Opening Faceoff: Rangers vs. Coyotes 10/26/17

Updated:

Rangers.com

Like the Rangers, the Coyotes have had their share of struggles. The Coyotes enter tonight’s matchup dead last in the league at 0-8-1. Derek Stepan will make his return to Madison Square Garden to face his former team but Antti Raanta will not as he is injured.

Keys to a Rangers’ victory:
  • After twisting his leg in a goalmouth collision during the loss to the Sharks, Lundqvist is slated to receive a break. Ondrej Pavelec will get the call. He will be seeking his first win as a New York Ranger. Though Pavelec has started one game and let in three goals on nineteen shots, he has a career GAA of 2.87 and a .907SV% and should be ready to step in.

  • The “Stepan Factor.” With a video tribute to former Ranger Derek Stepan in the offing, there will be a lot of emotions at the Garden. Derek Stepan scored 128 goals and 232 assists while missing just 25 games through seven seasons with the club. Arizona is still seeking their first win of the season. The Rangers must find a way to stay focused and on task.

By Noah Weiss

I am a New York Rangers journalist, avid Blueshirt fan, and a long-time hockey player born and raised in... More about Noah Weiss

Mentioned in this article:

More About: