3 Rangers who need to exceed expectations under Mike Sullivan

Under a first year head coach, the New York Rangers have a lot at stake next year. And with a new coaching style, here's three members of the Blueshirt roster who will have the most to prove under their 38th coach in program history — Mike Sullivan.
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1. Mika Zibanejad

Mika Zibanejad, Mike Sullivan — NHL, New York Rangers
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Like Kreider, longtime New York Ranger Mike Zibanejad's 2024-25 season was categorized by a rapid decline in production and effort. He had one of his worst seasons since joining the Blueshirts in 2016.

In 82 games appearances Zibanejad only had 20 goals, 42 assists and a plus-minus of -22. To put this in perspective, just a few years ago in 2022-23 he put up 91 points for a plus-minus of +25.

When asked about his future with the organization and whether his time in New York could potentially come to an end this offseason, Zibanejad simply deferred to his contract.

"I know what my contract says. ... Both parties agreed to it, and like I said, I think I’ve earned it. Until it's time to adjust it, I have no plans of going [anywhere]. I've invested a lot of years here," Zibanejad said, via the New York Post.

If Zibanejad make it to the preseason, I wouldn't be surprised if he's one of the first guys Chris Drury tries to get rid of if he doesn't adjust well to playing under Sullivan.