Rangers Show Flashes, But Underlying Issues Still Loom
The Rangers came out swinging in the first period, offering fans a glimpse of the offensive firepower that’s been missing far too often this season. J.T.
Miller and Mika Zibanejad each lit the lamp early, giving the Blueshirts a much-needed jolt and reminding us that when this team finds its rhythm, they can still play with pace and purpose. That kind of start is exactly what head coach Mike Sullivan has been preaching about - creating momentum early and dictating the tempo.
But as every hockey fan knows, it’s a three-period game. And while the opening frame offered promise, the rest of the night underscored the deeper issues that have plagued this team all season.
There's Still Time - Technically
With 36 games left on the schedule, the Rangers aren't out of the playoff picture just yet. If the bar for a Wild Card spot is around 95 points, they’re still mathematically in the hunt.
But the margin for error is razor thin. At 20-20-6, they’re hovering at the break-even point - not below .500, but not exactly inspiring confidence either.
For optimistic fans, that’s a silver lining. For the rest, it’s a reminder of how inconsistent this group has been.
Coaching Questions Mount
Mike Sullivan came in with a reputation for structure, accountability, and postseason pedigree. But right now, the results just aren’t matching the résumé.
Two days ago, he talked about a “process” taking shape. Last night, that process looked anything but promising.
The team’s defensive structure broke down far too easily, and the compete level waned as the game wore on - not what you want to see from a squad still fighting to stay relevant in the standings.
AHL-Level Effort?
It’s harsh, but the eye test didn’t lie: for stretches of the game, the Rangers looked like a team that wouldn’t be a lock in the AHL playoffs, let alone the NHL’s. The puck management was sloppy, the forecheck was inconsistent, and the defensive zone coverage left goaltenders out to dry. Energy and effort are non-negotiables at this point in the season, and they just weren’t there across the board.
Goaltending Decisions Raise Eyebrows
One of the more puzzling developments came in net. Dylan Garand, long touted as the goalie-in-waiting, was passed over in favor of veteran Spencer Martin - a journeyman netminder whose best days may be behind him.
It’s a head-scratching move, especially considering the organization’s investment in Garand’s development. Martin struggled, as expected, and it begs the question: what’s the long-term plan between the pipes?
Final Thoughts
There are moments - like that first period - when this Rangers team looks like it has the pieces to make a late push. But those moments have been fleeting.
The rest of the game served as a stark reminder of how much work remains. If the Rangers are going to claw their way back into the playoff race, they’ll need more than flashes.
They’ll need consistency, urgency, and a clear identity - and they’ll need it fast.