Devils vs Rangers: Preview and Key Matchup Details for the Hudson River Rivalry

The New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils are set to face off in a highly anticipated NHL matchup on December 2, 2024, at Madison Square Garden. This game marks the first meeting between the two Metropolitan Division rivals this season. The Rangers come into this game with a 13-9-1 overall record, including a 6-4-1 record at home, while the Devils boast a 16-9-2 record and a strong 10-4-0 road record.

The Devils have been performing well, scoring an average of 3.5 goals per game and allowing just 2.78 goals against per game. They have won three of their last four games, although they recently suffered a loss to the Washington Capitals. Jacob Markstrom is expected to be in the net for the Devils, with a record of 11-6-1 and a 2.62 goals-against average this season.

The Rangers, on the other hand, have been struggling lately, with a 1-4 record in their last five games. However, they have a strong home record and have won four straight regular season games against the Devils. The Rangers’ penalty kill is one of the best in the league, with an 87.7% success rate, which could be crucial in neutralizing the Devils’ potent powerplay.

Key players to watch include Artemi Panarin for the Rangers, who has 28 points, 13 goals, and 15 assists, and Jesper Bratt for the Devils, who leads his team with 31 points, 11 goals, and 20 assists. The Rangers’ goaltending will be crucial, with Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick as potential starters, both having save percentages over .900.

The game is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM ET and can be watched on the NHL Network or streamed live through services like Fubo. The matchup is part of the Rangers’ five-game homestand and will also feature the Garden of Dreams Night at MSG.