2008–09 New York Rangers Season
   HOME

TheInfoList



OR:

The 2008–09 New York Rangers season was the franchise's 82nd season of play and their 83rd season overall. It saw the Rangers qualify for the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season. The Rangers started the season in Europe; first, as part of the inaugural Victoria Cup being held in Switzerland, the Rangers played an exhibition game against
SC Bern Schlittschuh Club Bern ('' Ice-skating Club Bern'' in English) is a professional ice hockey Ice hockey (or simply hockey in North America) is a team sport played on ice skates, usually on an Ice rink, ice skating rink with Ice hockey rin ...
on September 30, and then the main game against the 2008 European Champions
Metallurg Magnitogorsk Metallurg Magnitogorsk () is a professional ice hockey club based in Magnitogorsk, Russia. It is a member of the Kharlamov Division in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). The club also competed in the Champions Hockey League (2008–09), Champion ...
on October 1 (the first game between a Russian club and an NHL team since 1991). They won both games, and were awarded the first Victoria Cup. The Rangers battled from a 3–0 deficit in the Victoria Cup to win the game by a score of 4–3. Ryan Callahan scored the game-winning goal with 20 seconds left. On October 3, 2008, Chris Drury was named the 25th captain in Rangers history. The Rangers opened the
NHL regular season The season structure of the National Hockey League (NHL) is divided into the pre-season, regular season, and the Stanley Cup playoffs. In the pre-season, which is generally held during the last two weeks of September, each team plays several not-fo ...
against the
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
with two games in
Prague Prague ( ; ) is the capital and List of cities and towns in the Czech Republic, largest city of the Czech Republic and the historical capital of Bohemia. Prague, located on the Vltava River, has a population of about 1.4 million, while its P ...
,
Czech Republic The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, and historically known as Bohemia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the south ...
, on October 4 and 5. Alexei Cherepanov, a former first-round draft pick of the Rangers, died suddenly on October 13 during a
Kontinental Hockey League The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL; ) is an international professional ice hockey league founded in 2008. It comprises member clubs based in Russia (20), Belarus (1), Kazakhstan (1), and China (1) for a total of 23 clubs. It was considered in ...
(KHL) game in Moscow. The Rangers tied the 1983–84 Rangers for the best start in franchise history with a 5–0 record. The quest for the greatest start in franchise history was put to a halt on October 15, 2008, with a 3–1 loss to the
Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. The Sabres compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Con ...
. The Rangers set the franchise record for best start in a season by going 10–2–1 for 21 points in the first 13 games. The 10 wins and 21 points both marked franchise records. On January 24, 2009, the festivities for the 2009 NHL All-Star Game began in
Montreal Montreal is the List of towns in Quebec, largest city in the Provinces and territories of Canada, province of Quebec, the List of the largest municipalities in Canada by population, second-largest in Canada, and the List of North American cit ...
with Brandon Dubinsky and
Marc Staal Marc Staal (born January 13, 1987) is a Canadian professional ice hockey coach and former defenceman who is a player development assistant for the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL). Staal played 17 seasons in the NHL for the ...
playing for the Sophomore Team in the YoungStars Game. Staal scored two goals in the game, but the Rookie Team won 9–5.
Henrik Lundqvist Henrik Lundqvist (; born 2 March 1982) is a Swedish former professional ice hockey goaltender. He played 15 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the New York Rangers. Before winning the Vezina Trophy in 2012, he was nominated in each ...
was the Rangers' only All-Star selection, and stopped 12 of 16 shots in the Elimination Shootout during the SuperSkills Competition. On January 25, 2009, Lundqvist stopped 15 of the 21 shots he faced in the second period of the All-Star Game, helping the East beat the West 12–11 in a shootout. On February 3, 2009, the New York Rangers retired Adam Graves' number 9 jersey before a game against the
Atlanta Thrashers The Atlanta Thrashers were a professional ice hockey team based in Atlanta. Atlanta was granted a franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL) on June 25, 1997, and became the League's 28th franchise when it began play in the 1999–2000 NHL sea ...
, joining fellow 1994 Stanley Cup champion teammates
Brian Leetch Brian Joseph Leetch (born March 3, 1968) is an American former professional ice hockey defenseman who played 18 National Hockey League (NHL) seasons with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Boston Bruins. He has been called one of the ...
,
Mark Messier Mark John Douglas Messier (; born January 18, 1961) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey Forward (ice hockey), forward. His playing career in the National Hockey League (NHL) lasted 25 seasons (1979–80 NHL season, 1979–2003–04 NHL ...
and
Mike Richter Michael Thomas Richter (born September 22, 1966) is an American former professional ice hockey goaltender. He played his entire National Hockey League career, from 1989 to 2002, with the New York Rangers organization, and led the team to the Stan ...
, as well as Ranger greats
Rod Gilbert Rodrigue Gabriel Gilbert (July 1, 1941 – August 19, 2021) was a Canadian professional ice hockey forward who played his entire career for the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL). Known as "Mr. Ranger", he played right wing o ...
and
Eddie Giacomin Edward "Ed" Giacomin (born June 6, 1939) is a Canadian retired professional ice hockey goaltender who played for the New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings in the National Hockey League between 1965 and 1978. Playing career Giacomin began his pr ...
, in the rafters of
Madison Square Garden Madison Square Garden, colloquially known as the Garden or by its initials MSG, is a multi-purpose indoor arena in New York City. It is located in Midtown Manhattan between Seventh Avenue (Manhattan), Seventh and Eighth Avenue (Manhattan), Eig ...
. On February 22, the Rangers retired
Andy Bathgate Andrew James Bathgate (August 28, 1932 – February 26, 2016) was a Canadian professional ice hockey right wing who played 17 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings and Pittsbu ...
's number 9 and Harry Howell's number 3 jerseys before a game against the
Toronto Maple Leafs The Toronto Maple Leafs (officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and often referred to as the Leafs) are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto. The Maple Leafs compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the A ...
. A day later, Head Coach
Tom Renney Thomas Renney (born March 1, 1955) is a Canadian former ice hockey coach and executive. He served as the chief executive officer of Hockey Canada from 2014 to 2022, and was previously an associate coach with the National Hockey League's Detroit ...
was fired after five seasons with the Rangers. Former Rangers assistant coach and coach of the 2004 Stanley Cup champion
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
,
John Tortorella John Tortorella (born June 24, 1958) is an American professional ice hockey coach and former player. He most recently served as head coach for the Philadelphia Flyers of the National Hockey League (NHL). Tortorella has also been the head coach of ...
, was hired later that same day to replace Renney. Rangers Assistant general manager
Jim Schoenfeld James Grant Schoenfeld (born September 4, 1952) is a Canadian professional ice hockey executive and former player. He most recently was the assistant general manager with the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL), as well as an inte ...
was given the interim assistant coaching position. Shortly after that,
Sean Avery Sean Christopher Avery (born April 10, 1980) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. During his career in the National Hockey League (NHL), he played left wing for the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, and Dalla ...
made his return to the Rangers, claimed off waivers from the
Dallas Stars The Dallas Stars are a professional ice hockey team based in Dallas. The Stars compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. The Stars ...
. Head Coach John Tortorella was suspended for Game 6 of the Rangers–
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
playoff series after an altercation with a fan towards the end of the Rangers' 4–0 loss in Washington, D.C., during Game 5. On May 4, 2009, Markus Naslund announced that he would be retiring after one season with the Rangers.


Pre-season

, - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 1 , , September 20 , , @
Ottawa Senators The Ottawa Senators (), officially the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Sens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa. The Senators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Di ...
, , 3 – 2 , , Valiquette , , 0–1–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 2 , , September 22 , ,
Ottawa Senators The Ottawa Senators (), officially the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Sens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa. The Senators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Di ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 1–1–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 3 , , September 23 , , @
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
, , 3 – 2 , , Wiikman , , 1–2–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 4 , , September 24 , , @
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 3 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 1–3–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 5 , , September 25 , ,
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Valiquette , , 1–4–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 6 , , September 27 , ,
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 1–5–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 7 , , September 30 (in
Bern Bern (), or Berne (), ; ; ; . is the ''de facto'' Capital city, capital of Switzerland, referred to as the "federal city".; ; ; . According to the Swiss constitution, the Swiss Confederation intentionally has no "capital", but Bern has gov ...
, Switzerland) , ,
SC Bern Schlittschuh Club Bern ('' Ice-skating Club Bern'' in English) is a professional ice hockey Ice hockey (or simply hockey in North America) is a team sport played on ice skates, usually on an Ice rink, ice skating rink with Ice hockey rin ...
, , 8 – 1 , , Valiquette , , 2–5–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 8 , , October 1 (in Bern, Switzerland) , ,
Metallurg Magnitogorsk Metallurg Magnitogorsk () is a professional ice hockey club based in Magnitogorsk, Russia. It is a member of the Kharlamov Division in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). The club also competed in the Champions Hockey League (2008–09), Champion ...
, , 4 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 3–5–0 , -


Regular season

The Rangers finished the regular season with the League's best penalty-kill percentage, at 87.84%.


Divisional standings


Conference standings


Schedule and results

, - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 1 , , 4 (in
Prague Prague ( ; ) is the capital and List of cities and towns in the Czech Republic, largest city of the Czech Republic and the historical capital of Bohemia. Prague, located on the Vltava River, has a population of about 1.4 million, while its P ...
,
Czech Republic The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, and historically known as Bohemia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the south ...
) , , @
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 1–0–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 2 , , 5 (in Prague, Czech Republic) , ,
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 2–0–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 3 , , 10 , ,
Chicago Blackhawks The Chicago Blackhawks (spelled Black Hawks until 1986, and known colloquially as the Hawks) are a professional ice hockey team based in Chicago. The Blackhawks compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (N ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 3–0–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 4 , , 11 , , @
Philadelphia Flyers The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. The Flyers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team play ...
, , 4 – 3 , , Valiquette , , 4–0–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 5 , , 13 , ,
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 4 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 5–0–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 6 , , 15 , ,
Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. The Sabres compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Con ...
, , 3 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 5–1–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 7 , , 17 , ,
Toronto Maple Leafs The Toronto Maple Leafs (officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and often referred to as the Leafs) are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto. The Maple Leafs compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the A ...
, , 1 – 0 SO , , Valiquette , , 6–1–0 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 8 , , 18 , , @
Detroit Red Wings The Detroit Red Wings (colloquially referred to as the Wings) are a professional ice hockey team based in Detroit. The Red Wings compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the East ...
, , 5 – 4 OT , , Lundqvist , , 6–1–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 9 , , 20 , ,
Dallas Stars The Dallas Stars are a professional ice hockey team based in Dallas. The Stars compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. The Stars ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 6–2–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 10 , , 24 , , @
Columbus Blue Jackets The Columbus Blue Jackets (often simply referred to as the Jackets) are a professional ice hockey team based in Columbus, Ohio. The Blue Jackets compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern C ...
, , 3 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 7–2–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 11 , , 25 , ,
Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins (colloquially known as the Pens) are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh. The Penguins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), E ...
, , 3 – 2 SO , , Lundqvist , , 8–2–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 12 , , 27 , , @
New York Islanders The New York Islanders (colloquially known as the Isles) are a professional ice hockey team based in Elmont, New York. The Islanders compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (N ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 9–2–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 13 , , 30 , ,
Atlanta Thrashers The Atlanta Thrashers were a professional ice hockey team based in Atlanta. Atlanta was granted a franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL) on June 25, 1997, and became the League's 28th franchise when it began play in the 1999–2000 NHL sea ...
, , 3 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 10–2–1 , - , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 14 , , 1 , , @
Toronto Maple Leafs The Toronto Maple Leafs (officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and often referred to as the Leafs) are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto. The Maple Leafs compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the A ...
, , 5 – 2 , , Valiquette , , 10–3–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 15 , , 4 , ,
New York Islanders The New York Islanders (colloquially known as the Isles) are a professional ice hockey team based in Elmont, New York. The Islanders compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (N ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 10–4–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 16 , , 6 , ,
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
, , 5 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 11–4–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 17 , , 8 , , @
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
, , 3 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 11–5–1 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 18 , , 10 , ,
Edmonton Oilers The Edmonton Oilers are a professional ice hockey team based in Edmonton. The Oilers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. Th ...
, , 3 – 2 SO , , Lundqvist , , 11–5–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 19 , , 12 , , @
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 5 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 12–5–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 20 , , 15 , ,
Boston Bruins The Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston. The Bruins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The t ...
, , 3 – 2 SO , , Lundqvist , , 13–5–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 21 , , 17 , ,
Ottawa Senators The Ottawa Senators (), officially the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Sens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa. The Senators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Di ...
, , 2 – 1 SO , , Lundqvist , , 14–5–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 22 , , 19 , ,
Vancouver Canucks The Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver. The Canucks compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conferenc ...
, , 6 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 14–6–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 23 , , 22 , , @
Ottawa Senators The Ottawa Senators (), officially the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Sens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa. The Senators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Di ...
, , 4 – 1 , , Valiquette , , 14–7–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 24 , , 24 , ,
Phoenix Coyotes The Arizona Coyotes are an inactive professional ice hockey team based in the Phoenix metropolitan area. They competed in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division (1996–1998, 2021–2024) and ...
, , 4 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 15–7–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 25 , , 26 , , @
Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning (colloquially known as the Bolts) are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the ...
, , 3 – 2 SO , , Lundqvist , , 16–7–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 26 , , 28 , , @
Florida Panthers The Florida Panthers are a professional ice hockey team based in the Miami metropolitan area. The Panthers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. The team initially played it ...
, , 4 – 3 SO , , Lundqvist , , 17–7–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 27 , , 30 , ,
Florida Panthers The Florida Panthers are a professional ice hockey team based in the Miami metropolitan area. The Panthers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. The team initially played it ...
, , 4 – 0 , , Lundqvist, , 17–8–2 , - , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 28 , , 3 , ,
Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins (colloquially known as the Pens) are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh. The Penguins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), E ...
, , 3 – 2 SO , , Lundqvist , , 18–8–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 29 , , 4 , , @
Montreal Canadiens The Montreal Canadiens (), officially ' ( Canadian Hockey Club) and colloquially known as the Habs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Montreal. The Canadiens compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic D ...
, , 6 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 18–9–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 30 , , 7 , ,
Calgary Flames The Calgary Flames are a professional ice hockey team based in Calgary. The Flames compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. The ...
, , 3 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 18–10–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 31 , , 10 , , @
Atlanta Thrashers The Atlanta Thrashers were a professional ice hockey team based in Atlanta. Atlanta was granted a franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL) on June 25, 1997, and became the League's 28th franchise when it began play in the 1999–2000 NHL sea ...
, , 3 – 2 OT , , Valiquette , , 19–10–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 32 , , 12 , , @
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 8 – 5 , , Lundqvist , , 19–11–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 33 , , 13 , ,
Carolina Hurricanes The Carolina Hurricanes (colloquially known as the Canes) are a professional ice hockey team based in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Hurricanes compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Con ...
, , 3 – 2 SO , , Lundqvist , , 20–11–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 34 , , 16 , , @
Anaheim Ducks The Anaheim Ducks are a professional ice hockey team based in Anaheim, California. The Ducks compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Confere ...
, , 3 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 21–11–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 35 , , 17 , , @
Los Angeles Kings The Los Angeles Kings are a professional ice hockey team based in Los Angeles. The Kings compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. ...
, , 3 – 2 OT , , Valiquette , , 22–11–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 36 , , 20 , , @
San Jose Sharks The San Jose Sharks are a professional ice hockey team based in San Jose, California. The Sharks compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Con ...
, , 3 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 22–12–2 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 37 , , 23 , ,
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
, , 5 – 4 OT , , Lundqvist , , 22–12–3 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 38 , , 27 , ,
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 22–13–3 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 39 , , 29 , ,
New York Islanders The New York Islanders (colloquially known as the Isles) are a professional ice hockey team based in Elmont, New York. The Islanders compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (N ...
, , 5 – 4 , , Lundqvist , , 23–13–3 , - , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 40 , , 3 , , @
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Valiquette , , 23–14–3 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 41 , , 5 , ,
Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins (colloquially known as the Pens) are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh. The Penguins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), E ...
, , 4 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 24–14–3 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 42 , , 7 , ,
Montreal Canadiens The Montreal Canadiens (), officially ' ( Canadian Hockey Club) and colloquially known as the Habs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Montreal. The Canadiens compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic D ...
, , 6 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 24–15–3 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 43 , , 9 , , @
Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. The Sabres compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Con ...
, , 2 – 1 SO , , Valiquette , , 24–15–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 44 , , 10 , , @
Ottawa Senators The Ottawa Senators (), officially the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Sens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa. The Senators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Di ...
, , 2 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 25–15–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 45 , , 13 , , @
New York Islanders The New York Islanders (colloquially known as the Isles) are a professional ice hockey team based in Elmont, New York. The Islanders compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (N ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 26–15–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 46 , , 16 , , @
Chicago Blackhawks The Chicago Blackhawks (spelled Black Hawks until 1986, and known colloquially as the Hawks) are a professional ice hockey team based in Chicago. The Blackhawks compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (N ...
, , 3 – 2 OT , , Lundqvist , , 27–15–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 47 , , 18 , , @
Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins (colloquially known as the Pens) are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh. The Penguins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), E ...
, , 3 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 27–16–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 48 , , 20 , ,
Anaheim Ducks The Anaheim Ducks are a professional ice hockey team based in Anaheim, California. The Ducks compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division (NHL), Pacific Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Confere ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 28–16–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 49 , , 27 , ,
Carolina Hurricanes The Carolina Hurricanes (colloquially known as the Canes) are a professional ice hockey team based in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Hurricanes compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Con ...
, , 3 – 2 , , Valiquette , , 29–16–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 50 , , 28 , , @
Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins (colloquially known as the Pens) are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh. The Penguins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), E ...
, , 6 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 29–17–4 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 51 , , 31 , , @
Boston Bruins The Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston. The Bruins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The t ...
, , 1 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 29–18–4 , - , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 52 , , 3 , ,
Atlanta Thrashers The Atlanta Thrashers were a professional ice hockey team based in Atlanta. Atlanta was granted a franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL) on June 25, 1997, and became the League's 28th franchise when it began play in the 1999–2000 NHL sea ...
, , 2 – 1 SO , , Lundqvist , , 29–18–5 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 53 , , 6 , , @
Dallas Stars The Dallas Stars are a professional ice hockey team based in Dallas. The Stars compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. The Stars ...
, , 10 – 2 , , Valiquette , , 29–19–5 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 54 , , 9 , , @
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 3 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 29–20–5 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 55 , , 11 , ,
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
, , 5 – 4 SO , , Lundqvist , , 30–20–5 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 56 , , 13 , , @
Florida Panthers The Florida Panthers are a professional ice hockey team based in the Miami metropolitan area. The Panthers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. The team initially played it ...
, , 2 – 1 SO , , Lundqvist , , 30–20–6 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 57 , , 15 , ,
Philadelphia Flyers The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. The Flyers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team play ...
, , 5 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 30–21–6 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 58 , , 16 , , @
St. Louis Blues The St. Louis Blues are a professional ice hockey team based in St. Louis. The Blues compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Conference. Th ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 30–22–6 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 59 , , 18 , ,
New York Islanders The New York Islanders (colloquially known as the Isles) are a professional ice hockey team based in Elmont, New York. The Islanders compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (N ...
, , 3 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 31–22–6 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 60 , , 21 , , @
Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. The Sabres compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Con ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 31–23–6 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 61 , , 22 , ,
Toronto Maple Leafs The Toronto Maple Leafs (officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and often referred to as the Leafs) are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto. The Maple Leafs compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the A ...
, , 3 – 2 OT , , Lundqvist , , 31–23–7 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 62 , , 25 , , @
Toronto Maple Leafs The Toronto Maple Leafs (officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and often referred to as the Leafs) are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto. The Maple Leafs compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the A ...
, , 2 – 1 SO , , Lundqvist , , 31–23–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 63 , , 26 , ,
Florida Panthers The Florida Panthers are a professional ice hockey team based in the Miami metropolitan area. The Panthers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. The team initially played it ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 31–24–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 64 , , 28 , ,
Colorado Avalanche The Colorado Avalanche (colloquially known as the Avs) are a professional ice hockey team based in Denver. The Avalanche compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division in the Western Con ...
, , 6 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 32–24–8 , - , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 65 , , 5 , , @
New York Islanders The New York Islanders (colloquially known as the Isles) are a professional ice hockey team based in Elmont, New York. The Islanders compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (N ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 33–24–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 66 , , 8 , ,
Boston Bruins The Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston. The Bruins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The t ...
, , 4 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 34–24–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 67 , , 9 , , @
Carolina Hurricanes The Carolina Hurricanes (colloquially known as the Canes) are a professional ice hockey team based in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Hurricanes compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Con ...
, , 3 – 0 , , Valiquette , , 34–25–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 68 , , 12 , , @
Nashville Predators The Nashville Predators (colloquially referred to as the Preds) are a professional ice hockey team based in Nashville, Tennessee. The Predators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Divisio ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 35–25–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 69 , , 14 , , @
Philadelphia Flyers The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. The Flyers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team play ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 35–26–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 70 , , 15 , ,
Philadelphia Flyers The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. The Flyers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team play ...
, , 4 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 36–26–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 71 , , 17 , , @
Montreal Canadiens The Montreal Canadiens (), officially ' ( Canadian Hockey Club) and colloquially known as the Habs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Montreal. The Canadiens compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic D ...
, , 4 – 3 SO , , Lundqvist , , 37–26–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 72 , , 21 , ,
Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. The Sabres compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Con ...
, , 5 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 38–26–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 73 , , 22 , ,
Ottawa Senators The Ottawa Senators (), officially the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Sens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa. The Senators compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Di ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 38–27–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 74 , , 24 , ,
Minnesota Wild The Minnesota Wild are a professional ice hockey team based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The Wild compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division (NHL), Central Division in the Western Conference (NHL), Western Confer ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 39–27–8 , - align="center" bgcolor="white" , 75 , , 26 , , @
Atlanta Thrashers The Atlanta Thrashers were a professional ice hockey team based in Atlanta. Atlanta was granted a franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL) on June 25, 1997, and became the League's 28th franchise when it began play in the 1999–2000 NHL sea ...
, , 5 – 4 SO , , Valiquette , , 39–27–9 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 76 , , 28 , , @
Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins (colloquially known as the Pens) are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh. The Penguins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), E ...
, , 4 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 39–28–9 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 77 , , 30 , ,
New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The club w ...
, , 3 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 40–28–9 , - , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 78 , , 2 , , @
Carolina Hurricanes The Carolina Hurricanes (colloquially known as the Canes) are a professional ice hockey team based in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Hurricanes compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Con ...
, , 4 – 2 , , Lundqvist , , 40–29–9 , - align="center" bgcolor="#FFBBBB" , 79 , , 4 , , @
Boston Bruins The Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston. The Bruins compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division (NHL), Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The t ...
, , 1 – 0 , , Lundqvist , , 40–30–9 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 80 , , 7 , ,
Montreal Canadiens The Montreal Canadiens (), officially ' ( Canadian Hockey Club) and colloquially known as the Habs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Montreal. The Canadiens compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic D ...
, , 3 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 41–30–9 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 81 , , 9 , ,
Philadelphia Flyers The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. The Flyers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team play ...
, , 2 – 1 , , Lundqvist , , 42–30–9 , - align="center" bgcolor="#CCFFCC" , 82 , , 12 , , @
Philadelphia Flyers The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. The Flyers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team play ...
, , 4 – 3 , , Lundqvist , , 43–30–9 , -


Playoffs

The New York Rangers ended the 2008–09 regular season as the Eastern Conference's seventh seed. They were defeated in the first round by the
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
in seven games. Key: Win Loss , - align=center bgcolor="#ccffcc" , 1 , , April 15 , ,
New York Rangers The New York Rangers are a professional ice hockey team based in New York City. The Rangers compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NHL), Eastern Conference. The team plays ...
, , 4 – 3 , ,
Washington Capitals The Washington Capitals (colloquially known as the Caps) are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. The Capitals compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference (NH ...
, , , , Lundqvist , , New York Rangers lead series 1-0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc" , 2 , , April 18 , , New York Rangers , , 1 – 0 , , Washington Capitals , , , , Lundqvist , , New York Rangers lead series 2-0 , - align="center" bgcolor="#ffbbbb" , 3 , , April 20 , , Washington Capitals , , 4 – 0 , , New York Rangers , , , , Lundqvist , , New York Rangers lead series 2-1 , - align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc" , 4 , , April 22 , , Washington Capitals , , 1 – 2 , , New York Rangers , , , , Lundqvist , , New York Rangers lead series 3-1 , - align="center" bgcolor="ffbbbb" , 5 , , April 24 , , New York Rangers , , 0 – 4 , , Washington Capitals , , , , Lundqvist , , New York Rangers lead series 3-2 , - align="center" bgcolor="ffbbbb" , 6 , , April 26 , , Washington Capitals , , 5 – 3 , , New York Rangers , , , , Lundqvist , , Series tied 3-3 , - align="center" bgcolor="ffbbbb" , 7 , , April 28 , , New York Rangers , , 1 – 2 , , Washington Capitals , , , , Lundqvist , , Washington wins series 4-3 , -


Player statistics

;Skaters ;Goaltenders Denotes player spent time with another team before joining Rangers. Stats reflect time with Rangers only.
Traded mid-season. Stats reflect time with Rangers only.


Awards and records


Milestones


Transactions

The Rangers have been involved in the following transactions during the 2008–09 season.


Trades


Free agents acquired


Free agents lost


Claimed from waivers


Lost via waivers


Player signings


Draft picks

New York's picks at the
2008 NHL entry draft The 2008 NHL entry draft was the 46th entry draft for the National Hockey League. It was hosted by the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa, Ontario, on June 20–21, 2008. The Senators were originally awarded the 2005 NHL entry draft ...
in
Ottawa Ottawa is the capital city of Canada. It is located in the southern Ontario, southern portion of the province of Ontario, at the confluence of the Ottawa River and the Rideau River. Ottawa borders Gatineau, Gatineau, Quebec, and forms the cor ...
,
Ontario Ontario is the southernmost Provinces and territories of Canada, province of Canada. Located in Central Canada, Ontario is the Population of Canada by province and territory, country's most populous province. As of the 2021 Canadian census, it ...
:


See also

*
2008–09 NHL season The 2008–09 NHL season was the 92nd season of operation (91st season of play) of the National Hockey League (NHL). It was the first season since prior to the 2004–05 lockout in which every team played each other at least once during the sea ...


Farm teams


Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

The 2008–09 season will be the 12th season of
American Hockey League The American Hockey League (AHL) is a professional ice hockey league in North America that serves as the primary developmental league of the National Hockey League (NHL). The league comprises 32 teams, with 26 in the United States and 6 in Cana ...
(AHL) hockey for the franchise.


Charlotte Checkers (ECHL)

The 2008–09 season will be the 16th season of
ECHL The ECHL (formerly the East Coast Hockey League) is a minor professional ice hockey league based in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, with teams across the United States and Canada. Competitively, it is a tier below the American Hockey League (AHL). The ...
hockey for the franchise.


References

* Game log: New York Rangers game log on espn.com * Player stats: New York Rangers statistics on espn.com {{DEFAULTSORT:New York Rangers, 2008-09 2008-09 2008–09 NHL season by team 2008 in sports in New York City 2009 in sports in New York City 2008-09 New York Rangers season