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Author: Luke Hovhanesian
May 21, 2024 12:00 PM
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Rangers look to rise against Florida
The New York Rangers and the Florida Panthers are set to clash in what promises to be an electrifying series.
Both teams have had remarkable journeys to the finals, and the stage is set for a thrilling showdown.
Let's delve into the details of their paths to the finals and what we can expect from this highly anticipated matchup.
New York Rangers: A Journey of Resilience
The New York Rangers have had a stellar season, winning the Metropolitan Division during the regular season.
Their playoff journey has been nothing short of dramatic.
The Rangers first swept the Washington Capitals in a dominant display, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive solidity.
They then faced the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals.
After taking a commanding 3-0 lead in the series, the Rangers faced a stiff challenge as the Hurricanes won two consecutive games and led 3-1 going into the third period of Game 6.
This was when Chris Kreider stepped up with a natural hat trick, sealing the victory for the Rangers and sending them to the Eastern Conference Final.
Goaltender Igor Shesterkin was instrumental, as always, with crucial saves that kept New York's hopes alive.
Despite being labeled as underdogs, the Rangers have shown resilience and determination throughout their campaign.
Rangers' Performance Metrics
- 5-on-5 Play: The Rangers have struggled at 5-on-5, with a 47.25% expected goal share, the lowest among the remaining teams. They have been out-chanced 229-190 in this situation, with a notable deficit in high-danger chances (93-73).
- Special Teams: The Rangers' power-play efficiency is an impressive 31.4%, and their penalty-killing rate stands at 89.5%. These numbers have been pivotal in their success.
- Goaltending: Shesterkin's .923 save percentage has been a cornerstone of the Rangers' playoff run.
Florida Panthers: Aiming for Glory
The Florida Panthers have also had an impressive playoff run.
After a Cinderella journey to the Stanley Cup Final last year, they are determined to finish the job this time around.
The Panthers started by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in five games and then overcame the Boston Bruins in six games.
Although the Bruins' goalie Jeremy Swayman stole Game 5, the Panthers ultimately prevailed.
Panthers' Performance Metrics
- 5-on-5 Play: The Panthers have a 50.75% expected goal share, reflecting their balanced play. They have a significant advantage in scoring chances (245-199), although they have allowed more high-danger chances (104) than they have generated (89).
- Goaltending: Sergei Bobrovsky has been solid in net, with an 8-3 record, a .902 save percentage, and a 2.37 goals-against average across two series.
Key Factors and Predictions
The upcoming series between the Rangers and the Panthers will hinge on several critical factors:
- Depth vs. Special Teams: The Panthers boast impressive depth in their lineup, while the Rangers' special teams and goaltending have been their strengths.
- Goaltending Battle: Shesterkin's stellar performances will be pitted against Bobrovsky's resilience in net.
- Scoring Chances: Both teams will need to capitalize on their scoring chances, especially in high-danger situations.
Series Prediction
Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, this series is expected to be a long and hard-fought battle.
The Rangers' power-play efficiency and Shesterkin's goaltending prowess will be tested against the Panthers' depth and balanced play.
Rangers vs. Panthers Pick: Over 5.5 Games
Rangers vs. Panthers Prediction: Rangers in 6 Games
