The Rangers head into tonight’s third preseason game with 34 players remaining on the roster, and about a week to trim at least 11 more players. Tonight will feature some of the remaining players battlign for inclusion in the final roster, as well as a few looks at different combinations.
Up in the forward ranks, the forecasted move of Chris Kreider to the right side will seemingly wait a bit longer, with Vitali Kravtsov getting a look tonight with the veteran winger and center Mika Zibanejad. Kravtsov, who has been pencilled in as a third liner, will see his third line spot filled by Julien Gauthier, who will get a chance to play with Goodrow and Chytil. The way things pan out, could certainly have an effect on both players chances on the final roster, with Gauthier needing to prove more at this point.
Dryden Hunt, who trails Sammy Blais for the final wing spot will be on the same line tonight, with Greg McKegg in the middle. Defenseman turned winger, Mason Geertsen will get his first chance to play a preseason game, though he almost certainly will head to Hartford soon after.
On defense, K’Andre Miller and Jacob Trouba line up as the top defensive pair, while Nils Lundkvist will see some time on the right of Jarred Tinordi. Tinordi seems to have the inside track still on the 7th d-man spot, but will want a better outing tonight. The young pair of Zac Jones and Braden Schneider round out the blueline.
In goal, Igor Shesterkin will likely start, with Adam Huska perhaps getting some time in the latter stages.