On Monday night, the Rangers dropped a 3-2 decision to the Devils in preseason action. It was the first of four tuneups over a five day period.

Anton Blidh and Drew Fortescue each had a goal. Liam Greentree and Brody Lamb picked up assists in a game that was mostly players who’ll start with the Wolf Pack this season. Despite the Devils dressing most of their regulars, including Jack Hughes, who scored on another breakaway for the game-winner (big shocker),it was a mix of youngsters and vets kept it close.

“I thought we competed hard. I loved our competitive spirit. I think that was the biggest takeaway for me, and that was what we asked of them before the game: ‘don’t overthink it out there, and believe in yourself, trust your instincts, and compete.’

And I thought we competed hard. If we were going to make mistakes, let’s make them mistakes of enthusiasm. And I thought that was the case. There are certainly some areas where we need to get better, but I loved our competitive spirit,” Mike Sullivan said.

Dylan Garand was busy finishing with 28 saves on 31 shots. He went the whole way in his first appearance. Two of the goals weren’t his fault.

Vincent Iorio handed Timo Meier an easy goal on a brutal giveaway. It was a gift that probably will get Iorio put on waivers in a week. Hughes’ winner was another typical walk-in that came with 2:12 left. That can’t happen anymore when these teams play during the regular season. Hughes needs to be checked or knocked on his ass completely. The new defense better send him a message.

Rangers Lose Sykora to Injury

The big concern that came out of the game was Adam Sykora leaving due to absorbing a big hit from Mikael Diotte that sent him down awkwardly. He left with a lower-body injury.

It didn’t look good. Sykora was caught a tad late by the much bigger Diotte. He’ll be re-evaluated tomorrow by the Rangers medical staff.

Iorio also sustained a lower-body injury. He’ll also be re-evaluated.