Blue Line Station
Fansided

New York Rangers: Five things Alain Vingeault must change this season

By Alexandra Russo

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 29: Head coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers watches from the bench during the third period of the NHL game against the Arizona Coyotes at Gila River Arena on December 29, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rangers defeated the Coyotes 6-3. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 29: Head coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers watches from the bench during the third period of the NHL game against the Arizona Coyotes at Gila River Arena on December 29, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rangers defeated the Coyotes 6-3. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 6
Next
New York Rangers
WINNIPEG, MB – DECEMBER 18: Head Coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers looks on from the bench during second period action against the Winnipeg Jets at the MTS Centre on December 18, 2015 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. (Photo by Darcy Finley/NHLI via Getty Images) /

Focusing More on the Defense

The amount of time we spent writing about the offensive strategy of the New York Rangers last seasons was unreal, but they were written for a good purpose. It was an offense-oriented team, so it made sense to talk about the mindset they were in.

However, as mentioned in a more recent article, the Rangers have seemingly shifted more towards the defensive side of things. That decision was made by Jeff Gorton, though, not by Alain Vigneault.

It is now up to Vigneault to realize the moves that Gorton made and work with them. They were drastic and bold moves, too. By trading away core center Derek Stepan, they freed up cap space. In doing so, they were able to acquire defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk.

They also signed Brendan Smith to a longer contract. The focus has definitely moved from offense to defense. Hopefully, Vigneault can manage with all the changes, but it starts with him realizing that he needs to put the defense first.

With Henrik Lundqvist in net and the newly improved defense, the overall defense of the team could be excellent. The fate of Gorton’s decision now rests in Vigneault’s hands.

Home/Editorials