WASHINGTON — There has been a gradual reduction in the ice time granted to Mika Zibanejad and his line, and the Swedish center can easily sense that his shifts are fewer and further between without needing to check the final scoresheet.
“You can feel it on the bench,” Zibanejad commented to The Post after the morning skate ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Capitals. “I used to average more than 20 minutes a game a few years back, and I felt really good about that because it allowed me to find a better rhythm.”
“Missing those extra two or three minutes, regardless of the reason, makes it harder to create and feel like something is coming. But it is what it is.”
Rangers center Mika Zibanejad. Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Zibanejad’s average ice time has decreased from a career-high of 21:38 in the 2019-20 season to just 18:15 per game, following Saturday’s match against Anaheim in which he logged only 15:07, marking one of his five lowest time allotments in the last seven seasons.
Theoretically, reducing the 31-year-old’s minutes throughout the 82-game season could offer benefits by keeping him fresher for the playoffs, where Zibanejad often faces more physical opponents.
However, No. 93 does not fully embrace this theory.
“Honestly, I don’t think anyone enjoys playing less,” Zibanejad remarked.
Head coach Peter Laviolette stated that he aims to fulfill a promise made during training camp to distribute ice time more evenly beyond the top six players, allowing for greater involvement from the entire team.
This doesn’t entirely clarify why the Chris Kreider-Zibanejad-Reilly Smith line has received less five-on-five time compared to the Will Cuylle-Filip Chytil-Kaapo Kakko line six times in the first eight games. However, the statistics help fill in some blanks.
The Chytil line has collaborated for eight goals while allowing none, achieving a scoring rate of 6.03 goals per 60 minutes with an expected goal ratio of 65.99 percent. Meanwhile, the Zibanejad unit has been on the ice for three goals scored and three allowed, with a rate of 2.52 goals per 60 minutes and an expected goals for of 44.08.
“Fil’s line has been quite effective in generating positive numbers, getting into the offensive zone, and creating opportunities, but it’s also about ensuring everyone on the bench remains engaged,” Laviolette expressed, as his team entered the game with a record of 6-1-1.
“At the beginning of the year, I mentioned that my goal was to increase their minutes, but the overall ice time doesn’t suddenly change just to keep everyone’s minutes at their desired levels, so some adjustments must be made.”
“I don’t necessarily view it as a negative,” the coach added. “Mika is involved in the power play, he participates in penalty kills, and he plays five-on-five.”
“Depending on how much less he’s playing, that could be a downside. However, distributing minutes across the bench, which is our current focus, is crucial to ensuring a positive contribution from all lines.”
“It’s challenging to keep someone at 23:00 if you’re trying to increase Fil’s time a bit because he’s performing well.”
Peter Laviolette behind the Rangers bench. NHLI via Getty Images
The situation becomes even more complex if Zibanejad and his line are not performing exceptionally well. Kreider found the net at five-on-five during the season opener. Smith has scored twice; once in Game 3 against the Red Wings and again in Game 6 in Montreal, while Zibanejad also scored during the Montreal game on October 22.
However, the line has yet to establish a clear identity; they are neither a puck-possession trio nor a rush-focused unit. The three thoughtful forwards are still figuring it out.
“I think we have some positive aspects, but there are other areas we’re still refining,” Zibanejad admitted. “We haven’t experienced one of those games where everything clicks.”
“The game against Anaheim is a prime example. We had excellent chances in the first period but didn’t capitalize. It’s important to remain positive because that can be energizing, but eventually, we need some pucks to find the back of the net.”
“I didn’t [specifically] anticipate this, but I did mention that we might not see immediate results as we adjust to one another. Our intentions are solid.”
Rangers center Mika Zibanejad (93) battles for the puck against the Ducks’ Cutter Gauthier (61) on October 26, 2024. Getty Images
“We are striving to make the right plays. We’re also finding ourselves in more defensive-zone draws, which makes scoring tougher when trying to cover 180 feet, so there are various factors at play. I think it’s been a decent start and is improving. We all want it to succeed.”
Laviolette and the coaching staff are working to spread responsibilities and reward players who are hitting their stride. However, it’s worth noting that the offensive upswing hasn’t recently included Zibanejad, who seems slightly off the mark and a bit delayed.
“I believe they want to enhance their offensive impact within the game,” Laviolette acknowledged. “They often face tougher matchups and begin in the defensive zone, but I think they are still adjusting to enhance their effectiveness.”
“I like how we transition lines. The unit has been solid; they are all keen learners wanting to elevate their performance. They are in pursuit of more, actively searching for improvement.”
Perhaps just a bit more ice time, too.
Struggling for Minutes: Mika Zibanejad’s Line Faces Decreased Ice Time as Rangers Seek Offensive Balance
The New York Rangers, a storied franchise in the NHL, have been grappling with the challenge of maintaining offensive productivity while managing player minutes effectively. Central to this dilemma is star center Mika Zibanejad, whose line has experienced decreased ice time as the team aims to find the right balance in its offensive strategy. This article delves into the implications of decreased ice time for Zibanejad and his linemates, the reasons behind these changes, and the potential impact on the team’s overall performance.
Understanding the Ice Time Dynamics
Ice time is a critical factor in hockey, significantly influencing player performance and team success. For players like Mika Zibanejad, who are pivotal to their team’s offense, reduced minutes can be concerning. Here’s a breakdown of how ice time works in the NHL:
- Power Play Time: Players often receive more ice time during power plays, which can skew average minutes.
- Coaching Strategies: Coaches may adjust lines based on matchups, leading to fluctuating ice time for key players.
- Game Situation: Close games may lead to increased ice time for top players in critical moments.
Factors Contributing to Decreased Ice Time
There are several reasons why Zibanejad’s line is facing reduced ice time:
1. Depth of the Team
The Rangers have bolstered their roster with talented forwards, offering more options for line combinations. This depth allows the coaching staff to spread ice time across various players, aiming for a more balanced attack.
2. Line Matchups
Against certain opponents, coaches might prioritize defensive matchups, resulting in lower minutes for offensive lines. The goal is to counter the opposing team’s top scorers effectively.
3. Special Teams Impact
Shifts in special teams’ dynamics can also affect overall ice time. If Zibanejad’s line is not utilized in power play situations, their time on the ice will naturally decrease.
The Impact on Performance
Reduced ice time for a player like Zibanejad raises concerns about performance. Here are some key considerations:
- Scoring Opportunities: Fewer minutes can lead to fewer chances to score, impacting Zibanejad’s overall production.
- Chemistry with Linemates: Consistent line changes may disrupt the flow and chemistry built with linemates, affecting overall effectiveness.
- Player Morale: Stars like Zibanejad thrive on being key contributors. Decreased ice time can affect morale and confidence.
Statistics and Analysis
Let’s take a closer look at the statistical impact of decreased ice time on Mika Zibanejad’s performance compared to the previous season.
| Season | Average Ice Time (mins) | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 19:40 | 30 | 40 | 70 |
| 2023-2024 | 17:50 | 10 | 15 | 25 |
This table highlights a significant drop in Zibanejad’s average ice time and overall production in the current season. The statistics underscore the challenges he faces in contributing offensively under these new conditions.
Benefits of Managing Ice Time
Despite the challenges, there are benefits to managing ice time effectively:
- Injury Prevention: Limiting ice time can help reduce the risk of injuries, allowing players to maintain their health throughout the season.
- Enhanced Performance in Key Situations: Players who are well-rested may perform better in critical moments, increasing the likelihood of success in tight games.
- Development of Younger Players: Distributing ice time allows younger or less experienced players to gain valuable experience, contributing to the team’s long-term success.
Practical Tips for Coaches
For coaches facing similar challenges with player minutes, consider the following strategies:
- Data-Driven Decisions: Use advanced analytics to assess player performance by ice time, helping to make informed decisions about line combinations.
- Communication with Players: Keeping open lines of communication about ice time can help manage player expectations and maintain morale.
- Exploiting Matchups: Adjust lineups based on opponent strengths and weaknesses, ensuring optimal ice time distribution.
First-Hand Experience from the Locker Room
While statistical analysis provides insight, first-hand accounts from players and coaches can shed light on the emotional and strategic aspects of ice time management. In recent interviews, Zibanejad expressed his desire to contribute more despite the challenge of decreased minutes:
“It’s frustrating at times, but I understand the bigger picture. We have a talented roster, and it’s about doing what’s best for the team. I just want to make the most of my opportunities when I’m out there.” - Mika Zibanejad
Case Studies: Other Teams Managing Ice Time
Many teams in the NHL have faced similar situations. Here are a couple of case studies demonstrating effective ice time management:
1. Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning have successfully used a rotation strategy, balancing ice time among their star players to keep them fresh for the playoffs. This method has proven effective, leading the team to multiple deep playoff runs.
2. Colorado Avalanche
Colorado managed ice time for their top players during the regular season, allowing younger players to step up. This strategy paid off, as the Avalanche had a well-rounded roster ready for the postseason.
Conclusion
As the Rangers navigate the complexities of managing ice time, Mika Zibanejad’s line will continue to face challenges in balancing offensive output with strategic needs. By understanding the factors contributing to reduced minutes and exploring ways to optimize ice time management, both players and coaches can adapt and strive for success on the ice.
