The New York Rangers continued their strong start at home with a 4-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. The win extended the Rangers’ undefeated streak on home ice to five games for the season, marking the third-longest such streak to start a season in franchise history.

After a challenging season last year, where the Rangers did not secure their fifth regulation win at home until late March, the team has demonstrated significant improvement early this year. Through five home games, they have outscored opponents 24-8. The victory over the Lightning, who had won their previous four games following a season-opening loss to the Rangers, underscored New York’s ability to defend their home rink effectively.

Head coach Mike Sullivan attributed the team’s success at Madison Square Garden to strong leadership and a collective determination to establish dominance on home ice. “It’s a huge boost of confidence for the group,” Sullivan said. “Just leading the charge on what it takes to win and establishing ourselves at home. I know that was a goal … and these guys were determined to get off on the right foot.”

Alexis Lafrenière was instrumental in the victory, scoring two goals and extending his point streak to five games—the longest of his NHL career. The 2020 first overall pick now has seven goals through eight games, tying him for second in the league. Both of Lafrenière’s first-period goals were set up by Tye Kartye, a waiver acquisition from February who has become a consistently impactful presence. Kartye’s aggressive forechecking and creative plays, including a backhanded pass from behind the net and a later assist on a breakaway goal, helped set the tone early.

The Rangers’ depth was also on display, with third-line winger Will Cuylle contributing his third goal of the season in the second period. Sullivan praised the third line for its dual ability to defend effectively and contribute offensively. “They defend hard for us, but there’s an offensive dimension to their line — all three of those guys,” he said.

Overall, the Rangers have transformed Madison Square Garden into a challenging venue for visiting teams, reversing the trend from last season. The team’s cohesive effort at home and emerging contributions from both young talent and new additions have provided a strong foundation in the early stages of the season.