Road Warriors vs. Home Force: Rangers and Red Wings Set for Clash in Detroit
The New York Rangers look to bounce back after getting shutout yet again in MSG against their division rivals, while the Red Wings look to bounce back after getting shutout on the road. New York has yet to please their fans with a win at home, but they remain one of the best road teams to start the season, with a record of 6-1-1. Detroit, however, has certainly pleased their fans with their 9-5 record, a good sign for what's to come this season. The Blueshirts have certainly kept up with their opponents on the road, and they look to continue with one of the best teams to begin this season. Another Original Six matchup awaits as the New York Rangers take on the Detroit Red Wings in Little Caesars Arena tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m. EST.
The formula in Detroit has been pretty straightforward: when the power play is clicking, and the top six score, they control the pace. Their captain, Dylan Larkin, continues to drive the offense with his speed and confidence, leading the team with eight goals. Throughout this first month, Detroit has demonstrated their ability to push the tempo and force teams to chase. One concern is that their defensive play continues to allow a little too much space and quality scoring looks in their recent games. They tighten up in their own zone; they'll be a tough team to crack.
The Rangers, meanwhile, are looking for any kind of offensive rhythm. When they can score three goals, they almost always come away with a point, but achieving this consistency has been lacking. Their strength to begin the season lies in their defense, led by Adam Fox, and their goaltender, Igor Shesterkin. Even in games they don't score much, or at all, they rarely get blown out. Their road play has been impressive, with their strong forechecking and disciplined zone exits helping them silence the crowds.
The key battleground tomorrow night will be special teams and which team dictates pace. Detroit comes in with an impressive power play, scoring six power-play goals in their last 10 games, boasting a 22.7% success rate. New York, however, needs to start capitalizing on the power play, scoring only four goals on 36 power play opportunities, currently ranked lowest in the league with an 11.1% success rate. If Detroit turns it into a high-possession game, they have the advantage. If the Rangers can slow things down, keep chances limited, and finish on those scoring opportunities, they can control this game and continue their road magic with another win.
Overall, we have a team with an offensive push at home, and a team that has proven to be no joke playing on the road. Expect a close game that could come down to one mistake or one timely power play. Detroit's home ice and offensive push give them a slight edge, but the Rangers' road confidence makes this very much anyone's game. Will the Red Wings defend home ice yet again, or will New York continue their dominance on the road and silence Little Caesars Arena?
