The Rangers are in a scoring funk. It’s probably is a mere statistical regression and no long term concern but it’s certainly noteworthy. On the back of a shutout loss to the Blackhawks Wednesday there’s plenty to talk about. So let us muse.
How ridiculous is it to begin this post with a complaint? The Rangers have a ridiculously good record, have been almost impossibly consistent in harvesting points, so a tight loss to fellow contender isn’t a huge issue but this team does need a kick start offensively.
Apparently Henrik Lundqvist will be rusty when he returns? He’s recognized as being a slow starter in recent seasons but I’m not concerned about his readiness. While there’s no replacement for game time he’s been on the ice and his focus will surely be where it needs to be midseason.
I really feel for JT Miller. He’s working hard and getting chances but like the top six, he’s snakebitten.
Rick Carpiniello threw out these eye popping statistics earlier today: Rick Nash has 1 goal in 7. Chris Kreider has 0 in 7. Mats Zuccarello has 0 in 12, Brassard has 1 in 20(!) and Derek Stepan is pointless in 7. Wow. It’s not often an entire offense goes that cold all at the same time. It’s quite amazing that the Rangers have reeled off so many wins given their struggles.
Brad Richards, Dan Boyle, Keith Yandle… it doesn’t matter who the Rangers bring in to address their powerplay. Hey, would Brian Leetch and Wayne Gretzky make a difference right now?
Is the state of the offense a legitimate concern? Yes. They aren’t generating enough high quality shots, generally speaking aren’t going to the right areas and a team wide problem is how many shots are coming from the outside in low percentage areas. The team is working hard defensively they’re but not getting to the right areas. Luck and regression are factors but they need to work harder for their offense.
If ever I didn’t mind an opposing player scoring a game winning goal at the Garden, its Brad Richards. He always handled himself with class, dignity and did have some good moments as a Ranger even if his contract was unsightly.
Chris Kreider – I want to see him bowl people over and take over games physically. He was really physical in the Florida game but I can’t help getting the feeling we don’t see it quite enough.
Cam Talbot’s numbers are ridiculous and the longer this continues the more he becomes a very real trade asset. I disagree with people who think he won’t fetch much of a return. He’ll be highly sought after this summer – a lot of teams have a need at the position. Personally, I would be surprised if he was a Ranger next year. Sell high.
Brad Richards’ game winning goal was all about placement and composure. Do the Rangers show enough composure?
Question time:
- Would you trade Cam Talbot this summer?
- What concerns you most; the top six going cold or the powerplay not existing?
- How happy have you been with Keith Yandle so far?
- Which ‘core’ Ranger is underperforming (aside from actual production) the most?
- Would you rather play Boston or Ottawa in the playoffs?
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