Current New York Rangers and former Ottawa Senators center Mika Zibanejad came alive in game three in New York. He has outplayed the man who currently filled his shoes, ex-Rangers playoff catalyst Derick Brassard. Zibanejad will have to continue outperforming his counterpart for the Rangers to even the series.
When New York Rangers’ GM Jeff Gorton acquired Mika Zibanejad in exchange for postseason standout Derick Brassard this past offseason he knew much more about what he was losing than what he was gaining. Fast forward to the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The two centermen are battling each other and the Rangers’ young star looks to be getting the best of the two.
The Trade
Before being sent to Ottawa in a stunning offseason trade, Derick Brassard was among the Rangers’ veteran corps that had appeared in four straight postseasons together. His playing style was perfect for the team’s north-south style offense and his tenacity and energy made him a crowd favorite. However, the team was looking to get younger and cheaper, something that Mika Zibanejad offered.
The 24-year old Swede had an up-and-down first season with the Rangers. That was mostly due in part to a major leg injury that cost him a large portion of the year. However, it has been clear the spark the Zibanejad can provide this lineup given proper health and linemates.
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The Series
Zibanejad had played side saddle to the tiny Norwegian Mats Zuccarello for the early stages of the playoffs. Those two, alongside Chris Kreider who is having an enigmatic postseason thus far, have been offensive catalysts for the team since the final game of the Canadiens series. The true turning point for Zibanejad came in game three, where he dominated from start to finish.
The true turning point for Zibanejad came in game three, where he dominated from start to finish. In 17:14 minutes of ice-time, Zibanejad collected an assist, three hits, and a game-high six shots on goal.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the ice, Derick Brassard’s line is comprised of shooter Bobby Ryan and another former New York Ranger Viktor Stalberg. Their line struggled Tuesday night against the Rangers’ thriving offense, posting a collect -4 plus/minus rating for the game.
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Through the first three games of the series, Zibanejad has three points, all assists, compared to Brassard’s zero. Heading into the series Brassard had a team and NHL-leading eight points in the first round. The Rangers’ second-line center also has the advantage in plus/minus in the series, +3 to Brassard’s -3.
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The New York Rangers took one step in the right direction following game three at Madison Square Garden. For the Rangers to find a way to even the series, Zibanejad must continue to compete and energize the lineup on a nightly basis much the way Derick Brassard did during his tenure on Broadway.