A history of concussions may force the Rangers to explore options at 3C in their budding star's absence.
Filip Chytil left the ice on November 2nd following a check from Jesper Fast and did not return to play. His injury is believed to be a concussion, as he could have returned this Wednesday from the IR.
Chytil has been sidelined 10 times throughout his 6-year NHL career and arrived at training camp recovering from a broken cheekbone he suffered playing for Team Czechia in the World Championship tournament.
At 24 years old, his suspected fourth concussion is a major concern. Concussion victims are more susceptible to sustaining future concussions. The priority is to ensure he will have the best quality of life.
For the Rangers brass, they will need to find a 3C replacement. Luckily Vincent Trocheck has stepped up into Chytil's role at 2C seamlessly.
The Rangers centers overall are dominating the faceoff dot. Trocheck is 1st in the NHL in FOW percentage (64.4%), Nick Bonino ranks 11th (58.6%), and Mika Zibanejad ranks 33rd (53.5%). Collectively, they are 2nd in the NHL.
The team's depth takes a hit without the emerging star. No affordable option can replace Chytil's tremendous speed, playmaking mitts, or shoot-first approach. Chris Drury shifts his concerns to finding an ample substitute.
The right wing has been under the microscope due to a lack of productivity from Kaapo Kakko and Blake Wheeler. The Rangers stuck with their horses rather than signing Patrick Kane for help. Internally, Kakko and Wheeler have breakout potential. External help is needed to fill the center's void.
The second item on his Christmas list is a flank for Zibanejad and Kreider. With No. 72 and his current condition, the need is more important than the want.
The front office has displayed the ability to sign effective, low-budget skaters before. A prime example is Erik Gustafsson. The Lavioletten rearguard inked an $825,000 contract on July 1st. A steal of a deal.
The slithery Swede has 3 goals and 7 assists in 14 games, good for 6th on the team in points with 10. With Adam Fox on the LTIR, Gustafsson has quarterbacked the 2nd best powerplay unit in the NHL (33.3%) with ease.
For Fox there was Gustafsson. For Shesterkin there was Quick. Who can the team lean on without Chytil?
The adage is as real as it gets. No team wins a championship without a third line.