Key Highlights

• Adam Fox’s stellar regular season performance was compromised by injuries in the playoffs.
• Igor Shesterkin exhibited outstanding goaltending in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, especially against the Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers.
• Jonathan Quick’s unexpected resurgence provided vital support as the Rangers’ backup goalie.
• The Rangers’ defensemen had a mixed bag of performances, with notable contributions and areas for improvement.

(NicePlay Sports) – The New York Rangers’ 2023-24 season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by stellar individual performances and critical injuries that shaped their journey to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. As we dissect this season, it’s crucial to recognize the key players who left their mark, the strategic plays that defined their games, and the areas where improvement is needed.

Adam Fox stood out as a beacon of consistency during the regular season, amassing an impressive 73 points in 72 games. Despite his regular-season heroics, a knee injury hampered his playoff performance, reflecting the physical toll the season took on him. Fox’s injury woes were compounded by another knee-on-knee hit in the playoffs, significantly affecting his contribution.

Igor Shesterkin’s season was a tale of resilience and brilliance. Although his regular season saw ups and downs, his playoff performance was nothing short of heroic. Shesterkin’s saves against the Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers were game-changers, underscoring his critical role in the Rangers’ postseason run.

Jonathan Quick’s resurgence as a reliable backup goalie was a pleasant surprise. After a less-than-stellar previous season, Quick delivered consistently solid performances, ending the season with an 18-6-2 record. His leadership and camaraderie with Shesterkin provided a solid foundation for the Rangers’ goaltending squad.

Adam Fox’s Stellar Regular Season and Playoff Struggles

Adam Fox was a cornerstone of the New York Rangers’ defense throughout the 2023-24 regular season. Despite missing 10 games due to a knee injury from a hit by Carolina Hurricanes forward Sebastian Aho, Fox managed to score an NHL career-high 17 goals. His performance was integral to the Rangers’ success, as he led the team in average ice time per game (23:27) and consistently delivered under pressure.

However, Fox’s playoff journey was marred by injuries. Another knee-on-knee hit, this time from Washington Capitals defenseman Nick Jensen, aggravated his earlier injury, significantly reducing his effectiveness. Despite a promising start to the playoffs with a four-game point streak, Fox’s production dwindled, ending the postseason with just eight assists in 16 games and no goals.

Fox’s struggles in the playoffs were not entirely his fault. His 5v5 metrics were the best among Rangers defensemen, indicating his value on the ice. But the physical demands and injuries took their toll, highlighting the need for better injury management and support.

Igor Shesterkin’s Playoff Heroics and Regular Season Resilience

Igor Shesterkin’s journey through the 2023-24 season was marked by resilience and brilliance. Despite a challenging regular season, where he faced minor injuries and periods of subpar performance, Shesterkin finished with a solid 36-17-2 record. His 2.58 goals-against average and .913 save percentage were respectable, but it was his playoff performance that truly shined.

Shesterkin’s heroics in the Stanley Cup Playoffs were pivotal for the Rangers. His standout performances against the Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers kept the Rangers in contention during crucial games. For instance, his 54-save effort in the Rangers’ 4-3 double-overtime win against the Hurricanes was a masterclass in goaltending under pressure.

Throughout the playoffs, Shesterkin’s save percentage soared to .927, showcasing his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most. His performance against the Panthers was particularly noteworthy, as he made one critical save after another, giving his team a fighting chance in every game.

Shesterkin’s playoff stats, including a goals-against average of 2.34 and a goals saved above expected of 13.1, were among the best in the league. These numbers reflect his crucial role in the Rangers’ deep playoff run and highlight his potential as a cornerstone for the team’s future success.

Jonathan Quick’s Resurgence as a Reliable Backup

Jonathan Quick’s 2023-24 season with the New York Rangers was a remarkable comeback story. After a challenging previous season split between the Los Angeles Kings and Vegas Golden Knights, Quick proved his critics wrong by delivering consistently strong performances as the Rangers’ backup goalie.

Quick’s 18-6-2 record, combined with a 2.62 goals-against average and .911 save percentage, made him an invaluable asset. His early season form, going 9-0-1 before his first regulation loss, set the tone for his resurgence. Quick’s ability to step up when Shesterkin was injured or needed rest was crucial for the Rangers.

Off the ice, Quick’s leadership and experience were equally valuable. Serving as a mentor to Shesterkin and providing a steadying presence in the locker room, Quick’s contributions extended beyond his on-ice performance. His role in the team’s success was recognized with the Players’ Player Award, voted by his teammates.

Quick’s season was a testament to his resilience and skill. His achievements, including becoming the all-time winningest United States-born goalie in NHL history, underscore his significance to the Rangers’ campaign and his legacy in the sport.

Mixed Performance of Rangers’ Defensemen

The New York Rangers’ defense corps had a season of mixed performances, with individual players showing both promise and areas needing improvement. Adam Fox was the standout, but others like Erik Gustafsson, Zac Jones, Ryan Lindgren, K’Andre Miller, Braden Schneider, and Jacob Trouba had varying degrees of success.

Erik Gustafsson provided great value, especially given his $825,000 contract. He played 76 regular-season games and was a reliable presence, particularly during Fox’s injury period. However, his production tailed off significantly after a strong start, and his playoff performance left much to be desired.

Zac Jones, primarily a seventh defenseman, showed potential in his 31 games. His quick puck movement and confident play were highlights, although he struggled with 5v5 metrics. Jones didn’t feature in the playoffs, but he remains a promising prospect for the Rangers’ blue line.

Ryan Lindgren was a dependable stay-at-home defenseman, excelling in penalty killing and physical play. However, his metrics during the regular season and playoffs indicated struggles, particularly in high-pressure situations. Lindgren’s performance against the Panthers exposed some limitations, although his toughness and commitment were never in doubt.

K’Andre Miller had a steady regular season but faced difficulties in the playoffs. His expected goals against were the worst among NHL defensemen in the playoffs, reflecting a need for improvement. Miller’s physical play and pairing dynamics with Jacob Trouba were areas to watch for future growth.

Braden Schneider’s season was promising, particularly as he stepped into a larger role. His consistent play and defensive solidity made him a key player. Schneider’s playoff performance showed resilience but also highlighted areas for further development.

Jacob Trouba, the Rangers’ captain, had a mixed season with moments of high impact plays and significant lapses. His leadership and physical presence were crucial, but his penalties and occasional poor decisions were detrimental. Trouba’s playoff performance exhibited both his strengths and areas needing refinement.