National Hockey League preview roundup for Tuesday, February 7, 2012 (Part I)
The National Hockey League (NHL) is hosting 11 games on Tuesday, February 7, 2012, in which 22 teams will showcase their talents.
In this space, we are going to have a glance at different teams that are going to perform and see what their prospects are.
New Jersey at New York Rangers (7.00 p.m. ET)
The last time these two sides met, New Jersey Devils were the victorious, but both these sides have followed the same pattern after the last encounter.
The Rangers and Devils have not lost any game since last week’s meeting and Rangers will certainly seek revenge when these sides meet again at the Madison Square Garden, New York.
Rangers are leading the NHL Eastern Conference with 71 points after playing 50 games.
After being defeated by Devils, Rangers have beaten Buffalo Sabres (1-0 in shootout) and recently Philadelphia Flyers (5-2).
Against Flyers, Rangers dominated the final period, and scored three goals to get the victory.
Their offensive unit is supported equally well by the defensive unit, which is leading the league ranking by allowing only 102 goals.
Following the last victory, Rangers' coach, John Tortorella, expressed satisfaction over the team’s overall performance.
He said:
"We are a sum of parts, that's how we play and that's the only way we can win. That's the way we have to play and when another team joins in, it mounts."
On the other hand, the Devils are also on a roll.
They have won three games after their last encounter with Rangers.
They defeated Montreal Canadiens (5-3), Philadelphia Flyers (6-4) and Pittsburgh Penguins (5-2).
Devils are ranked sixth in the Eastern Conference with 63 points after 52 games.
In their last victory, Devils completely dominated Penguins by taking lead in the first period and registering at least one goal in the rest of the periods.
After winning four straight games, Devils are eying to stretch the streak to five – something they have failed to do throughout the season.
Devils’ coach, Peter DeBoer, wants to once again beat his rivals, Rangers.
"It never gets old," he said of the rivalry.
"I'm glad we're playing them because there's an internal motivator there already because of the rivalry, because of the history between the two teams, because they're our division rival. Where they sit in the standings, not a lot needs to be said."
To be continued...
Tags: