Perhaps that’s just Mika Zibanejad’s demeanor. The star center for the New York Rangers remains composed and never seems rattled, even during tough times, such as his struggles in last spring’s Eastern Conference Final against the Florida Panthers. His emotions rarely show through.
Therefore, it’s not surprising that Zibanejad was unfazed by coach Peter Laviolette’s decision to rearrange the Rangers’ forward lines before their matchup against the New York Islanders on Sunday. After the Rangers defeated the Islanders 5-2, Zibanejad calmly addressed the changes, noting that nearly everyone in their forward group has played alongside each other at various times. Without stating it outright, he implied that it wasn’t a significant concern.
“We have a record of 7-2-1 (prior to the changes) and we believe we can improve,” Zibanejad said after the game. “I’d say that’s a good problem to have.”
In essence, the Rangers are performing well, winning most games despite not always playing their best, and they understand they still have room for improvement even with one of the best records in the NHL. But there’s no need to worry; things could be much worse.
There may be a hint of confidence in his remark—perhaps even arrogance. Yet, what championship team lacks swagger? However, from Laviolette’s perspective, the Rangers can’t afford to think so highly of themselves that they become complacent about consistent performance. They have displayed noticeable offensive and defensive flaws over the first month of the season, often hidden by Igor Shesterkin’s outstanding goalkeeping or explosive scoring runs, along with timely special teams play.
These factors contribute greatly to the Rangers’ success. Still, they shouldn’t have to cover up significant issues on such a regular basis. These problems need to be addressed.
It’s easier to make improvements while still winning, as Zibanejad noted with their 7-2-1 record—now 8-2-1. However, this shouldn’t lead to complacency. The Rangers showed signs of stagnation and poor defensive play during the previous week before Laviolette made adjustments. Although they performed better against the Islanders, they still found themselves outshot and outplayed at even strength. Shesterkin and special teams—thanks to a power-play goal and a short-handed goal—were crucial in securing the victory, especially since the teams exchanged four even-strength goals (2-2).
According to Natural Stat Trick, the Rangers’ expected goals for percentage against the Islanders was 38.67, which aligns with recent performances against the Panthers, Washington Capitals, and Ottawa Senators. So, was this merely a repeat of relying on a great goaltender and effective special teams for a win?
The game certainly looked improved, and Zibanejad performed better as well—though he had a decent game against Ottawa following a poor one in Washington, which doesn’t say much.
“It felt good. I thought the lines were clicking and performing well,” Zibanejad noted. “It seemed to work today…everyone played their role within the lines.”
It remains a work in progress. The Rangers are a strong team working through various challenges, enjoying more victories than defeats. Ultimately, it comes down to consistency—maintaining a championship-quality style of play night after night.
This is what the Rangers are striving for early in November, hoping to attain it by the time April arrives.
