Preview: Rangers and Golden Knights Face Off in Las Vegas
In a highly anticipated matchup, the New York Rangers are set to clash with the Vegas Golden Knights on January 18 at the T-Mobile Arena. This game marks the first encounter between the two teams in the current season. The Rangers, leading the Metropolitan Division with an impressive 28-13-2 record, are the favorites heading into this contest against the Golden Knights, who hold the second spot in the Pacific Division with a 25-14-5 tally.
Rangers' Recent Performance
The Rangers have experienced some inconsistency lately, posting a 4-5-1 record over their last 10 games. Despite this, they maintain a strong offensive presence, averaging three goals and 4.9 assists per game. Discipline has been an issue, however, as they average 3.2 penalties and 6.7 penalty minutes per game. Defensively, the team concedes an average of three goals per game, a statistic they will look to improve upon to solidify their position in the standings.
With a +21 goal differential that ranks eighth in the league, the Rangers have demonstrated their ability to outscore opponents consistently. Their success when favored is notable, having won 23 out of 35 games in such scenarios this season.
Golden Knights' Struggle and Injuries
The Golden Knights have faced challenges of their own, with a recent record of 4-6-0 in their past 10 games. They've been less prolific offensively compared to the Rangers, averaging two goals and 3.4 assists per game. The team also takes more penalties, with an average of 3.8 penalties and 9.5 penalty minutes each game. Their goal differential stands at +17, placing them 11th in the league.
Injury woes have compounded the Golden Knights' problems. Key players Jack Eichel and William Karlsson are sidelined with lower body injuries. Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy expressed concern about Eichel's condition, stating, "He's going to miss a little bit of time," with the duration still uncertain. This setback leaves the team without two of its most productive forwards, as Eichel boasts 19 goals and 25 assists, while Karlsson has contributed 15 goals and 17 assists.
Key Players and Stats
The Rangers' Artemi Panarin leads his team with 59 points, including 27 goals and 32 assists. Vincent Trocheck and Mika Zibanejad have also been significant contributors, with Trocheck tallying 14 goals and 30 assists over 43 games, and Zibanejad adding 14 goals and 27 assists over 42 games. Between the pipes, Igor Shesterkin has made 728 saves for a .905 save percentage.
For the Golden Knights, Mark Stone has stepped up in the absence of Eichel and Karlsson, scoring 15 goals and 29 assists. Logan Thompson has been a workhorse in goal, with 690 saves and 70 goals allowed, resulting in a 2.7 goals-against average and a .909 save percentage.
Injury Report
The injury list extends beyond Eichel and Karlsson for the Golden Knights, with Tyler Pitlick, Jiri Patera, Tobias Bjornfot, Ben Hutton, Shea Theodore, and William Carrier all reported to be injured and out. The Rangers are not without their own health concerns, as Filip Chytil is out with an upper-body injury.
Game Outlook
As the Rangers and Golden Knights prepare to face off, both teams are aware of the importance of this game. For the Rangers, it's an opportunity to strengthen their lead in the Metropolitan Division and bounce back from a mixed run of form. The Golden Knights, despite being underdogs and dealing with significant injuries, have proven resilient throughout the season, winning 7 out of 13 games when playing in that role.
With top players out or nursing injuries, the depth of both rosters will be tested. The Rangers' offense, led by Panarin, will be pivotal, while the Golden Knights will rely heavily on Stone's leadership and Thompson's goaltending to keep the game within reach.
This matchup promises to be a compelling battle on the ice, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent within the NHL. Fans from both sides can expect an intense game as these two formidable teams vie for victory in the heart of Las Vegas.