New York Rangers: Michael Grabner is turning it around

Last season, Michael Grabner was one of the top goal scorers for the New York Rangers. This season, he started off with just one goal in ten games. With the Rangers struggling, the pressure was mounting for the speedy left winger. However, he responded with four goals in his last four.

In the summer of 2016, the Rangers signed Grabner to a two year, $3.3 million dollar contract. Grabner was expected to bring speed to a team that relies on playing fast, and be a solid replacement for Carl Hagelin.

Exceeding expectations

Grabner has been known as an inconsistent player who scores in spurts. In the 2015-2016 season, he scored just nine goals with the Toronto Maple Leafs following an injury shortened season with the New York Islanders a year prior. Coming into his first season with the Rangers, Grabner had played over 70 games just three times in his career.

However, he seemed like a natural fit on Broadway. In the 2016-2017 season, Grabner exceeded all expectations. In 76 games, he scored 27 goals and 13 assists for for 40 points. Not only was he productive, but he remained healthy for most of the season.

Starting slow

This season, Grabner started where he left off, playing on a line with J.T. Miller and Kevin Hayes. That line helped Grabner break through last season, and Alain Vigneault was looking for another quick start from the 30 year-old. However, that idea never really materialized. Like the rest of the team, Grabner struggled out of the gate, and that line was quickly broken up.

The slow start worried many, and begged the question; was last season a fluke? Perhaps Grabner exceeded expectations, and would not be able to play up to that standard again. Yet, this could be looked at as a team-wide issue. It’s no surprise that the Rangers are winners of their last two with Grabner playing much better. The team looks more engaged, is skating hard, and so is Grabner.

It’s unlikely Grabner will repeat what he did last season, and total more than 40 points. But, he is still a vital part of this team that struggles on the penalty kill, and lacks depth in their bottom six.

New line, new hope

Grabner’s turnaround can be attributed to a new line that was put together a few games ago by coach Alain Vigneault. Newly called up forward Cristoval Nieves centers a line with Grabner and Jesper Fast on the wings. The speed of Nieves and Grabner together is proving to be a headcase for opposing teams, with the reliable Fast chipping in as well.

Last season, the line of J.T. Miller, Kevin Hayes, and Grabner relied on the transition game to generate most of their chances. This was reflected in puck possession numbers, because Grabner finished with a corsi for of 45%, well below his career average. So far this season, Grabner has a corsi for of 49%, meaning he is spending more time in the offensive zone while still remaining dangerous in transition. The goals are starting to come, and if this trend continues, who’s to say it will stop?

Looking ahead

Grabner is at his best when he is decisive in his execution, skating hard, and crashing the net. When he’s at his best, he’s converting on his breakaways, and flying all over the ice.

Next: November Matters for the Rangers

With a deadly wrist shot, it’s a wonder why Grabner can’t be an offensive weapon every season like he was last season. If he isn’t, expect the Rangers to shop him at the trade deadline considering his value on a contending team, and the fact that his contract expires at seasons end.

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