Vladislav Gavrikov's point production provides some hope in an unusual season

The current state of the New York Rangers could be described as lackluster, embarrassing, or even disappointing. On pace to miss out on the postseason for a second consecutive year, it might be time to do our best Bob Seger impression and simply "turn the page" on '25-'26. Yet before we get a head start on our mock drafts and plot out some hypothetical trades, there are still 20 games left between March and April.

While the overall production has not been there this season, you can look at a few individuals who are providing that glimmer of hope, that bright spot needed at a time like this. One of those names is Vladislav Gavrikov, the anchor on New York's blue line. He has single-handedly impressed the fans almost every time he hits the ice, but not for the expected reason.

Gavi The Sharpshooter?

When Rangers President and GM Chris Drury signed Gavrikov to his 7-year contract, he expected the former Los Angeles King and Columbus Blue Jacket to bolster the back-end of the Rangers' lineup with his defensive skills. After trading away Ryan Lindgren, New York's primary need last summer was a new stay-at-home partner for Adam Fox. Once the rumors started to swirl, it was only a matter of time before the man called "Gavi" called Broadway his new home.

Since then, the 6'3" defenseman has blossomed into a force and a reliable partner for the former Norris Trophy-winner in Fox. Yet, his offensive prowess has shocked many hockey fans alike. Once Fox went down due to an injury earlier in the year, head coach Mike Sullivan looked to his remaining blue-liners for point production. In a surprise turn of events, it was Gavrikov who stepped up in what is now is highest scoring season ever.

In Saturday's 6-3 loss to the New Jersey Devils, Gavrikov notched his 12th goal of the season. He has now doubled what once was his highest goal total of six, which came just two seasons ago. Maybe it was a change of scenery or new responsibilities that have allowed the 30-year-old Gavrikov to flourish. Despite the standings, it is one positive that should not go unnoticed when looking back on this whirlwind of a season.

Are Fox and Gavrikov really the pair of the future?

While the state of the New York Rangers is in utter disarray, tons of speculation have started to hit the core of the franchise. Tons of attention has been directed at Gavrikov's partner, the previously mentioned Adam Fox, who some are saying might have a change of heart if things do not turn around instantly.

Fox's response was smart, but speculation will never stop until results are shown. However, a key factor in his long-term decision-making could be his current defensive counterpart. No one can deny that Fox has deserved a solid partner once Lindgren was shipped to the Colorado Avalanche (now in Seattle). Is he really going to throw it all away after one fluke season?

There are a great number of questions that will be answered when the offseason commences, and it is a shame that we are even considering the rumors of Adam Fox being traded. He should not be traded, but it is not for the reason that you think. It is not because he grew up a Ranger fan. It is not because he grew up in the state of New York. It is, in fact, because of a resurgence of Mika Zibanejad, plus the stellar play of netminder Igor Shesterkin, and a solid, two-way defensive pair of Vladislav Gavrikov and Adam Fox can allow GM Chris Drury to put his "retool" into play. The pieces of the puzzle are there; it is now just whether or not it turns into a pretty picture.