35 Facts About New York Rangers Hockey

The Birth of the New York Rangers

The New York Rangers have a rich history that dates back to the early days of the NHL. Here are some fascinating facts about their origins and early years.

1. The Rangers were founded in 1926, making them one of the oldest teams in the NHL.
2. Tex Rickard, a boxing promoter, was the mastermind behind the creation of the Rangers.
3. The team was named the Rangers because Rickard was often referred to as "Tex's Rangers."
4. The Rangers were the first NHL team to win the Stanley Cup in their second season, 1927-28.
5. The original Rangers logo featured a simple shield design with the team name across it.

Iconic Players and Moments

The Rangers have had many legendary players and unforgettable moments throughout their history. Let's take a look at some of the most notable ones.

6. Lester Patrick, the team's first coach, famously played goalie in the 1928 Stanley Cup Finals at the age of 44.
7. Frank Boucher, a center for the Rangers, won the Lady Byng Trophy seven times for his sportsmanship and skill.
8. The Rangers' first captain was Bill Cook, who led the team from 1926 to 1937.
9. In 1994, the Rangers ended a 54-year Stanley Cup drought by defeating the Vancouver Canucks in seven games.
10. Mark Messier, the captain during the 1994 Stanley Cup run, guaranteed a Game 6 victory against the New Jersey Devils and delivered with a hat trick.

Madison Square Garden: The Home of the Rangers

Madison Square Garden, often referred to as "The World's Most Famous Arena," has been the Rangers' home for decades. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic venue.

11. The Rangers have played at four different versions of Madison Square Garden since their inception.
12. The current Madison Square Garden, located on Seventh Avenue, opened in 1968.
13. The arena has a seating capacity of approximately 18,006 for hockey games.
14. Madison Square Garden is the oldest major sporting facility in the New York metropolitan area.
15. The Rangers' first game at the current Madison Square Garden was on February 18, 1968, against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Memorable Rivalries

Rivalries are a huge part of hockey, and the Rangers have had their fair share of intense matchups. Here are some of the most memorable rivalries in Rangers history.

16. The Rangers' rivalry with the New York Islanders, known as the "Battle of New York," is one of the fiercest in the NHL.
17. Another heated rivalry is with the New Jersey Devils, highlighted by the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals.
18. The Rangers and the Boston Bruins have a historic rivalry dating back to the Original Six era.
19. The Philadelphia Flyers and the Rangers have had numerous physical and intense games over the years.
20. The Rangers' rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens is one of the oldest in the league.

Records and Achievements

The Rangers have set numerous records and achieved many milestones throughout their history. Here are some of the most notable ones.

21. Rod Gilbert holds the record for most points in Rangers history with 1,021.
22. Henrik Lundqvist, the legendary goaltender, has the most wins in Rangers history with 459.
23. The Rangers have won the Stanley Cup four times: 1928, 1933, 1940, and 1994.
24. The team has retired nine numbers in honor of their greatest players.
25. The Rangers were the first NHL team to have a game broadcast on television, on February 25, 1940.

Fan Culture and Traditions

Rangers fans are known for their passion and dedication. Here are some interesting facts about the fan culture and traditions surrounding the team.

26. The Rangers' fan base is often referred to as the "Blueshirts Faithful."
27. The "Potvin Sucks" chant, directed at former Islanders defenseman Denis Potvin, is a staple at Rangers games.
28. The Rangers' goal song, "Slapshot," has become iconic among fans.
29. The team has a tradition of playing "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra after home victories.
30. Rangers fans celebrate "Hat Night" by throwing hats onto the ice when a player scores a hat trick.

Community Involvement and Impact

The Rangers have made significant contributions to their community and have had a lasting impact on the sport of hockey. Here are some examples of their community involvement and impact.

31. The Rangers' Garden of Dreams Foundation supports children facing obstacles such as homelessness and illness.
32. The team hosts an annual "Skate with the Greats" event, where fans can skate with Rangers alumni.
33. The Rangers have a strong presence in youth hockey, supporting programs and clinics throughout the New York area.
34. The team has been involved in numerous charitable events and fundraisers over the years.
35. The Rangers' alumni association helps former players stay connected and involved in the community.

The Final Whistle

New York Rangers hockey is packed with history, passion, and memorable moments. From their founding in 1926 to their Stanley Cup victories, the Rangers have left an indelible mark on the NHL. Their iconic blue jerseys, Madison Square Garden home, and dedicated fan base make them a standout team. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the Rangers' legacy offers something for everyone.

Remember, the Rangers aren't just about the past. They continue to shape the future of hockey with talented players and exciting games. So next time you catch a Rangers game, you'll know a bit more about the team's rich history and what makes them special. Keep these facts in mind and enjoy the thrill of Rangers hockey!