New York Rangers analysis: Power play, KZB line lead to victory over CBJ
The New York Rangers used a third-period comeback to the prevail over the Columbus Blue Jackets, 5-3.
The New York Rangers won Monday night, 5-3, over the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are tied with the Devils for first place in the Metropolitan Division. Forwards Mika Zibanejad and Pavel Buchnevich led a third-period comeback to extend the Rangers’ winning streak to four games.
The Rangers started strong, using their speed and relentless forecheck in the first period. Though they were held scoreless by Columbus goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, the Rangers controlled much of the period.
The second period was a different story, as the Jackets surged out to a 2-0 lead. Goals by Artemi Panarin and Josh Anderson had the Rangers reeling until a stellar effort by J.T. Miller set up Michael Grabner. The period ended at 2-1.
The third period saw more of the Rangers dominance at even strength. They got some help from the officials in this one, as key calls were missed. On top of that, the Rangers got generous penalties called in their favor.
The power play went to work, looking positively lethal. Mika Zibanejad had three power play assists, and Pavel Buchnevich had a goal and an assist on the man advantage. Michael Grabner added an empty net goal to seal the game.
Special teams, KZB line shine in victory
The New York Rangers are back to .500 on the season, largely due to the efforts of the top line. Mika Zibanejad, Pavel Buchnevich, and Chris Kreider have driven offense while together and form the core of the power play.
Against Columbus, their skill and speed were on full display. Execution on the power play was key, and Zibanejad’s faceoff wins in the third period highlighted that. Twice the Rangers scored early in power plays off faceoff wins.
Kreider extended his hot streak with his fifth goal of the season, while Buchnevich tallied his sixth. Zibanejad and Kevin Shattenkirk also factored into the power play’s success.
The Rangers power play went 3-for-5 on the night, with all five members of the top unit scoring at least one point.
Since coach Alain Vigneault finally moved Buchnevich back up to the first line, the trio has been dominant. Buchnevich is now only two goals back of his mark from his rookie season and has 12 points in 16 games.
Zibanejad leads all Rangers with 17 points (8 goals, 9 assists).
Notes and analysis
Artemi Panarin scored his second goal of the season; both goals came against the Rangers.
Michael Grabner scored two goals, giving him four in his last five games. He is up to seven goals on the season; his 19.4 shooting percentage would represent a career high if he keeps it through the season.
Chris Kreider’s cold start is officially over: he has five goals in his last eight games.
Kevin Shattenkirk is now tied for the league-lead in points by a defenseman. His 15 points are even with former teammate Alex Pietrangelo of St. Louis.
Three stars of the game
Mika Zibanejad
The New York Rangers top center was at it again. His three assists all came on the power play, including a gorgeous backhand pass to Pavel Buchnevich for the game-winner.
Zibanejad’s role has grown in the absence of Derek Stepan, and he continues to perform admirably. Whether it was in key defensive minutes while defending a lead or pushing for a tying goal, Zibanejad came through Monday night.
Pavel Buchnevich
The talented Russian winger is in the midst of a breakout season. His 6 goals and 12 points are two and eight back from his marks last season, respectively.
Buchnevich’s calm presence and opportunistic vision were readily apparent on the power play against the Blue Jackets. He jumped on a faceoff win by Zibanejad to set up Kreider’s game-tying goal.
Just minutes later, Buchnevich made another savvy play to open up space and get himself into scoring position. He was rewarded with a beautiful pass from Zibanejad, putting the Rangers up 4-3.
J.T. Miller
Miller’s play has steadily improved since the season began, and his performance against Columbus only reinforced that. His highlight-reel assist to Grabner was emblematic of the skilled, power-forward game Miller is best at.
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If he can continue his consistent production Miller may be on track for 60 points. That kind of effort would go a long way toward helping the Rangers get back into the postseason next spring.