Gerard Gallant has made three line-up changes for tonight’s home opener against the Dallas Stars. Igor Shesterkin will make his season debut, replacing Alexandar Georgiev who allowed 5 goals on 27 shots in last night’s 5-1 loss to the Capitals. While Gallant implied he would alternate goaltenders for back to back games, it was still a surprise decision that he elected to go with Georgiev last night to start the season.
On defense, Nils Lundkvist will make his NHL debut on the third pair. He replaces Jarred Tinordi, allowing Patrik Nemeth to shift back to his natural left side for the game tonight. Lundkvist impressed in camp and during the preseson, and was unfortunate not to make his debut in Washington.
Also making his season debut, Julien Gauthier will slot in on the third line, replacing the injured Sammy Blais. Blais was one of the few bright spots in Game 1 for the Rangers but is day to day with an undisclosed minor injury.
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