Game #15: New York Rangers vs New Jersey Devils Open Thread

The Hudson River Rivalry is set to ink its next chapter into the history books tonight. After going five days without a game following Sunday’s dramatic comeback victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Rangers are finally set to return to action in Newark tonight. The Prudential Center is the site for a rematch of first round action of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs with the Devils.

New York’s 2022-23 campaign ended on the very sheet of ice it will be skating on tonight. That series, one that saw the Blueshirts turn a 2-0 series lead into a 3-2 deficit before forcing and eventually losing a Game 7, is likely to be at the top of plenty of players and fans alike as these local rivals clash for the first time since last spring. The Devils have been without Jack Hughes for the last handful of games, and the superstar forward will be a game-time decision as to whether or not he makes his return tonight. With or without him dressing, the Rangers are likely to have their hands full with a speedy, skilled Devils’ squad off to an underwhelming 8-6-1 start to the season.

Player to Watch: Jimmy Vesey

As the only former Devil on New York’s roster, Vesey will be a player worth keeping an eye on tonight. After arriving on Broadway as the reigning Hobey Baker winner in time for the 2016-17 season, Vesey’s shine dulled after three seasons before eventually being traded to the Buffalo Sabres during the summer of 2019. Vesey would bounce from Buffalo to Toronto, then Vancouver, and finally New Jersey over the next three seasons before making his way back to the Rangers in time for last season. Keep an eye on Vesey on what will be a revenge game for the well-traveled Harvard alumni.

Enjoy the game!