New York Rangers: Choosing the best defense pairs

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BROOKLYN, NY – NOVEMBER 15: New York Rangers defenseman, Brady Skjei (76), skates with the puck behind the net during a game between the New York Islanders and the New York Rangers on November 15, 2018 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. (Photo by John McCreary/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

The New York Rangers have had a rotation going on defense this season. Let’s take a look at what the ideal defense pairs are for this team.

It’s quite obvious to see that the New York Rangers’ most glaring weakness is their defense.

They have had a revolving door of defensemen all season so far. Eight defensemen total have suited up for the Rangers: Brady Skjei, Neal Pionk, Kevin Shattenkirk, Marc Staal, Fredrik Claesson, Brendan Smith, Tony DeAngelo and Adam McQuaid.

With the exception of Staal, head coach David Quinn scratched each of those players for at least one game.

The defense is not always horrible. We have seen some bright moments from them including a highlight reel goal from Neal Pionk that is a contender for goal of the year.

But to say that the defense has been inconsistent is an understatement. Which players we see on the ice every night is a toss up and then whoever ends up actually playing can’t play a full 60 minutes.

The constant switches on defense poses the question; what would be the best defense pairings for the Rangers?

I researched each pairing the Rangers have played this season and their statistics together. I have also taken into account that Adam McQuaid is currently injured, so I am going to keep him out of these pairings.

Based on those statistics, let’s take a look at what the best defense pairs would be for the Rangers.

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