Hockey fans across the country have long been familiar with the rivalry between the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils. The two teams have faced off against each other for years, with the Rangers and Devils both claiming their share of victories. Both teams have a long and storied history in the National Hockey League (NHL) and each has a passionate and loyal fan base. The rivalry between the Rangers and the Devils began in the early 1980s when the Devils joined the NHL as an expansion team. The two teams were placed in the Patrick Division, which was made up of teams from the Northeast United States.
The two teams faced off against each other for the first time in the 1982-83 season, and have been rivals ever since. Over the years, the Rangers have held a slight edge in the rivalry, with a record of 77-66-12-2 through the 2016-17 season. The Rangers have won four Stanley Cups, while the Devils have won three. The two teams have also met in the post-season on numerous occasions, with the Rangers winning four of the seven series they have played.
Sophomore, Sophia Chirico, a passionate Rangers fan, shared that “their ability to work together as a whole and how they don’t give up,” is what caught her eye and is why she’s a fan of the team. On the other hand, Sophomore Devils fan, Reese Weber likes that, “This is the only professional sports team New Jersey has and I think they are a pretty good team considering they made it to the playoffs last season.” Some favorites on both teams are Igor Shesterkin (Rangers #31 G), Nico Hishier (Devils #13 C), and Jack Hughes (Devils #86 C).
The rivalry between the Rangers and Devils has been one of the most intense and entertaining rivalries in all sports. Both teams have had their ups and downs over the years, but the rivalry has remained strong and passionate. The two teams will continue to battle for supremacy for years to come, and hockey fans everywhere will be sure to enjoy the action.
