WARNING TO RANGER FANS: The following analysis should be read with at least two aspirins handy; it could be painful. (And don't say The Maven didn't warn you.)
If the Blueshirts are to rise from the ashes, the most practical way to do so is to study the best example of a team that has risen from the ashes.
The Florida Panthers happen to be Exhibit A through Z. The lesson is simple; see how the Cats did it and follow their terrific template.
My able-bodied-extremely-insightful analyst Jess Rubenstein insists that a legit comparison of the clubs is impossible "because of how both teams are run by their respective ownership and management."
Yes, BUT, Jovial Jess then graciously provided me, and the endless legion of Ranger fans – with the most perfect comparison imaginable. It's a Hockey 101, 1001 lesson all in one.
Here's how Sir Rubenstein sees it. (There's still time to turn away; 'cause this is tough stuff.) Go, Jeff, GO!
PLAYING STYLE:
FLORIDA: The Panthers have a fast, aggressive forecheck -- an "in your face" brand of hockey.
RANGERS: The Blueshirts finesse game was built for the 1-3-1 system and relied too much on the power play vs. even strength. It's unknown how the new coach will run the team in large part because he's inheriting Peter Laviolette's core.
PLAYERS:
FLORIDA: Coach Paul Maurice features a deep, experienced forward core with two elite two-way centers and physical wings. When his stars are slumping, the others find a way to score.
RANGERS: New York has a blend of veteran stars (Panarin, Zibanejad) and emerging youth (Lafreniere, Cuylle), but less proven depth on the wings. When New York's stars slump, the Rangers struggle to score.
DEFENSE:
FLORIDA: The Cats accent an elite pair with Ekblad and Forsling, bolstered by Seth Jones and veteran depth.
RANGERS: Fox is a Norris-calibre anchor while Gavrikov replaces K'Andre Miller. Schneider is an up-and-comer but overall depth is younger and less-battle-tested.
GOALTENDING:
FLORIDA: Bobrovsky remains a playoff workhorse: Tarasov is a capable backup.
RANGERS: Shesterkin struggled in 2024-25 and needs to rebound to his former elite self. Quick provides veteran insurance.
RUBENSTEIN'S SUMMARY:
"Florida leans on a vet-heavy, Cup-tested core that finds scoring when they need it. For the most part, the Rangers are a one-line (Panarin, Trocheck, Miller) team. They struggle to find even-strength scoring and balance.
How Long Will It Take Chris Drury To Build Toward A Panthers-Type Team?
If you had to guess what the sweetest dream for a citizen of Rangerville would be tonight, it certainly would be to have his Blueshirts as a reasonable facsimile of the Florida Panthers.
"As for defensive depth, the Panthers have proven depth, especially on the right side. Rangers are suspect as only Fox, Gavrikov and Schneider can be counted on to be consistent.
"Finally, goaltending finds elite starters on both sides but Florida's tandem is more consistent in the postseason. The edge is Quick, who is a proven winner. If Florida loses Bob, the Cats might be in trouble."
(TOMORROW: FLORIDA VS. NEW YORK; HOW MANAGEMENT MAKES A DIFFERENCE.)