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Ranking the New York Rangers' Potential First Round Matchups, Worst to Best

The New York Rangers could end up winning the Presidents Trophy yet, they may end up with a tough round one draw

By Nicholas Rome

Apr 11, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers left wing Artemi Panarin (10) awaits a
Apr 11, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers left wing Artemi Panarin (10) awaits a / Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
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2. Detroit Red Wings

Apr 5, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider (4) and Detroit
Apr 5, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider (4) and Detroit / Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Things look bleak for the Detroit Red Wings after dropping back-to-back playoff-style games to the Capitals and Penguins. The Red Wings sit at 85 points just one point behind the Penguins for the final wild card with three games remaining. Working in the Red Wings' favor is two games against Montreal who has nothing to play for and one game against the Maple Leafs. The team has blown what seemed like a solid chance at the playoffs losing seven of their last ten games.

Working in the Red Wings' favor is the return of Dylan Larkin who missed 14 games dealing with injury yet, he's still second for the team in points. The Red Wings currently hold a 15.8% chance at making the playoffs.

Alex Lyon has been an incredible story this season earning his way into a regular spot in net after an impressive showing at the Global Series but, his play hasn't been great as of late.

If the Red Wings are going to make a deep playoff run they'll need one of their goaltenders to grab control of the net. They'll also need their top-end talent in Larkin, Alex DeBrincat, Lucas Raymond, and Patrick Kane to perform at a high-scoring pace. The Red Wings feel like they're a year or two away from being a serious contender making them a great landing spot for the Rangers.

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