The New York Rangers have reached the midpoint of the 2024-25 season, which has been marked by significant highs and lows. They began the season strong at 12-4-1, but then experienced a slump, winning only five of their next 21 games, which resulted in the departures of captain Jacob Trouba and 2019 second overall pick Kaapo Kakko. However, since the start of 2025, the team has improved its performance.
Currently, the Rangers are on an eight-game point streak and are just four points away from a wild card playoff position. Despite several players struggling this season, some have stood out, and in this article, we’ll explore the top five performers on the team thus far.
**#5: Filip Chytil**
Filip Chytil entered this season with uncertain expectations after missing most of last year due to a concussion. When he returned in the playoffs, he didn’t make a significant impact. However, he has been impressive this year, serving as the Rangers’ third-line center and contributing 10 goals and 18 points in 37 games, filling the gap in depth scoring that was lacking last season. His speed and shooting ability distinguish him, and he’s one of the few players on the roster with a shoot-first attitude. The main concern has been his injuries, which have caused him to miss games, but he’s having a productive season and will need to maintain this level of performance as the team aims for the playoffs.
**#4: Adam Fox**
In a season where the defense has been a primary issue, Adam Fox has consistently stood out as the team’s top defenseman. He continues to deliver solid offensive production while excelling defensively. With two goals and 36 points in 46 games, he’s not likely to match last year’s totals of 17 goals and 73 points due to the overall struggles of the team around him. Although he might not be in contention for the Norris Trophy, Fox remains a key player, especially as the team sees improvements in recent weeks. The Rangers will need him to elevate his play further if they hope to secure a playoff spot.
**#3: Will Cuylle**
Will Cuylle had a solid rookie season, playing a third-line role with an emphasis on physicality and occasional offensive contributions. This season, he has stepped up his offensive game, being one of the team’s standout players early on. He recently snapped a 15-game scoring drought and currently has 12 goals and 25 points in 46 games, maintaining his physical style despite a dip in recent scoring. Cuylle has been playing on the second line recently with Mika Zibanejad and Reilly Smith, and has the potential to reach 20 goals this season, which would represent significant progress for both him and the team as he approaches restricted free agency.
**#2: Artemi Panarin**
Although few expected Artemi Panarin to replicate last year’s remarkable performance of 49 goals and 120 points, he remains the Rangers’ top offensive player this season. While he’s unlikely to reach those heights again, he has still managed 19 goals and 48 points in 44 games. He continues to play alongside Vincent Trocheck and Alexis Lafreniere, and although they’ve had inconsistent performances, Panarin often provides offensive output. His performance will be closely watched as he becomes eligible for a contract extension this offseason, raising questions about his future with the team and the potential salary adjustments needed to keep him.
**#1: Igor Shesterkin**
As expected, Igor Shesterkin has been the Rangers’ best player and a crucial part of their success this season. Despite a dip in performance during a difficult stretch for the team, he has been outstanding since returning from injury, boasting a record of 4-0-1 in his last five starts, along with a shutout and four games with save percentages above .900. Overall, he has a 15-15-2 record, with a .910 save percentage and a 2.87 goals-against average. Shesterkin’s excellence has been vital in keeping the Rangers competitive, and they have committed to him as a cornerstone of their future with a record-breaking goalie contract set to begin next season.
Although the Rangers’ overall season has had its challenges, they are finally improving, with these five players being the most consistent performers and contributors to this turnaround. They’ve become one of the hottest teams in the league this month, and if these players maintain their form, they could pose a significant threat in the playoff race as the season progresses.
