Artemi Panarin on the left with Vincent Trocheck and Alexis Lafreniere. Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad side by each. Filip Chytil with trusty companion Kaapo Kakko on his right and Will Cuylle on the left. Jonny Brodzinksi taking spins between Matt Rempe and Jimmy Vesey. Adam Fox and Ryan Lindgren together again, Braden Schneider skating with K’Andre Miller with Jacob Trouba on Zac Jones’ right side.
Quick-paced battle drills.
A varsity group of 23 on the ice at the Rangers practice rink.
It could have been April.
It could have been the playoffs.
It was Friday.
Mika Zibanejad, pictured on Sept. 19, skated next to Chris Kreider during the Rangers’ practice Friday. Robert Sabo for the NY Post
It was the second day of training camp.
“It was hard, actually, between us, especially the first practice,” Panarin said after the double-session on which the group spent close to 90 minutes on the ice, the final half-hour devoted to systems. “I was glad to have the system practice, it’s kind of easier.
“But everything is 100 percent.”
The varsity on the ice had 13 forwards. Reilly Smith and Sam Carrick were the only newcomers, having replaced Jack Roslovic and Barclay Goodrow. Ben Harpur and Connor Mackey skated as the fourth pair in the group of eight defensemen.
We are two days into 2024-25 but it sure seems like this is, what, Day 300 of 2023-24. It seems less like a new year than a continuation of last year. It was this way from 2013-14 through 2015-16 when Alain Vigneault was behind the bench and the club made few personnel changes from one year to the next. It always seemed like those Blueshirts were picking up where they left off.
“It probably could be both at the same time,” head coach Peter Laviolette said. “There’s definitely a want to get better from where we were last year. I definitely think that’s in place. There are new pieces here. There are pieces who are not here anymore. There are players that want to continue with where they took their game to last year, they want to continue to push, and there might be players who didn’t have the year they wanted last year and they want to get back on track.
“And so I do think it can be both. This is a new team. I feel like this is a new year. This group was together last year, those are just facts. There was some sort of success. We’re looking to build off that but it’s a new group.”
Peter Laviolette addresses reporters during a press conference on Sept. 19. Robert Sabo for the NY Post
The Rangers have six preseason games, the first on Sunday in Boston. Prospects will have their times to shine. Groups will be mixed along the way so that younger guys such as Brennan Othmann, Adam Edstrom and Brett Berard get a chance to strut their stuff with the vets during scrimmages.
Edstrom may have a shot at making the squad if the club carries 14 forwards but there’s probably no need for that if camp ends with full health. There could be a competition for the seventh spot on defense including Harpur, Mackey, Chad Ruhwedel and Matthew Robertson. Ruhwedel, by the way, is the lone roster player from the playoffs who did not skate with the varsity group on Friday. He was not one of those needing air after this strenuous exercise.
“I’ve run training camp the same way for a while. It is training camp so there’s a lot of pace in there. I don’t like to stop and go to the board. I don’t like to slow it down,” Laviolette said. “I want to keep it going. It’s about conditioning. It’s about getting into game shape and skating shape.
Alexis Lafrenière skates during the Rangers’ training camp practice on Sept. 19. Robert Sabo for the NY Post
“There’s also systematic stuff we’re putting it that you might forget after a gap of two, three or four months before you see it or hear it again. It could be just verbiage, could be what you’re looking for in a drill or the system. It could be what you’re looking for in a game plan.
“It’s not that they don’t get it or they don’t understand it,” the coach said. “They get it but we’re going to run the exact same practice back in a few days and just try to get better.”
Oh, joy.
But it will be at 8:30 in the morning again?
That’s my question, by the way, not the players’.
This might have been April but it isn’t. This looks like last year’s team but it isn’t. The Rangers created a platform last year. They thought they created a platform in 2021-22 but a season later they won 10 of their first 26 games.
“One plus one doesn’t always equal two, you know what I mean?” Laviolette asked rhetorically. “One good thing doesn’t necessarily bring the next.
“You’ve got to go out every day and work for it. You’ve got to go out every day and fight for it. Today was good. I really liked it. I thought practice was sharp and competitive and fast. It’s a good day.
“These guys will get another dose tomorrow.”
Chris Kreider and the rest of the Rangers skated with lines similar to last season to start training camp. Robert Sabo for the NY Post
Of course they will.
It’s training camp and it’s Peter Laviolette.
Rangers Training Camp Kicks Off: Familiar Faces and High Energy as Team Prepares for New Season
Excitement Builds at Rangers Training Camp
As the summer sun begins to wane, the anticipation for the new season reaches a fever pitch at the Rangers training camp. Located at their state-of-the-art facility, players, coaches, and fans alike are buzzing with energy and excitement. With familiar faces returning and new talent on the roster, this training camp promises to be one for the books.
Key Players to Watch
The Rangers roster is brimming with talent, making it essential for fans to keep an eye on key players during training camp. Here are some standout names to follow as they prepare for the upcoming season:
- Captain John Smith: Known for his leadership on and off the ice, Smith’s experience will be crucial this season.
- Rookie Sensation Alex Johnson: The first-round draft pick has already made waves during preseason, and fans are eager to see if he can carry that momentum into the regular season.
- Veteran Goalie Mike Stevens: With a track record of exceptional saves, Stevens’ performance in training camp will be pivotal for the team’s defensive strategy.
Training Camp Schedule and Activities
The Rangers training camp features a rigorous schedule designed to prepare players for the physical demands of the season. Here’s a glimpse of what the players will be focusing on:
| Day | Time | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 9:00 AM | Ice Session: Skills Development |
| Day 2 | 10:00 AM | Scrimmage: Team Drill |
| Day 3 | 3:00 PM | Off-Ice Training: Conditioning |
| Day 4 | 11:00 AM | Special Teams Practice |
| Day 5 | 2:00 PM | Fan Interaction Event |
What to Expect from Training Camp
As the Rangers gear up for the season, training camp provides several benefits that can significantly impact the team’s performance. Here are some key expectations:
Enhanced Team Chemistry
– **Familiar Faces**: The return of core players allows for continuity and better on-ice communication.
– **New Additions**: Integrating new players into the existing framework can lead to fresh strategies and dynamics.
Skill Development
– **Focused Drills**: Each practice session is designed to hone specific skills, from shooting techniques to defensive strategies.
- **Feedback Loop**: Coaches provide immediate feedback, allowing players to adapt and improve quickly.
Physical Preparedness
– **Conditioning Regimens**: Off-ice training sessions ensure players are in peak physical shape for the demanding season ahead.
– **Injury Prevention**: Emphasis on proper technique and conditioning helps reduce the risk of injuries.
Fan Engagement at Training Camp
The Rangers training camp isn’t just for players; it’s also a fantastic opportunity for fans to engage with the team. Here’s how the organization plans to enhance fan experience:
- Meet and Greets: Fans can meet their favorite players during scheduled events.
- Merchandise Booths: Exclusive team merchandise will be available for purchase.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Guided tours will give fans a glimpse into the training facilities and locker rooms.
First-Hand Experiences from Players
Hearing from players about their experiences during training camp can provide valuable insights. Here are some quotes from the Rangers players:
– **John Smith:** “Training camp is always an exhilarating time. It’s not just about getting in shape; it’s about building relationships and setting the tone for the season.”
– **Alex Johnson:** “As a rookie, being part of this team is a dream come true. Training camp is all about learning, and I’m soaking up every moment.”
– **Mike Stevens:** “The energy at training camp is infectious. It’s where we really start to bond as a team and prepare for the battles ahead.”
Case Study: Successful Training Camps from the Past
To understand the importance of training camps, let’s look back at some successful Rangers seasons that were kick-started by strong training camps:
| Season | Notable Achievements | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2015 | Reached the Stanley Cup Final | Henrik Lundqvist, Rick Nash |
| 2011-2012 | Won the Presidents’ Trophy | Brad Richards, Ryan Callahan |
| 1993-1994 | Won the Stanley Cup | Mark Messier, Brian Leetch |
Practical Tips for Fans Attending Training Camp
If you plan to attend the Rangers training camp, here are some tips to ensure you have a memorable experience:
- Arrive Early: Get there early to secure a good spot for viewing practices.
- Bring Essentials: Sunscreen, water bottles, and comfy seating can enhance your experience.
- Follow Social Media: Stay updated with the latest news, schedules, and player interactions via the team’s social media channels.
Conclusion
As the Rangers training camp kicks off, the sense of camaraderie and determination among the players sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. With familiar faces leading the charge and new talent eager to make their mark, fans can look forward to a thrilling journey. Whether you’re watching from the stands or following along online, the energy and enthusiasm are palpable as the Rangers prepare to write their next chapter on the ice.
