Game #79: New York Rangers vs New York Islanders Open Thread

The end is nigh for the 2024-25 New York Rangers.

Following a third consecutive loss at home on Wedensday, the Blueshirts have been pushed to the brink of mathematical elimination from playoff contention. Trailing the Montreal Canadiens by eight points with only four games remaining, the Rangers' tragic number is down to one. Any loss by New York or any points earned by Montreal will officially knock the Blueshirts out of the playoff race.

For the draft lottery watchers, tonight's game in Elmont is high-stakes contest. The Rangers and Islanders are two of four teams currently sitting on 79 standings points, with the Rangers currently behind the other three teams on account having played 78 games compared to 77 for the Islanders, Detroit Red Wings, and Columbus Blue Jackets. With the revamped draft lottery odds only allowing teams finishing in the bottom 11 of the league standings to jump up to the first overall selection with a lottery win, fans of the Rangers and Islanders might have some peculiar rooting interests tonight.

Player to Watch: Igor Shesterkin

Jonathan Quick started last night's contest against Philadelphia, so it'll be Shesterkin getting the nod in this road matchup looking to keep the Blueshirts' season alive for at least one more night. Keep an eye on Shesterkin, there's sure to be plenty of action around him as per usual, as he does what he can to ensure the Rangers playoff hopes live to fight another day.

Enjoy the game!