Rangers Extend Home Win Streak to Six Games with Victory Over Ducks
The Rangers defeated the Anaheim Ducks 5-2, remaining undefeated at Madison Square Garden and matching a franchise record for the longest season-opening home win streak.
The New York Rangers secured a decisive 5-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Monday night, extending their season-opening home win streak to six games. This win at Madison Square Garden places the Rangers in a tie for the second-longest such streak in franchise history.
The Rangers demonstrated a strong performance, particularly against teams projected to finish lower in the standings. Their combined margin of victory against teams like the Red Wings, Canucks, and now the Ducks is 13-4. Despite facing lineup changes due to injuries, the team's play at home has remained consistent, showcasing a return to the cohesive play observed in previous games.
Rookie goaltender Dylan Garand was instrumental in the win, making 28 saves on 30 shots. The Rangers established an early lead, scoring within the first two minutes of the game for the third time this season. Sean Durzi opened the scoring at 1:18 of the first period with a shot through traffic. This marked the second time in franchise history the Rangers have scored in the opening two minutes of three consecutive home games.
While forward Pavel Dorofeyev had several high-quality scoring opportunities, including hitting the post on an open net during a 5-on-3 power play, he was unable to convert. The Rangers dominated play from the start of the second period.
Their power play unit capitalized early in the second frame, with captain J.T. Miller redirecting an Adam Fox shot for his second goal of the season. Alexis Lafrenière set up Gabe Perreault for a tap-in goal, extending the lead. Oliver Bjorkstrand added a third goal for the Rangers later in the second period, capping off a strong performance.
