A Bad Roster
While this likely typically works as the most logical explanation, I’m not buying it. The New York Rangers boast a bevy of talented players who can produce in the NHL. Chris Kreider and Rick Nash are lethal speedy and big-bodied forwards, while Kevin Hayes can make passes that twist even the strongest of defensemen. New York possesses a fourth line with a 27 goal scorer, and Swiss-army knife Jesper Fast contributes throughout the lineup.
That’s not to say there aren’t any weaknesses, but there should not be any glaring weaknesses. Filip Chytil could slot into the third line center slot until further notice. Neal Pionk could replace Nick Holden in the lineup, making it so the weakest link is the now-improved Marc Staal.
While the roster is not perfect, it is also not bad at all. This option does not make sense, as the Rangers have enough scoring options, defense, and goaltending to compete with the best of the NHL.