NFT - ** 2024/25 New York Rangers Season Thread **

[files58]

Kakko has a long way to go to justify the second overall pick. 

At this point I don't let the second overall cloud my view. I just want to see an improving player contributing. Kakko is strong on the puck,and on the boards, can skate, has a good shot that he doesn't use enough. That lines full potential depends on Chytl's health. I don't like Brezinski, he's a 4th line player at best. If I were Drury/Lavy I'd be keeping an eye out for a better option than Brez.

[kartanoman]

Didn't watch the game last night but caught the highlights. Looked like a nailbiter but also a competitive match. The boys put four past the Canucks' backup; not sure if that means anything or not because he appeared to make some good saves.

Have you all noticed that Igor's been giving up a lot of goals to his short side lately? Yup, there was one where he was completely screened that went in; fair enough. But in his last two starts, I'm noticing a trend with his short side becoming a desirable target for opponents to attack. It begs watching. It's clear he's not on his "A" game yet but he can get away with that as long as Quickie keeps pumping out shutouts. I think last year he shut out the Flames in what was a first for the Rangers in the Saddledome. It will be interesting to see if the coach rotates them the rest of the road trip.

It's hard to gauge the lines on a highlight film as I'm really looking at what Jones playing more has done overall to their defensive lineup. I see him as a developing left-handed version of Foxy with his strong ability to transition to the attack. My mind wanders thinking about both of them on the ice simultaneously along with the first offensive line.

Anyway, with a very difficult Calgary game coming up, the meat of the road trip will give us a little bit of a feel for how they are adjusting to more games during the week. If anything, I think it will make them better and come together even faster.

Peace!