For the first time in three years, the Rangers will play meaningful hockey after the trade deadline. Of course, this is also the first time the Rangers will play hockey in August, but that’s neither here nor there. The Rangers and Hurricanes kick off roughly 12 straight hours of hockey.
The Rangers and Canes are probably the most intriguing matchup in the play-in round, as both teams have the potential to make long runs. The Rangers are very strong at the top of their lineup, and their goaltending makes them a tough out.