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New York Rangers – Six Questions Going Into Round Two

By Ben Whitney

Dec 15, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) in action during the game against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. The Rangers shut out the Stars 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 15, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) in action during the game against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. The Rangers shut out the Stars 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 15, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) in action during the game against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. The Rangers shut out the Stars 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 15, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) in action during the game against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. The Rangers shut out the Stars 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

There was a lot to like in the New York Rangers’ first round victory over Montreal. The used their speed and depth to wear down the Canadiens in a thrilling six game series. The Rangers flipped the switch into playoff mode and ignited hope that this group can make a run. But let’s not plan the parade just yet, troubling questions remain. We’ve identified 6 key questions.

The Rangers found a physicality we weren’t sure they had. Henrik Lundqvist turned back the clock and outplayed Carey Price. Dan Girardi found his game and looked like the warrior of old. Rick Nash was a force and Ryan McDonagh lead the way with his usual gutty defense.

There were some red flags. Some of problems were caused by the defensive-minded game of the Canadiens. But the Rangers got away with others because they were playing a team without much firepower. This will not be the case against the more skilled teams.

They’ll need answers to some of these questions in the affirmative if they want to advance deep into the playoffs.

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