On Saturday afternoon, the New York Rangers were officially eliminated from the 2025 NHL postseason after a 7-3 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. In a season full of ups and mostly downs, the elimination was the final dagger in a season full of them.
The Blueshirts are the fourth team ever to be eliminated from the playoffs the season after winning the Presidents' Trophy. There are only two games remaining in this season, and almost everyone is ready to turn the page.
Monday night, New York faces its opponent from 2024's Eastern Conference Final in the Florida Panthers. Florida is prepared for another deep playoff run, while the Rangers are a few days away from the season being over.
Here's three Blueshirt's to watch against the defending Stanley Cup champions.
1. Alexis Lafrenière
In a season full of disappointments, Lafrenière has to be at the top of the list. After having a monster postseason, the 23-year-old only has 45 points in 80 games this season.
If the Rangers are going to jump back into contender status next season, Lafrenière needs to make the jump. He is in the Blueshirts' top six for the foreseeable future, especially after inking a seven-year extension earlier in the season.
Now, he has to back up the expectations that he has carried for his entire career.
2. J.T. Miller
One area the Rangers will not have to worry about for the start of the 2025-26 season is the center position. New York is well equipped with J.T. Miller and Vincent Trocheck as the two top-six centermen. There are questions surrounding Mika Zibanejad and there will be tough conversations this offseason.
Since arriving in New York, Miller has been a difference maker. He has 32 points in 30 games, and as long as he is in New York, he will be expected to put up similar numbers.
The most important thing here is that the Rangers core needed a shakeup. Miller is exactly that, from his toughness on the ice to his leadership off it.
3. Chris Kreider
It's becoming more likely that the Rangers move on from Kreider this offseason. With only two games remaining, it can be easy to harp on Kreider's underwhelming season. But, remember what he has given Blueshirts fans.
From his natural hat trick in Game Six against the Carolina Hurricanes, to being the franchises top scorer in power play goals, No. 20 has provided so many moments for the New York Rangers. Savor every moment he has left in a Rangers sweater.