It is now three consecutive losses for the New York Rangers as they were doubled up 6-3 during the matinee in DC. In a game that ended up in that lopsided defeat, there needs to be a serious examination of this team. Two goals when the game was well out of reach doesn’t help alleviate the expectations placed on this roster that they are just not performing up to the standards offensively.
Absolutely first and foremost we need to talk about Ryan Lindgren who was on the receiving end of a T.J. Oshie hit that saw the Rangers defenseman come off with one shoulder lower than the other. Lindgren is such an important part of this Rangers roster and losing him long-term could severely impact the remainder of the season for the Blueshirts. It’ll alter the deadline plans if he is out short term too, so obviously, we all hope he is okay.
Barclay Goodrow sought retribution on Oshie for the hit with a fight on the next play but that didn’t stop T.J. Oshie from eating the Blueshirts alive with a three-point night and two goals. As soon as Lindgren left the game, everything seemed to fall apart and it truly emphasizes how dependent this roster is on its blueline to be sound defensively and get the puck up to the forwards. New York just couldn’t do that.
With the pulling of Igor Shesterkin for the start of the third period leaves a big question as to which netminder starts the game against LA tomorrow at the Garden. Jaroslav Halak was not heavily taxed after coming into the game in relief of Igor, but the fact he was playing may affect how he could play on consecutive nights, so do you turn to Igor who played the first 40? It’s a weird conundrum.
This loss means the Rangers are now likely stuck in third in the Metropolitan until the end of the season. They are six points back of the Devils having played a game more and 11 points back of the Hurricanes having played two games more. However, they are eight points clear of the chasing Islanders with three games in hand over their New York City rivals. At this point, the Blueshirts need to focus their attention on the postseason.