Rangers, Penguins Set to Clash on NHL Opening Night

NEW YORK, NY – The Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers are gearing up for their season opener on Tuesday at Madison Square Garden. The Metropolitan Division matchup starts at 8 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN and other networks.

The Penguins, under new head coach Dan Muse, aim to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the 2021-22 season. They have not won a playoff round since the 2017-18 season. Meanwhile, the Rangers are looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs last year, having previously made three consecutive postseason appearances, including runs to the Eastern Conference Final in 2021-22 and 2023-24.

The Rangers have hired Mike Sullivan as their third head coach in four seasons. Sullivan previously led the Penguins to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017. He is now tasked with revitalizing the Rangers as a playoff contender once again.

NHL.com’s Editor-in-Chief Bill Price believes the Rangers are better positioned for success, citing Sullivan’s coaching experience with elite players and the talent still present on the roster despite last season’s struggles. “I think the Rangers will not only make the postseason but do so convincingly,” Price stated.

On the other hand, assistant day editor David Satriano argues that the Penguins have the advantage to end their playoff drought. With veterans like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang seeking one last post-season run, Satriano sees potential in the experienced core that could guide younger players through the challenges ahead. “If Jarry starts off hot, expect the rest of the team to follow, and they could be in the wild-card mix,” he added.

Both teams face key challenges and opportunities, and this match-up promises to set the tone for the season ahead.