New York Rangers: Five players who could benefit from a coaching change

Marc Staal

The decision to put Marc Staal on this list seems counterintuitive. However, at this point in his career, there are several ways that a coaching change could benefit the aging defenseman. 

Alain Vigneault’s blind trust in the Rangers defensive alternate captain has gotten out of hand. Despite a roster that boasts an upper echelon top-four, Marc Staal finds himself playing crucial minutes. 

After starting the season on the final defense pairing, Marc Staal has graduated to seeing first and second pairing assignments. In fact, his time on the first-pairing displaced newcomer Kevin Shattenkirk and put captain Ryan McDonagh on his off-side. 

In order for Staal to experience any success moving forward, his minutes must be sheltered. Any reasonable head coach would be able to diagnose the root of Staal’s issues. 

As a veteran with ample experience against the other team’s top competition and in the playoffs, he remains valuable. A coaching change may give the Marc Staal and the Rangers a hidden weapon down the stretch.