New York Rangers: Five changes necessary to fend off elimination

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May 6, 2017; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers left wing Jimmy Vesey (26) and Ottawa Senators left wing Viktor Stalberg (24) battle for the puck in the third period of game five in the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Let the kids lead the way

The New York Rangers roster is a beautiful mix of veteran leadership mixed with the presence of youth. In the series against Ottawa, the young players have thrived while the veterans have seemed a step behind. If they are to continue their journeys in this year’s playoff the team will have a good problem on their hands.

While Alain Vigneault has a tendency to play his guys, it would be in his best interest to give his young players a chance to spread their wings. Rookie Jimmy Vesey led the charge in Game Five. He played some of the most aggressive, straight-forward hockey this team has seen in the playoffs. Other notable young forwards include Oscar Lindberg and Jesper Fast.

Perhaps the most impressive youngster of the group has been Brady Skjei. Skjei continues to impress in his first full year at the NHL level. He has served as the Rangers’ second best defenseman for much of the season, a trend that has carried into the playoffs. It would be wise to give Skjei even more responsibility, particularly late in the game and on the power play.

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