New York Rangers: Five benchmarks for the rest of the season

Mika Zibanejad makes the all-star team

Although this is more of an individual accomplishment, Mika Zibanejad is playing like a former number six overall pick in his third season as a Ranger. While the Swede has struggled with injuries in his first two seasons in a blue jersey, there were flashes of an elite player. Through 32 games, the forward is playing like one for the first time in his career.

In 32 games this season, Zibanejad is averaging 19:49 of ice time including both power play and penalty kill time. For most of the Lundqvist era in New York, the team has lacked a number one center it could turn to in crunch time to go up against the other team’s best center. In fact, it was the deciding factor in Lundqvist’s sole Stanley Cup final appearance.

Even though the Rangers aren’t a quality team, Zibanejad has shined brightly. The forward’s 27 points thus far into the season lead the team and gives the offense a steady foundation. In number 93, Quinn knows he can depend on at least one forward to drive possession and create scoring chances most nights.

Even though the Rangers’ sole all-star spot is likely Lundqvists’ to lose, it’d be encouraging to see another player take the mantle from the franchise’s signature player. The organization is in a state of transition and it’s time that the rest of the league noticed. Zibanejad making the all-star team is the first step in the team’s new future.