The New York Rangers achieved a resounding 5-0 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday, marking their most impressive win during a strong 6-0-3 stretch in the NHL playoff hunt. This performance not only showcased the Rangers (23-20-4) as a dominant force but also demonstrated that the Senators are more of a pretender than a contender, pulling the Rangers within two points of a wild-card playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was electric. Despite two disallowed goals—one by Matt Rempe for offside and another by Chris Kreider—there was never a sense that the Rangers might lose control of the game. It was a largely one-sided matchup, with a score of 1-0 after the first period and 2-0 after the second.
In the third period, the Rangers scored three times, including two power-play goals following a chaotic skirmish behind goalie Igor Shesterkin’s net, during which he exchanged words with Senators captain Brady Tkachuk. Rempe also thrilled the crowd with a beautiful goal during a fast break, marking his first goal of the season.
Tuesday’s win was certainly one to celebrate, and the Rangers aim to replicate that success on Thursday against the Philadelphia Flyers, a team they should be able to defeat despite being tied in points.
Here are three key insights from the Rangers’ commanding victory, emphasizing their strong team mindset. Following an article highlighting Shesterkin’s resurgence since returning from injury, he again delivered a stellar performance.
Despite their recent improvements, rumors suggest the Rangers are interested in reacquiring J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks, who are reportedly eager to trade him, potentially to the rival Carolina Hurricanes.
Another former Ranger, Tony DeAngelo, is a free agent after parting ways with his KHL contract, yet the Rangers show no interest in bringing him back, although another NHL team may consider signing him for a league-minimum contract.
It’s also important to note that Senators forward Josh Norris exited the game for precautionary reasons after an accidental collision in the first period left him landing on his chin.
In other league news, following Connor McDavid’s three-game suspension for cross-checking, the Edmonton Oilers issued a statement expressing their disappointment and empathizing with fans’ frustrations.
Brock McGinn of the Anaheim Ducks underwent knee surgery and will be sidelined for 7-9 months. He has struggled with lower-body issues, playing only 26 games this season and will become an unrestricted free agent at season’s end.
Should Winnipeg’s Jonathan Toews make a comeback to the NHL, the Jets would be interested in his return, according to general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff.
The Islanders will be missing defenseman Noah Dobson due to a lower-body injury with no set timeline for his recovery, a significant setback for their chances.
There are rumors that the Washington Capitals have inquired about the availability of pending unrestricted free agent Brock Nelson from the Islanders.
The Capitals secured their fifth straight victory, beating the Edmonton Oilers 3-2 and solidifying their lead in the Metropolitan Division.
The New Jersey Devils have emerged as a late contender for J.T. Miller in advance of the trade deadline.
The Montreal Canadiens came from behind to secure a 3-2 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning, keeping them ahead of the Rangers in the playoff race.
The Nashville Predators mounted an impressive comeback from a four-goal deficit to defeat the San Jose Sharks 7-5, marking their fourth consecutive win.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi scored both goals for the Carolina Hurricanes in their 2-1 victory over the Dallas Stars.
Sam Ersson made 27 saves to lead the Flyers to a 2-1 overtime win against the Detroit Red Wings, who now sit at 21-21-5 following the defeat. Check out defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen scoring the game winner in overtime on Tuesday.
