The end of an era

It’s the end of an era for the New York Rangers. And what a fitting end to an era it was. On Sam Rosen’s final night, where he was named the first star of the game, the other two stars were the two longest tenured Rangers: Chris Kreider (goal, assist) and Mika Zibanejad (2 goals, 1 assist). In what could be both of their final games in New York, it was almost surreal to have Kreider and Zibanejad give us one last look at our favorite Rangers bromance. A true storybook ending for Sam, and a bittersweet one at that.

Changes are coming to the Rangers. Changes need to come for the Rangers after this disastrous season. The only thing we know for certain is Sam Rosen is officially retired, to be replaced by Kenny Albert. It was most likely Kreider’s final game, as he likely would have been traded at the deadline if not for his back injury. Will Cuylle collected the puck after his goal, almost confirming what we all know to be true.

Zibanejad is possibly on the move, though his no-move clause and his comments regarding it will determine whether he stays. It’s been suggested Zibanejad is open to a change of scenery, though non-stop flights to Sweden are likely high on his priority list as his wife does travel there regularly for work. Zibanejad found new life on the wing and did salvage his season with a strong finish, but it’s better to trade someone a year too early rather than a year too late.

Though both of their seasons were a bit rough, putting it lightly, statistically they weren’t that far off from their recent performances. Zibanejad finished the season with a line of 20-42-62, his 8th straight season with at least 20 goals and 50 points. Kreider finished the year with 22 goals and 8 assists in 67 games, which is a 27 goal pace if not for the injuries. The goals are close to his career norms, but the assists are obviously the glaring issue on the stat line.

Even if just Zibanejad returns, it’s still the end of an era for the Rangers. Sam notwithstanding, as he has been the one constant across many different Rangers eras, Kreider’s standing in the locker room and on the ice has been one of the most consistent presences over the last decade. Kreider’s clutch playoff performances will be missed, if and when he is traded.

On Sam’s last night, to have both Kreider and Zibanejad turn back the clock and give us vintage performances was fitting. It’s been a tough season, and there are many issues the Rangers need to address this summer. But for one night, we were reminded of the joy that duo brought us. It was a storybook ending for Sam Rosen’s career, one that won’t be forgotten.