Are the New Jersey Devils already in serious trouble? Can the New York Rangers overcome Igor Shesterkin's season-ending injury? On Episode 63 of the Tri-State Hockey Podcast, Jonny Lazarus, Mike Rupp, and Arthur Staple break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Devils, Rangers, and New York Islanders.
The guys begin with the Devils' disappointing start to the 2026-27 NHL season following another frustrating loss to the Ottawa Senators. They examine New Jersey's struggles scoring at five-on-five, costly defensive breakdowns, and mounting pressure on head coach Sheldon Keefe. Is this simply a slow start, or are there deeper problems with the Devils' core? Plus, should New Jersey consider pursuing Quinn Hughes, and is it time to shake up the forward lines?
Attention then turns to the Rangers, who are facing life without superstar goaltender Igor Shesterkin following his season-ending injury. Despite the devastating news, Mike Sullivan's team has shown encouraging signs of a new identity, improved defensive structure, and renewed confidence. The guys discuss Dylan Garand stepping into the spotlight, J.T. Miller's leadership, potential goaltending replacements, and whether the Rangers can still make the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Mike Rupp also shares his experience playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins without Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.
Finally, Arthur Staple provides an update on the New York Islanders following their loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. The crew discusses Matthew Schaefer's incredible start, Bo Horvat's impact, Ilya Sorokin, and whether Peter DeBoer's Islanders have enough to compete for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
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0:00 Intro – Episode 63
0:35 What's Wrong With the New Jersey Devils?
2:35 Devils' Five-on-Five Struggles and Sheldon Keefe's Future
5:19 Mike Rupp on Why Analytics Aren't Enough
8:19 Sheldon Keefe Calls Out the Devils' Stars
10:18 Breaking Down New Jersey's Defensive Mistakes
14:10 Why the Devils Are Falling Behind in the Eastern Conference
17:50 Should the Devils Pursue Quinn Hughes?
19:33 Time to Shake Up New Jersey's Forward Lines?
25:57 How Can the Devils Turn Their Season Around?
27:56 Devils' Tough Upcoming Schedule and Coaching Questions
31:36 Rangers Respond to Igor Shesterkin's Season-Ending Injury
32:59 J.T. Miller's Leadership and New York's New Identity
34:52 Should the Rangers Trade for a Goaltender?
36:07 Mike Rupp on Playing Without Crosby and Malkin
39:10 Rangers Fan Voicemail: Can the Season Be Saved?
40:05 Jonny Lazarus Makes His Case for the Rangers
42:22 Mike Sullivan's Decisions and Gabe Perreault's Impact
44:46 Islanders Recap: Loss to Tampa Bay and Playoff Outlook
47:08 Matthew Schaefer's Highlight-Reel Goal
50:24 bet365 Bet of the Night and Final Thoughts
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