Rangers’ Struggles Continue Despite Strong Fourth Line Performance

In a game where the Rangers couldn’t find the back of the net again, it was actually their fourth line that produced the most promising chances during a 2-0 defeat against the Oilers at Madison Square Garden.

Sam Carrick came close, striking the post, while Matt Lempe generated opportunities, and Adam Edstrom consistently posed a threat in front of Edmonton’s net.

While a goal eluded them, the game represented a step in the right direction for a team beginning to earn the confidence of head coach Mike Sullivan.

“That line was effective for us,” Sullivan remarked. “Their physical play and presence create some anxiety for the opposition.”

The focus, especially for the towering pair of 6-foot-9 Rempe and 6-foot-7 Edstrom, is to leverage their size on the ice.

“If we stay true to our game, we’ll definitely be a tough matchup,” Lempe said. “We know how to protect the puck down low and get to the net. Opponents can’t stop us from pressing forward. If we build on this performance, we’ll solidify a strong line.”

And they indeed looked powerful, even if they didn’t secure a win on Tuesday.

“They’ve been solid for us on both ends,” Sullivan added. Their size allows them to control space, drive traffic, and establish a forecheck.”

As noted by Sullivan, the line appears to be making progress, and Rempe feels there’s even more to come from them.

“If we can hold the zone for around 45 to 50 seconds, I think we can wear down the other team,” Rempe stated. “It’s all about creating energy and momentum. Those hits really add up, and by the end of the game, we’ll definitely have left our mark. That makes it easier for our star players to capitalize.”

Meanwhile, Vladislav Gavrikov was signed during the offseason to bolster the Rangers’ defensive lineup, particularly to support Adam Fox.

After five games, there’s been some inconsistency across the board, but Sullivan remains optimistic about the partnership between the two defensemen.

“Having him on the blue line gives us a significant advantage,” Sullivan shared after the morning skate. “This is a work in progress. I’m getting a better feel, and I think it’s getting better.”

Gavrikov joined the Rangers on a seven-year, $49 million contract after playing for Columbus and the Kings, and the team brought him in knowing they would rely on his experience and consistency, especially since Fox was paired with a variety of players last season.

“What we appreciate about him is his reliability and predictability,” Sullivan explained. “He’s here to bring that stability to our team.”

Immediately, you can see the impact on Fox’s performance, and Sullivan has been encouraged by Gavrikov’s adaptation.

“He’s adjusted well,” Sullivan said. “His defensive skills and presence in tough areas are crucial for us. He can really challenge the opposing players; he’s tough to play against because of his size and strength. He’s been a significant help on the penalty kill.”

Sullivan believes Gavrikov’s performance will improve further as he settles into this new environment.

In the absence of Carson Soucy, who’s sidelined due to an upper-body injury, Braden Schneider has been shifting between right and left defense. Sullivan indicated this flexibility might continue while Soucy recovers.

“You can expect to see more of that,” the coach stated.