New York Rangers: A list of Alain Vigneault’s lineup debacles

Chytilmania

The New York Rangers massively mishandled one of their top prospects, and it’s only a few games into the season. Filip Chytil made the opening night roster as the third line center, a fine decision based on his terrific play in the preseason. However, once the season started, Alain Vigneault turned heel.

Rather than placing any trust in his young centerman, he immediately began benching him for any mistakes. He also began benching him for mistakes by other players, mistakes by players from the other team, or anyone within the general vicinity of the ice breathing.

Joking aside, Vigneault stopped trusting Chytil the moment the season started, stunting the youngster’s development. Now Chytil will play for the Hartford Wolfpack, and the Rangers are essentially playing with three centers. There’s no way Vigneault could have properly evaluated Chytil in the 10 minutes of ice time he received in two games with the big club, so this only furthers the notion that Vigneault will not trust young players.