After a 6-5 overtime loss to Utah Hockey Club in their home opener on Saturday night, the New York Rangers look to bounce back on Monday night against the Detroit Red Wings.
While it’s early in the season, there have been a few concerns for a Rangers team that will see a few familiar faces on the opposition – former Rangers Vladimir Tarasenko, Patrick Kane, Erik Gustaffson, Tyler Motte, Andrew Copp and Cam Talbot will all return to Madison Square Garden on Monday night.
Here’s three Rangers to watch as New York looks to bounce back.
1. Filip Chytil
Chytil has had a strong start to the season – after scoring in the opener against the Penguins, he was noticeable on Saturday night against Utah. As long as the 25-year-old is healthy, he provides offensive depth for this team, and in his last full season he tallied a career-high 22 goals.
Chytil, along with Will Cuylle and Kaapo Kakko, make up a third line that has generated multiple chances in both games. It starts with No. 72, who has shown encouraging signs so far.
2. K’Andre Miler
Miller’s start to the season has been up-and-down – he posted a +3 rating against Pittsburgh, but against Utah made a few mistakes and was on the ice for Clayton Keller’s overtime winner. Still, he is expected to takre another jump forward this season.
Until defensemen Ryan Lindgren returns, Miller will be paired with Adam Fox on New York’s top defensive partnership and needs to continue stacking up strong performances.
3. Artemi Panarin
Though he was not on this list the first two games, Panarin will always be a player to watch for the Rangers. He is New York’s best player and is coming off a 120 point season; if the Blueshirts win a game and are able to score, there’s a likelihood that Panarin was involved.
On Saturday night, the 32-year-old opened his goalscoring account for the 2024-2025 season with two goals against Utah. This comes following a two-assist performance in the opener. If Panarin is able to continue his goalscoring – he’s coming off a career-high 49 goals in the 2023-2024 season – New York should have similar success in games.
Once again, the Rangers’ offensive output centers around the Breadman
