After a standout performance where he contributed two points, including a crucial game-winning assist, in the Blueshirts’ 4-2 victory against the Hurricanes on Wednesday, Panarin has amassed 15 points over his last 11 games.
Interestingly, he’s now tied with Adam Fox for the most points on the team (22) and shares the lead with Mika Zibanejad and Will Quill for goals scored (7).
“That goal at the end of the second was huge,” said JT Miller, Panarin’s linemate and team captain, reflecting on the boost it gave their confidence. “I mean, we didn’t play our best, but that play was critical. He was surrounded, yet he did what he does best — stepped up and executed in a big moment. It’s nice to see him shine.”
According to Natural Stat Trick, on Wednesday night, Panarin, Miller, and Vincent Trocheck shared a solid 13 minutes and 13 seconds of ice time at even strength and outscored their opponents 2-1, despite an overall loss of 6-4.
This marked only the second time this season the trio skated together since coach Mike Sullivan adjusted their line in Colorado last week. Miller, coming back from an upper-body injury, is currently enjoying a three-game point streak.
During this stretch, he has netted two goals and provided two assists. “He really brings a calming influence,” says Sullivan about Miller. “His confidence shines through, and it’s evident we are a better team with him.”
On another note, Fox has been on a roll, registering an assist in each of the past four games, a feat that ranks among the longest streaks for a defenseman this season.
In the meantime, rookie defenseman Matthew Robertson notched his first career point with an assist on Noah Raba’s opening score in the team’s win on Wednesday night.
The Rangers made a move on Thursday, recalling defenseman Scott Morrow from the Wolfpack while sending Connor McKee back to Hartford.
