New York Rangers projected lineups against the Edmonton Oilers: Starting goaltender officially confirmed

As the New York Rangers gear up for their upcoming matchup against the high-powered Edmonton Oilers, anticipation is building among fans and analysts alike. This game will present a fascinating clash of styles, with the Rangers’ balanced team structure going up against the offensive firepower of the Oilers, led by two of the best players in the world, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. With both teams vying for important points as the NHL season progresses, this game has huge implications for playoff positioning.

The Rangers have been solid throughout the season, maintaining a competitive edge in the Eastern Conference. The Oilers, on the other hand, are perennial Stanley Cup contenders in the Western Conference, bolstered by their offensive depth. As the game approaches, the Rangers will need to rely on their depth, tactical discipline, and strong defensive play to neutralize the explosive offensive duo of McDavid and Draisaitl.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the projected lineups for the Rangers against the Oilers, including the official confirmation of the starting goaltender, as well as key matchups and what the Rangers will need to do to secure a win.

Projected Lineups for the New York Rangers

The Rangers will come into the game with a lineup that features both depth and star power. Their ability to perform on both sides of the puck has made them one of the most well-rounded teams in the NHL this season. However, facing the Edmonton Oilers presents a unique challenge due to the sheer offensive power of McDavid and Draisaitl. The Rangers’ defense and goaltending will be key to keeping the Oilers’ dynamic duo in check.

Forwards:

The Rangers will likely roll with their top offensive lines, looking to generate pressure in both the transition game and on the forecheck. Here’s a look at how the Rangers’ forward lines could look against the Oilers:

Line 1: Artemi Panarin – Mika Zibanejad – Kaapo Kakko

This top line features some of the Rangers’ best talent, with Panarin serving as the playmaker, Zibanejad as the powerful center, and Kakko offering a nice mix of size and skill on the wing. Panarin’s vision and passing ability will be crucial against the Oilers, who can often struggle defensively. He will look to exploit gaps in the Oilers’ defense and create scoring opportunities for his linemates.

Zibanejad is coming off another solid season and is always a scoring threat. His ability to win faceoffs, take key draws, and add a physical edge to his play will be crucial in this matchup. Kakko, meanwhile, will need to continue his development and become a more consistent contributor. Against an Oilers team that often gives up high-danger chances, Kakko’s net-front presence and ability to drive the puck to the crease will be essential.

Line 2: Chris Kreider – Vincent Trocheck – Filip Chytil

The second line features a solid mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent. Kreider, the Rangers’ power-play specialist, will be a key figure on the wing. His ability to get to the net and create chaos in front of opposing goaltenders is unmatched, and the Oilers will need to keep him in check to avoid giving up easy goals.

Trocheck is the experienced center who will be asked to play a more defensively responsible role against the Oilers’ top players. He’s capable of contributing offensively, and his ability to shut down the Oilers’ offense at the other end of the ice will be crucial. Chytil’s speed and puck-handling skills make him a valuable asset on the second line. His ability to be elusive in the offensive zone can open up space for Kreider and Trocheck to capitalize on.

Line 3: Alexis Lafrenière – Filip Chytil – Barclay Goodrow

Lafrenière, the former first-overall pick, will continue his development alongside two veteran players in Chytil and Goodrow. This line will likely be used for more defensive purposes, taking on the Oilers’ secondary scoring lines. Goodrow brings a defensive awareness and leadership that will help provide support for the Rangers’ more offensive-minded players, while Chytil has the ability to generate offense when given the opportunity.

Lafrenière, who is still finding his footing in the NHL, will need to bring more consistency to his game in order to make an impact. He has the skill to contribute offensively and create opportunities for his teammates, but he’ll need to focus on bringing a more consistent effort every shift.

Line 4: Dryden Hunt – Jake Leschyshyn – Ryan Carpenter

The Rangers’ fourth line is designed for energy and checking. While this line isn’t expected to score much, they will play a critical role in wearing down the Oilers’ top players. Hunt, Leschyshyn, and Carpenter are all capable of making a physical impact, and their job will be to frustrate the Oilers’ forwards and disrupt their rhythm.

This line’s primary focus will be to create space for the top three lines and keep the Oilers from gaining momentum. They’ll need to play smart, disciplined hockey and capitalize on any mistakes made by the Oilers’ defense.

Defensemen:

On defense, the Rangers will need to be especially disciplined against the Oilers’ potent offensive attack. They must be aware of McDavid and Draisaitl at all times, as their speed and playmaking can break down even the best defenses.

Pair 1: Adam Fox – Ryan Lindgren

Fox has been one of the NHL’s top defensemen over the past few seasons, and his ability to contribute offensively will be essential for the Rangers. His vision and ability to create from the back end make him a dangerous player, and he’ll need to generate offense while playing tight defense against McDavid and Draisaitl.

Lindgren is known for his physicality and willingness to block shots. His role will be to be the bruiser alongside Fox and provide solid defensive coverage while Fox handles the puck. Together, they’ll be tasked with trying to neutralize the Oilers’ top line.

Pair 2: K’Andre Miller – Jacob Trouba

Miller’s growth as a top-tier defenseman has been a boon for the Rangers this season. He brings size, speed, and skill, and he’ll be tasked with containing the likes of McDavid and Draisaitl. His ability to match the pace of the Oilers’ forwards will be vital.

Trouba brings a physical presence and leadership to the blue line. As the Rangers’ captain, he’ll be expected to set the tone and provide support for Miller as they try to keep the Oilers from exploiting any defensive lapses. His ability to play a smart, physical game will be a key factor in limiting Edmonton’s offensive chances.

Pair 3: Braden Schneider – Niko Mikkola

Schneider and Mikkola make up the Rangers’ third defensive pair. While this pair will likely face the Oilers’ secondary scoring units, their role will be crucial in supporting the top two pairings. Schneider’s skating ability and Mikkola’s size and physicality will allow the Rangers to handle the Oilers’ depth while maintaining a defensive presence.

Goaltender: Igor Shesterkin

The starting goaltender for the Rangers in this crucial matchup will be Igor Shesterkin, as officially confirmed by head coach Gerard Gallant. Shesterkin has been one of the league’s best goaltenders in recent seasons, known for his quick reflexes, sharp positioning, and ability to make key saves when the game is on the line. He will need to be at his best against the Oilers, particularly when facing McDavid and Draisaitl, who can change the course of a game in an instant.

Shesterkin’s consistency has been a cornerstone of the Rangers’ success, and he will be leaned on heavily to give his team a chance to win. His ability to stay calm under pressure and make crucial saves will be vital if the Rangers are to survive the offensive onslaught from the Oilers.

Key Matchups:

• McDavid vs. Fox: The battle between the Oilers’ superstar Connor McDavid and the Rangers’ elite defenseman Adam Fox will be one to watch closely. McDavid’s speed and skill are unrivaled in the NHL, but Fox’s ability to read the game and make quick decisions could help neutralize the Oilers’ best player.
• Draisaitl vs. Lindgren and Trouba: Draisaitl’s size and playmaking ability make him a nightmare for defenders. The physical play of Lindgren and Trouba will be key in keeping him in check, especially in front of Shesterkin’s net.
• Special Teams: Both teams have dangerous power plays, but the Oilers’ power play, led by McDavid and Draisaitl, is one of the best in the league. The Rangers will need to stay disciplined and avoid taking unnecessary penalties, as the Oilers’ power play can convert at an alarming rate.