Some Rangers players to watch out for as the 2024-25 season approaches.
And now – without any fooling around – here are the "The Four Most Important Rangers Heading Into The New Season."
1. FILIP CHYTIL: If the Czech center is as "good to go" as management says he is, then the Blueshirts are set down the middle. Mika Zibanejad, Vinnie Trocheck and Chytil comprise a neat Trifecta. IF Chytil stays healthy and plays to his potential. Fil, therefore will fill out a formidable offense down the middle where it counts.
2. ZAC JONES: Patience has been the Richmond, Virginia native's virtue. He's paid his dues in the AHL and part-time work with the big team. Assuming that Jacob Trouba will be the sixth defenseman, Jones will slot in at five, right behind Braden Schneider. Jones is ready, willing and able to strengthen the D.
3. MATT REMPE: Believe me, he's as ready as the Big Guy ever will be for full-time duty; and I don't mean maybe either! It's up to Peter Laviolette to find Matt's niche either on the third or fourth line. If Lavvy plays him right, The Skating Giraffe will easily prove to be "The New Barclay Goodrow."
4.REILLY SMITH: The Penguins thought adding the Mimico, Ontario native last year would give Pittsburgh depth. Instead he gave them disappointment. But that doesn't mean he can't be a Rangers' ace-in-the-hole. At 32, Smitty may just have another good year with the right team; the Blueshirts.