Three Key Takeaways from the Rangers 6-2 Loss Against Tampa Bay

The New York Rangers (16-18-1) never led and were undone by poor special teams play from the beginning of play against the Tampa Bay Lightning. They allowed two power-play goals and two short-handed goals in an eventual 6-2 loss, with goaltender Igor Shesterkin being pulled for the second time in his past five starts.

And it'll only get tougher from here. Considering the fact that the Rangers reached a minefield portion of their schedule, with all but one of their next eight games coming against teams in playoff position.

With all this in mind, let's take a look at three takeaways from the latest Saturday, Dec. 28 contest.

1. Bottom of the Barrel

With the New York Islanders most recent win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Rangers now unfortunately have sole possession of last place in the Metropolitan Division (33 points);

Further cementing their place at the bottom of the barrel, they've now lost eight of their past 10 games, as well as 14 of their past 18 to sink further in the NHL standings.

2. The Breadman's Goal

Despite the early deficit, the Rangers took the game to the Lightning at even strength. They were rewarded at 9:23 of the first period, when alternate captain Artemi Panarin scored his 16th goal of the season and first in eight games to tie it up 1-1 with a shot from the low slot.

Vincent Trocheck also scored for the Rangers in Tampa Bay, but in the end it clearly didn't matter.

3. Igor Shesterkin to the Locker Room

The highest paid goaltender in the NHL — star Shesterkin was pulled for the second time in his past five starts Saturday night.

Prior to being pulled, the Russia native allowed five goals against 13 shots faced. He had eight saves for .615 save percentage. Following leaving the ice, Shesterkin promptly went to the locker room and didn't return until the third period.

Backup netminder Jonathan Quick was put in his place and boasted a .917 save percentage in relief. He only allowed one goal compared to the starter — including saving 11.

Up Next

As previously mentioned, the Rangers have a tough road ahead. The Blueshirts now turn their attention to traveling to Florida to take on the Florida Panthers (22-13-2) on Monday, Dec. 30. The Panthers are currently tied for first place in the Atlantic Division with 46 points. Puck drop is slated for 7:00 p.m. EST.