Rangers Dependence on Third and Fourth Line Production Highlights Need to Evaluate Top Players

After a devastating 10-2 loss to the Boston Bruins on Saturday, the New York Rangers once again find themselves at a crossroads. What will it take to produce an offensively efficient and effective team? Is it finally time for the New York team to make major trades? Over halfway through the regular season with 46 games under their belt and a 3-5-2 record in the last 10 games, the Rangers are not only defeated, but also embarrassed.

Top Players’ Concerning Statistics 

Forward Artemi Panarin leads the team with 49 points in 45 games, but a minus-11 reveals a more complicated issue. Forward Mika Zibanejad follows with 40 points in 45 games while carrying a minus-14. Forwards William Cuylle and Alexis Lafrenière are also at minus-14, while J.T. Miller sits at a team-worst minus-15. With the exception of defenseman Adam Fox, who has a plus-four and is currently on long-term injured reserve, each of the Rangers’ top eight skaters possesses a negative plus-minus rating when on the ice. Even as the team’s primary goal-scorers, these players are still responsible for the goals scored on the other end of the ice. 

Energy from the Third and Fourth Lines Remains the Focal Point

In recent games, the Rangers’ third and fourth lines have generated vast scoring opportunities and consistently put pucks on net. They have also spent sustained time in the offensive zone, even when goals haven’t followed. Specifically, in the game against the Buffalo Sabres on January 8th, forwards Sam Carrick and Matt Rempe produced quality wrist shots and were buzzing as they pushed to tie the game through sustained offensive pressure midway through the third period. That energy stemming from the bottom of the lineup reveals a much-needed shift for the New York Rangers. 

How the Rangers Should Proceed

If one thing’s clear, it’s that a rebuild is necessary. This version of the New York Rangers is hungry for new faces. While the talent of this team’s star players is undeniable, this core has reached its ceiling. With the trade deadline underway, the Rangers should start prioritizing acquiring new players sooner rather than later. Rather than trying to salvage a team that continues to underperform, focusing on the future should now be the focal point. Give more opportunities to the team’s less experienced and young players while laying the necessary groundwork for a rebrand.