Breaking Down New Jersey Devils-New York Rangers Matchup Position By Position

Goalie

Vitek Vanecek 

vs.

Igor Shesterkin

This one seems like an open and shut case. The New York Rangers have one of the best goaltending options in the league. The Devils went out of their way to get league average goaltending. Right now, the Devils can’t commit totally to Vitek Vanecek as its playoff starter. He’s played more games than he’s ever played in his career. Would it be crazy to think Mackenzie Blackwood or Akira Schmid could steal the starters net?

Meanwhile, Igor Shesterkin is the reigning Vezina Trophy winner. He was by far the best goalie in the league last season. He’s not exactly there this season, but he’s easily in the top ten. This is an easy win for the Rangers.

Advantage: Rangers

At the end, it’s three to three. It all comes down to the coaching staff. Can Lindy Ruff outduel his former team? Is Gerard Gallant ready to get the best out of his talent pool? There is a lot up in the air, but it seems these two teams are evenly matched. It will lead to a phenomenal first-round series. My goodness, we hope we come out on top. We cannot handle a full year of insults for losing to the Rangers of all teams in our return to the postseason.