After weeks of frustration with the New York Rangers’ lackluster power play, head coach Peter Laviolette is shaking things up. Facing a prolonged dry spell with the man advantage, the Rangers unveiled two newly configured power-play units during practice on Friday, aiming to inject some much-needed energy ahead of their Saturday matchup against the Vancouver Canucks at Madison Square Garden.
Fresh Combinations, Renewed Hope
In an effort to break free from their power-play slump, Laviolette has restructured both units. Defenseman Adam Fox now anchors the top unit, joined by Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, Alexis Lafreniere, and Chris Kreider. The second unit features defenseman Zac Jones, with forwards J.T. Miller, Mika Zibanejad, Will Cuylle, and Jonny Brodzinski.
J.T. Miller, who has been a fixture on the top unit since his arrival from Vancouver on Jan. 31, is optimistic about the changes. “A little life in the group. Everyone’s excited to see some new faces, and sometimes that works. So, we’ll see,” Miller said after practice.
Struggles of Key Contributors
Mika Zibanejad, a longtime staple of the Rangers’ power play, has struggled to replicate his previous success. Despite scoring 20 power-play goals two seasons ago, Zibanejad has managed just five this season, although his 17 power-play points rank second on the team behind Panarin’s 22. Meanwhile, Miller has contributed two goals and six points on the power play in 20 games since joining the Rangers.
Searching for a Spark
The Rangers’ power play has been a source of frustration, failing to capitalize on opportunities and leaving valuable points on the table. Laviolette hopes these adjustments will reinvigorate a unit that has been a shadow of its former self. The new combinations are designed to create more movement, open passing lanes, and ultimately lead to better scoring chances.
With the Canucks coming to town, the Rangers are eager to see if these changes can translate to success on the ice. A revitalized power play could be the key to turning their recent struggles into momentum as they push toward the playoffs.
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