Rangers on the Verge: Preseason Surprises Before the Big Night
The New York Rangers are three games into preseason, with just two remaining until the big night, and things have been looking positive. In just seven days, the Blueshirts kick off their season at MSG against the Pittsburgh Penguins. As opening night draws closer, it's still a big mystery how this roster will shape out on October 7th. While these preseason games don't directly impact the regular season, they do affect several other aspects. Although their familiar style of making every third period a nail-biter doesn't seem to be going away, fans have been able to see a variety of different aspects.
Some Surprises, Some Disappointments
While it's tragic that most of these prospects won't make the roster on opening night, it doesn't change the confidence they'll bring down to Hartford with them. A few youngsters have given fans a quick sneak peek of the kind of impact they can make, while others may still have a long way to go. Top prospect Gabe Perreault has pleased plenty with his quick shot and his lack of hesitation when it comes to shooting. A surprise to many, Noah Laba has been making a case for himself, especially with his game-winning goal against the Islanders just last night. As expected by most, Brett Berard seems to have picked up right where he left off last season.
The young players producing in the preseason can always put a smile on the faces of most fans; the same can't be said for a particular prospect. Though he earned himself a power-play goal against the Islanders on September 25th, Brennan Othmann has not performed as expected. As of today, the 22-year-old will start the season in Hartford, remaining hopeful his time will soon come. With the good and the bad, this coaching staff has been forced to consider these prospects for the opening night roster.
Goaltending Remains the Same
While a few games in this preseason have not been the best for Dylan Garand, New York's starting goaltender continues to be brilliant. Though their game against the Boston Bruins on September 23rd ended quite rough, Igor Shesterkin stopped 10 of their 11 shots through the first half of the game, keeping them in front. Last night's match against the Islanders was an excellent sign for Shesterkin as well, saving 21 of 22 shots through the first two periods, again keeping them in front. As always, the Blueshirts may have their issues to fix throughout the season, but the goaltending remains far from one.
Their Power Forward Belongs in the Top Six
It may have been evident from the start, but there's no reason Will Cuylle doesn't have a spot in the top six. Using his strength around the net, Cuylle put the Blueshirts up 2-1 in the second period from a sharp-angle shot that made its way to the back of the net. Not only did he score, but his line with Juuso Parssinen and Gabe Perreault excelled throughout the game. While a line like that may make Mike Sullivan wonder about a potential third line, it makes more sense for Cuylle to take his place in the top six. Following his 20-goal season last year, Cuylle is projected to start on the left wing alongside Mika Zibanejad and J.T. Miller, but nothing is confirmed just yet; only time will tell.
