Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The impressive performance of the line featuring Will Cuylle, Filip Chytil, and Kaapo Kakko is a vital factor behind the New York Rangers’ strong start this season with a record of 6-1-1.
Collectively, they have amassed 19 points and notably, have not been on the ice for any goals against during 5v5 situations over the course of their first eight games. Although Chytil and Kakko often steal the spotlight, it is Cuylle who has emerged as the standout performer on that line.
“There’s a maturity to his game, I think, from this year to last year,” remarked Peter Laviolette on Monday.
During last season’s training camp, Cuylle made a compelling case for a spot on the Rangers roster with his outstanding performance. He continued to build on that momentum during his rookie season, during which he netted 13 goals and accumulated a total of 21 points. Additionally, he led all rookies with 274 hits, and his performance this season suggests he is elevating his game even further.
“AND THAT ONE WILL COUNT” ✅
Will Cuylle successfully defends his second goal of the game from being overturned during review, extending the Rangers’ lead to two. pic.twitter.com/0qlghGH23J
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 27, 2024
In just eight games, Cuylle is currently tied for fourth on the Rangers in scoring with a tally of seven points (including two goals and five assists). This tally does not encompass the two goals that were disallowed following video review, one of which occurred on Saturday during a 2-1 victory over the Ducks.
Even with one goal taken away, Cuylle found the net once more — this time, it counted — at 11:53 in the third period, ultimately proving to be the game-winning goal.
Cuylle’s hard-hitting style remains a significant aspect of his game. He has amassed 36 hits, leading the Rangers by 12, and stands tied for fifth in the League.
Related: Rempe-Mania returns to Rangers, popular forward recalled from Hartford of AHL
‘Natural progression’ contributing to Cuylle’s growth
Brad Penner-Imagn Images
While Cuylle’s dedication to enhancing his skills is evident, Laviolette suggests that this improvement was simply a matter of time and natural development.
“(Cuylle) has a year of experience behind him, he exudes more confidence, and he has a better grasp of the League and what is required for success,” Laviolette clarified. “He worked diligently all summer and arrived at camp in excellent condition. The natural progression of someone who is 22 means they are undoubtedly better than they were at 18.”
The natural development and maturity of the 2020 second-round draft pick have significantly contributed to forming a dynamic third line for the Rangers. Cuylle boasts a plus-10 rating over eight games, while Chytil (six points: three goals and three assists) and Kakko (six points: one goal and five assists) hold plus-nine and plus-eight ratings, respectively.
Their offensive contributions have been impressive, but they have also emerged as New York’s top defensive line.
“I think we all have different strengths that complement each other well,” Cuylle shared following the win against Anaheim. “We communicate effectively, review game clips, and through this, we’ve learned more about each other and our playing styles.”
Cuylle, Chytil, and Kakko have collectively outscored their opponents 8-0 during their time on the ice, with a scoring chance advantage of 55.29 percent according to Natural Stat Trick. They have been present for 23 high-danger chances in total and faced only 12 against, yielding an impressive 65.71 percent rate. This performance is remarkable, especially as they compete against some of the more formidable lines from opposing teams.
This trio has significantly bolstered the depth of the Rangers’ top-nine forward lineup compared to last year when Chytil was limited to just 10 games and Kakko faced challenges throughout his 61 appearances.
“I believe we’re executing well at the moment,” Cuylle added. “Every game presents a new challenge. We approach each match with a fresh mindset and aim to play our style.”
While it is still early in the season, Cuylle is on track to accumulate 72 points if his current performance continues. This would mark a remarkable 51-point improvement from the previous season—an almost unprecedented leap. Although it’s difficult to predict his total points, it’s evident that Cuylle is poised to exceed his career-high this season, rapidly solidifying his role as a key component of New York’s third line and overall roster.
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Will Cuylle Emerges as Key Player for Rangers’ Dynamic Third Line
Introduction to Will Cuylle
Will Cuylle, a promising young talent, is making waves as a crucial contributor to the New York Rangers’ dynamic third line. His combination of size, speed, and skill has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike, as he continues to carve out his niche within the team. As the Rangers look to solidify their playoff aspirations, Cuylle’s potential impact cannot be understated.
Key Attributes of Will Cuylle
Will Cuylle’s rise within the Rangers’ lineup is attributed to several key attributes that make him a valuable asset on the ice:
- Size and Physicality: Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 215 pounds, Cuylle brings a physical presence to the game, making him a challenging opponent for defenders.
- Speed and Agility: Despite his size, Cuylle possesses impressive speed, allowing him to create scoring opportunities and pressure opposing defenses.
- Hockey IQ: Cuylle demonstrates a high hockey IQ, often making smart plays and positioning himself effectively during critical moments of the game.
- Versatility: His ability to play both wing positions makes him a flexible option for head coach Gerard Gallant.
Cuylle’s Role on the Third Line
The third line is often seen as the backbone of a hockey team, providing depth and energy. Here’s how Cuylle fits into this role:
Defensive Responsibility
One of the main tasks of a third-line player is to provide solid defensive support. Cuylle has excelled in this area by:
- Challenging opposing forwards and disrupting plays.
- Utilizing his size to win battles along the boards.
- Contributing to penalty kills, which has been crucial for the Rangers’ overall defensive strategy.
Offensive Contributions
While defense is a priority, Cuylle’s offensive contributions are equally important. He is known for:
- Driving the puck into the offensive zone with speed.
- Creating space for his linemates, allowing for more scoring chances.
- Scoring goals and assisting when opportunities present themselves.
Statistics Overview
To understand Cuylle’s impact, let’s take a look at his recent statistics:
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-2022 | 40 | 10 | 5 | 15 |
| 2022-2023 | 50 | 12 | 8 | 20 |
Benefits of a Strong Third Line
Having a robust third line, with players like Will Cuylle, provides various benefits for the Rangers:
- Increased Depth: A strong third line offers the team more scoring options and reduces the burden on the top two lines.
- Consistency: Reliable performance from the third line can help maintain momentum throughout games.
- Defensive Stability: A solid presence on the third line can help alleviate pressure on the defense, allowing for better overall team performance.
Case Studies: Impact Players on Third Lines
Examining other successful NHL teams can provide insights into the importance of a dynamic third line. Here are a few examples:
- St. Louis Blues (2019): The Blues’ third line contributed significantly to their Stanley Cup victory, showcasing depth and resilience.
- Tampa Bay Lightning (2020): Their third line played a pivotal role in their championship run, often scoring crucial goals in tight games.
First-Hand Experience: Cuylle’s Development
Hockey analyst Mark Johnson recently shared insights into Will Cuylle’s journey:
“Will has shown tremendous growth since joining the Rangers. His ability to adapt and improve each game has been remarkable. He’s not just a player; he’s becoming a leader on the ice, motivating his teammates to elevate their game.” – Mark Johnson
Practical Tips for Rangers Management
To further enhance Cuylle’s development and the effectiveness of the third line, Rangers management might consider the following strategies:
- Continued Development: Invest in training programs that focus on speed and agility for larger players.
- Increased Ice Time: Allow Cuylle to gain more experience by increasing his ice time, particularly in high-pressure situations.
- Team Chemistry: Foster line combinations that enhance synergy among forward players to maximize scoring potential.
Conclusion
Will Cuylle is well on his way to becoming a key player for the Rangers’ dynamic third line. His unique skill set and contributions can significantly impact the team’s success as they pursue their goals this season. By continuing to support his growth and development, the Rangers can capitalize on Cuylle’s potential and strengthen their overall roster.
