Preview: Matinee weekend kicks off Saturday at New York Rangers

The Detroit Purple Wings will play the primary of two weekend matinees on Saturday, dealing with the New York Rangers for a 12:30 p.m. puck drop at Madison Sq. Backyard.

Broadcast protection will air on Bally Sports activities Detroit and the Purple Wings Radio Community.

After his 46-save efficiency in Detroit’s 3-0 win over the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday, Purple Wings goalie Alex Nedeljkovic emphasised the significance of ending the season sturdy.

Video: DET@CAR: Nedeljkovic blanks Hurricanes on the highway

“Every single day, whether or not it is a follow or a recreation, we’ve got one thing to show,” Nedeljkovic stated. “Regardless that we’re not in a playoff spot, guys have one thing to play for subsequent yr, be it a contract, energy play time or extra ice time normally. These final eight video games, there’s quite a bit on the road for everyone.”

The Rangers (48-21-6) enter Saturday coming off a 4-0 win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday.

Artemi Panarin leads the Rangers with 67 assists and 89 factors this season, whereas Mika Zibanejad has produced 75 factors (27 targets, 48 assists). Netminder Igor Shesterkin has made 48 begins and has a 19-5-3 file at residence this season.

Detroit received the primary recreation of the season collection, 3-2, in a shootout at Madison Sq. Backyard on Feb. 17. The Purple Wings then fell, 5-4, in extra time at Little Caesars Enviornment on March 30.

Hellberg practices with Purple Wings for first time on Friday

Newly acquired goalie Magnus Hellberg practiced along with his new Purple Wings teammates for the primary time on Friday in New York.

The 31-year-old, who signed a one-year contract with Detroit on Thursday, stated he is pleased to be a part of “a traditional group.”

“When the chance got here as much as end the season right here, it was a no brainer for me,” Hellberg stated. “I felt actually excited and impressed to come back right here and present who I’m.”

Video: Magnus Hellberg | 4/15 Follow

Initially drafted by the Nashville Predators within the second spherical of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Hellberg spent 5 seasons (2012-17) in North America earlier than enjoying within the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

Through the previous 5 seasons within the KHL, Hellberg suited up for Kunlun Purple Star (2017-18), St. Petersburg SKA (2018-21) and Sochi HC (2021-22).

In accordance with Hellberg, enjoying for the Wings is a chance to indicate he belongs within the NHL.

“I simply wish to take it day-to-day,” Hellberg stated. “Attempting to work as laborious as I can, present them who I’m and what I stand for.”