2022 Stanley Cup playoffs - Ex-Rangers playing big role in Hurricanes' success

NEW YORK — Tony DeAngelo swears that playing the New York Rangers in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs doesn't change anything on his end.

«I could care less who the opponent is,» the Carolina Hurricanes defenseman said. «Real good team. Real good power play. I know from experience.»

DeAngelo wore a Rangers jersey for four seasons. He is one of six current Hurricanes who recently played for the Blueshirts, including forward Jesper Fast (seven seasons), goalie Antti Raanta (two), defenseman Brady Skjei (five), defenseman Brendan Smith (five) and center Derek Stepan (seven).

Once local heroes, they enter enemy territory for Game 3 on Sunday at Madison Square Garden (3:30 ET, ESPN). At least they know what they're in for.

«I think anytime you have familiarity, it helps. But I think more than anything, it's just a lot of guys with playoff experience,» Smith said. «I would take that more than MSG experience, but I think that helps for sure.»

Here's a look at the Broadway past for six current Hurricanes and how they feel about this battle among friends.

DeAngelo has the most noteworthy connection to the Rangers, having had the most unceremonious departure.

The Arizona Coyotes traded him to the Rangers in June 2017 along with a first-round pick. Because the NHL has more random interpersonal connections than «Game of Thrones,» he was actually traded for his current teammates and fellow ex-Rangers Raanta and Stepan.

DeAngelo played 167 games for the Rangers in four seasons, amassing 92 points. Most of that was logged in 2019-20, when DeAngelo had 53 points in 68 games, when he finished 12th for the Norris Trophy.

DeAngelo had a history of disciplinary issues before joining the Rangers. He was suspended twice during his