Filip Chytil's fast start in preseason play should worry Rangers fans

The New York Rangers opened up their preseason with a spirited matchup against the Boston Bruins on Sunday evening. with a 3-2 win, the Rangers have gotten their 2024-25 season off on the right foot.

There were a few standouts during the unofficial match, but none shined brighter than center Filip Chytil. He was flying out there and seemed to look much better than he did in June when last season ended. He was crucial in the game, with a goal and an assist to help the Rangers complete the comeback.

But, do not be fully invested in Chytil just yet. That performance should scare you for what's to come. Let's dive a bit deeper.

Too Good To Be True

It is very, very early in the season. There is no way to say if this hot start is a good or bad thing, especially since it is only the first game. 

The thing that should make Rangers fans worry is if this is too good to be true. Has Chytil finally stepped out of his shell and become the player that many have hoped he would be since he became a Ranger in 2017-18? 

He looked fantastic in his first go around since returning from injury in the playoffs last season. He only appeared in 10 games last season, before suffering a head injury and sitting the rest of the year out. He needs to get back out on the ice and see game-speed action, but he shouldn't be going as hard as he did in game one for the rest of the preseason.

It's Only Preseason

The one thing we need to remember is that this was just an exhibition game. It was the start of preseason and he was playing on the only NHL-caliber line on both sides of the ice. 

So, naturally, as a seasoned veteran, he would look so much better than his teammates and his opposition. Alongside Kaapo Kakko and Will Cuylle, that third-line looks like it will be solid and ready to go come opening night.

The real test will come in the preseason's later stages and onto the regular season's beginning. That is when we will finally see if Chytil is poised to break out this season or continue his streak of mediocre performances. 

Can He Remain Healthy?

This is what should scare Rangers fans the most. Can Chytil overcome past injuries and have a complete 2024-25? 

He is very much needed in this lineup, he is a fantastic center, and he meshes well with third-line minutes. Especially with Mika Zibanejad and Vincent Trochek in front of him, he is a great choice for 3C. 

If he can maintain his health, and put in a solid season, he could be what sets the Rangers apart from another exit from the playoffs. Let’s put it this way, the Rangers are better with him than without, but do not put all your chips on Chytil just yet.