Jonny Brodzinski has been a member of the New York Rangers for six seasons, and entered this season after posting back to back career years in total points and goals. He's not enjoyed the same level of success this season, and now appears to be on the outside looking in for Friday's matchup vs. the San Jose Sharks.
Mike Sullivan wants more out of veteran forward
When asked about Brodzinski's benching at practice, Mike Sullivan said, "The biggest thing is attention to detail away from the puck and a commitment to play defense.” Offensively Brodzinski has been one of the Rangers more dependable bottom six contributors since joining the varsity squad, and this year he's not had the same success.
That drop-off in offense certainly makes defensive lapses more noticeable, and at this point of the season Sullivan is going to focus on things he can control. That includes the bottom end of the roster, as the top portion of the roster will see players moved in the coming weeks.
Last season Brodzinski appeared in 51 games for the Rangers and posted a 59.71 GF%, a 45.76 CF%, and a 42 xGF% in 553 minutes at 5v5. The Rangers scored 2.57 goals per 60 minutes when he was on the ice, and allowed 1.74 goals against per Evolving-Hockey.
This year has been a different story, as Brodzinski's numbers include a 42.59 GF%, a 43.78 CF%, and a 42.19 xGF%. The Blueshirts have scored 1.65 goals per 60 minutes when he's on the ice, and allowed 2.22 goals against per 60. He's certainly been a lot less lucky this year, as last year's disparity of a 59.71 GF% and a 42 xGF% is quite stark. That his GF% and xGF% are so similar this year would suggest he's getting what he deserves to an extent.
Anton Blidh appears to be next in line
If Brodzinski does come out of the lineup, Anton Blidh appears to be next in line.
They've done a few different iterations of the fourth line, so it's hard to say who is coming out. My best guess for tomorrow is Blidh-Carrick-Raddysh. Rempe and Brodzinski have both taken reps on D this last drill. https://t.co/DSScbfjO26
— Peter Baugh (@Peter_Baugh) January 22, 2026
Blidh has 87 games of NHL experience across nine seasons, and this is his second with the Rangers. He appeared in one game during the 2023-24 season, and this year he's drawn in for two games during which he's average 7:46 a game. Blidh is a 6'0" and 190 pound winger with 498 games of AHL experience during which he's scored 88 goals and added 83 assists for 171 points. If he enters the lineup, the Rangers won't be looking for him to add offense. Sullivan will want him to play a physical and dependable game, and make the most of his minutes. He's not been trusted to log much ice time, and although Brodzinski is coming off a rough game, the Rangers are likely better off just sticking with him.