After recording their first win of the pre-season against the New York Islanders two nights ago, the Rangers are back in action tonight to take on the Philadelphia Flyers. The lead up to the first meeting had a bit of fireworks compared to the average pre-season game, as former Blueshirt Kevin Hayes had less than flattering things about the organization’s personnel decisions as of late:

“I don’t know if they’re good steps or bad steps, that’s what you guys get to decide, but they’re steps I guess. I have no hard feelings toward them. I loved my time there, I’m happy with where I’m at right now. I feel like this year is the best shape and best mentality I’ve ever been in in my career. I don’t know if it has to do with the change or the excitement I have to be here in Philly, but I’m excited to get this going.

They chose to get rid of me and Vese, but that’s their decision,” Hayes said. “I’m sure it’ll come back to them, we’ll find out.”

Suffice to say, the Flyers’ splash addition of free agency doesn’t think highly of his former team’s decisions.  While it’ll be more of a storyline when the games start to count, it’s still something to monitor in the meantime.

Player to Watch: Tony DeAngelo

After missing the first week of training camp without a contract, DeAngelo signed with the team on September 20th. He’s set to play his first pre-season contest tonight and although his spot on the roster is already assured, his minutes aren’t. The additions of Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba give DeAngelo stiff competition for power play minutes, as well as opportunities late in games when the team needs a goal. It’ll be up to DeAngelo to fend of Fox from offensive opportunities.

Enjoy the game!