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New York Islanders vs New York Rangers: Five Players to Watch

By Nick Ziegler

Apr 7, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Nick Leddy (2) controls the puck against New York Rangers left wing Rick Nash (61) during the first period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 7, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Nick Leddy (2) controls the puck against New York Rangers left wing Rick Nash (61) during the first period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Islanders
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Henrik Lundqvist

For the Rangers, this season might all come down to Henrik Lundqvist. The Rangers’ defense has struggled in recent years to help Lundqvist, and that has resulted in Lundqvist having to face a lot of shots. Even the great Lundqvist will allow goals if a team can get enough shots on him.

Last season, the Islanders were able to have some success against Lundqvist, as they defeated him three times. Lundqvist didn’t play poorly in those games, as he averaged a 2.20 GAA, but he was still handed losses.

Despite playing well against the Islanders, last season was one of the worst in his career. Last season, Lundqvist allowed 2.48 goals per game, which was the highest mark of his career. In the postseason, things were even worsted for Lundqvist, as he allowed more than four goals per game.

Next: Where do the Isles place in first NHL Power Rankings?

The struggles of Lundqvist can’t all be blamed on him, but at 34-years-old, we might be seeing him begin to decline. Lundqvist will surely be looking to come out in the home-opener to prove to the NHL that he is still one of the best goalies in the NHL. Expect to see a good performance from Lundqvist, as the Rangers look to set the tone for their season.

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