New York's winning streak sheds light on a lofty and improbable goal

New York Yankees legend and Hall of Famer Yogi Berra was known for his "Yogi-isms." These are phrases that may be considered to be witty and hilarious, yet they just make perfect sense. His most famous one is arguably the iconic saying, "It ain't over until it's over." This seems to be the current mindset for the New York Rangers organization.

The grit, the juice, the passion or whatever was lacking in the first half of the season is now on full display. The last four games have shown fans what it is like to root for a competent hockey team. Even-strength goals, power-play dominance, and stellar goaltending are three key attributes we all know and love from Rangers teams in the past. Although it might be well and good right now, the current form might halt some key hopes and dreams for New York moving forward.

With the conclusion of the 98th edition of The Academy Awards last night, it is time to pay homage to an all-time classic film. Here are "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly" regarding New York's current four-game winning streak.

The Good: The Youth Movement and Incredible Individual Performances

There is no better feeling for a Ranger fan right now than seeing homegrown players succeed on Garden ice. For years, the NHL Draft has haunted Blueshirt supporters, dating back to the ever-so-stacked 2003 draft, when New York dropped the ball and selected Hugh Jessiman.

With huge disappointments aside, New York's current youngsters are lighting up and none more so than Gabe Perreault. He has fit into the top line perfectly alongside Mika Zibanejad and an in-form Alexis Lafrenière. His playmaking abilities are spectacular and compliments both of his linemates so well that all three are a threat to score. Also, do not underestimate Perreault's eye for goal. He wants the puck every single shift, and he is not afraid to bury one from time to time.

Another name that continues to shine on Broadway is Noah Laba. For years, fans have worried about the depth at the center position, and rightly so. After Zibanejad and Vincent Trocheck, it has been a revolving door for a few years now. It might have taken him a few months, but Laba is beginning to look comfortable and cap off a solid rookie season by possibly becoming the third-line center of the near future.

The Bad: No Postseason Hockey

With 16 games left, the Rangers are still residing in the basement of the Metropolitan Division. It is, however, quite amazing that a last-place team is playing like this. You would think that any other team would just be going through the motions or simply give up. That is not the Mike Sullivan way.

Having led teams to Stanley Cup and gold medal victories, Sullivan is the coach that was promised. Yes, the product on the ice was far from the greatest that we have ever seen. Yet, it is a motivator like Sullivan that needs to keep these spirits high. His reaction to Jaroslav Chmelar's goal against the Minnesota Wild this past Saturday was priceless. It is moments like that one that can get you amped for what could be a more positive outlook for '26-'27.

The Ugly: Lowering Draft Odds

It might seem to be a bit far-fetched, but it is reality after all. If the current success continues, New York's odds of winning the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery will slowly decrease over time. Any hopes and dreams of having Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg being selected by President and GM Chris Drury will go out the window if this is New York's identity now.

In the end, it still is a lottery, so no matter what happens in these final 16 games, one of McKenna or Stenberg could end up being a Blueshirt. It was a near-impossible feat when New York won the 2020 lottery, later selecting the previously mentioned Alexis Lafreniere. We have seen it all before our very eyes; crazier things have happened.

While setting the future aside for now, New York looks to extend their winning streak to five games tonight against the Los Angeles Kings. With an old friend coming to town, it is time to see whether or not these Bread-less Blueshirts are who they truly say they are.