Rangers Face Maple Leafs in Crucial Playoff Push Showdown

NEW YORK — March 20, 2025 — The New York Rangers will host the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight at Madison Square Garden in a crucial matchup as both teams vie for playoff positioning. The game is set to begin at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on MSG2.

After suffering a disappointing 5-1 loss to the Calgary Flames earlier this week, the Rangers (33-30-6) are seeking a rebound performance against a formidable opponent. Although they remain just one point behind the Montreal Canadiens for the second wild card spot, their recent lackluster play has raised concerns about their playoff chances.

“It’s all about how we respond. We want to make sure that we come back with a game that we’re proud of,” said Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider on Wednesday.

The Rangers struggled in their last outing, where goaltender Igor Shesterkin made 33 saves, but the team was outshot 35-13. The defeat highlighted issues regarding motivation and performance, including tumultuous moments on the ice that may have contributed to their struggles.

Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs (41-24-3), currently tied for first in the Atlantic Division with the Florida Panthers, are coming off a victory against the Colorado Avalanche. Toronto won that game 2-1, with Steven Lorentz scoring the winning goal while shorthanded, demonstrating their resilience as they look to maintain their position in the standings.

This matchup is particularly significant as it is the final game in this season’s series between the two teams, which is currently tied 1-1-0 after each squad claimed a road victory earlier in the season. The Rangers won their first meeting at Madison Square Garden on October 19, 2022, but the Maple Leafs turned the tables with a 3-2 win in their last matchup on February 28.

The Rangers have struggled on home ice recently, failing to capitalize on their advantage at Madison Square Garden. They have not won at home against the Maple Leafs in their last three encounters, and their home record for the season stands at a mediocre 16-16-3—tying them with the Islanders and Flyers for the fewest home wins in the Eastern Conference.

With only 13 games left in the regular season, the pressure is on both teams. The Rangers will need a solid performance from Shesterkin, who is expected to make his sixth consecutive start following his impressive showing despite the team’s overall performance. Shesterkin holds a record of 2-3-0 in his last five starts, allowing just nine goals.

Coach Peter Laviolette indicated that the team is making strategic decisions regarding the lineup, but he has not confirmed any changes. Brennan Othmann was a healthy scratch in the last game, indicating some possible adjustments in the coming match.

“We’re working through some things there, so can’t say too much about the lineup,” Laviolette stated.

The Rangers understand that every game is crucial at this stage, especially with the playoffs on the horizon. Tonight’s game could be the turning point they need to bolster their chances of clinching a playoff spot.

Who: New York Rangers vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

When: Thursday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. ET

Where: Madison Square Garden

How to watch: MSG2