NY Rangers Goal Breakdown: Three defensive mistakes, three goals in exhibition game

The NY Rangers and NY Islanders played their tune-up game before the play-in series kick off this weekend. It wasn’t always a pretty game, but it got legs back under the players and can be used as a springboard for those series. The Rangers didn’t look too strong, but there were some positives to take away.

First and foremost, Their PK looked solid. That’s going to be a big factor against the Carolina Hurricanes. Second, the third line looked good, especially Kaapo Kakko. There’s nothing to worry about with the top-six, they will score. But the third line is an x-factor for the Rangers.

It’s great to say this. Here’s the NY Rangers goal breakdown from last night:

Isles 1, Rangers 0 – Fox gets caught

A rare mistake by Adam Fox, getting caught at the red line with two Isles behind him. That leads to a 2-on-1, and Anthony Beauvillier looked off Igor Shesterkin before beating him blocker side.

Isles 2, Rangers 0 – Puck Watching

Artemi Panarin got caught puck watching on this one, as Devon Toews snuck in behind him to get the loose puck and get it past Henrik Lundqvist.

Isles 2, Rangers 1 – Four Isles Watching Fast

Jesper Fast drew four Isles to watch him get a bad angle shot on Semyon Varlamov. Filip Chytil followed up the play and got the Rangers on the board.

Shot Heatmap – Rangers Had the Edge?

Here’s something – the Rangers had the shots, scoring chances, and high danger chances edge. This is to be taken with a tremendous grain of salt though.

Skater Charts – Room For Improvement

Again, take these with a grain of salt. There’s room for improvement here, but note how good that third line was. This is critical if the Rangers want to beat Carolina. Also check out Trouba/Smith. What a game for them.

And now we wait. Two more days until the Rangers hit the ice when it counts.