Tuesday night preseason preview: New York Islanders vs New York Rangers

The New York Islanders will square off against the crosstown rival New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Puck drop is set for 7 pm EST.

The Isles are coming off a win in their preseason debut against the New Jersey Devils. The Islanders took the game 4-2, thanks to a solid all-around effort.

Meanwhile, the Rangers won their first preseason tilt against Original Six rival Boston Bruins. The Rangers edged the Bruins 3-2 in a game that lacked virtually all of the regulars on both sides. The game was largely physical, showing off both teams’ intensity.

With that in mind, here’s a look a preview of tonight’s New York Islanders bout against the New York Rangers.

New York Islanders preseason preview vs New York Rangers

Expect several regulars in the lineup

Last outing, the Isles had Brock Nelson, Kyle Palmieri, and captain Anders Lee on the ice. However, the club lacked most of its usual regulars.

So, fans should expect to get their first look at Anthony Duclair alongside top-line teammates Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal. Also, Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov should suit up.

As for the rest of the lineup, key defenders Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock should also draw into the lineup. It remains to be seen who else Patrick Roy inserts into the lineup as the Isles look to make further roster cuts.

Who will likely be in goal

Semyon Varlamov should see game action on Tuesday night. Varlamov, who projects to be the starting goaltender come opening night, would most likely be backed up by Keith Kinkaid. Kinkaid should get at least one period as the Isles need to see what Kinkaid has to offer.

However, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Varlamov go the distance with Kinkaid sitting on the sidelines. Varlamov will probably get one more preseason start leading up to opening night.

Keep an eye on the penalty kill

The penalty kill is something the New York Islanders have talked about improving this season. With the Rangers likely dressing some of their regulars as well, the penalty kill could get its first real test of the preseason.

Based on the game against New Jersey, the penalty kill, and defense by extension, have improved significantly. The third period against the Devils was a great example of how the Islanders need to lock games down the stretch.

The Rangers should prove a much tougher test for both Varlamov and the defense. Ultimately, this game should prove to be an interesting matchup, allowing the coaching staff to gauge where the team stands at this point in camp.