New York Rangers: 5 ways to have successful season without a Cup title

Figure out center depth

So far in the 2017-18 season, Mika Zibanejad has been one of the Rangers most dangerous players.

With a goal in each of the team’s first four games, he currently has five points (all goals) so far this season.

One of the biggest areas of concern for Zibanejad in taking over the top line center responsibilities was that he was regarded as a pass-first player. Zibanejad has figured out a balance for himself, and his choice to take chances on net have benefitted him.

In addition to his offensive production, he has posted a solid faceoff win percentage (just over 50 percent), a high Corsi For (54.8) and, as always, is playing a solid two-way game.

There are questions about whether he can continue to live up to the responsibilities. If Zibanejad can keep up the level of play he has put on the ice so far and if the Rangers continue to surround him with players that encourage this type of play from him, Zibanejad can handle the role.

The other option would be for the Rangers to consider trading for a big-name top line center (there have been rumors that Rangers scouts have been out in Colorado — potentially looking at Matt Duchene).

A move like this would take some of the pressure off Zibanejad and would allow the Rangers to add a depth to the roster that is missing in the departure of Derek Stepan. But how much would they need to give to make it happen?