The Caps and Rangers ended last season with an even split in their four matchups, though the Blueshirts dominated with a seven-goal outburst in their December victory at Washington. Despite the lopsided scoreline in that game, neither team managed to secure a clear advantage in their back-and-forth series. The rivalry’s competitive balance was further highlighted by each side winning at least one game in both home and away settings. Fans of both franchises will be watching closely to see if this season brings a decisive shift in momentum.

Although the Caps and Rangers split their four meetings last season, and they split the games in each building, the Blueshirts scored seven goals in their win at Washington last December, and they ...