a season. They had 14 players score goals during these matches, tying for the most in the league during that period. Their impressive start included victories over teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and two wins against the Detroit Red Wings.
However, their momentum was halted on Thursday with a 3-1 defeat to the Florida Panthers. This matchup was particularly notable as it was a rematch from last season’s Eastern Conference final, where the Panthers defeated the Rangers to secure the Stanley Cup. The Rangers’ performance against the Panthers mirrored their struggles from the postseason, with Alexis Lafreniere scoring the team’s only goal during the game, pulling them within one at 15:16 into the first period.
New York managed only 25 shots on goal, a season low, and failed to convert on four power play chances, prompting disappointment from coach Peter Laviolette, who acknowledged the team’s lack of energy and quickness compared to their opponents.
Meanwhile, the Ducks have struggled offensively in the Western Conference, having scored just 15 goals in their first six games. They are hoping to string together consecutive wins as they embark on a four-game road trip. After losing 4-1 to the Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim bounced back with a 3-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks. Troy Terry opened the scoring with a power play goal, extending his season’s tally to four while also achieving a five-game point streak. Leo Carlsson netted the game-winner on another power play shortly after the Sharks equalized.
Terry and Carlsson’s contributions marked Anaheim’s first power play goals of the season, ending their previous 0-for-17 streak. The Ducks recorded 40 shots against San Jose, significantly higher than their previous two games combined.
“I thought we skated well and played well for most of that game,” said Terry, emphasizing the team needed that victory heading into a tough road trip. Goaltender Lukas Dostal made 27 saves and is now 3-1-1 this season, while John Gibson, recovering from surgery, is expected to join the team for the road trip but remains out for the upcoming game.
Historically, the Rangers have had the upper hand against the Ducks, going 8-1-1 in their last ten matchups and outscoring Anaheim 10-3 in two victories last season.
