The New York Rangers are mired in a troubling slump, having lost eight of their last 10 games. With high expectations for this season, both fans and management are growing increasingly frustrated. The team traded their captain to the Anaheim Ducks and suffered a disappointing loss to Seattle, intensifying the pressure even further.
Rangers in a Slump: Troubling Times Ahead
Trouba’s Departure: A Necessary Change
The Rangers were forced to trade Jacob Trouba after he became a liability defensively and struggled to contribute offensively. His performance on the back end was lacking, and his inability to score goals compounded the team’s struggles. In 24 games, he recorded 0 goals, 3 assists, and a -3 rating—unacceptable numbers for a team captain. General Manager Chris Drury may soon need to make significant roster changes, especially with an impatient owner like James Dolan watching closely. The big question now is: who stays, and who goes?
Kreider: A Lifelong Ranger on the Block?
Chris Kreider’s name has surfaced in trade discussions. The long-time Ranger and fan favourite has been sidelined by injuries this season, but remains a valuable asset for any contending team. Kreider’s leadership and scoring ability would likely fetch a strong return on the trade market. However, trading him would carry emotional and symbolic costs. Kreider has taken pay cuts in the past to stay with the team and has become a face of the franchise. Would the Rangers consider moving a player so deeply tied to their identity?
Zibanejad’s Surprising Struggles
Mika Zibanejad has been one of the most perplexing cases this season. The usually reliable centreman has turned the puck over far too often, leading to costly goals against. After 26 games, Zibanejad carries a shocking minus-14 rating and has missed opportunities he would typically bury. With a full no-movement clause, he could be a tough player to move, but it may be time for Drury to have a conversation with him. If Kreider is traded, Zibanejad’s willingness to waive his clause could become crucial to a larger rebuild.
Young Talent in Need of a Shake-Up
Kaapo Kakko, the former second-overall pick, has shown flashes of promise, but has yet to develop into the consistent player the Rangers hoped for. Signed to a one-year contract last offseason, Kakko could benefit from a change of scenery. Moving him now, while he still holds potential value, might be in both his and the Rangers’ best interest.
Defenceman Ryan Lindgren has also struggled this season. Injuries and declining performance have affected his play. Known for his physicality, Lindgren’s skating has slowed, and his Corsi rating has dipped to 47.1%, two points below his career average. Packaging Lindgren and Kakko together in a deal could help the Rangers land a younger star or fill key roster gaps.
Drury’s Dilemma: To Rebuild or Reload?
With the Rangers slump, what does the team do now? Chris Drury faces a daunting task. On one hand, the Rangers have a core of talented players with deep ties to the team and its fan base. On the other, the team’s recent struggles suggest that change is necessary. Drury must weigh the emotional and financial costs of trading cornerstone players like Kreider and Zibanejad against the potential benefits of acquiring younger, dynamic talent.
If the losses continue to mount, the pressure to act will only grow. The Rangers’ fan base has little tolerance for mediocrity, and Dolan’s impatience could push Drury toward drastic decisions.
The Path Forward: Change May Be Inevitable
Breaking up the core may seem drastic, but it could be what the Rangers need to return to contention. Trouba’s defensive issues, Kreider’s injury concerns, and Zibanejad’s inconsistency have left the team vulnerable. Meanwhile, young players like Kakko and Lindgren could be used as trade chips to bring in fresh talent and reinvigorate the lineup.
The next few weeks will be critical for the Rangers. If the team continues to falter, expect Drury to make bold moves to right the ship. While some decisions may be unpopular, they could ultimately be necessary to put the Rangers back on the path to success.
Frustration, But Hope for Change
For Rangers fans, it’s a frustrating time, but one that could soon bring significant change. Whether those changes lead to immediate success or signal the start of a rebuild remains to be seen. One thing is clear: standing still is no longer an option.
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Main Photo: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
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