The Rangers are experiencing some early-season challenges due to defensive lapses. Regardless of whether they’re adapting to a new system or not, their inconsistent efforts are hindering their ability to play the tight defensive game they aim for.
This was evident in their recent 4-1 loss to the Predators at the Garden, where the visitors found it relatively easy to control the puck and access dangerous areas on the ice.
The Rangers gave up numerous odd-man rushes, saw excessive activity around their net throughout the game, and committed an abundance of penalties for the second consecutive match.
Head coach Peter Laviolette expressed his concern about these issues, emphasizing the need to eliminate high-risk situations and avoid standing at the offensive blue line.
He compared the performance to their previous game in Columbus, where they had similar problems but displayed greater effort and aggression.
The Rangers have adopted a 1-3-1 neutral zone trap system from Laviolette, which hasn’t been as effective as it was against Buffalo. Opposing teams have been able to navigate the neutral zone, exploit backdoor opportunities, and gain relatively easy entry into the Rangers’ zone.
Vincent Trocheck mentioned earlier in the season that the system can work for any team that fully embraces it, but there seemed to be a lack of commitment to the structure and winning puck battles in their recent game.
Despite having a strong penalty-killing unit, the Rangers have conceded three power-play goals in their last two games. Adam Fox pointed out that their penalties were avoidable and sloppy, making it challenging to win when they grant opposing teams numerous power-play opportunities.
The Rangers had a day off as they traveled to Seattle to face the Kraken on Saturday night at Climate Pledge Arena.
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