Two surprising New York Rangers to move up in ranks after exceeded high expectations
The New York Rangers have had a dynamic shift in production, like a few other clubs this season.
The inverse of what you expect to happen, happened as the third-line for the team has been one of the most productive lines this season.
The Filip Chytil(now injured)-Kaapo Kakko-Will Cuylle line has been driving offense for the team all season. With Cuylle set to produce at a record clip this season, we should take a look at other depth forwards who are giving it their all this year.
Kaapo Kakko in 2022-2023 scored 40 points( 18 G, 22 A) and last season failed to produce up to expectations. There were thoughts that GM Chris Drury and the Rangers were going to try and trade him but instead extended him for another year, with a "prove-it" deal at $2.4 Million AAV.
Since then, he's proven himself to be a capable defensive forward, making up for his lack of offensive output. He's found his home on the third line.
While he's not an active scoring threat, like Cuylle, he manages to still generate offense last scoring against the fierce Winnipeg Jets during the Rangers' 6-3 loss. He posted a goal that night, after crashing the net. He currently has 8 points( 2 G, 6 A) and a -9 in 15 games.
This will be Vesey's third season during his second stint with the Blueshirts. Last season he provided a two-way playing style that kept him relevant in New York, scoring 26 points( 13 G, 13 A), and has only recently come off of injured reserve.
The former Hobey Baker Award Winner is now a two-way threat, playing with bruiser Adam Edstrom, and depth center Sam Carrick.
They were part of the reason the Rangers defeated the San Jose Sharks 3-2 on November 14th.
On November 9th, Vesey scored on the Detroit Red Wings to solidify the Rangers' dominance over the winged wheel, giving the team a 2-0 lead that night.
He's found ways to make plays and take advantage of opportunities in challenging moments too.
Vesey is an underrated depth forward who has taken advantage of the opportunities GM Chris Drury has given him and hasn't missed a step since his return from IR.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 16 | 822 ANSWERS Two surprising New York Rangers to move up in ranks after exceeded high expectations Who is a better forward, Kaapo Kakko or Jimmy Vesey? | ||
| Jimmy Vesey | 451 | 54.9 % |
| Kaapo Kakko | 371 | 45.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
