The New York Rangers showed no mercy to the Pittsburgh Penguins in their opening game of the NHL season, hammering them 6-0. The game was 3-0 after the first period, and despite 29 saves from Igor Shesterkin, the result never seemed in doubt.
Every one of the Rangers’ main players contributed to the game, with Chris Kreider scoring twice, Alexis Lafreniere adding a goal and an assist, while Artemi Panarin and Jacob Trouba both recorded two assists.
For the Rangers, it was a clear message to the rest of the NHL that they won’t be taken lightly this season, especially after being out-hustled and physically outplayed by the eventual champions, the Florida Panthers last season in the playoffs.
New York Rangers looking sharp in opening game of NHL season
“It takes every single guy pulling in the right direction to be successful as a team,” Chris Kreider said after the game to the media. “Some guys are going to have big nights occasionally, but it takes everyone playing the right way, pulling in the same direction to ultimately accomplish our goals.”
The team-first mentality could be huge for the Rangers, who boast a strong roster of talented hockey players functioning well as a unit under one of the best coaches in the league, Peter Laviolette.
While some naysayers may point out it’s only one game and that the Rangers still need to face better teams in the league, it was a major performance from a team that had the best record in the regular season last year but at times wilted due to fatigue in the playoffs—something they want to shed.
Igor Shesterkin Contract Talks
Despite reportedly turning down the highest contract ever offered to an NHL goalie, Igor Shesterkin remained focused on the team’s success, opting not to discuss his contract situation after the win.
The Rangers relied heavily on Shesterkin early in the game, particularly during a challenging first period where he made 10 crucial saves to keep the Penguins scoreless.