New York Rangers: Five players impressing through two games

Neal Pionk had a very, very good game against the Islanders. He spent the game paired with Rangers captain Ryan McDonagh, Pionk played over 22 minutes. He showed off his defensive prowess in the Rangers end multiple times, making solid reads and strong passes.

Pionk’s time on the ice also included almost six minutes of power play time and five minutes of penalty kill time. He showed versatility in being able to handle multiple special teams situations, which raises comparison to McDonagh.

Pionk dazzled late in the game, scoring a beautiful overtime winning. Pionk used a spin move on Islanders veteran Brock Nelson. After clearing Nelson, Pionk drove to the net, deked, and scored. Pionk’s offensive mind was on display all night in his Rangers preseason debut.

Based on his performance, Pionk is a player to keep your eye on for the upcoming season. He will likely start the year with the Hartford Wolfpack, but Pionk’s offensive and defensive abilities were both on full display against the Islanders. He played a complete game with a style much like that of McDonagh’s, and the sky is the limit for Pionk.