The New York Rangers are off to a hot start, but they have a great divisional test ahead of them tonight. The Blueshirts are hitting the road for an away game down in Washington, as Alex Ovechkin and the heavyweight Capitals try to slow down the Blueshirts.
This Blueshirts squad is practically firing on all cylinders right now. But after five games, there are a few players who are finding themselves falling a bit behind and into the "hot seat". They have not had terrible results thus far, but they are not where they are supposed to be at this point. There's always room for improvement, and if the Rangers hope to accomplish their ultimate goal, they will need the best of everyone.
Let’s talk about it.
Braden Schneider
Braden Schneider has been an up-and-down defenseman in this pivotal year of his career. The Rangers gave him one more shot to make a name for himself, and so far, this has been his lone highlight.
Braden Schneider, please go sit down. #NYR pic.twitter.com/yIQGExFNTO
— Snark Messier (@SnarkMessier) September 30, 2026
There is still a long season ahead, but the leash is tightening on No. 4. What better way to pick up your season than against the three-headed monster of Ovi, Jordan Kyrou, and Alex Tuch? Shutting down those three in any situation could give him a much-needed boost in confidence and show the front office that there is something there to hold onto long-term.
Pavel Dorofeyev
On the offensive side, Pavel Dorofeyev has been very good all season. But, the scoresheet has not reflected what President and General Manager Chris Drury paid for at $11 million AAV.
With a lone goal and assist, two points in five games is not enough. His underlyings have been strong, and he's still getting adjusted on the power play, so there's no real reason to panic. Again, the Caps have some solid forwards, and Dorofeyev has to try to outmatch them. He has been getting the shots at the net, that is no argument, but team-leading stats of 15 shots on goal can only go so far. No. 16 has to find his way back onto the scoresheet, and get into a rhythm soon.
Noah Laba
In terms of every forward, Noah Laba certainly has the hottest seat. He has been underwhelming, with more penalty minutes (4) than shots on goal (3) this season. Considering how solid he was last season, the early showing is pointing toward a sophomore slump developing.
If there was ever a time to break out on that third line, it is now for No. 42. The Rangers have some solid pieces in Hartford that are itching for the opportunity, and Laba's recent troubles could lead to a change.
In this contest against the Caps, watch out for No. 42 and pay attention to what he brings to the table.
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