Rangers vs Panthers Open Game Thread

For the second time this season, the New York Rangers and Florida Panthers are facing off at Madison Square Garden. Last time, the Rangers won 5-2 with Alexandar Georgiev on one side of the ice and James Reimer on the other. Tonight it’s both team’s starters — Henrik Lundqvist versus Roberto Luongo.

Besides in net, there will be a few changes for the Rangers tonight. Brady Skjei looks to be a healthy scratch, with Brendan Smith returning after three games in the press box.

Zuccarello out, Strome will play with Howden & Vesey. Smith in for Skjei.

— Rick Carpiniello (@RickCarpiniello) November 17, 2018

Head coach David Quinn has emphasized the importance of accountability this season. It seems that the only back that hasn’t had to sit for a game as a healthy scratch is Marc Staal.

There will also be some changes up front, with Mats Zuccarello out of the lineup, after returning from a groin strain and taking a maintenance day for their last practice. Another change runs deeper than just the day’s lineup — the Rangers traded Ryan Spooner for Ryan Strome from the Edmonton Oilers. Strome, who will wear the number 16, skates for the first time in a Rangers’ sweater on a line with Jimmy Vesey and Brett Howden tonight.

New #NYR @strome18 making his Blueshirt debut tonight. pic.twitter.com/hbcZjgX2LI

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) November 17, 2018

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