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The NHL is known for its intense rivalries, and one that has been simmering for decades is the battle between the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils. Both teams, representing the metropolitan area of New York City, have a storied history and a passionate fan base. In this post, we will delve into the key aspects of the New York vs New Jersey NHL rivalry and explore what makes this matchup so compelling.
19 APRIL 2023
TIME: 07:00 PM ET
Geographical Proximity
One of the factors that fuels the rivalry between the Rangers and the Devils is their geographical proximity. The teams are located just across the Hudson River from each other, with the Rangers based in Manhattan, New York, and the Devils in Newark, New Jersey. This proximity has led to a fierce competition for bragging rights as the best hockey team in the metropolitan area, with fans on both sides passionately supporting their respective teams.
Historical Success
Both the Rangers and the Devils have experienced periods of success throughout their history. The Rangers have won the Stanley Cup four times, with their most recent championship coming in 1994. The team has a storied past, with legendary players such as Mark Messier, Brian Leetch, and Henrik Lundqvist etching their names in Rangers’ lore. The team has a large and devoted fan base, known for their “Original Six” heritage and the historic Madison Square Garden, their home arena.
On the other hand, the Devils have won the Stanley Cup three times, with championships in 1995, 2000, and 2003. The team has had a reputation for playing a disciplined and defensively-oriented style of hockey, with players like Scott Stevens, Martin Brodeur, and Patrik Elias leading the way. The Devils have a dedicated fan base, known for their “defense wins championships” mentality, and their home arena, the Prudential Center, has seen many memorable moments in Devils’ history.
Style of Play
The contrasting styles of play between the Rangers and the Devils add an extra layer of intrigue to their matchups. The Rangers are known for their fast-paced, offensive-minded style of play, relying on their skilled forwards and creative playmaking ability. They often play an up-tempo game, utilizing their speed and skill to create scoring opportunities, and their power play is a significant weapon in their arsenal.
On the other hand, the Devils are known for their defensive prowess and disciplined style of play. They often play a structured game, focusing on limiting scoring chances and frustrating their opponents. The team’s defensive system, often referred to as the “trap,” has been a hallmark of Devils’ hockey, and they have had success in stifling opposing offenses. They also excel in playing a patient game and capitalizing on turnovers, making them a tough team to play against.
Head-to-Head Battles
The Rangers and the Devils have had some memorable head-to-head battles over the years, both in the regular season and playoffs. One notable playoff matchup was in the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals, where the Rangers and the Devils met in a thrilling seven-game series. The Rangers ultimately prevailed, but the series was closely contested and featured some intense moments, including the iconic “Matteau, Matteau!” double-overtime goal by Stephane Matteau that sent the Rangers to the Stanley Cup Finals.
In recent years, the matchups between the Rangers and the Devils have been fiercely contested, with both teams showcasing their strengths and competing at a high level. The battles between the Rangers’ skilled forwards against the Devils’ disciplined defense and goaltending have been particularly compelling, as they showcase the clash between offense and defense.
