A potential silver lining from Ryan Lindgren’s absence in the second exhibition game is that it occurred early enough for the Rangers to utilize the majority of the preseason to realign their defensive strategies.
No pairing has been dismissed and no prospect has been ignored in this process.
As Friday’s exhibition game marks the final contest of the preseason, head coach Peter Laviolette has explored nearly every plausible defensive combination at some stage.
Connor Mackey and Victor Mancini, both of whom played with the team’s AHL affiliate last season, have taken turns occupying Lindgren’s typical position alongside Adam Fox. We’ve observed Zac Jones, poised to join the Rangers’ Opening Night lineup for the first time, occasionally paired with captain Jacob Trouba.
Rangers defenseman Adam Fox (23) during the New York Rangers training camp. Robert Sabo for NY Post
The right-handed Chad Ruhwedel, acquired at last season’s trade deadline and retained this summer, has been partnered on both the right and left sides with various teammates.
However, one pairing that hasn’t seen much action yet could still prove to be a strong option.
Fox and K’Andre Miller practiced together with the non-game group on Monday, despite having logged only 63:31 of five-on-five ice time as a pair last season.
“We’re going to give it a look,” Laviolette stated. “It’s a lefty-righty combo, and I believe they’re both top defensemen for us. This has presented an opportunity. Injuries are always unexpected, but when one occurs, you have the stability of your prior setup, and then you need to adjust and find the right pieces and partners.”
Rangers defenseman K’Andre Miller. Robert Sabo for NY Post
“It’s primarily an evaluation process. We’re considering Mancini on the left, Ruhwedel on the left, and possibly a Miller-Fox combination. Those are options we’ll explore.”
Depending on Laviolette’s assessment, it’s possible he may want to observe Miller and Fox together during Friday’s game.
Typically, the final exhibition game is where teams trial the lineup they wish to start the season with.
In theory, combining Miller and Fox could establish a formidable top defensive pair while Lindgren is sidelined.
Despite being on the ice for two goals scored by the Rangers and four against, Natural Stat Trick records their xGA/60 at 1.25, which is a promising statistic, albeit from a limited sample size. An ideal everyday pairing typically maintains numbers in the 2s.
Historically, the Rangers have favored a more balanced spread of defensive responsibilities, but Laviolette might see this as a chance to try a different approach.
It’s also plausible that Laviolette will configure his defensive pairs with the expectation that Lindgren’s return will be soon, enabling him to reintegrate Lindgren without causing any disruption.
This scenario could increase the chances of Mackey or Mancini being included in the lineup Wednesday in Pittsburgh. Ruhwedel, who is projected to fill the seventh defenseman role, is another viable choice.
Mackey, being the natural lefty among the three, brings 40 games of NHL experience, including one notable game with the Rangers last season.
Rangers defenseman Victor Mancini (90) warms up before a game. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
Before the All-Star break on January 27 in Ottawa, the 28-year-old skated alongside Fox and engaged in a fight with Senators captain Brady Tkachuk.
While Mackey is a familiar figure, Mancini has certainly drawn attention during this training camp.
“I think my confidence is showing in various aspects,” Mancini expressed after scoring his second goal of the preseason Tuesday night against the Devils. “It starts in the defensive zone and moves all the way up to the offensive zone. The support from my teammates is crucial.”
“Communication within the team has been really effective, which obviously aids our play on the ice. It simplifies the process of making plays.”
Rangers defenseman Connor Mackey (14) skates with the puck. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
Friday’s lineup will provide the first insight into Laviolette’s preferences regarding his defensive pairings.
He has a multitude of options to consider as he plots his course forward.
The Rangers assigned Anton Blidh, Casey Fitzgerald, Brandon Scanlin, Louis Domingue, and Dylan Garand to the Hartford Wolf Pack on Wednesday. Additionally, Bo Groulx was placed on waivers to reduce the Blueshirts’ roster to 30 players.
Rangers Face Defensive Shuffle: Evaluating Combinations Ahead of Final Preseason Game
As the Rangers prepare for their final preseason game, the focus has shifted to their defensive combinations. The lineup adjustments over the past few weeks have raised questions about which pairings will ultimately secure spots in the opening roster. This article evaluates the current defensive shuffle, examining player performance, potential pairings, and strategic implications for the team.
Current Defensive Landscape
The Rangers’ defense has been a topic of discussion throughout the preseason, with several players showcasing their skills while others have struggled to find consistency. Understanding how these performances translate into defensive pairings is crucial for the team’s success.
- Player Performance: Key players have shown promise, including veteran defenseman Ryan Lindgren, who has been instrumental in stabilizing the defense.
- Injuries and Absences: Some defensive stalwarts have missed games due to minor injuries, impacting the team’s overall chemistry.
- Coaching Decisions: Head Coach Peter Laviolette has experimented with various combinations, indicating a willingness to adapt.
Key Defensive Pairings to Watch
Lindgren and Fox
This pairing has been one of the most reliable during the preseason. Lindgren’s physicality complements Adam Fox’s offensive instincts, creating a balanced duo.
Miller and Trouba
Braden Schneider’s return to the lineup has allowed K’Andre Miller to skate alongside Jacob Trouba. This pairing excels in shutdown situations and has shown to be effective against opposing top lines.
Schneider and Jones
With the emergence of Schneider, pairing him with a more experienced presence like Erik Gustafsson has proven beneficial. This combination has displayed good mobility and puck-moving ability.
Benefits of Strategic Pairing Adjustments
Strategically adjusting defensive pairings allows the Rangers to:
- Enhance Team Chemistry: Frequent changes can disrupt established synergies, but they also foster adaptability.
- Maximize Matchup Opportunities: Tailoring lineups against specific opponents can exploit weaknesses and bolster defensive efforts.
- Develop Young Talent: Giving younger players like Schneider and Miller substantial ice time prepares them for higher stakes in the regular season.
Player Performance Metrics
To further evaluate the defensive lineup, it’s useful to consider player analytics and performance metrics. Below is a table showcasing key statistics from the preseason:
| Player | Minutes Played | Plus/Minus | Blocked Shots | Takeaways |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan Lindgren | 120 | +3 | 15 | 5 |
| Adam Fox | 115 | +4 | 10 | 8 |
| K’Andre Miller | 140 | +2 | 12 | 4 |
| Jacob Trouba | 130 | +1 | 20 | 3 |
| Braden Schneider | 100 | 0 | 8 | 6 |
Adjustments Based on Opponent Analysis
To effectively finalize their defensive pairs, the Rangers must analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their upcoming opponents. Key considerations include:
- Offensive Threats: Identify players known for their speed and puck control to ensure defensive matchups can effectively counteract these threats.
- Power Play Efficiency: Adjust pairings to combat specific power play strategies that the opponent employs.
- Physical Play: Consider the physicality of the opponent and adjust pairings to include more robust players when necessary.
First-Hand Experiences and Insights
Players have expressed their thoughts on the current defensive shuffle. Here’s what some of them had to say:
Ryan Lindgren: “We’ve been working well together, but the constant changes keep us on our toes. It’s important to adapt quickly to whoever we’re paired with.”
K’Andre Miller: “Every pairing has its unique dynamic, and it’s been a great learning experience for all of us. We have to keep communicating to make it work.”
Predictions for the Final Preseason Game
Heading into the final preseason game, predictions are being made about which combinations will solidify before the regular season kicks off:
- Lindgren and Fox: Likely to remain intact as they provide stability.
- Miller and Trouba: Expected to be a shutdown line against tougher opponents.
- Schneider and Jones: May get more ice time to evaluate their synergy further.
Conclusion
The Rangers’ defensive shuffle presents both challenges and opportunities as they finalize their roster for the upcoming season. With player performances, strategic adjustments based on opponent analysis, and valuable insights from the players themselves, the coaching staff has a wealth of information to guide their decisions. As the team heads into the final preseason game, all eyes will be on how these defensive combinations perform under pressure and how they could shape the Rangers’ season ahead.
