By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Boston, MA

The New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins are scheduled to open the 2011-2012 NHL seasons on November 23, a date that could be delayed due to a looming labor lockout. The NHL announced its TV schedule for the 2012-2013 season Thursday.

Pumped up with the inclusion of All-Star winger Rick Nash, the Rangers are set to face a Bruins team that lost the service of Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas for the entire 2012-2013 season.

Thomas' decision to take a personal leave of absence will certainly make the Bruins vulnerable on the defensive end but Claude Julien and his guys believe they still have the firepower to contend for another Stanley Cup title.

The Rangers-Bruins Thanksgiving showdown at TD Garden will head start a 2012-2013 season that could be in jeopardy due to ongoing labor dispute.

Nevertheless, Cable giant NBC is optimistic the two side can settle their difference and start the 2012-2013 season on time.

NBC, which recently hammered out a $200 million deal with NHL to air its games, will also televise the Winter Classic game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Maple Leafs at Michigan Stadium on January 1.

 

Rangers-Bruins to Clash on Thanksgiving Day