New York Rangers: Who you should root for in the playoffs

TAMPA, FL - MARCH 10: Tampa Bay Lightning defender Dan Girardi (5) and Tampa Bay Lightning defender Ryan McDonagh (27) stand for the National Anthem prior to the first period of an NHL game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 10, 2018, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

1 of 7

NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 30: J.T. Miller /

The Stanley Cup playoffs begin this week with one glaring hole in the roster of playoff teams for the second straight year. The New York Rangers are out of the post-season, but there are reasons for Ranger fans to root for some of the teams in contention.

The New York Rangers stand to benefit from the success of some other teams in the playoffs. Most notably, if the Tampa Bay Lightning win it all, the Rangers get their first round draft pick. While the 31st overall pick won’t yield a sure fire NHL star, it is certainly better than a second round pick in the high 50’s.

Similarly, if the Dallas Stars can make it to the Western Conference Finals, the second round pick acquired in the Mats Zuccarello deal becomes a first rounder, jumping from number 49 to the 18th overall pick. That’s a significant improvement.

Draft picks aside, there are New York Rangers connections throughout the NHL and among the playoff contenders. As we watch the playoffs (if you watch the playoffs) these Ranger connections may influence who you root for.

Home/Editorials