New York Rangers: Why Spooner produced more in New York
Ryan Spooner had career highs offensively last season and was particularly good in his 20 games in New York. What made Spooner so much more productive in New York than Boston?
Ryan Spooner came to the New York Rangers in February as part of the trade for Rick Nash. I, like many others I’m sure, did not know what to expect from the 26-year-old forward.
Spooner silenced skeptics by recording 16 points in just 20 games with the Rangers. He had career highs in many statistical categories last season with his combined statistics from Boston and New York.
For career stats, Spooner tied his career high 13 goals, and had career highs in shooting percentage (12.1%) and points per game (0.69). His points per game with the Rangers was 0.80.
In the four seasons prior with the Boston Bruins, Spooner’s average points per game is just 0.55. That’s 117 points in 210 games played. His average shooting percentage for those seasons is only 6.65%.
Spooner’s first eight games as a Ranger were particularly successful. In those eight games he recorded 13 points, 11 of which were assists. So why was he so productive in New York compared to Boston?
The Rangers are deep at center. As a result, Spooner played on the wing. He is a versatile player with great playmaking skills, which fit nicely in the Rangers forward lineup.
Spooner actually benefits from the Rangers current forward situation. He is no longer a small fish in a very deep pond over in Boston. In New York he played more minutes (almost three extra minutes per game) and as a result could prove his offensive abilities.
Now Spooner may not suddenly become a top-six forward in New York, but he did show his potential. Playing with Kevin Hayes, Mats Zuccarello and Jimmy Vesey clearly suited him. His name often appeared on the scoresheet with assists on their goals.
The extra ice time Spooner got with the Rangers restrained him less and allowed him to stretch his offensive muscles. In a less rigid system, he could really put his skills to the test and contribute offensively.
One thing to note, however, is that most of Spooner’s production came in even strength situations. He had some powerplay time, but only had two powerplay points (two assists). So that will be something to pay attention to going into next season.
Although the Rangers have a new head coach, it seems like Spooner is more productive in the New York system with these new players.
We do not know how Quinn will set his lineup or divide ice time. However, if Spooner continues to have an increased role from what he had in Boston he has a greater chance to produce.
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The Rangers signed Spooner to a two-year contract this summer. So clearly they have faith that he can continue to play like he did at the end of last season. He may not have such crazy-high points per game numbers or such a high shooting percentage, but I think he has potential to be an important part of the Rangers offense.