Yankees pitcher Lefty Gomez famously said he would rather be lucky than good, but so far this season, the Rangers have been both.
Through 22 games, the Rangers have lost only four times in regulation and are averaging three goals per game. Their 42 goals allowed are the fewest in the N.H.L., and they have sat atop the Metropolitan Division for much of the season.
Entering Friday afternoon’s game at the Boston Bruins, the Rangers are only 2 points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the best record in the N.H.L., but advanced statistics suggest their 16-4-2 start is a mirage.