But during the offseason, GM Chris Drury saw fit to add to the depth of the team and this could change the line combinations for the better this year.
Both Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad have chemistry from being paired together during their time in New York together. But they're in desperate need of a winger who could complement them.
While both Kreider and Zibanejad have just come off a 70-point season, they need a reliable top-six forward to the mix. Which led to Chris Drury signing Reilly Smith.
Smith will provide winning culture, that hasn't been found in New York lately, as Smith won a cup in 2023, with Vegas.
It wouldn't be ridiculous to say that Artemi Panarin, Vinnie Troecheck, and Alexis Lafreniere are the Rangers' most reliable trio.
Panarin had a spectacular 120-point season, along with Troecheck and Lafreniere who also had career years in New York last season. Panarin and Lafreniere have proven chemistry and know how to connect on ice.
While they have Troecheck down the middle, who is a responsible two-way center, an all-around complete forward for the Rangers.
They put up astounding numbers last year and could do it over again this season.
The 3rd line is a line of forwards who are still trying to find their game in the NHL.
Cuylle has shown flashes of what he's capable of last season and has a lot of potential to build upon.
When Chytil is healthy, he's a great two-way forward and has been a big contributor to the Rangers' success. But unfortunately, concussions have stunted his career in the NHL.
This could also be Kakko's last chance in New York, as the 2019 2nd Overall pick signed on for another year in New York.
Will these players move beyond raw potential into a finished product? It'll be exciting to see if so.
Matt Rempe will obviously be who to lookout for on the 4th line for the Rangers in 2024.
While Rempe doesn't provide a lot of offense, his physical play and willingness to drop the gloves have made him a fan favorite.
The Rangers also brought in Sam Carrick during free agency, and is a two-way forward, with a hard-nosed playing style. He served up 167 hits in 2023-2024 and is unselfish with the puck.
And to top it off, Jimmy Vesey loves to hustle on ice, and the former Hobey Baker Award winner is eager to contribute to another successful Rangers season.
Source: The Hockey News
Rangers Potential Offensive Line Combinations
POLL | ||
Do you think these projected Rangers lines are good? | ||
Yes | 38 | 79.2 % |
No | 10 | 20.8 % |
List of polls |