How the Younglings Have Made the New York Rangers 25-26 Season Worth Watching
It was a night that belonged to the rookies last night after the New York Rangers defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 6-1 at Madison Square Garden. In a game that may have benefited the Blueshirts' draft chances more with a loss, Ranger fans were blessed with yet another sign of the future. With goals from a few youngsters, as well as another NHL debut, it was a night to remember for these rookies and a rare, fun watch for fans. In a season with hardly anything to be proud of, the kids' sudden surge has kept plenty of fans intrigued about what's to come in the following seasons. It may have been a rough watch all season for fans, but how exactly have these New York youngsters made it bearable?
It's safe to say, ever since the Olympics ended, the kids have been showing why they belong on the ice. Just 24 hours ago, they proved yet again their dominance with a goal from Matthew Robertson and a first NHL goal from Adam Sykora. The goals weren't the only highlight, though, as a hardworking Jaroslav Chmelar earned a pretty assist. Impressive from the rookies, indeed, though the points weren't the only takeaway from last night's game: goaltender Dylan Garand also earned his very first NHL win, snapping the Rangers' six-game losing streak. It didn't end there, though, as last night also saw the debut of Drew Fortescue, earning his first point as well from an assist. Based on the joy in Sykora's face after his goal, it's safe to say last night's win was a game to remember for many of those rookies. A very fun night of first careers, but let's not forget the kids who have made this last month quite enjoyable.
A night to remember indeed, but it's what fans have seen throughout the season that impresses them. Since the beginning of March, youngsters Alexis Lafreniere and Gabe Perreault have been on a massive offensive burst while on their line with Mika Zibanejad. Lafreniere's offensive surge has brought him within distance of breaking his single-season record of 57 points, while Perreault sits at seven goals this season, four of which he scored in March, looking to prepare for a potential top draft pick to join him on his line. The possible inclusion of Gavin McKenna with Lafreniere and Perreault has Ranger fans looking forward to what may come next October. The kids continue to shine, but how exactly does this benefit the Rangers in a season that's long been lost?
Though there's nothing left to play for in these remaining games, the effort these kids show is the exact kind this team has lacked over the last two seasons. The veterans may be important, but the positive energy these youngsters bring is essential if this team is to grow during this retooling stage. With their efforts potentially landing them spots on the ice to start next season, it may just be the first step in a successful retool. With what head coach Mike Sullivan saw just last night, fans can only hope he'll keep the kids on the ice as much as he can. Though only nine games remain for these Blueshirts, it's still plenty of time for these rookies to establish their presence, but can they continue their surge?
