Vincent Trocheck lifts Rangers over Coyotes in home opener

The Rangers lacked offensive momentum in Monday night’s game, particularly during five-on-five play. However, their power-play opportunities came to the rescue, ultimately leading them to a 2-1 victory over the Coyotes in the home opener at Madison Square Garden. The sold-out crowd of 18,006 grew more and more engaged as their team’s performance improved.

After failing to capitalize on their first two power-play chances, the Rangers unleashed a barrage of shots on Coyotes goalie Connor Ingram. Vincent Trocheck managed to redirect Artemi Panarin’s shot through traffic for the go-ahead goal at 8:26 of the third period. Trocheck praised Panarin’s ability to find open lanes, and the goal proved to be a crucial moment for the team.

The Rangers’ successful five-on-three penalty kill towards the end of the second period provided a much-needed spark for both the team and the passionate crowd. This came after the Coyotes tied the game with a power-play goal from Clayton Keller. With Alexis Lafreniere and Ryan Lindgren in the penalty box, the crowd made their dissatisfaction known to the referees. Thanks to some outstanding saves by Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin and crucial blocks from Jacob Trouba, the Rangers successfully defended against the Coyotes’ fourth power play.

Head coach Peter Laviolette acknowledged the impact that penalty kills and power plays can have on a team, stating that they can generate excitement and energy. The game concluded with a fiery altercation involving several players, including Shesterkin.

Shesterkin rebounded after allowing Keller’s first-period goal, making a key save on Jason Zucker’s penalty shot to preserve the lead. Shesterkin maintained a perfect record of 4-for-4 on career penalty shots.

Laviolette praised the Rangers’ patience and ability to remain composed despite their struggles in five-on-five play for the majority of the game. Although they committed a few too many penalties, the Rangers managed to withstand the pressure and turn the game around in the end.

Laviolette emphasized that while the Rangers always aim to win, they understand that perfection is not necessary three games into the season. They remained focused and composed, eventually finding their stride.