The three most important keys to the Rangers' victory against the Utah Hockey Club

The New York Rangers will face the newly formed Utah Hockey Club on Saturday evening in the home opener of the 2024-25 season. After defeating the Pittsburgh Penguins in their first game of the year, the Rangers look to continue their winning streak against a red-hot Utah team that seemingly has nothing to lose.

Let’s break down three keys to a Rangers win.

Continue the acclimatization process

The Rangers were outstanding in their first game of the season. Every member of the team looked as if they were already in top form by the middle of the season. They need to continue to settle in against this hot Utah team, just like they did against Pittsburgh.

The main key here is goalkeeper Igor Shesterkin, who was perfect in the first game. He'll have to be on guard in this game as Utah has scored the most goals of the year with 10, tied with the Boston Bruins. Shesterkin will have his hands full when faced with a very good team.

Utah is a good team

Utah is proving to be an excellent team this season. The former Arizona Coyotes have found new life with their rebrand in Utah. With an already die-hard fan base behind them, they are thriving on their energy and cementing themselves as a sleeper team that could make some noise next May and June.

This is the first time these two teams have met under these circumstances. But the Rangers fell 2-0 to the Coyotes last season, and many of their teams remained intact in this transition. This should be an interesting matchup as eyes will be on making sure the Blueshirts are no fluke in the first game.

It's opening night at MSG

It doesn't get any better. Opening night in the largest arena in the world, Madison Square Garden. The blue carpet will be filled before the game, the energy and vibe will be flawless once the Rangers faithful take their seats at MSG, and the sound culminating from the 18,000 spectators inside will help propel the Rangers to victory to lead.

The Rangers were 30-11 at home last season, and they need to repeat that this season. If they want to make it back to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and live up to the expectation of being the favorite to win this year, they will have to take care of their opponent at home.