Without their sidelined superstar: Rangers lose derby

Without their top scorer Artemi Panarin, the New York Rangers suffered a heavy defeat in the derby against the New York Islanders. It was an evening that will certainly be talked about.

29 January 2026

From: sportsnews

The Rangers lost the Long Island derby 2-5. However, the main topic of conversation was Artemi Panarin. The Russian superstar was absent due to roster management issues and will not play in the final three games before the Olympic break. To avoid jeopardizing a potential trade of the highest-paid player, the 34-year-old was left out of the lineup. The forced departure of the fan favorite is causing controversy in the Big Apple.

The Islanders capitalized on the situation effectively. Ondrej Palat scored the opening goal on the power play in his debut, and shortly afterward, Simon Holmstrom made it 2-0. Before the first intermission, Mika Zibanejad brought the Rangers back into the game.

Palat with a dream debut

The game was decided in the second period: After three penalties in a single shift, the Rangers were under immense pressure. Mathew Barzal scored on the power play, and shortly afterward, Jean-Gabriel Pageau added another – within seconds, the score was 1-4. That effectively sealed the game. In the final period, the Islanders extended their lead, and a second goal by the Rangers proved inconsequential.

The rematch takes place on Thursday at Madison Square Garden, where the Rangers are hoping for a quick comeback. Once again, they will be without superstar Panarin.