Rangers vs Devils: Devils Drop Rangers in Preseason Opener
The New York Rangers opened their preseason schedule in the loss column as they fell 4-3 to the New Jersey Devils at Madison Square Garden. Despite the loss, there was plenty of promise tonight with all of the Rangers new additions standing out in one way or another. Here’s a breakdown of how the game played out this evening.
1st Period
The Devils were able to jump out to an early lead just 37 seconds into regulation as Nico Hischier deflected a shot in the high slot. Alexandar Georgiev appeared stunned by the quick change in direction and was unable to stretch back to the far post. Even though they were down early in this game, the Rangers controlled a majority of the play in the offensive zone. Corey Schneider played out his mind for the Devils, and denied the Rangers on several high quality chances in close.
After two great power play opportunities, the Devils found a way to double up their lead late in the period courtesy of Mikhail Maltsev. Brandon Crawley coughed up the puck with a costly turnover at the Rangers blue line, and Maltsev was able to break in on a partial breakaway. Brendan Smith attempted to make a defensive play but Maltsev fought him off, and somehow tapped the puck around Georgiev for the highlight reel goal.
2nd Period
The Rangers first goal of the preseason finally arrived in the second period, and it was Artemi Panarin blasting home a slap shot on the power play. Jacob Trouba and Kaapo Kakko picked up the assists on the goal and the Rangers were able to pull back within a goal. Unfortunately, the one-goal deficit only lasted a short while as Nikita Gusev tapped home a great centering feed from Brandon Baddock.
A little over two minutes later, the Rangers made it a 3-2 game as Greg McKegg stole the puck from Corey Schneider and shoveled the puck out front. Micheal Haley was waiting all alone in front of the net uncovered and slammed home the loose puck at the top of the crease.
3rd Period
Igor Shesterkin took over for Alexandar Georgiev during the second period and didn’t allow a goal until the opening minutes of the third period. Brett Seney was able to locate a loose puck during a scrum in the crease and somehow slipped the puck under Shesterkin. Down two goals yet again, the Rangers clawed right back into the game as Lias Andersson scored his own goal in front of the net.
Boo Nieves did an excellent job of throwing the puck on net to generate the chance, and Andersson capped off his impressive performance with a goal. The Rangers had several chances as they were looking for the tying goal, but the Devils did a great job of blocking shots in front of their goaltender to close out the game.
There was plenty of positives to take away tonight, and build on as the preseason continues. The Rangers will be back in action on Friday as they meet with the Devils once again, but this time at the Prudential Center.
