New York Rangers: Examining the Greatest Stanley Cup Playoff Threats

Brandon Cohen-

The New York Rangers themselves are the biggest threat to stopping New York from making it all the way. While the rest of the league provides plenty of challenges, New York cannot avoid stepping on their own toes.

The forward group this season is outstanding. There is not a concern in my mind about their ability to compete with the best of the best in the NHL.

Henrik Lundqvist is a terrific goaltender, and while he has struggled this season, he reaches a higher level in the post-season. Last year was concerning, but the history points to his being part of the solution, not the problem.

Then there is the defense. General Manager Jeff Gorton has shown zero ability to fix the defense, and zero urgency to do so either. New York’s greatest obstacle in advancing in the playoffs will be their own roster, as the defense simply is not good enough to compete at that level.

Perhaps the Rangers can sneak their way into the Conference Finals in a weak Atlantic Division bracket, but Dan Girardi on the top pairing will eventually end their run. It’s just not good enough.