After a long wait, there will be hockey today. It can be seen on MSG Network at 5 EST. If you aren’t in the local area, you can watch the Rangers and Bruins on NHL Network.

This marks the first of six exhibition games for the Rangers. They visit the Bruins in Boston later. It coincides with Week Three of the NFL. Fortunately, the Jets play early against the Patriots. That’s a must win for them. I’m sure our resident Gang Green fan who covers the Devils is on edge.

Later this evening, Yom Kippur begins. For the Jewish followers, I wish you a Happy Yom Kippur. I will try my best to fast. It won’t be easy. Since losing weight, I eat more. It’ll be a challenge. We’ll see how it goes.

As far as the lineup goes for today’s first preseason tilt, Alexis Lafreniere will be in. He will get his first look at the right wing. That’ll be worth keeping an eye on. Zac Jones also will play on the defense. He’s battling Erik Gustafsson for the sixth defenseman role.

Gustafsson played under Peter Laviolette with the Capitals. He had success last year. In 61 games, he put up 38 points, including 27 at even strength. His best output in a few years since he started with the Blackhawks. The other eleven points were power play assists. An area he can aid the Blueshirts at. When he plays, look for him to see time on the second unit.

For Jones, there’s nothing left to prove at the AHL level. The former 2019 third round pick is entering his third pro season. He’s excelled with the Wolf Pack totaling 66 points in 106 games. He posted two goals and four assists in nine games during the Calder Cup Playoffs. He’ll turn 23 next month.

With the first five spots set on the blue line, this is another opportunity for Jones to break through. He isn’t the biggest player, but he is a good skater with skill. So far, Jones has eight points (1-7-8) in 38 NHL games over parts of three seasons. He didn’t get much leeway last year under former coach Gerard Gallant. We’ll see how things shake out under Laviolette.

If you’re looking for a couple of younger prospects to watch, both Adam Sykora and Brett Berard are expected to play. Sykora is number 38. Berard will wear number 65. Sykora is the more recent draft pick. We’ll see how he does.

Ben Harpur is also in for tonight. The veteran was a pleasant surprise after being recalled from Hartford last season. He brought some size and an edge to the defense. He’s likely the eighth defenseman unless the organization decides to trade Jones. He’s fighting for a spot.

Matthew Robertson remains the forgotten D prospect. Selected in the second round in 2019, the Edmonton, Alberta native is entering his third pro season. A bigger defenseman listed at 6-3, 211 pounds, Robertson spent the past two years with Hartford. After totaling 11 points in his first season, he improved with 23 points last season. Robertson will wear number 44.

Will Cuylle is also playing. A gritty forward who debuted in 2022-23, the former 2020 second round pick had a good rookie season with Hartford, finishing with 25 goals and 20 assists for 45 points in 69 games. He got into four games with the Rangers. Cuylle is only entering his second pro season. With vets Nick Bonino, Tyler Pitlick, and Riley Nash brought in, it’s likely that Cuylle will start 2023-24 with the Wolf Pack.

Both Nash and Jonny Brodzinski are in the lineup. Making his Rangers debut in the net is former King Jonathan Quick. The new backup goalie will look to establish himself during camp. Louis Domingue is the backup who’ll likely play the third period.

Here’s the list of today’s roster:

With it pouring outside, stay dry.