Adam Fox rejuvenates Rangers’ power play following injury hiatus

Rangers Adjusting After Adam Fox Injury

Adam Fox’s absence due to a shoulder injury has quickly become noticeable, especially regarding the power play, which had just started to click again. After struggling initially this season, the Rangers seemed to make strides after his brief return following a loss against the Lightning on November 29.

In the two games since Fox’s return, the Rangers have managed to score three goals in four power-play opportunities. Fox himself netted a goal on Wednesday, later joined by teammates Mika Zibanejad and Artemi Panarin during the Winter Classic just a couple days later.

As of Sunday, the Rangers were ranked 12th in the NHL, marking them as one of the less efficient power play units with a percentage of 21.2.

To keep pace in a competitive Eastern Conference and secure a playoff spot, they’ll need to capitalize on their power play opportunities. Fox’s return seems to be making a positive impact, but it’s still early to draw firm conclusions.

“Special teams are crucial for influencing game outcomes,” head coach Mike Sullivan remarked during practice before their home matchup against Mammoth on Monday. “Fox is an elite power play defenseman. He has a special ability to read the ice and maintain puck control. His poise and movement open up chances for everyone involved.”

“That aspect makes him irreplaceable when he’s out,” Sullivan added, highlighting the difference Fox makes when he’s not in the lineup. He pointed out that recent performances lend credence to the idea that power plays can significantly change a team’s fortunes.

During Fox’s injury, the Rangers tried different strategies, including a five-forward setup that didn’t yield great results. They also placed Scott Morrow on the first line. Despite missing injured players like JT Miller, Fox’s presence—with an impressive 28 points in 29 games before his injury—had become vital. In his absence, the power play struggled, going 6-for-39 over 14 games.

Fox scored on a one-timer late in the second period during Wednesday’s game, and the offense also found the net against Miami. According to Sullivan, the power play unit appears to be gaining momentum.

Scoring at home has been a struggle for the Rangers, so improving their power play could be a key factor in boosting their performance.

“When Fox got hurt, we had to experiment a lot, and it highlighted his calming influence on our power play,” Sullivan reflected.

Additionally, Noah Laba has been skating solo due to an upper-body injury, and Miller has been sidelined since December 20, though he has been seen practicing in a non-contact jersey recently.