Rangers Face Lightning in Key Matchup | New York Rangers News

SPEAKER_1 (0:00)

It's September 30th. This is New York Rangers News Today powered by AI. Your team, your update. All right, big matchup coming up for the New York Rangers. They're set to host the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday at 7 p.m. Eastern.

It's a solid Eastern Conference clash that could shake things up early in the season. Last year, the Rangers had a bit of a rough time, finishing with a 34, 39, and nine record. They really struggled at home, going 14, 20, and seven. Gotta turn that around if they want to make a dent this season. On the other hand, the Lightning had a strong year, wrapping up with a 50, 26, and six record. They found their groove on the road too, with a 26, 12, and six record in away games. That's some impressive numbers that not many teams can match. Power plays are going to be crucial in this one. The Rangers scored 53 power play goals last season, with a success rate of 24.6 percent.

The Lightning, meanwhile, racked up 50 power play goals last year. It's all about that strategy, right? Injury updates are looking tough for both teams. The Rangers are without Aiden Thompson and Adam Sikora, both out with lower body injuries. Tampa Bay is dealing with Dominic James and Yanni Gord out as well.

So, yeah, some absences to watch for, but this matchup should still be a good one.