NHL Concern Rises: Struggling Rangers and Devils Create Metro Chaos

Avery K. Bristow

ago 2 hours

The current state of the NHL is marked by significant concerns for both the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils. As the season progresses, chaos in the Metropolitan Division has heightened, leaving fans questioning the future for both franchises.

NHL Concern Rises: Struggling Rangers and Devils Create Metro Chaos

New York Rangers’ Decline

The New York Rangers have hit a rough patch. Recently, they experienced a crushing 10-2 defeat by the Boston Bruins, followed by an 8-4 loss to the Ottawa Senators. Their recent record stands at 1-6-2 since the holiday break, leading to a devastating goal differential of 42-22.

Currently, the Rangers sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, with a bleak nine percent chance of making the playoffs. Earlier this season, they held a much stronger 62 percent chance. Their struggles are compounded by the absence of key players Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox, which has exposed weaknesses in the team’s roster.

Despite being only eight points away from a wild card spot, the Rangers face significant challenges. Defensive issues have plagued the team, with a struggling offense unable to compensate. Jonathan Quick has struggled in goal, and without dynamic puck-moving options on defense, the team’s foundation appears fragile.

Performance Metrics

Recent record: 1-6-2
Goal differential: 42-22
Current playoff chances: 9%
Initial playoff chances: 62%

New Jersey Devils in Turmoil

The New Jersey Devils are not faring much better. With a recent record of 4-5-1 in their last ten outings, they have experienced their share of chaos. Although they managed to secure two wins against Western Conference playoff contenders, inconsistencies abound.

General Manager Tom Fitzgerald recently addressed the media, indicating a need for reflection on the team’s direction. Injuries to key players, including Brett Pesce and Jack Hughes, have severely impacted the team’s performance, dropping their playoff chances from a peak of 89 percent in late October to around 24 percent now.

Core players like Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt have underperformed, exacerbating the scoring issues. Despite the return of Hughes and Pesce, the team’s structure has visibly faltered. The Devils are currently trying to navigate their way back into playoff contention amid these difficulties.

New Jersey Performance Insights

Last ten games: 4-5-1
Current playoff chances: 24%
Peak playoff chances: 89%

Outlook for the Rangers and Devils

Both teams are grappling with significant issues as the season continues. The Rangers hold a concern level of 9 out of 10 on the Concern-o-Meter, while the Devils are at 8 out of 10. The path ahead remains rocky for both franchises as they aim to reclaim their footing in a competitive Metropolitan Division.

With 34 games left, New York has a narrow window to regain form and improve their playoff odds. Meanwhile, New Jersey’s recent victories could provide a much-needed boost, but consistency will be key as they navigate the remainder of the season.

The future of both teams in the playoff race hangs in the balance, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of NHL hockey.