It's that time of the week, New York-area NHL fans, for the Thanksgiving edition of the NHL power rankings. The hierarchy among the regional teams remains the same as much of the previous standings, though there was some movement within the league. The New York Rangers dropped two spots to seventh place, the New Jersey Devils improved one spot to No. 20, while the New York Islanders are nearly the league's worst, at No. 29.
These rankings are the averaged from seven media outlets by Real Clear Sports and compiled into one.
The Rangers split their two games -- both on the road -- this past week, beating the Islanders, 4-2, and getting dominated by the Montreal Canadiens on the road, 4-0. The Devils also had a .500 record during the week, going 2-2 with victories over the Buffalo Sabres and Tampa Bay Lightning and losses against the Boston Bruins and most recently, the Florida Panthers after blowing a three-goal lead. The Islanders continued their losing ways, with three losses in four games. They were able to defeat the Canadiens 4-3 but lost to the Rangers, Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins. They scored five goals all week, with none over their last two games.
This holiday-shortened week will see all the local teams play three games, and all begin their week Wednesday. The Blueshirts take on the Panthers on the road; the Devils against the Columbus Blue Jackets at home; and the lowly Isles play the Philadelphia Flyers. Then, the Devils and Islanders will play a home-and-home series to finish up the week.