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New York Rangers: Five players who’ve succeeded under Alain Vigneault

By Nicholas Zararis

SUNRISE, FL - NOVEMBER 4: Head coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers looks on during second period action against the Florida Panthers at the BB
SUNRISE, FL - NOVEMBER 4: Head coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers looks on during second period action against the Florida Panthers at the BB /
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WINNIPEG, MB – DECEMBER 8: Head Coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers signals from the bench during second period action against the Winnipeg Jets at the MTS Centre on December 8, 2016 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. (Photo by Darcy Finley/NHLI via Getty Images)
WINNIPEG, MB – DECEMBER 8: Head Coach Alain Vigneault of the New York Rangers signals from the bench during second period action against the Winnipeg Jets at the MTS Centre on December 8, 2016 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. (Photo by Darcy Finley/NHLI via Getty Images) /

While Alain Vigneault has been receiving a lot of criticism lately, let’s stop and take a second to appreciate the good he’s done over the years for the New York Rangers in terms of player development.

The core of the New York Rangers has developed during Alain Vigneault’s tenure. Several players have made the jump to consistent performers in his system.

For all of his warts with lineup decisions, it often goes unnoticed how far along some players have come under Vigneault’s tenure. The system and style of play have really allowed the core of the team to excel to a level that wasn’t always clear.

The foundation for a strong team is in place because of the growth of players from prospect or starter into bonafide stars. Most of these players pre-date Vigneault’s arrival in New York, and it was under his coaching that they found levels to their game they hadn’t before.

Whether a player makes the leap to consistent NHL player isn’t just a matter of talent, some players need that extra push to get there. Although It is ultimately up to the player to perform on the ice it can often be coaching or a coach’s philosophy that gets them to that next level.

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