For those doing scoreboard watching, the Rangers have at least one game they are interested in tonight as the 2025-2026 NHL season comes to a close. The Calgary Flames are hosting the Los Angeles Kings, and this game has massive impact to the Rangers’ offseason plans no matter who wins. If Calgary wins in any manner, then the Rangers will drop to 30th overall and be guaranteed a top-5 pick at the 2026 NHL Draft. If Calgary does not get two points, then the Rangers stick to 29th and are guaranteed a top-6 pick.
Things get interesting if the LA Kings win, as scoreboard watching becomes a bit more confusing. The conditions on the third round pick acquired in the Artemi Panarin trade stipulate that the pick becomes a second round pick if LA wins a playoff series. Naturally their odds are better if they don’t face the Colorado Avalanche as the WC2 team.
If the Kings get the win in any fashion, then Rangers fans that are scoreboard watching will turn their attention to the Anaheim Ducks (@ Nashville) and Edmonton Oilers (vs Vancouver). If both teams lose, then LA jumps to second in the Pacific Division. If Edmonton gets a point and Anaheim loses in regulation, OT, or the shootout, then LA jumps to third in the Pacific Division.
An easier matchup for LA would be a decent enough consolation prize for the Rangers should Calgary lose. Hopefully that makes scoreboard watching tonight a little more palatable for some.
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