New York Rangers: Top five players that could be 2018 All-Stars

5. Mika Zibanejad

Mika Zibanejad has the potential to be an All-Star selection this season because of his expanded role on the roster. With the trade of Derek Stepan to the Arizona Coyotes it is looking like Zibanejad will be his replacement.

Zibanejad had 14 points and 23 assists for 37 points in the 56 games he played in 2016-17. Last season, he proved that he fits the New York Rangers and that he is a more-than-suitable replacement for Derick Brassard.

This is new role a great opportunity for the 24-year-old to step up. Zibanejad had a solid first season with the Rangers, but a broken fibula knocked him out of the lineup for 25 games. This season, Zibanejad will be in a role where he can get comfortable and find consistency with whomever he plays with on the Rangers top line.

Stepping up to be the number one center is a challenge that will boost his production and will give him a shot at a trip to the All-Star game.