The New York Rangers came into the 2024-25 season returning much of the same team that won the President's Trophy and fell just short of an appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. However, they were likely hoping to get a different version of Mika Zibanejad. While the Swede was certainly a different player, he did not change in the way the organization had hoped.
Expectations
Coming off a 26 goal, 46 assist season, Zibanejad was met with lofty expectations. The team's de-factor top-line center had regressed from a career-best 91 point season in 2022-23 to a respectable 72 points in 23-24. However, his play at 5v5 took a nosedive, with less than half of his points coming at even strength. The Rangers hoped that Zibanejad would be able to rebound in this department, while still being a key contributor on the power play and penalty kill.
After scoring ten points in the first five games of the 2023-24 playoffs, he was only able to find the scoresheet six times over the remaining 11 games. Despite ending the season poorly, his surge against the Washington Capitals and competence against the Carolina Hurricanes gave the team hope that he could turn his play around. The expectation was that Zibanejad would, at worst, have a similar season to the one he had previously.
Performance
Much to the discontent of the organization and fans alike, Zibanejad did not rebound in 2024-25, but rather continued his regression. The 32-year-old was only able to tally 62 points, which was a ten point drop. He also struggled on the powerplay, scoring just 19 points after putting up 31 the year before. According to Natural Stat Trick, Zibanejad had a 48.67 expected goals percentage, meaning that teams were expected to outscore the Rangers at even strength with him on the ice. He was also prone to lapses in his own zone, leading to numerous scoring opportunities for opposing teams. While some of his defensive regression could be attributed to his role difficulty, it was obvious that he would often lose focus in his own zone. Oftentimes, he appeared uncomfortable with the puck on his stick, leading to rushed decisions that hurt the team defensively.
Despite his drop in play, there remains hope for the longtime Ranger. After the team acquired J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks, Zibanejad scored 33 points in 32 games. Now-fired head coach Peter Laviolette moved Zibanejad to the wing, often placing Miller at center. The next coach should at least entertain the idea of playing the two of them together in order to maximize Zibanejad.
What Now?
With the organization unhappy with Zibanejad's play, he has faced media questions about his future in New York. Due to his no-movement clause, it is likely that he will end up staying with the Rangers. When asked about the idea of a trade by reporters, he bluntly stated "I know what my contract says. Both parties agreed to it." Zibanejad has five years remaining on his deal, with an $8.5 million cap hit. If the team wanted to move him, they would need his approval on a destination. If that happens, it is likely the Rangers would need to move an asset to any team acquiring Zibanejad due to his regression and contract. Any fan hoping that they have seen the last of number 93 in Rangers blue will likely enter next season unhappy. However, with his seeming resurgence alongside Miller, Zibanejad might be able to reach the heights of years past with a new coach at the helm.