The New York Rangers are faced with multiple tough questions amidst a five-game losing streak
The New York Rangers slump continues as they recently lost their fifth game, to the rebuilding Philadelphia Flyers. A team that the Rangers shouldn't struggle against, in their current form.
However, after recent losses to the St. Louis Blues, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames, Carolina Hurricanes and now the Philadelphia Flyers what is next in store for the Blueshirts?
There have been trade talks after GM Chris Drury went public that the team is open for business.
The Rangers have had trouble getting offense out of more than just their top-six forwards, and have failed to perform the kind of defense necessary to keep the goal out of the net.
They've failed to protect Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick, and the once contenders are looking like pretenders.
How can they improve?
Are Veterans the Problem?
The New York Rangers feature veterans heavily in the lineup and have failed to perform up to expectations. Mika Zibanejad, Ryan Lindgren, Jacob Trouba, and Chris Kreider are some players who fail to deliver on their responsibilities.
Kreider's failed to secure more than 9 points this season, and Zibanejad has failed to convert scoring chances given to him by Kreider. Kreider has a tough time creating opportunities for his teammates in multiple scenarios this season.
While Mika Zibanejad has a -7 in the last four, and Trouba with a dismal -3 as both have been on the ice for more goals against than goals for. A troubling statistic, as they have failed to play a 200-foot game.
While they did play with purpose against the Carolina Hurricanes, these veterans need to step up their game significantly.
Rangers Rising Stars
Whilst the veteran core struggles, the bright spot has been found in the depth charts and the younger core. In light of Filip Chytil's injury, Kaapo Kakko has found a new home as the 3rd line center.
At the same time, Will Cuylle has contributed a point in the last four games for the Rangers, while Brett Berard is finding his way in the NHL as he's scored two points in the last two games. An easy adjustment for the former fifth-rounder.
These players have been significant contributors to the Rangers' success and have been victims of Laviolette's veteran bias. As he fails to give them more time on the ice.
Zibanejad and Trouba
Trouba could be difficult to move during the month of November, but if GM Chris Drury could find a reasonable move out of the Rangers organization it'd be beneficial no matter the return.
While Mika Zibanejad's contract offers a significant challenge with an NMC that lasts until his last season (last trade deadline) with the team.
The Rangers have an issue with him as he fails to contribute at both ends of the ice. Zibanejad was easily one of the Rangers' best forwards the last three seasons but could end up a healthy scratch the way things are going right now.
The Rangers and Laviolette need to re-evaluate the roster, and their own situation to see where the weaknesses lie, and find a fix before trades become a necessity. But it seems as if, it could already be too late.
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