The New York Rangers have begun the season without defenseman Ryan Lindgren. Initially, it appeared the Blueshirts would face challenges due to Lindgren’s absence, given his status as one of the team’s top defensemen. However, head coach Peter Laviolette has adjusted the lineup and discovered new combinations that may actually enhance the team’s performance overall. This presents an intriguing dilemma to address when Lindgren is ready to come back.
The Rangers’ top defensive pairings have looked exceptional so far. With Lindgren sidelined, the team has formed new defensive tandems for the season. K’Andre Miller is now paired with Adam Fox on the first line, while Braden Schneider and Jacob Trouba make up the second unit. Additionally, Chad Ruhwedel and Zac Jones have alternated playing with rookie standout Victor Mancini in the third pairing. All three defensive groups have performed well, but the top four have been particularly impressive. The combination of Miller and Fox has had its ups and downs, but Fox continues to demonstrate elite skills, while Miller is showing he deserves a place among the top defensemen.
Schneider and Trouba have also been a dominant force, with Trouba rebounding strongly from last season’s difficulties. Although this pairing struggled against the Maple Leafs recently, they have excelled in their other games. It will be challenging to disrupt these effective pairings once Lindgren returns.
So, what should the Rangers do when Lindgren is fit to play again? It would be challenging to find a spot for him outside of the top four, but breaking up the Miller-Fox and Schneider-Trouba pairings poses a tough choice for Laviolette. In all likelihood, the line combinations will revert to their original state upon Lindgren’s return, with Mancini likely headed to the AHL and Lindgren reclaiming his position with Fox. But is that the best route for the Rangers?
What if Lindgren were to play on the third pairing with Mancini? This could allow the top four to maintain their high level of defensive play while providing Mancini valuable experience alongside a seasoned defenseman like Lindgren. Although it might seem unusual for Lindgren to receive limited ice time, this strategy could benefit the Rangers by preserving the chemistry that has developed in the early part of the season.
