New York Rangers, Mats Zuccarello
Photo by Bergen Record

The New York Rangers opened the 2015-16 NHL season with a very impressive 3-2 victory over the defending champion Chicago Blackhawks.

By Robby Sabo

All Henrik Lundqvist needed was three goals from his offense. All three New York Rangers goals came in the first period as they spoiled the Chicago Blackhawks night of ceremony.

Raising the 2015 Stanley Cup Championship banner officially ended sour for Chicago with the 3-2 loss to New York.

Oscar Lindberg, Kevin Klein and Derek Stepan were the goal scorers for the Blueshirts.

Speaking of Lindberg, his goal turned out to be the first in the league this season and his first career NHL goal. For his efforts he picked up the famed Broadway Hat.

J.T. Miller played an extraordinary game as he tallied two assists. The most notable came when Lindberg buried the puck in the back of the net.

Lundqvist was solid throughout. Only two very slick offensive one-timers (setup beautifully via pass) beat him. He made 32 saves on the night.

Chicago did come on strong in the third period and the Rangers had to hold on for dear life. There was even a sequence with 1:00 remaining in regulation when it appeared much-maligned star Patrick Kane put a rebound past Hank to tie the game.

The play was blown dead, however, as the official lost sight of the puck.

Jarret Stoll has already made his presence felt in the faceoff circle and on the defensive end of the ice, especially when the money is on the line. This is only a sneak peak for Rangers fans and what to expect moving forward.

Next up for New York will be the Columbus Blue Jackets Friday night at Madison Square Garden in their home opener.

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Robby Sabo is a co-founder, CEO and credentialed New York Jets content creator for Jets X-Factor - Jet X, which includes Sabo's Sessions (in-depth film breakdowns) and Sabo with the Jets. Host: Underdog Jets Podcast with Wayne Chrebet and Sabo Radio. Member: Pro Football Writers of America. Coach: Port Jervis (NY) High School. Washed up strong safety and 400M runner. SEO: XL Media. Founder: Elite Sports NY - ESNY (Sold in 2020). SEO: XL Media. Email: robby.sabo[at]jetsxfactor.com