The New York Rangers have made an impressive start this season, boasting a 5-0-1 record, which places them among four NHL teams still lacking a regulation loss. Everything seems to be working well, with significant contributions from forwards, defensemen, and their goaltender.
After winning the Presidents’ Trophy as the top regular-season team last year, it may be challenging to replicate that success, but their current performance indicates they have a chance. Here are three reasons why the Rangers may outperform their last season.
**Enhanced Forward Depth**
A major factor in the Rangers’ Eastern Conference Finals loss last season was the lack of production from their lower-tier players when their star players struggled. Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider, and Mika Zibanejad managed only two goals across six games against the Florida Panthers. Despite losing some players like Barclay Goodrow, Alex Wennberg, and Jack Roslovic in the offseason—none of whom were significant contributors—the Rangers have begun this season with even stronger forward depth, which has been crucial to their excellent start.
While the top six players have excelled, the bottom six, particularly the third line, has performed exceptionally well, contributing to the team’s victories. A healthy Filip Chytil significantly boosts offensive depth, as his line with Will Cuylle and Kaapo Kakko has arguably become the Rangers’ strongest line and among the best league-wide. The fourth line has also provided offensive support, with Matt Rempe available as a healthy scratch ready to step in when needed.
**Eight Capable NHL Defensemen**
In addition to their impressive forward depth, the Rangers boast substantial defensive strength. They have utilized eight different defensemen this season and plan to maintain this depth. Adam Fox leads the way with seven points in six games, paired with K’Andre Miller on the top defensive line, while Braden Schneider has shifted to the left side of the second pairing alongside Jacob Trouba. A preseason injury to Ryan Lindgren, who has just returned, resulted in these adjustments; however, both pairs have performed well and are likely to stay intact for now.
For the third defensive pair, four players have rotated. The season commenced with Zac Jones and rookie Victor Mancini, both showing promise, especially Mancini, who has played every game thus far. Veteran Chad Ruhwedel stepped in for Jones for a game before Lindgren resumed his spot alongside Mancini. The variety of options available enhances the Rangers’ situation, allowing them to avoid seeking a depth defenseman through trade and reallocating those resources to other needs. This is the strongest defensive lineup the Rangers have had in years.
**Increased Even-Strength Scoring**
Another significant concern regarding the Rangers was their reliance on power plays for scoring. They have excelled at five-on-five play at the start of this season, with most of their goals coming at even strength. They have netted 31 goals this season, with only seven coming from special teams (six on power plays and one short-handed). This means they scored 24 even-strength goals, tying them for first in the league with the Buffalo Sabres.
Panarin and Kreider lead the team with three goals each at even strength. The bottom six players have generated six even-strength goals, three of which come from the previously mentioned third line. If the Rangers can maintain this level of scoring throughout the season and into the playoffs, they will be even more formidable than last year.
After achieving their best regular season in franchise history last year, many believed they wouldn’t be able to replicate that success. However, their current trajectory suggests they are on pace to match that performance and may even be a stronger team overall. If they continue this level of play into the playoffs, they have a genuine chance at becoming Stanley Cup champions.
