Opinion
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Rangers and Penguins Set to Clash in Steel City Showdown

As the New York Rangers prepare to face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent victory. The Rangers, coming off a solid win against the Florida Panthers on March 5th with a score of 4-2, showcased an impressive performance that should not be overlooked as they head into Pittsburgh.


Nov 22, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick (32) defends the net against Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Alex Nylander (11) during the first period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game, NYR demonstrated resilience and strategic prowess. Their powerplay unit was particularly effective, converting one out of three opportunities. This is a significant statistic considering that special teams often play a pivotal role in tightly contested matches. With a shooting percentage of 13 percent and blocking 22 shots, they showed both offensive potency and defensive solidity.


The goaltending for NYR has been nothing short of stellar; saving all but one shot out of 31 against Columbus Blue Jackets on February 29th is no small feat. This level of performance between the pipes will be crucial when facing the Penguins' offensive threats.


Nov 22, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick (32) makes a save against Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Matt Nieto (83) during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. The Rangers won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side, PIT cannot be underestimated despite any struggles they may have encountered recently. They are known for their ability to bounce back and will undoubtedly look to challenge NYR every step of the way.


However, it's important to note that NYR's faceoff win percentage stood at an impressive 54 percent during their game against Florida Panthers – an aspect that could give them control over puck possession and ultimately dictate the pace of this upcoming game.


Nov 22, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Lars Eller (20) moves the puck against New York Rangers center Nick Bonino (12) during the first period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

NYR fans should feel confident but cautious; while statistics from past games suggest strengths that can be leveraged, hockey is unpredictable by nature. Every game writes its own story, but if NYR can maintain discipline while capitalizing on powerplays as they did with a success rate of nearly 100 percent in faceoffs won during powerplays against Columbus Blue Jackets – they stand a good chance at emerging victorious once again.


The scheduled clash between these two titans will take place on March 16th at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh at 7:00 PM local time (EST). Fans who cannot make it to Pennsylvania can catch all the action live on ABC or stream it via ESPN+.

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