Are the New York Rangers one of the most underrated teams in the NHL? Despite having a rich history and a loyal fanbase, the Rangers are often overlooked when it comes to discussions about the league’s top teams. In this article, we’ll explore ten reasons why the Rangers are the most underrated team in the NHL.
Underrated but Unstoppable
The Rangers have been a fixture in the NHL since 1926 and have had some of the most legendary players in the league on their roster. Despite this, they are often left out of the conversation when it comes to the league’s top teams. However, with a young and talented core, the Rangers are poised to make a statement in the coming years.
1. A Young and Talented Core
The Rangers have one of the most talented young cores in the league. With players like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Alexis Lafreniere, the Rangers have a strong foundation for years to come. These players have the potential to be elite for years to come and are already making an impact in the league.
2. A Strong Goaltending Duo
The Rangers have a strong goaltending duo in Igor Shesterkin and Alexandar Georgiev. Shesterkin has been impressive since joining the Rangers and has quickly established himself as one of the top young goalies in the league. Georgiev has also shown that he can be a reliable backup and has the potential to be a starter in the future.
3. Defensive Depth
The Rangers have a strong defensive core that is often overlooked. Players like Adam Fox, Jacob Trouba, and Ryan Lindgren are all solid defensemen that can play big minutes. The Rangers also have depth on defense with players like Libor Hajek and K’Andre Miller.
4. Offensive Depth
In addition to their strong young core, the Rangers also have depth throughout their lineup. Players like Ryan Strome, Chris Kreider, and Pavel Buchnevich are all capable of producing offensively and can be relied on to play big minutes.
5. A Winning Tradition
The Rangers have a rich history of winning, with four Stanley Cup championships to their name. Despite this, they are often overlooked in discussions about the league’s top teams. However, with a talented young core and a winning tradition, the Rangers are poised to be a force in the NHL for years to come.
6. Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is one of the most iconic arenas in sports and is home to the Rangers. The atmosphere at the Garden is electric, and the Rangers have one of the most passionate fanbases in the NHL. Playing in such a historic arena gives the Rangers an edge and makes them a team to be reckoned with.
7. A Resilient Team
The Rangers have shown that they are a resilient team that can bounce back from adversity. They have faced their fair share of challenges over the years, but they always seem to find a way to come out on top. This resilience is a key part of what makes the Rangers one of the most underrated teams in the NHL.
8. Strong Coaching
The Rangers have a strong coaching staff led by David Quinn. Quinn has done an excellent job of developing the Rangers’ young talent and has shown that he can make tough decisions when needed.
9. Improved Special Teams
The Rangers have shown significant improvement on special teams this season. Their power play has been one of the best in the league, converting at a rate of 23.8%, while their penalty kill has also improved, currently sitting at 82.1%. Strong special teams play is crucial in the NHL, and the Rangers have shown that they can excel in this area.
10. Underdog Mentality
Despite all of their talent and success, the Rangers still have an underdog mentality. They are often overlooked and underestimated, but they use this as motivation to prove the naysayers wrong. This mentality has helped them to overcome adversity and achieve success, and it makes them a dangerous team to face.
FAQs: Answering Some Questions About the Rangers
- Why are the Rangers underrated?
The Rangers are often overlooked in discussions about the league’s top teams despite their talented young core, winning tradition, and strong coaching staff.
- Who are some of the Rangers’ top players?
The Rangers have a talented young core that includes players like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Alexis Lafreniere.
- Who is the Rangers’ head coach?
David Quinn is the head coach of the New York Rangers.
- What is the Rangers’ home arena?
The Rangers play at Madison Square Garden, one of the most iconic arenas in sports.
- How have the Rangers performed on special teams this season?
The Rangers have shown significant improvement on special teams this season, with a strong power play and penalty kill.
- Do the Rangers have a winning tradition?
Yes, the Rangers have a rich history of winning, with four Stanley Cup championships to their name.
Underrated But Unstoppable
The New York Rangers may be one of the most underrated teams in the NHL, but they have all of the pieces in place to be a force in the league for years to come. With a talented young core, strong coaching staff, and winning tradition, the Rangers are a team that should not be underestimated. It’s time to give the Rangers the recognition they deserve as one of the top teams in the NHL.
