30 Facts About Rangers Vs. Red Wings

Rangers vs. Red Wings: A Storied Rivalry

The New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings have a rich history in the NHL. Their matchups have provided fans with countless memorable moments. Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic rivalry.

Early Beginnings

The rivalry between these two teams dates back to the early days of the NHL.

1. The New York Rangers were founded in 1926, while the Detroit Red Wings, originally known as the Detroit Cougars, joined the league in 1926 as well.
2. The first game between the Rangers and the Red Wings took place on November 24, 1926, with the Rangers winning 1-0.
3. The Red Wings changed their name from the Detroit Cougars to the Detroit Falcons in 1930, and finally to the Detroit Red Wings in 1932.

Memorable Games

Several games between these teams have gone down in history for their intensity and excitement.

4. In the 1950 Stanley Cup Finals, the Red Wings defeated the Rangers in a thrilling seven-game series to win the championship.
5. The 1994-95 season saw the Red Wings sweep the Rangers in a two-game regular-season series, showcasing their dominance that year.
6. On March 21, 2000, the Rangers and Red Wings played a game that ended in a 6-6 tie, one of the highest-scoring games in their rivalry.

Legendary Players

Both teams have had numerous legendary players who have left their mark on the rivalry.

7. Gordie Howe, known as "Mr. Hockey," played for the Red Wings from 1946 to 1971 and was a key figure in many games against the Rangers.
8. Mark Messier, one of the greatest leaders in NHL history, captained the Rangers to their 1994 Stanley Cup victory and had many battles with the Red Wings.
9. Steve Yzerman, a Red Wings legend, played his entire career with Detroit and faced the Rangers numerous times, often coming out on top.

Playoff Battles

The Rangers and Red Wings have faced each other in the playoffs multiple times, each series adding to the rivalry's intensity.

10. The 1937 Stanley Cup Semifinals saw the Red Wings defeat the Rangers in a best-of-five series, advancing to the Finals.
11. In the 1943 Stanley Cup Semifinals, the Red Wings once again emerged victorious, sweeping the Rangers in four games.
12. The 1950 Stanley Cup Finals remains one of the most memorable playoff series between the two teams, with the Red Wings winning in double overtime of Game 7.

Coaching Legends

Coaches have also played a significant role in shaping the rivalry between these two teams.

13. Scotty Bowman, one of the greatest coaches in NHL history, led the Red Wings to three Stanley Cup championships during his tenure from 1993 to 2002.
14. Emile Francis, known as "The Cat," coached the Rangers from 1965 to 1975 and was instrumental in developing the team's competitive edge against the Red Wings.
15. Mike Keenan, who coached the Rangers to their 1994 Stanley Cup victory, had several intense matchups against the Red Wings during his career.

Fan Experiences

Fans of both teams have experienced unforgettable moments during Rangers vs. Red Wings games.

16. Madison Square Garden, home of the Rangers, is known for its electric atmosphere during games against the Red Wings.
17. Joe Louis Arena, the Red Wings' former home, was a fortress where many memorable games against the Rangers took place.
18. The 2014 NHL Winter Classic, held at Michigan Stadium, saw the Red Wings face the Toronto Maple Leafs, but Rangers fans fondly remember their team's outdoor game against the Philadelphia Flyers in 2012.

Records and Achievements

The rivalry has seen numerous records and achievements by both teams and players.

19. Henrik Lundqvist, the Rangers' legendary goaltender, holds the record for most wins by a European-born goalie in NHL history, many of which came against the Red Wings.
20. The Red Wings hold the record for the longest consecutive playoff appearance streak in NHL history, making the playoffs 25 straight seasons from 1991 to 2016.
21. The Rangers' 1994 Stanley Cup victory ended a 54-year championship drought, one of the longest in NHL history.

Cultural Impact

The rivalry has also had a significant impact on hockey culture and the broader sports world.

22. The "Original Six" era, which included both the Rangers and Red Wings, is often romanticized by hockey fans for its fierce competition and legendary players.
23. The rivalry has been featured in various forms of media, including documentaries, books, and even video games, highlighting its importance in hockey history.
24. Both teams have passionate fan bases that travel well, often creating a lively atmosphere in each other's arenas during games.

Modern Era

The rivalry continues to evolve in the modern era, with new players and moments adding to its rich history.

25. The 2016 NHL All-Star Game saw Rangers' defenseman Ryan McDonagh and Red Wings' forward Dylan Larkin both representing their teams and showcasing their skills.
26. In recent years, the rivalry has seen several high-scoring games, including a 7-6 Rangers victory over the Red Wings on March 7, 2019.
27. The 2020 NHL Draft saw both teams selecting highly-touted prospects, with the Rangers picking Alexis Lafrenière first overall and the Red Wings selecting Lucas Raymond fourth overall.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the rivalry between the Rangers and Red Wings shows no signs of slowing down.

28. Both teams have young, talented rosters that promise to keep the rivalry exciting for years to come.
29. The NHL's realignment and new playoff format could lead to more frequent and intense matchups between the two teams.
30. As both teams continue to build their legacies, fans can expect many more memorable moments in the Rangers vs. Red Wings rivalry.

The Final Whistle

Rangers vs. Red Wings games have always been thrilling. From legendary players like Gordie Howe and Mark Messier to unforgettable moments on the ice, this rivalry is packed with history. Fans from both sides bring unmatched energy to every game, making each matchup a spectacle. The stats, the records, and the sheer passion of the supporters make this rivalry one of the most exciting in hockey. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, the Rangers vs. Red Wings rivalry offers something special. It's not just about the game; it's about the tradition, the pride, and the love for hockey. So next time these two teams face off, remember the rich history and enjoy every moment. Hockey fans, get ready for more unforgettable clashes between these iconic teams!