The New York Rangers have asserted their dominance in the NHL by finishing the regular season with the league’s top record, clinching the prestigious Presidents’ Trophy after a decisive 4-0 victory over the Ottawa Senators Monday night.
Artemi Panarin led the charge with a goal and an assist, while goaltender Igor Shesterkin sealed the net with 26 saves, marking his fourth shutout this season. The victory at Madison Square Garden was the Rangers’ 55th, pushing them to a franchise-record 114 points and securing home-ice advantage for the playoffs.
Jack Roslovic, Adam Fox, and Alexis Lafreniere also contributed goals, with Chris Kreider assisting twice, reinforcing the Rangers’ potent offense. This season marks their first Presidents’ Trophy win since 2014-15 and comes after a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the New Jersey Devils last year.
NHL NEWS & RUMORS: New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators Updates
Reflecting on the achievement, Rangers captain Jacob Trouba emphasized the shift in focus now required: “It’s a notable accomplishment for us, but the real challenge begins now,” he said, highlighting the team’s readiness for the postseason.
Head coach Peter Laviolette praised the team’s consistent performance: “They’ve shown up all year. This team believes in its ability to win whenever they step on the ice. Now, we turn our attention to the playoffs, where all this hard work aims to pay off.”
The Rangers showed their prowess early on, with Roslovic scoring just under six minutes into the game, capitalizing on a 2-on-1 opportunity created by Kreider. Adam Fox later widened the gap with a short-handed goal during the second period, his 17th of the season, the most by a Rangers defenseman in over two decades.
NHL NEWS & RUMORS: New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators Updates
Artemi Panarin, near the top of his game, scored his 49th goal early in the third period and ended the season with 120 points. His performance prompted chants of “MVP” from the Garden crowd as he narrowly missed his 50th goal on a late power play.
Alexis Lafreniere wrapped up the scoring with his 28th goal of the season, capping a night of high spirits and stellar teamwork. Chris Kreider and goalie Igor Shesterkin also ended the season on high notes, with Kreider posting his second-highest career points total and Shesterkin securing his position as a top netminder with multiple shutouts down the stretch.
NHL NEWS & RUMORS: New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators Updates
The Rangers now prepare to host their playoff opener, with potential first-round opponents still vying for the final wild-card spot. As the postseason looms, the Rangers look to translate their regular-season success into a long-awaited Stanley Cup victory.
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