Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images
As the New York Rangers reach the midpoint of their six-game preseason schedule, they hold a record of 3-0-0 and continue to showcase their potential as serious Stanley Cup contenders, despite some missing key players.
The team has encountered injuries, notably the significant loss of defenseman Ryan Lindgren. However, there have also been pleasant surprises, particularly the impressive performance by 22-year-old rookie Victor Mancini. the team appears mature and focused, gearing up for the regular season that kicks off on October 9 against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Before the Rangers face the New Jersey Devils in a home-and-home series early this week, followed by concluding the preseason against the Islanders on Friday, let’s take a closer look at several noteworthy aspects from the Rangers’ training camp thus far.
Related: Gabe Perreault tops Rangers NCAA prospects this season
Insights Gained from the Rangers Halfway Through Preseason
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Here are some significant insights from the Rangers’ initial three preseason games.
1. Filip Chytil and Kaapo Kakko could emerge as pivotal players this season
Among all the players in camp — including Jacob Trouba and Mika Zibanejad — none required a strong start as much as Filip Chytil and Kaapo Kakko. They have successfully made their mark.
Chytil is recovering from a serious head injury that restricted him to just 10 regular-season games and an additional six during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The 25-year-old has demonstrated his prowess throughout all three preseason matchups, accumulating four points (two goals, two assists) while centering the revitalized third line. Even following a concerning incident against the Islanders on Tuesday, where Scott Mayfield knocked him out with a hit and he went to the dressing room, Chytil made a return to the ice and scored a power-play goal late in the game. Exceptional.
Kakko, who experienced a significant downturn last season with only 13 goals and 19 points — compounded by missing 21 games due to a knee injury — appears focused and at ease playing alongside Chytil. He fired seven shots on goal during Thursday’s game against the Boston Bruins, showcasing a level of assertiveness and confidence during the preseason. He certainly seems poised for a resurgence this season.
2. Peter Laviolette isn’t overhauling line combinations
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This season, there hasn’t been significant experimentation with the lines from last year. Coach Peter Laviolette continues to rely on the combination of Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, and Alexis Lafreniere, all of whom recorded career-high scoring numbers last season. Meanwhile, Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider remain paired, now joined by new addition Reilly Smith on the right wing.
Laviolette is focusing on helping Smith develop rapport with his line. So far in the preseason, neither Brennan Othmann nor Kaapo Kakko has taken a turn on this line, making it clear that the spot is Smith’s to keep.
The reunion of Filip Chytil and Kakko is a nostalgic move, as they were long-time partners on the Kid Line before injuries derailed their season in 2023-24. Will Cuylle, a reliable presence on the third line last year, is proving to be a fitting addition alongside Chytil and Kakko.
The fourth line is where Laviolette has made his most significant adjustments. However, he is maintaining a consistent approach with the top nine players.
3. Adam Edstrom turning heads in bid for 4th line role
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Adam Edstrom has emerged as one of the standout performers at training camp. With an impressive tally of three goals in just two rookie games, he has added two more in the preseason, showcasing not only his scoring ability but also a willingness to engage physically.
However, Edstrom will need to outplay Matt Rempe to secure a position on the fourth line. Rempe arrived at camp in outstanding shape and has garnered attention due to his notable improvement in performance.
As it stands, Jimmy Vesey and Sam Carrick seem to have their spots locked in on the fourth line.
With Jonny Brodzinski likely positioned as the 13th forward, Edstrom faces the challenge of possibly replacing the well-liked Rempe in the opening-night lineup. So far, his performances indicate he deserves a spot on the roster.
4. Adam Fox requires a defensive partner
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Although this seems to be a temporary situation, the Rangers need to secure a defense partner for Adam Fox as the regular season approaches. Lindgren is sidelined for “at least a few weeks” due to an upper-body injury, but it’s not anticipated to be a long-term concern. In the meantime, Fox requires a new partner.
Connor Mackey skated alongside Fox during the 5-2 victory over the Bruins on Thursday, but the duo did not display significant chemistry. Meanwhile, Ben Harpur has been sent to Hartford in the American Hockey League, and Laviolette appears reluctant to disrupt the first pairing by placing K’Andre Miller next to Fox.
Victor Mancini took part in practices in that position on Friday. This approach would provide New York with two right-handed shooters on that pairing; however, Mancini noted he has experience playing on the left side. It’s a consideration worth exploring. The young player has excelled during training camp and made a strong impression in both of his preseason matches, registering a goal and an assist in the preseason opener and exceeding 20 minutes of ice time in each game.
Keep an eye on Chad Ruhwedel, a right-shot defenseman anticipated to serve as the No. 7 defenseman when the season begins. It doesn’t seem that veteran Madison Bowey, who’s in camp on a PTO, or the injured Matthew Robertson are serious contenders for this role.
5. Brennan Othmann is not yet prepared for Broadway
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Danny Wild-Imagn Images
Young talents, even those as promising as Brennan Othmann, frequently exhibit inconsistencies in their performance until they gain more experience competing against NHL players. Nevertheless, Laviolette emphasized the importance of consistency for these young prospects in training camp if they wish to make a strong impression on him.
Othmann has struggled to show such consistency, making it likely that the 21-year-old forward will start the season in Hartford with the AHL team. However, this doesn’t overshadow the fact that the 2021 first-round selection has had some notable moments, including a sensational goal and an assist against the Bruins on Thursday, along with some impactful physical play. Yet, he hasn’t done enough to secure a position in the Rangers’ deep roster.
He has had opportunities, participating in all three preseason games, but admitted to feeling nervous during Tuesday’s match against the Islanders. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been partnered with the Zibanejad-Kreider line. Then, on Sunday, he found himself skating again with the AHL players, though he remains at Rangers camp for now.
6. Zac Jones is prepared for a full-time role on Broadway
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In contrast, defenseman Zac Jones seems poised to assume his first regular role in the NHL. At 23 years old, he has spent the past three seasons as an apprentice, playing 31 games with the Rangers last season. Throughout the preseason, he has demonstrated encouraging signs, stepping in for Erik Gustafsson on the third defensive pair.
His preseason debut on Tuesday was likely a source of satisfaction for Rangers management, who opted not to sign a veteran defenseman to challenge Jones for a roster spot. In that game, Jones recorded three points, netting two goals— one of which was a stunning breakaway that initiated the Rangers’ comeback during a 6-4 victory over the Islanders.
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Key Takeaways from the New York Rangers’ Strong Preseason Start
Overview of the Rangers’ Preseason Performance
The New York Rangers have kicked off their preseason with an impressive performance, highlighted by a notable 5-2 victory over the Boston Bruins. This win marks the Rangers’ third consecutive success in preseason play, showcasing their depth and the potential of their young roster. As the team gears up for the regular season, several key takeaways have emerged from their strong start.
Strong Performance from Young Players
The standout feature of the Rangers’ preseason has been the exceptional play of their young talent. The coaching staff has provided ample opportunities for these players to shine, and they have not disappointed. Here are some key observations:
- Emerging Stars: Young players have taken center stage, demonstrating skill and determination that bodes well for the team’s future.
- Increased Ice Time: The Rangers have effectively utilized their young prospects, granting them significant ice time to develop their game experience.
- Competitive Spirit: The youthful energy on the ice has contributed to a competitive atmosphere, pushing veteran players to elevate their performance.
Offensive Strategies Paying Off
The Rangers have shown a potent offense throughout their preseason games. Their ability to create scoring opportunities has been impressive. Key elements of their offensive strategy include:
- Fast-Paced Play: The Rangers have emphasized quick transitions from defense to offense, allowing them to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes.
- Effective Power Play: The team has displayed a strong power play unit, converting several opportunities into goals.
- Diverse Scoring Sources: Goals have come from various players, indicating a balanced attack that makes the team difficult to defend against.
Defensive Improvements
While the offense has been a highlight, the Rangers’ defense has also shown notable improvements during the preseason. Key aspects include:
- Solid Defensive Pairings: The coaching staff has experimented with different defensive pairings, allowing for better chemistry and communication on the ice.
- Physical Play: The defensemen have demonstrated physicality, making it difficult for opponents to establish offensive zones.
- Goaltending Depth: With multiple goaltenders performing well, the Rangers have a solid foundation in net, contributing to their defensive success.
Key Players to Watch
As the preseason progresses, certain players have stood out as potential game-changers for the Rangers. Here’s a brief overview of those to keep an eye on:
| Player Name | Position | Notable Stats | Impact on Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexis Lafrenière | Forward | 3 Goals, 2 Assists | Key offensive contributor, showing leadership potential. |
| K’Andre Miller | Defense | 1 Goal, 4 Assists | Strong two-way play, crucial for team’s defensive strategy. |
| Igor Shesterkin | Goaltender | 92% Save Percentage | Reliable presence in goal, essential for playoff contention. |
Benefits of a Strong Preseason
A successful preseason offers several advantages for the New York Rangers:
- Team Chemistry: Consistent wins help build rapport among players, essential for effective teamwork during the regular season.
- Confidence Boost: Victories instill confidence in the players, particularly the younger ones who are still adjusting to the NHL level.
- Strategic Adjustments: The coaching staff can identify strengths and weaknesses, allowing for tactical changes before the regular season begins.
Practical Tips for Fans
As the Rangers continue their preseason journey, here are a few tips for fans looking to engage with the team:
- Attend Preseason Games: Watching the team live can provide insight into player dynamics and strategies.
- Follow Team Updates: Stay updated on player performances and injuries through official team channels and sports news outlets.
- Engage on Social Media: Join discussions on platforms like Twitter and Instagram to connect with fellow fans and share insights.
First-Hand Experience: Fan Reactions
Fans have expressed excitement about the Rangers’ preseason performance, citing the impressive contributions from younger players and the overall team cohesiveness.
“Watching the young guys step up has been incredible! I can’t wait to see how they perform in the regular season!” - A devoted Rangers fan.
Case Study: Previous Preseason Success
Looking back at previous seasons, the Rangers have often used strong preseason performances as a springboard for success. For instance, during the 2021 preseason, the team established a winning momentum that carried into the regular season, ultimately leading them to a playoff berth.
Conclusion
As the New York Rangers continue their preseason preparation, the synergy of young talent, strategic offensive play, and solid defensive efforts reveals a promising outlook. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on how these elements evolve as the regular season approaches.
