The New York Rangers were coming off what could have been their most emotional game of the season. Buoyed by Mika Zibanejad‘s five goals and an overtime win, the fear was that they would have a letdown.
The importance of the game was paramount. Earlier, the Islanders had lost in overtime to the Carolina Hurricanes. the worst possible outcome of a game featuring two teams the Rangers need to pass. It meant the Islanders were three points ahead and the Hurricanes moved one point ahead of the Rangers.
The team started Igor Shesterkin, back from his rib injury and that didn’t inspire the team.