The New York Rangers kicked off their season with an impressive 6-0 victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins on the road, marking an excellent beginning. However, they followed this with a disappointing loss in their home opener against the Utah Hockey Club, falling 6-5 in overtime. These two games highlighted the team’s potential while also revealing some areas for improvement. Here are three key takeaways from the Rangers’ first two games of the 2024-25 season.
A Tale of Two Igor Shesterkins
Just a day prior to the season opener, it was reported that Igor Shesterkin had declined an eight-year, $88 million contract, which would have made him the highest-paid goalie in NHL history at $11 million per season. Many questioned his decision, but it’s clear he is aiming for a higher payday. He opened the season brilliantly, stopping all 31 shots against the Penguins and achieving his first shutout this season—marking the first shutout for the Rangers in a season opener since 1956. Expectations rose for his next game, but he struggled against Utah, allowing six goals on 26 shots and finishing with a .769 save percentage. His current stats show a goals-against average of 2.90 and a save percentage of .895. Though his defense didn’t perform well, Shesterkin needs to improve to justify a salary exceeding $11 million.
Mika Zibanejad’s Slow Start
Mika Zibanejad is another player under pressure this season, having experienced a decline in his offensive output last year, including not scoring during the Rangers’ final ten playoff games. He must elevate his performance for the Rangers to contend for the Stanley Cup, but so far, he has yet to register any points this season and has struggled to be an offensive threat. His outing against Utah was particularly disappointing, as he recorded a minus-4 plus/minus and was on the ice when Utah scored the overtime winner, leaving Clayton Keller unmarked in front of the net. If Zibanejad wants to silence his critics, he must improve in scoring and defensive reliability.
Consistent Five-on-Five Scoring
A significant issue for the Rangers over the past seasons has been their reliance on power plays for scoring. They have worked to enhance their even-strength scoring, and early indications show improvement, with 11 goals scored so far—nine at even strength. They started strong against the Penguins with goals from all forward lines, beginning with Sam Carrick from the fourth line, followed by Alexis Lafreniere from the second line, Chris Kreider with two goals, and Filip Chytil scoring his first since the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs. If this trend continues, and they can improve their power play, the Rangers might become one of the most formidable offensive teams in the NHL, bolstering their chances for a Stanley Cup.
Having only played two games, the Rangers have experienced both positives and negatives. They need their key players to show more consistency while maintaining their five-on-five scoring. If they can resolve their issues and build on their strengths, this season could turn out to be another successful one for the Rangers.
