The Rangers, who are currently just 4 points out of the 4th seed of the playoffs, are trying to make some noise with their young crew under coach David Quinn. Rangers have been playing solid hockey as of late, especially in the month of March, going 9-6-1. Here is how the Rangers can get that 4th spot in the strong East Division.
First, they need to beat the teams that they know they can beat. The Rangers have played a rollercoaster of a hockey season. They can dominate a top team like the Washington Capitals, but then they would look lost playing a team like the Buffalo Sabres and only be able to grab one point. They need to beat the teams that they have on their upcoming schedule such as the Buffalo Sabres, New York Islanders, Washington Capitals, and Boston Bruins.
Second, grab two points anyway they can. The Rangers are desperate for points and they have been riding their goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, for much of this season to help protect the team in trying to get as many points anyway they can. Igor Shesterkin, a rookie, has been arguably a top-10 goaltender this season and continues to dominate at the NHL level.
Third, they need their top players at their best every single night. Mika Zibanejed is starting to show strides of his goal scoring touch, given he had much difficulty scoring at the start of the season. Adam Fox has been outstanding in his second year in the NHL as he leads all defensemen in points. Artemi Panarin has been doing it all since he joined the Rangers—being the playmaker and getting points.
Lastly, special teams need to be at their best. The Rangers are one of the best penalty killing teams in the NHL, and it is led by assistant coach Jaques Martin, who has been a great asset for the team. The powerplay has been better as of late as they took Alexis Lafreniere off the PP2, which caught some attention. However, their overall powerplay line needs to be at its best and Lafreniere will eventually get his opportunity.
