After a forgettable 5-1 loss at the hands of the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday night, the Panthers will look to claw their way back into the win column when they take on the New York Rangers tonight.
It’s not going to be an easy task, however. Florida will be playing under the MSG lights against. juggernaut Rags, who are currently 5-0-1 and sitting atop the Metropolitan Division.
It would seem the Shesterkin contract drama has not affected this Rangers group at all. They appear to be focused and rolling at the moment.
The same can’t be said for the 4-3-1 Cats, despite being #1 on the Atlantic. While they’re currently the top dog in their division, Florida has struggled with inconsistent efforts Throughout this young season. One night they will play like they did against the Bruins Game 1, another night they’ll play like they did against the Wild.
But…that’s the Panther way these past few years. The consistency is always a bit out of whack, so nothing to be worried about (yet).
Something that will help is when Barky returns to the lineup, and it sounds like that could be as early as Monday against the Sabres.
As far as tonight goes, it will be Shesterkin that the Panthers will need to attack relentlessly. If you recall, the NY goaltender was the best player for the Rags during last year’s playoff clash with Florida. He was dialed in and very tough to beat.
The Cats have their work cut out for them this evening. They will have to work hard at creating chaos out front as a way to distract Shesterkin and make his night tough. Of course, the Cats will need to keep their heads up with Trouba on the ice protecting the crease…
If Rempe is in the lineup, who is stepping up for the tilt?
Panthers will roll out the same lines/pairings as Tuesday.
Bob in net.
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Looking for a big bounce back…Go Panthers!
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