Rangers Face Devils as Wolf Pack Sign Reimer
The New York Rangers take on the New Jersey Devils while the organization adds veteran goaltender James Reimer.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Hockey
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The New York Rangers play the New Jersey Devils in Newark, aiming to continue their strong start after winning six of their first eight games. In a related personnel move, the Hartford Wolf Pack signed 38-year-old goaltender James Reimer to a professional tryout contract.
Why it matters
The Rangers are focused on securing a playoff spot following a two-year absence from the postseason. Defensively, the team must navigate the absence of starting goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who is sidelined with an injury.
Jack Hughes has recorded 20 goals and 35 points in 26 career games against the Rangers. Meanwhile, James Reimer posted a 7-4-2 record with a 2.42 goals-against average and an .886 save percentage during the previous season.
The players
Jack Hughes
He is an elite forward for the New Jersey Devils who has consistently performed against the New York Rangers throughout his career.
James Reimer
He is a 38-year-old veteran goaltender who recently signed a professional tryout contract with the Hartford Wolf Pack.
Igor Shesterkin
He serves as the primary starting goaltender for the New York Rangers and is currently out of the lineup due to an injury.
Dylan Garand
He has stepped into the role of starting goaltender for the New York Rangers while the team deals with injuries in the crease.
The details
The Rangers are looking to maintain their momentum after a recent 5-2 victory over the Islanders. Strategy for the matchup against the Devils centers on disciplined defensive play, puck possession, and limiting high-quality scoring chances for the opponent.
Timeline
Jack Hughes was selected first overall in the NHL draft in 2019.
The Rangers defeated the Islanders 5-2 on October 6, 2026.
The Rangers faced the Devils in Newark on October 15, 2026.
The Hartford Wolf Pack signed James Reimer on October 15, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The Rangers are attempting to rebound from their 2025-26 season Eastern Conference last-place finish to reclaim a playoff spot. Their early 6-2 start suggests a major shift in performance as they fight to return to the postseason after a two-year absence.
With Igor Shesterkin injured, the team is relying on Dylan Garand in net, which significantly changes the Rangers' defensive reliability for fantasy rosters and betting lines. Jack Hughes continues to be a high-production focal point for New Jersey, maintaining a scoring pace of over one point per game.
The takeaway
The Rangers must maintain their current defensive discipline to sustain their winning record while their starting goaltender remains sidelined. Fans should monitor goaltending performances closely as the team continues to integrate new depth signings to stabilize the crease.
Further reading
Follow the team's progress through the season on the Newark Hockey section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Newsday.
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