The New York Rangers’ third line has had a strong start, largely thanks to left winger Will Cuylle. The 22-year-old is currently performing at a point-per-game pace and leads the team with a plus-4 rating, even though they have only played three games. Cuylle’s performance stands out amidst the spotlight on teammates Kaapo Kakko and Filip Chytil, who had their own narratives entering the 2024-25 season—Kakko aiming to recover from injury and Chytil healing from a concussion that sidelined him for much of the previous year.
While Cuylle wasn’t the focus heading into the season, his understated style has worked to his advantage. In his rookie season, he recorded 21 points over 81 games and showcased his physical play by leading all NHL rookies with 247 hits. As attention shifted to other players, such as Matt Rempe and Chytil, Cuylle’s steady contributions often went unnoticed.
In the season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Cuylle had a goal disallowed due to an offside call, but he assisted during the second period of a 6-0 victory. In the home opener, he scored an important game-tying goal against the Utah Hockey Club, though the team ultimately lost 6-5 in overtime. His performance in the third game against the Detroit Red Wings highlighted his tenacity; he delivered five hits, blocked a shot, and took three shots on goal.
Although it’s early in the season, Cuylle is proving he can be a valuable player in the bottom six. His tenacity, willingness to take big hits, and ability to control the puck with solid skating have been impressive. After a disappointing production from the bottom six last year, Cuylle’s development is a positive point. Coach Peter Laviolette noted that this season offers Cuylle a chance to carve out his role and grow: “I think Will’s next step, we’re looking to see that… that line has become a good line.”
Cuylle and his linemates, Kakko and Chytil, have made a significant impact, leading the team in various offensive categories, including 29 shots and 12 high-danger chances, according to Natural Stat Trick.
Through three games, Will Cuylle’s stats are as follows:
— 1 goal
— 2 assists
— 3 points
— 14 hits
— +4 plus/minus
Last season, the Rangers struggled to get production beyond their top six forwards. However, in the early games of this season, offense has emerged from unexpected sources, with contributions coming from defensemen and bottom-six forwards alike. The trend signifies a renewed determination to create scoring opportunities. Perhaps even Igor Shesterkin might find a way to contribute on the scoreboard like Minnesota’s Filip Gustavsson, who recently scored a goalie goal.
For now, the Rangers are pleased to see Cuylle stepping up and taking advantage of his opportunity to become a regular contributor on the team.
