The New York Rangers have struggled tremendously in the NHL, holding a dismal record of 3-11-0 over their last 14 games, with their latest defeat coming against the league’s worst team, the Nashville Predators.
Each match has turned into a critical one for the Rangers, but during their trip to Nashville, they failed to score against a team with fewer than 10 victories. There are many theories about the reasons behind this poor performance, and former Rangers player Mike Rupp is pointing fingers at the management. He released a video on Twitter accusing the front office of “manipulating” the team.
“It seems like games have been influenced,” Rupp remarked. “Players have been managed in various ways.”
He highlighted the situation with Chris Kreider, whose name has surfaced in trade rumors, as a clear instance of this manipulation.
“Another example of player manipulation is the leaks about Chris Kreider,” Rupp stated. “I don’t believe the Rangers actually intend to trade him, but his name has been thrown around to provoke a reaction from the team.”
Since the rumors regarding Kreider’s potential trade, the Rangers have recorded a 3-9-0 record, and Kreider has only managed a goal and an assist in 11 games during this slump.
Rupp emphasized that such tactics sow distrust between players and management. General manager Chris Drury has been under scrutiny during this losing streak, and the criticism will continue regardless of the team’s future path.
“Suddenly, you’re coming to the rink amidst unnecessary distractions,” Rupp noted. “It’s demoralizing, and it makes going to work a burden, as you’re constantly feeling on edge.”
Meanwhile, 24-year-old Kaapo Kakko has become a target of criticism after he was a healthy scratch against the St. Louis Blues and played only 10 minutes in the game against the Predators, making him the least played Ranger in that match.
The Rangers have drastically declined from their previous season, where they won the President’s Trophy, having traded away their captain, Jacob Trouba, and seemingly creating more chaos.
Rupp also criticized the coaching staff for failing to effectively communicate with players and address the evident issues on the ice. The Rangers have lost their appeal, and the blame can be assigned to various parties.
“Until coming to practice becomes enjoyable, this team won’t find a way out of this rut.”
