Overview

The New Jersey Devils look to finally defeat bitter rival New York Rangers in Game 3 of the best of seven first round series. After a Game 1 in which the Devils controlled the majority of the play at even strength, the Rangers had their way in game two. Both games ended with a 5-1 result.

The Devils held a record in the regular season of 52-22-8 and finished second place in the Metropolitan Division. The Rangers were 47-22-13 in the regular season and finished third in the Metro. The Rangers lead 2-0 in the series, taking both games on the road.

Lines and Pairings

Devils

Check our social media pages later today for updates.

Rangers

Forwards

Kreider-Zibanejad-Kane

Panarin-Trochek-Tarasenko

Lafreniere-Chytil-Kakko

Vesey-Goodrow-Motte

Defense

Lindgren-Fox

Miller-Trouba

Mikkola-Schneider

Goalies

Shesterkin

Halak

Here’s HC Lindy Ruff speaking about his decision to scratch Jonas Siegenthaler for Brendan Smith.

Siegenthaler is one of the team’s best penalty killers. The Devils gave up basically three power play goals tonight.

Once again, physicality is NOT an issue right now. #NJDevils pic.twitter.com/0BeRrRrUYr

— Devils Army Blog (@DevilsArmyBlog) April 21, 2023

Keys to the Game

Playing Your Game

After the result of Thursday’s game, head coach Lindy Ruff and the Devils cannot keep falling for Rangers’ coach Gerrard Gallant’s tactics. The Devils tried to be more physical, which was expressed by coach Ruff following the game when he was questioned on his decision to play Brendan Smith. 

The Devils won 52 games this year with their speed and skill. Why Ruff has decided to move away from that in the past couple games is beyond almost anyone’s comprehension, but the Devils have a chance to correct themselves at Madison Square Garden.

Let’s see what Ruff has up his sleeve, because in the eyes of most, possibly including Devils’ general manager Tom Fitzgerald, 52 wins in the regular season means nothing if you get swept in the playoffs by the Rangers.

Utica Moves On

The Utica Comets finished off the Laval Rockets last night in a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory. The win propelled them to a sweep of the Rocket in the qualifying round of the Calder Cup playoffs. The Devils’ minor league affiliate will take on the Toronto Marlies in the official round one starting next week.

Where To Watch

Tonight’s Game 3 is scheduled for a 8:00 pm ET puck drop. It can be seen on ABC or ESPN+.