After starting their season with a rough outing against the Rangers, where they allowed five goals, the Lightning bounced back by winning their next four games, outscoring opponents 15-7 in that stretch.
However, upon returning to Madison Square Garden, the Rangers put a stop to Tampa Bay’s momentum.
With a decisive 4-1 win on Tuesday night, the Rangers maintained their undefeated record at home, marking their sixth victory in their last seven games and notably, their second win over the Lightning within two weeks. This also highlights their dominance over a team that previously ranked fifth in the NHL.
The Rangers’ hold on home ice is stronger than ever.
This 5-0 home record places the Rangers third in the franchise history for the best start to a season on home ice.
Alexis Lafrenière continues to shine, scoring multiple goals for the second time in just four games, extending his point streak to five games—the longest of his seven-year NHL career.
The 2020 top overall pick now leads the league with seven goals in the first eight games.
The Rangers have shown a strong commitment to defending their home turf. It’s refreshing to see them going from potentially facing boos as they leave the ice to receiving warm standing ovations for their fierce play.
Visiting Madison Square Garden isn’t the easy outing it used to be last season.
Back in February, the Rangers acquired Tye Kartye off waivers, and he’s already made quite an impression. His presence has been significant this season, especially considering it’s his first full run with the team.
Both of Lafrenière’s first-period goals were facilitated by Kartye’s strategic plays.
He pressured Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman, allowing the Rangers to take control and opening up a scoring chance—Kartye creatively set up Lafrenière for the first goal just over a minute into the game.
Later, he delivered a perfect backhand pass to Lafrenière, leading to a breakaway goal that further showcased their chemistry.
In his first game back after being a healthy scratch for six games, Matt Rempe amped up the energy at Madison Square Garden by engaging in a fight with Jeffrey Viel.
The Rangers had a nearly flawless first period, although rookie defenseman Alberts Smits found himself caught out of position. This allowed Zemgus Girgensons to take advantage during a two-on-one opportunity and score, cutting the Rangers’ lead.
Interestingly, head coach Mike Sullivan hasn’t shuffled his third line all season, and it’s easy to see why. Will Cuylle displayed solid play along the boards with his teammates, and he netted his third goal of the season, the only goal in the second period, giving the Rangers a 3-1 lead heading into the intermission.
