The New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning have developed a heated rivalry over the years in the National Hockey League (NHL). These two teams have faced off against each other in some of the most intense and memorable games in recent NHL history.
02 APRIL 2023
TIME: 07:00 PM ET
One of the most notable matchups between these two teams came in the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals. The Rangers and the Lightning were evenly matched throughout the series, with each team winning two games apiece. In Game 5, it was Rangers forward Martin St. Louis who scored the game-winning goal against his former team to give the Rangers a 3-2 series lead. However, the Lightning were able to win Game 6 and force a Game 7. In the final game of the series, it was Lightning captain Steven Stamkos who scored two goals to lead his team to a 2-0 victory and send them to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Another memorable game between these two teams came in the 2020 playoffs. In the qualifying round, the Rangers faced off against the Lightning in a best-of-five series. Despite being heavy underdogs, the Rangers were able to win Game 1 and take a 1-0 series lead. However, the Lightning were able to win the next three games to eliminate the Rangers and advance to the next round of the playoffs.
So, what makes this rivalry so special? For one, both teams play an exciting and fast-paced brand of hockey. The Rangers are known for their skilled forwards and solid goaltending, while the Lightning rely on their speed and skill to create scoring opportunities. When these two styles clash, it makes for an exciting and unpredictable game.
Additionally, both teams have passionate fan bases that add to the intensity of the rivalry. The Rangers play in the heart of New York City, one of the biggest and most passionate sports markets in the world. The team has a long and storied history, with four Stanley Cup championships to their name. The Lightning, on the other hand, play in Tampa Bay, Florida, a city that is not traditionally associated with hockey. However, the team has been embraced by the community, and Lightning games are known for their energetic and enthusiastic crowds.
The rivalry between these two teams is also fueled by their recent success on the ice. The Rangers have made the playoffs in four of the past six seasons and have established themselves as a team on the rise. The Lightning, meanwhile, have been one of the most dominant teams in the league over the past several seasons, winning the Stanley Cup in both 2020 and 2021.
Overall, the rivalry between the New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning is one of the most exciting and intense in the NHL. With two skilled and passionate teams facing off against each other, it’s always a game that hockey fans won’t want to miss. As the Rangers and Lightning continue to battle it out on the ice, one thing is for sure: the rivalry between these two teams is only going to get stronger.