New York Rangers midseason report cards: Defense

Ryan McDonagh

Out of the starting six defensemen, captain Ryan McDonagh has been one of the better players this season. However, he has not been playing up to expectations.

McDonagh missed a few games due to injury. Since then, he has not played at the same level as he did at the beginning of the season. His 18 points in 38 games played can be deceiving. In other categories, McDonagh is nearing career-lows.

He is on pace to have the same amount of hits and more blocked shots than last season but his Corsi is at the second lowest of his career at 47.2. His plus/minus is also at a career low at plus-10. Also, he has been on the ice for 41 goals against this season, which is already more than half of last season’s total.

While McDonagh hasn’t had a particularly horrible season so far, he hasn’t been playing particularly well. Remaining effects from injury may be factors in his play and being paired with Nick Holden certainly doesn’t help. Either way, if the Rangers want to succeed, McDonagh must play better.

GRADE: B