Pavel Buchnevich #89 of the New York Rangers (c) celebrates his goal (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
The New York Rangers currently have a great deal of skill in a position that hasn’t gotten a lot of attention.
There has been a great deal of focus on the New York Rangers future at center, defense and in net, however, one area that has not received much attention is on the wings. The right wing in particular is loaded with young talent that has the potential to be a Rangers strength for years to come.
Even with the possibility of Jesper Fast leaving this off-season, there is still a great deal of talent on the right side. If all of the Rangers right wingers live up to their potential they will be a major asset for years to come. Here is what I project next season’s four starting right wingers to be.
Pavel Buchnevich
Pavel Buchnevich, selected in the third round of the 2013 draft, has been playing with the New York Rangers for the past four seasons. In his most recent few seasons he has been paired with Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad, finding success as part of the first line, known as the “KZB Line.”
Every season since Buchnevich has been on the roster, he has seen his points per game increase and currently has 46 points in 68 games this season, putting him on pace for 55 if the full 82 game season resumes. This is excellent production from a former third round pick who is only counting for $3.25 million AAV against the cap.
Next season, Buchnevich will be on the second year of this two-year deal and if production remains the same, I would expect the Rangers to sign him long-term. Next season I expect him to start consistently producing 50+ point seasons, if he is able to stay healthy.