Rangers’ Unorthodox Practice in El Segundo

LOS ANGELES — Thursday afternoon, the Rangers kicked off practice in a rather unusual way in El Segundo.

At first glance, it didn’t seem noteworthy. However, a closer look at the initial drill revealed that every Ranger on the ice was using an off-hand stick.

For instance, Artemi Panarin, typically a right-handed shooter, was handling a left-handed stick, while Captain JT Miller, normally left-handed, skated with a right-handed one.

All players participated in this unconventional training session.

The Rangers’ head coach mentioned that this isn’t a common approach for Mike Sullivan—it happens maybe once or twice a year, depending on circumstances.

When asked about this unique method, Sullivan noted, “I think when you start practicing like that, you get their attention.” He elaborated, saying it sets a positive tone for practice and helps energize the players, adding, “It’s somewhat competitive too, and I believe there’s real value in that brain-body connection for conditioning.” He also reflected on how intriguing it is to observe dominant players alongside those who can seamlessly switch between right and left-handed playing.

Despite their current struggles, having lost 10 of their last 12 games, it seemed like the Rangers were planning to adjust their lineup.

In their last game, Johnny Brodzinski didn’t see much ice time, playing only two shifts in the second period and sitting out the third. He might miss a game for the first time since December 20.

Sullivan commented on Brodzinski’s time on the ice, emphasizing the need for attention to detail and solid defense from the bottom six players, which the team relies on depending on the situation.

As practice unfolded, Anton Breed appeared to take Brodzinski’s spot in the rotation, primarily on the fourth line.

Additionally, Bligh made brief appearances for the Rangers previously this month against the Sabers and the Mammoths. Sullivan remarked on his energy and physicality, describing him as a player who effectively disrupts opposing defenses with a straightforward, aggressive style of play.

Regarding the ongoing recovery of Matt Lempe from thumb surgery and its impact on his absence from the lineup, Sullivan stated that it’s significant. He explained that discussions with Lempe led to the decision for him not to play, highlighting that while he’s available for practice, he isn’t quite ready for game action yet.