One exhibition game to go before each team in the qualifying round will be playing for survival. One game, that’s it.
Every NHL team that begins play this weekend has one contest to prepare. Head coaches may be using this game to finalize a decision or two on the roster, but for David Quinn and the Rangers, it will be about contact.
Steve Valiquette on Rangers vs Islanders
Yesterday, I spoke with MSG Analyst, Steve Valiquette by phone to discuss tonight’s game and the playoffs. “That’s the hardest thing to do to start a season is getting puck out of your own zone when a defenseman is bearing down on you,” Valiquette said.