Overview

• The New York Rangers are four points out of the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot after a 3-2 overtime victory against the New Jersey Devils on Thursday.
• Sam Carrick scored the overtime winner, his first in 10 NHL seasons, capping a strong defensive performance with 20 blocked shots and improved special teams play.
• The Rangers have gone 3-1-1 in their last five games, showing signs of recovery after a disappointing season and aiming to carry momentum into a challenging three-game Western road trip.
• Vegas Golden Knights, who lead the Pacific Division, are coming off a 4-0 home loss to the Islanders but expect key forward Ivan Barbashev to return from injury for Saturday's game.
• Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette emphasized the importance of consistent defensive intensity and special teams execution as the team fights to stay in playoff contention.