Rangers Roll Into Jersey for September Showdown With Devils

The Rangers and Devils renew their Hudson River rivalry on September 21st, though calling it a "rivalry" might be generous these days—New York has owned this matchup lately. The Blueshirts bring their typical blend of star power and playoff pedigree into Newark, while the Devils are still trying to figure out if last season's surge was real growth or just noise.

Key subplot: goaltending. If Igor Shesterkin gets the nod for New York, the Devils' offense—talented but inconsistent—will need to solve one of the league's premier netminders. On the flip side, New Jersey's crease situation remains a question mark. Can they get reliable stops when it matters, or will this turn into a track meet that favors the Rangers' depth?

Special teams could decide it. The Rangers' power play has been lethal when clicking, and the Devils have a nasty habit of taking bad penalties in emotional division games. New York also travels well and won't be intimidated by the Prudential Center crowd, such as it is in September.

DarkHorse hasn't weighed in yet, but the smart money leans toward the more battle-tested squad. Rangers should handle their business here unless the Devils catch lightning early. Expect a tight first period, then New York pulls away.