NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Rangers faced off against the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday night, March 16, 2025, at Madison Square Garden, hoping to build momentum after their impressive 4-0 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets the night before. Unfortunately for the Rangers, their efforts fell short as they suffered a 3-1 defeat. The loss marked the Rangers' third consecutive defeat at home, frustrating fans who witnessed the team slip to 16-15-3 on the season at Madison Square Garden.
Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin took the ice for the second night of back-to-back games, marking the first time this season he had done so. Despite his solid performance, which included 20 saves, Shesterkin would not be enough to secure the victory against the Oilers.
The game started with early power play opportunities for the Rangers. Just over one minute in, the Oilers' Ryan Nugent-Hopkins was penalized for slashing Vincent Trocheck, giving the Rangers their first advantage. Unfortunately, their power play struggled again, managing to generate no goals out of three chances. J.T. Miller came close to scoring with a shot off the post during this opportunity, highlighting the Rangers' lack of finishing power on the man advantage.
While the Rangers held strong defensively to kill off two penalties of their own, the Oilers broke the ice less than one minute before the end of the first period. Corey Perry capitalized on chaotic play around the net, flipping the puck past Shesterkin to put Edmonton up 1-0. This frustrating goal came after K’Andre Miller was called for hooking on Jeff Skinner, leading to the Oilers' power play success.
The second period brought renewed hope for the Rangers. At the 5-minute mark, Will Cuylle, displaying impressive tenacity, popped the puck over the line after Braden Schneider and Vincent Trocheck combined on the offensive charge. The goal tied the game at 1-1, setting the stage for what seemed like a turning point.
But just when it looked like the momentum was shifting, Viktor Arvidsson found the net early in the third period. At 6:09, his high shot deflected off Zac Jones and eluded Shesterkin, giving the Oilers the lead again at 2-1. The Rangers found themselves trying to respond quickly but struggled to generate quality chances consistently.
Connor McDavid put the game out of reach with just 3:25 left, scoring his 25th goal of the season and extending his point streak to 11 games. McDavid's shot from the slot slipped past the Rangers' defense, leaving Shesterkin with little chance for the save. The final score, 3-1, was seen by many as reflective of the Rangers' continued issues on special teams and their inability to capitalize on power play chances.
The Rangers did not lack effort, with standout performances from players like J.T. Miller and Adam Fox, but they could not get anyone to finish off their scoring opportunities. Several resourceful offensive plays, such as another rush from Miller and another by Sam Carrick, brought excitement, but all fell short.
The Oilers, on the other hand, exhibited skill and determination. The victory gave them momentum after having just defeated the New York Islanders 2-1 on Friday. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, with three assists, was instrumental, as was goalie Stuart Skinner, who finished the night with 21 saves. Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl continued to shine, leading the Oilers with 101 points this season.
With the loss, the Rangers must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next matchup against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. After the game, postseason aspirations were still on the minds of the Rangers. While this loss was disheartening, it was not the defining moment of their season. They're reminded of the more significant challenges faced during the prior months, which must now be put behind them as they focus on the road ahead.
Looking forward, both teams are vying for playoff positions, and this loss may prove more motivational than damaging for the Rangers, who must swiftly shift their focus to the upcoming game against the Flames and hope to reignite their playoff hopes with renewed energy.