In a crucial victory, the New York Rangers secured two points against the Montreal Canadiens, leveling their points total. Despite a lackluster defensive performance, the offensive unit displayed energy and skill, leading to five goals. Gabe Perreault, although unable to register points, showcased his potential with notable plays during his 13:38 TOI. Conversely, the Rangers' power play continued its struggles, now at 2-for-43, raising questions about the strategy and personnel on the ice. Igor Shesterkin faced numerous high-danger chances, underscoring the need for better defensive support. With the Devils next on the schedule, the Rangers must tighten their play to remain competitive.

The NHL playoff race heats up as the last two weeks of the regular season approach, with five teams vying for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Currently, the Montreal Canadiens occupy the second wild-card position with 79 points and will face the Boston Bruins, while the Columbus Blue Jackets, trailing slightly with 77 points, will host the Colorado Avalanche. The New York Rangers sit tied with Montreal on points but have a higher regulation win count, making them a formidable contender.

The Stathletes projection model indicates the Canadiens have a 51.7% chance to secure a playoff spot, followed by the Blue Jackets at 25.5%. The idle Detroit Red Wings and New York Islanders are also in the mix, albeit with lower odds. With the regular season concluding on April 17, every game counts, especially for these playoff hopefuls.

In a thrilling overtime victory, the New York Rangers edged out the Minnesota Wild 5-4, showcasing the impressive debut of 19-year-old Gabe Perreault. Fresh from Boston College, Perreault displayed his elite playmaking skills, highlighted by a spectacular no-look pass. However, he also faced challenges, notably an accidental own goal. Vincent Trocheck, who scored the game-winner just 24 seconds into overtime, helped the Rangers secure their place in a heated playoff race, tying them with the Montreal Canadiens for the Eastern Conference's final wild card spot.

The Rangers' win marked just their third overtime victory of the season, reflecting a season of ups and downs. Perreault's performance, demonstrating patience and vision, suggests he will quickly adapt to the NHL's pace. Despite some defensive lapses leading to goals against, the Rangers controlled much of the play, outshooting Minnesota 38-24, showcasing their offensive prowess and resilience.

In a thrilling contest at Madison Square Garden, the New York Rangers edged out the Minnesota Wild 5-4 in overtime, a game characterized by crucial turnovers and missed opportunities. Early in the third period, Marco Rossi equalized for the Wild, only to have Vincent Trocheck net the game-winner for the Rangers in the extra frame. This victory pushed the Rangers into a tie for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, while the Wild remained in eighth place in the West, tied with the idle St. Louis Blues.

Both teams displayed moments of brilliance, yet a series of self-inflicted mistakes plagued their efforts. Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin made 20 saves, while Filip Gustavsson of the Wild was under constant fire, finishing with 34 saves. The game saw multiple lead changes, with key contributions from players like Artemi Panarin and Marcus Johansson, who had a goal and two assists for Minnesota. The Wild's next challenge comes against the New York Islanders.

The 2024-25 NHL schedule poses unique challenges for teams, especially for the New York Rangers, who experience significant gaps between games due to Madison Square Garden's busy event calendar. While the Minnesota Wild have enjoyed a packed schedule, playing numerous games in quick succession, the Rangers face the complex task of balancing player rest and performance on the ice. Coach John Hynes emphasizes the importance of managing the transition from rest to game readiness. Key players like Kirill Kaprizov are also in the spotlight as he progresses in his rehab, hinting at a potential return before the season's end.