New York Rangers: This is Not Just a Peak Part IV
It’s time for the final reason in this mini-series of the New York Rangers’ play not being a short burst of energy. The final reason is not as factual as some of the others mentioned, but be sure that it is equally as important.
The New York Rangers have played some good hockey to start the season, and it has put them on top of the Metropolitan Division and in high-ranking across the league. Currently, their combined ranking on the power play and penalty kill are better than any other Eastern Conference team. (Yes, even the Canadiens)
Reason Four: Alain Vigneault and The Great Mix
– Alain Vigneault
It has been mentioned that Alain Vigneault is hard on the young players such as JT Miller, Brady Skjei, and Kevin Hayes. However, it has also been stated that he isn’t as hard on the veterans. Take a look at how much good he has done to help the team to where they are now.
In just 25 games, both Miller and Hayes have been the Rangers’ top forwards and continue to shine every night. Hayes has had a great rebound season to this point, and Miller has found his stride. Both are not on a “hot streak,” but rather have been well prepared and are fierce competitors. They have been able to up their games to a new level, one that the team highly appreciates.
Simply put, Brady Skjei is one of the main reasons this team has been able to play their offensive game. He’s a solid defenseman who is reliable in all three zones and is capable of logging a good amount of minutes every night. He is another young player that Alain Vigneault has taken under his wing and allowed him to prosper into the good NHL player he has now become.
As for the veterans, players such as Rick Nash have recently been applauded for furthering the team’s success. Nash’s strong net presence has lifted the team to wins time and time again and most recently in their win against the Hurricanes on Tuesday night. Then there’s players such as Mats Zuccarello and Ryan McDonagh who carry the team on their shoulders and are able to read plays very well.
– The Great Mix: Freshman and Seniors
The Rangers’ average age of their players is 26 years old, and that is extremely important for the future. Teams are always concerned about when their roster starts to climb the age ladder. This team doesn’t have to be concerned about that for a while. Even most of their veterans aren’t close to a retirement age. The majority have a long NHL career ahead of them.
Overall, the mix is great for the team because the young players learn important lessons of the game and skills from the veterans. Likewise, the veterans are able to be re-energized but the younger players. They add much-needed life and enthusiasm to the games because it is a new level for them and a new experience.
Another great aspect of the team is their openly stated “close-knit” locker room. In an intermission report with Kevin Hayes, he stated that he and Miller are very close off the ice. This gives insight into why they have played so well with each other this season.
This concludes the series on why the Rangers are not simply on a hot streak or riding a couple of hot players. To recap, the reasons are that this team spreads the wealth, meaning that they allow many different players to have scoring opportunities. The second reason was the quiet goods such as Nick Holden and Kevin Klein, who are quietly having a great season. The third reason was puck possesion and skating hard, and of course the above is the fourth reason.
There are many impressive aspects to this team, and these are just some. Expect great things if the Rangers continue to work hard every night and keep working at improving their game.
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