Rangers Cullye' deserves consistent ice time, even with changes to bottom-six
The New York Rangers had reliable play from Will Cullye on the 3rd line, with Filip Chytil and Kaapo Kakko missing significant time in 2023-2024.
Cullye would step in and provide meaningful production, and muscle in a time when the Rangers needed it most.
With new additions to the team, the bottom-six is going to be reshaped of course. In 2024-2025, the Rangers should once again count on Cullye, despite the fact.
Cullye was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2020 NHL Draft and would post 45 points( 25 G, 20 A) in 2022-2023 with the Hartford Wolfpack.
He'd get a shot at NHL ice playing four games that season, before making the club full-time in 2023-2024. He knew how to use his speed and body on the forecheck, throwing hits and using his 6'3", 211-pound frame to knock opponents off the possession of the puck.
Cullye played it smart, laid out clean hits, didn't take unnecessary penalties, and led the team with 249 hits. He would also not be afraid to drop the gloves. He was an all-around player, playing responsibly defensively, backchecking, blocking shots, and making smart moves with the puck.
Cullye isn't afraid to get in front of the net and score goals on deflections and would score goals on some deflections last season too. He wouldn't try to force passes and make smart decisions like getting the puck to the point, and getting shots on the net when possible.
He'd also show off his nice wrist shot and contribute offensively, scoring 21 points( 13 G, 8 A) in 81 games on the Rangers 3rd and 4th lines.
Cullye would end up playing with trade acquisitions Alex Wennberg, and Jack Roslovic on the 3rd line and play all 16 playoff games, with 2 points( 1 G, 1 A) and 46 hits.
Cullye will likely compete with prospects such as Brennan Othmann, Brett Berard, Sam Carrick, and Jimmy Vesey for a 3rd or 4th line spot. In addition to Matt Rempe, and Jonny Brodzinski, the bottom six options are crowded at the moment.
Regardless, the 22-year-old winger has proven himself to be NHL-ready and deserves more ice time. He has a combination of offensive upside, and grit which the Rangers need when it counts.
Cuylle should remain a key winger for the team, despite the latest additions as he is an effective forechecker and will continue to improve offensively.
Source: The Hockey Writers
Rangers' Cuylle Deserves Consistent Role Despite Changes to Bottom-6
| POLL | ||
Should Will Cuylle be on the 3rd or 4th line? | ||
| 3rd | 40 | 75.5 % |
| 4th | 13 | 24.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
