Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Rangers Power Play Struggles Deepen As Playoffs Approach
The New York Rangers’ power play inefficiency is becoming a significant concern as the NHL playoffs draw near. Despite ongoing adjustments by head coach Peter Laviolette, the team’s inability to capitalize on power play opportunities persists. Time is running out to rectify these issues before the postseason begins.
Power Play Drought Continues
Heading into Saturday’s game against the Devils, the Blueshirts have only managed to score twice in their last 41 power play chances since March 3rd. This dismal trend extends further, with a mere five goals scored in their last 60 power play opportunities dating back to February 5th. What was once a formidable strength for the Rangers has become a glaring weakness, despite retaining the core special teams players from previous seasons.
Coach Laviolette Expresses Urgency
Following Friday’s practice, Coach Laviolette voiced his concern regarding the struggling power play unit. He emphasized the critical role of special teams – both power play (PP) and penalty kill (PK) – at this juncture of the season.
“We’re at the time of the season right now where definitely those two things — PP and PK — can make a difference in a game,” Laviolette stated. “We talk about it all the time. It could be the swing factor.”
Potential Lineup Changes
When questioned about potentially integrating younger players or Jonny Brodzinski into the top power play unit, Laviolette noted that the second unit, featuring Brodzinski, has shown more “effectiveness.” He highlighted their near-goal on Tuesday against the Wild.
However, Laviolette remained noncommittal about increased ice time for this second unit, which also includes Gabe Perreault, who recently signed his entry-level contract and debuted against Minnesota.
During Friday’s practice, the second power play unit consisted of Alexis Lafrenière, Chris Kreider, and K’Andre Miller. The top unit included Adam Fox, J.T. Miller, Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, and Brennan Othmann, who seemingly filled in for Mika Zibanejad.
Second Unit Shows Promise
“I’m just saying that they were the unit that was most noticeable the other night,” Laviolette clarified regarding his second unit’s performance. He also acknowledged the potential drawbacks of constant lineup changes, stating that excessive shuffling could disrupt team chemistry and consistency.
For the foreseeable future, adjustments and experimentation are expected to continue as the coaching staff seeks solutions to revitalize the Rangers’ power play.
Zibanejad’s Status Uncertain
Mika Zibanejad was absent from Friday’s practice due to illness, with Juuso Parssinen taking his place as the third line center. Laviolette refrained from speculating on Zibanejad’s availability for Saturday’s game.
“I’d like to think that everybody when they’re not here for a reason, they turn the corner the next day and they feel great,” Laviolette commented. “But I can’t say for certain.”
Rempe Progressing
Matt Rempe (upper body injury) participated in practice in a regular jersey, indicating progress in his recovery. However, Brett Berard took the first line spot with the fourth line during practice alongside Kreider and Sam Carrick.
Rempe has been sidelined since March 25th. When asked if Rempe might be available for the Devils game, Laviolette only stated that he is “progressing.”
Cuylle Approaching Franchise Record
Will Cuylle is on the verge of making Rangers history on Saturday. Five more hits would elevate him past Ryan Callahan (285 in 2009-10) for the most hits in a single season in franchise history.
Cuylle’s current tally of 281 hits ranked second in the NHL as of Friday’s games. Laviolette remarked that Cuylle “hits just about everything he sees.”
Playoff Positioning
The Rangers are currently positioned two points behind the Canadiens in the Eastern Conference standings for the second wild-card spot. The Canadiens are set to play the Flyers on Saturday night.