New York Rangers midseason report cards: Bottom six forwards

Jesper Fast

Every season, Jesper Fast surprises in his effectiveness. He is a workhorse on the fourth line; he scores, he’s an adept defender, and he grinds away against some difficult competition every night. He is a solid member of the penalty kill and goes about his business quietly yet effectively.

This year, Fast’s offense has come to the forefront a little more so than usual. He currently has seven goals and ten assists for 17 points in just 34 games. In comparison, Fast recorded 21 points in 68 games all of last season. He will surely surpass that this year and has a chance to top his career high of 30.

There isn’t much that Fast doesn’t do well. His offensive impact may have been somewhat of a question last year, but that has been answered this season. If ever there were a criticism regarding him, it has more to do with the coach playing him in situations that are not meant for him. There is little to criticize when regarding his actual role.

All in all, Fast is quite possibly the Rangers best bottom six forward. Of all of them, it always seems that he is the one they can count on consistently. While it is important not to expend too much cap into the bottom six, the Rangers should have Fast down there for the foreseeable future.

Grade: A