The New York Rangers need to find their game and fast

Even though it is still early on, this season has looked much less promising than the one prior. Following the 4-3 loss to the Islanders, the Rangers have now lost seven out of their last ten games and they look completely lost out there. There is no fight and no passion being shown. The comeback kids from last season are nowhere to be found.

Many have noticed that this team has not had that same “No Quit” mentality. It is evident by their last two games. In both games, against the Red Wings and Islanders, the Rangers gave up multi-goal leads and took their foot off the gas too early because they felt comfortable. They were wrong.

Another issue is team defense. The defense is still shaky as ever. The injury to Ryan Lindgren just shows how badly this team needs another defender because they have no depth on the blue line. Fox is Fox, but other than that, no one else has stood out. Trouba has been abysmal to start the season and the rest have looked okay at best. One major injury to Fox could really hurt this team and the defense needs to be improved if they want to go on a winning streak.

Another factor is Igor Shesterkin. While he has not played badly by any means, he has not been playing to the same level as last season. He should not be expected to put up numbers like those and bail his team out night after night for another season. The way he is playing, the team needs to improve the offense and defense if they want to succeed.

The mental game is also a factor. Last season, this team had no expectations and went far. Now, with higher expectations, they have stumbled along. The pressure of repeating last season and going even further could be getting to them. Also, the loss of key players like Ryan Strome, Andrew Copp, and Frank Vatrano has also hurt this team, even if some do not want to believe it. A lot has changed from last season.

If the Rangers want to turn the season around, they need to play the game they are good at. Get the puck in and use the forecheck to get the puck and go to work. Their speed and work ethic set them apart last season and now, they need to focus and get back to their game. Become the “No Quit” Rangers once again.