The New York Rangers entered the lockout-shortened 1994-95 season as defending Stanley Cup champions and showcased their resilience by securing a playoff berth under new head coach Colin Campbell. Led by captain Mark Messier, who paced the team with 53 points, and star defenseman Brian Leetch, the Rangers finished with a 22-23-3 record. Their season was highlighted by a thrilling first-round playoff series victory over the top-seeded Quebec Nordiques, which featured a spectacular overtime winner by Steve Larmer in Game 4 and a decisive Game 6 victory to advance to the Conference Semifinals.