Rangers capitals – The Rangers-Capitals rivalry is a storied chapter in NHL history, marked by intense battles, memorable moments, and a passionate fan base. From its humble beginnings to its current status as one of the league’s fiercest rivalries, the Rangers-Capitals feud has captivated hockey fans for decades.
The rivalry’s origins can be traced back to the early days of the NHL, when the Rangers and Capitals were both expansion teams. Over the years, the two teams have clashed countless times, with each matchup adding fuel to the fire.
Historical Rivalry
The rivalry between the New York Rangers and Washington Capitals is one of the most intense and enduring in the NHL. It dates back to the early days of the league, when the Rangers and Capitals were both expansion teams.
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The rivalry has been fueled by a number of factors, including geographic proximity, a history of close games, and a passionate fan base in both cities.
One of the most memorable moments in the rivalry came in the 1994 playoffs, when the Rangers defeated the Capitals in seven games to win the Eastern Conference championship. The series was filled with drama, including a controversial overtime goal by Rangers forward Brian Leetch in Game 7.
The rivalry has continued to be intense in recent years, with the Capitals winning the Stanley Cup in 2018 and the Rangers reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2015.
Regular Season Matchups: Rangers Capitals
The Rangers and Capitals have played each other 216 times in the regular season, with the Rangers holding a slight edge with a record of 106-94-16.
The two teams have met in the playoffs on 11 occasions, with the Rangers holding a 6-5 advantage.
Playoff History
| Year | Result | Game-by-Game Scores | Key Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Rangers win 4-1 | 4-2, 5-4, 5-3, 4-2 | Mark Messier, Mike Gartner |
| 1987 | Capitals win 4-2 | 3-2, 4-3, 4-1, 2-3, 4-3 | Dino Ciccarelli, Dale Hunter |
| 1994 | Rangers win 4-3 | 5-4, 3-2, 2-4, 2-1, 3-2, 4-2, 3-2 | Brian Leetch, Adam Graves |
| 2009 | Rangers win 4-3 | 4-3, 5-3, 2-3, 2-1, 2-3, 4-2, 2-1 | Marian Gaborik, Alexander Ovechkin |
| 2013 | Capitals win 4-3 | 3-2, 3-2, 1-3, 1-2, 3-2, 2-1, 2-1 | Alex Ovechkin, Henrik Lundqvist |
| 2015 | Rangers win 4-3 | 2-1, 3-2, 2-3, 2-1, 3-2, 2-3, 2-1 | Derek Stepan, Nicklas Backstrom |
| 2017 | Capitals win 4-2 | 2-1, 4-2, 1-2, 4-3, 4-1 | Alex Ovechkin, Mika Zibanejad |
| 2019 | Rangers win 4-3 | 2-1, 3-2, 1-2, 1-2, 3-2, 4-2, 2-1 | Artemi Panarin, T.J. Oshie |
Star Players
Some of the most notable players in the Rangers-Capitals rivalry include:
- Mark Messier
- Mike Gartner
- Brian Leetch
- Adam Graves
- Henrik Lundqvist
- Marian Gaborik
- Derek Stepan
- Artemi Panarin
- Alex Ovechkin
- Nicklas Backstrom
- T.J. Oshie
Fan Base and Atmosphere
The Rangers and Capitals have two of the most passionate fan bases in the NHL.
Rangers fans are known for their loyalty and support, even when the team is struggling.
Capitals fans are known for their energy and enthusiasm, and they create a raucous atmosphere at Capital One Arena.
Media Coverage and Hype
The Rangers-Capitals rivalry is one of the most covered in the NHL.
The media often hypes up the rivalry, and the two teams often play in front of a national television audience.
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Final Review
The Rangers-Capitals rivalry is a testament to the passion and intensity of hockey. It’s a rivalry that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate fans with every new chapter.
