Right back at it again. After a crushing defeat against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Devils cross over the George Washington Bridge to take on their rivals. Another chapter between the New Jersey Devils (36-35-4) and the New York Rangers awaits and with much anticipation.
It’s a crucial two points for the Devils but could also have some fireworks stemming from the last meeting. The Devils have made up some ground and currently sit six points back of the second wild card spot and seven back of third place in the division.
Match Overview
The Hudson River Rivalry renews itself for one last time during the 2023-24 season. Over the course of the season, the Devils have lost all three games and have been outscored 13-5 in those contests. However, this game has weight to it, which stems from the last meeting.
This is the first matchup since Rangers forward Matt Rempe delivered a blow to the head of defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler. Not long before that, Rempe took out Nathan Bastian, so there is some wrinkles that need to be ironed out.
The Rangers have already clinched the playoffs, but are in a battle for the top seed in the division and the conference. It is a crucial two points for the Rangers as the Devils see their playoff hopes all but gone. After coming off a big defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins the night before, the Devils are barely hanging on before the likely officially elimination from contention.
Projected Lineup
New York Rangers
Forwards
Kreider-Zibanejad-Roslovic
Panarin-Trocheck-Lafreniere
Brodzinski-Wennberg-Kakko
Cuylle-Goodrow-Vesey
Defense
Lindgren-Fox
Miller-Trouba
Jones-Schneider
Goalies
Shesterkin
Quick
New Jersey Devils
Check back closer to puck drop for lineup news.
What to Watch For
Having a Strong Response
Last night was a crushing defeat for the Devils, as they saw a 3-1 lead turn into a 6-3 defeat. That loss is a crushing blow to their playoff hopes but against a division rival you never want to roll over. The fight goes on and having a strong response is key in tonight’s matchup.
The Rangers are also going to look for a response as well, as they lost to this same Penguins team Monday night. Even though the Rangers are in the playoffs, this is still an important game.
Timo Meier Being the Hottest Devil
There is no better player right now than Timo Meier for the Devils. The month of March treated him nicely, as he put up 13 goals and 20 points. In addition, those 13 goals is half of his entire output for the season (25) and he is just five away from scoring 30 for the fifth time in his career.
For the Devils to keep their hopes alive, watching him continue to elevate his game is huge. He has six points in his last four games and continues to be a huge factor for the team offensively. Injuries have derailed his season but with him at full health, he’s been a pure difference maker.
How to Watch
Tonight’s puck drop is at 7:30 pm ET and will be on TNT.