The New York Rangers are grappling with their roster challenges after once again falling short in the Eastern Conference Finals. Despite making it to the East Finals twice in the past three years, they have been unable to secure a victory, losing both times in six games. With a roster brimming with talent and the recent acquisition of 2023 Stanley Cup Champion Reilly Smith, the pressure is on for the Rangers to capitalize this season. The urgency is heightened by the fact that 13 contracts are set to expire after this season, coupled with the need for salary raises. The team may look to add depth through emerging players.
The Rangers finished the regular season with an impressive 55-23-24 record, setting franchise records for wins and points in a season. They dominated their initial playoff series, led by Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, who carried their strong regular-season performance into the postseason.
However, the Eastern Conference Finals against the Florida Panthers told a different story. Both Zibanejad and Kreider struggled, failing to record points in five of the six games of the series, which severely hampered the Rangers’ chances. The team’s ability to extend the series to six games was largely due to the stellar performance of Igor Shesterkin, who played a crucial role in keeping the Rangers in contention.
With Shesterkin set to become a free agent at the end of the season and no current discussions about an extension, the Rangers face a critical moment. They must demonstrate their ability to advance if they hope to convince Shesterkin to stay.
The Rangers’ offensive depth is strong, but the addition of Brennan Othmann could provide a boost. Othmann, who has shown promise in the American Hockey League with 21 goals and 28 assists, also brings a physical edge to his game, having accumulated 65 penalty minutes last season. While his immediate impact in the NHL playoffs is uncertain, his style could add a much-needed spark. However, with 14 forwards potentially vying for a spot on the roster, Othmann will need to make a significant impression during training camp to secure a place.
Will Cuylle, in the final year of his entry-level contract, made strides last season by scoring 13 goals and eight assists in 81 games with the Rangers. Despite showing potential, Cuylle struggled to secure a consistent role, facing competition from other players including Othmann. If Cuylle is to gain more minutes, a trade involving Kaapo Kakko might be necessary. Cuylle has the potential to be a key breakout player if given the right opportunity.
Kaapo Kakko, once a highly touted second-overall pick, has yet to meet expectations. At 23, he is still relatively young but has had a mixed career with the Rangers. After a career-high 40 points in the 2022-23 season, Kakko’s performance dipped to just 19 points in the recent season, with only two points in 15 playoff games. The Rangers face a crucial decision on Kakko’s future. With a one-year contract extension for 2024-25 already signed, the team must decide if Kakko can turn things around or if it’s time to explore other options.
The Rangers are at a crossroads, and how they address these challenges will be pivotal in determining their success in the upcoming season.