The New York Rangers are focused on being at the top of their game as they prepare for the playoffs. Despite being inconsistent at five-on-five, they have managed to stay atop the league due to other aspects of their play compensating for this deficiency. However, a recent drought of five-on-five goals is concerning, with the team going over 178 minutes without scoring at even strength until Artemi Panarin ended the dry spell with a crucial goal in a game against the Islanders, which they won in a shootout.
Coach Peter Laviolette acknowledged the team’s efforts in generating chances during five-on-five play, with 93 attempts at the net in a recent game. Despite the team getting looks and being in the offensive zone, they have struggled to convert those chances into goals. The lack of scoring at even strength is a point of concern for the Rangers, and Laviolette emphasized the importance of capitalizing on these opportunities to secure wins.
The Rangers went nearly nine periods without scoring a five-on-five goal, during which they were outscored 9-0 at even strength. While the power play had been effective in keeping them competitive in previous games, they failed to capitalize on their only man-advantage opportunity in a game against the Islanders. Center Vincent Trocheck emphasized that regardless of how the goals come, the team’s priority is to score goals to win games, whether they are from power plays, shorthanded situations, or even-strength play.
The Rangers’ ability to mount comebacks has been a strength for the team this season, with their 28th comeback victory setting a franchise record. Despite facing a 2-1 deficit, they were able to rally and win the game against the Islanders in a shootout. Their performance this season has been impressive, with their 112 points tying them with the 1993-94 team for the second-most in franchise history. This success is a testament to the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure during crucial moments in games.
Overall, the Rangers are looking to address their struggles with five-on-five scoring as they head into the final stretch of the regular season and prepare for the playoffs. While they have managed to stay competitive and win games through other aspects of their play, the team recognizes the importance of improving their even-strength performance to maintain their success. With their strong record this season and a focus on capitalizing on scoring opportunities, the Rangers are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs as they strive to reach their championship goals.
