The New York Rangers returned from the bye week with two subpar performances with not many highlights, would there be enough to generate any stars of the week?
The two games after the bye week were not productive for the New York Rangers who continue to be on a downhill trend.
After two subpar performances against the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins, the highlight reel for the Blueshirts is close to nonexistent. With that being said the question really becomes was there enough out there to find any stars in the teams two games?
Let’s try it anyway as here are the New York Rangers three stars of the week.
3. Kevin Hayes
Kevin Hayes was questionable to play in the Rangers return from their bye. He did and put up a quality performance.
Hayes ties it on the power play, assisted by Nash pic.twitter.com/GuQ7iOH3WJ
— Shayna (@hayyyshayyy) January 13, 2018
Despite only playing in one game this week Kevin Hayes was one of the only bright spots in an ugly loss to the Islanders Saturday afternoon at the Garden. He scored one of the two Ranger goals and had several chances throughout the game.
Hayes returning to the lineup was big, but ultimately it was the wrong decision as he missed the teams next game Sunday against Pittsburgh. They most definitely could have used Hayes as they were dominated all over the ice without the defensive-minded center.
2. Michael Grabner
Michael Grabner has become such an important part of this Rangers team.
Grabner ties it 1-1 for the NYR pic.twitter.com/Von8brUaaT
— Shayna (@hayyyshayyy) January 15, 2018
Grabner continues to make the most of his opportunity in a system that benefits his game. Every night you realize how great of a player that Grabner is. He has one of the best stick checks in the entire league and no-one can keep up with him.
His play has continued to be on the positive side this week with a goal against the Penguins and a solid effort against the Islanders. Should the Rangers play continue to dip, Grabner might be a piece the Rangers could sell at the trade deadline.
1. Henrik Lundqvist
Henrik Lundqvist gets this not for his play, but for his leadership.
The Rangers have been playing poorly in their end all year long. After the team surrendered five goals to the Islanders Saturday, head coach Alain Vigneault decided it was time to go to Lundqvist. Upon entering the game Lundqvist decided to try and light a fire under his teammates.
It was a tough week for the Rangers but seeing this just shows reminds that you the players do care. This is the definition of leadership and if the coach isn’t going to call a timeout to calm his team down this is the next best thing.
Honorable Mentions
- Comment if you have any because I can’t think of anybody else. In fact, there should be a dishonorable mention section.
