A day after getting an important road win at Montreal courtesy of rookie Cam Talbot’s first NHL shutout, the Ranger return to Madison Square Garden tonight to host the Kings. Following a night off, Henrik Lundqvist returns to net where he’ll oppose LA backup Ben Scrivens.

Since Jonathan Quick went down to a groin injury, the former Leaf has filled in admirably winning his last two starts against the Islanders and Devils. He shutout New Jersey with 26 saves Friday and has allowed four goals in three starts on a four-game road trip that concludes later. Along with a strong team in front of him, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. The Kings go for the Metro hat trick.

Back home for two more including the always tough Bruins Tuesday, the Rangers try to finish strong before embarking on a crucial five-game road trip through Thanksgiving. Will fatigue be a factor 24 hours later against a more rested opponent? Hopefully that won’t be the case. They’re only 4-3-0 at home. Hardly what Dolan had in mind following the final renovation that features The Lounges with breathtaking views for those who can afford it. Because it’s not like other fans are allowed in… At the very least, you can catch all the retired jerseys and banners up close. We are going later. It’s my second game.

It’s imperative for the Rangers to get the final two home games before the big road trip that includes stops in Dallas, Nashville, Tampa, Florida and Boston. To their credit, they’ve won seven of nine to get over .500 (10-9-0) ranking third in the Metro Division. There’s still much work to do. Rick Nash isn’t expected to return until either Tuesday or Thursday. Putting themselves in a better position can set the tone when they hit the road.

Ryan Callahan was the lone goal scorer in their win yesterday, deflecting home a Brad Richards one-time blast for his team-leading fourth power play goal. No other Blueshirt has more than one PPG. Even though it’s slightly improved, it’s not like they’re lighting the world on fire. They rank 16th converting at 18.8 percent. The penalty kill has gotten a little better moving up to 11th at 83.6 percent. The special teams can improve.

Against a big, physical team such as LA, the Rangers must use their team speed and get pucks deep. Finish checks and limit the Kings’ time and space. They can’t allow Anze Kopitar much room and must prevent their big forwards from screening Lundqvist. Dwight King notched the winner against the Devils by tipping in a point shot. Los Angeles is without Jeff Carter, which helps. But still boast Mike Richards, Justin Williams and rookie Tyler Toffoli has seven points in six games since being recalled. An active D features Drew Doughty, Jake Muzzin and Slava Voynov, who are all capable of getting shots through from the point. For our team, puck management inside their zone will be essential.

A faster tempo favors the Rangers. Chris Kreider and Carl Hagelin are two of the fastest skaters. Both have played well during the turnaround. Derek Stepan has been relatively quiet since his hat trick on Nov. 2. He is second with 14 points and has points in four of the last five. But is capable of better production. One goal in the last six isn’t enough for our top center. Maybe he breaks out.

With Justin Falk coming in and doing a solid job, I’d venture to guess he’ll be in the lineup again for Mike Del Zotto. If that is the case, what does it mean? I’d rather not know. Hopefully, they come out and play a smart aggressive game.