Rangers Stand Strong Against Islanders in Late Season Showdown

NEW YORK, NY — The New York Rangers are gearing up to face off against the New York Islanders on Thursday evening at UBS Arena, with the puck set to drop at 7:30 PM ET. The Rangers are looking to secure crucial points as they approach the final stretch of the regular season, with just three games remaining.

Star winger Artemi Panarin continues to shine for the Rangers, entering the matchup with points in 16 of his last 19 games. His impressive tally of 32 points across 29 games (14 goals, 18 assists) since March has established him as one of the top performers in the league. Panarin has already achieved his fifth 80-point season with the Rangers, equating him with Mark Messier for the most in franchise history.

Panarin commented, “Every game counts now, and I’m focused on helping my team win as we approach the playoffs. We’re in a good position, and we need to keep pushing forward.” This season, he has notched 35 goals and 49 assists, leading the Rangers in points.

Meanwhile, J.T. Miller has also made a significant impact, recording points in seven of his last eight games. The forward has amassed 28 total points since joining the Rangers, ranking among the team leaders in both goals and assists. Miller praised the team’s chemistry, saying, “Each game we play together, we grow stronger as a unit. It’s all about teamwork right now.”

On special teams, Vincent Trocheck leads the NHL in faceoff percentage at 59.7, turning vital draws in favor of the Rangers. His consistency has helped the Rangers maintain a competitive edge, as he also ranks second on the team in goals and points.

Defensively, Adam Fox has remained a stalwart. With 23 points (7 goals, 16 assists) in his last 24 games, he continues to reinforce his status as a key playmaker, tying Ray Bourque for the seventh fewest games to reach 300 career assists by a defenseman in NHL history. Fox stated, “We are all pulling in the same direction. Everyone is putting in the effort to make right decisions on the ice.”

As they prepare for the Islanders, the Rangers are also mindful of Chris Kreider, who sits just one power-play goal away from setting the franchise record for most power-play goals, previously held by Camille Henry. Kreider’s 21 goals this season include six game-winners, showcasing his ability to shine in critical moments.

The Rangers’ last encounter with the Islanders saw them dominating the ice, but this time, both teams need the points to secure their playoff positions. Fans can catch the action live on MSG or ESPN 1050 AM.