The first two entries of this series have focused on what the Rangers could do at center — whether it be weaponizing an offer sheet or taking a hybrid approach. Today we’re going to look at improving the defense, specifically the left side.
The Rangers were one of the worst teams defensively in 2019-20; their 2.74 expected goals against per 60 at 5v5 was the worst in the Eastern Conference, and second-worst in the entire NHL with Chicago taking the top spot at 2.78 xGA/60. Their actual goals against per 60 was 2.