New York Rangers: Mika Zibanejad Impresses in Debut
The New York Rangers got off to a nice start in their preseason game against the New York Islanders. Who stood out in the win?
One of the big moves made by the New York Rangers was the decision to trade Derick Brassard to the Ottawa Senators for Mika Zibanejad. Prior to being traded to the Rangers, Zibanejad had four solid years of experience with the Senators.
At just 23-years-old, Zibanejad is still improving as a hockey player, and the stats show that he is improving. In every season with the Senators, Zibanejad has increased his point production. In 81 games last season, Zibanejad totaled 51 points with 20 goals and 31 assists.
As the Rangers attempt to get younger on the fly, Zibanejad has the potential to be a key player for them this season. In his debut with the Rangers on Tuesday against the New York Islanders, Zibanejad got off to a great start.
After Jason Chimera scored the first goal of the game for the Islanders, Zibanejad, and the Rangers’ offense responded a few minutes later.
#NYR @MikaZibanejad…welcome to @TheGarden! #ItsAPowerPlayGoal pic.twitter.com/thynLgVmxH
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 27, 2016
In the second period, a power-play goal by Brandon Pirri was assisted by Zibanejad and Chris Kreider. A power-play goal was certainly a welcomed sight for the Rangers.
#NYR @dylan_mcilrath with the goal! ???? pic.twitter.com/3MMy5xG3fo
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 28, 2016
Finally, in the third period, Zibanejad assisted on a Dylan McIlrath goal which gave the Rangers a commanding 4-2 lead late in the game. There is no doubt that Zibanejad has big shoes to fill, but he is off to a great start.
Even though it is just the preseason, it is important for the new Rangers to get used to skating with each other. Furthermore, the Rangers are a hard to project this season with all of the changes. But, young talent might be on display in the Garden this season led by Zibanejad.
More from Empire Writes Back
This article originally appeared on 
