Game #43: New York Rangers vs. Florida Panthers Open Thread
The 2026 Winter Classic is here as the Rangers head south to Miami and will take on the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions, the Florida Panthers, at LoanDepot Park. The Rangers have a perfect 5-0 record in outdoor games, while the Panthers are looking to win their first ever outdoor game.
The lines will look a little different for the Blueshirts, as they are without Noah Laba and Conor Sheary, who both suffered injuries against the Capitals. Justin Dowling will center the third line, and Brett Beard will slot into the fourth line. J.T. Miller is still out but has been practicing. Matthew Tkachuk has also started practicing but will not be making his 2025-26 season debut quite yet.
Where to Watch
Cable/Network TV: TNT, NHL website, and the NHL app
National Broadcast: TNT
Radio: 1050 AM
Player to Watch: Justin Dowling
Dowling is set to make his Rangers and 2025-26 season debut. He played the entirety of the season with the Hartford Wolf Pack, having registered 16 points in 24 games. Dowling last appeared in the NHL during the 2024-25 season with the New Jersey Devils.
Dowling possesses a solid defensive game but shouldn't be expected to produce offensively. The 35-year-old journeyman could not have asked for a better game to be called up for as he gets ready to take in all the 2026 Winter Classic has to offer.
Enjoy the game!
