Prior to the New York Rangers’ 5-2 win over the New York Islanders, Peter Laviolette made monumental changes to the lineup. This was in response to the Rangers’ past couple of games where Laviolette felt the team was not playing their best. Laviolette perceived to change all four offensive lines while also tweaking his defensive pairs and it paid off in a huge way. Throughout the afternoon, the Rangers were flying, generating high quality scoring chances in what seemed like every minute. The Rangers were showing off their flashy, showtime style of hockey that is just so exhilarating to watch. The new line combinations allowed players who have been struggling a bit to finally break out, including Mika Zibanejad who recorded three assists on the day and was all over the ice. “Felt good,” Zibanejad said of how he felt playing alongside Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafrenière. “I think all the lines were gelling and playing well. I think the good start we had to the game got everyone’s energy up a little bit. I’m excited to play with new guys too. I’ve played with both of them in the past here and there, but it was fun.” Jimmy Vesey made his return to the lineup after missing the first ten games of the season with a lower-body injury. Despite not tallying any points, Vesey had a strong performance and really helped propel the fourth line. “Just play simple, just try to play my game,” Vesey said. “Unfortunately I missed some of training camp so just trying to get my legs going on the fly, but I thought it was a good start and hope I can build off it.” It was clear that a lineup change was necessary for the Rangers due to the team’s defensive lapses and stagnating offense through this recent few game stretch. Igor Shesterkin Has Reportedly Rejected Contract Extension Paying Him $11 Million Per Season Laviolette didn’t only credit the lineup adjustments to the Blueshirts’ rout against the Islanders, but was happy with what he saw from these fresh lines. “I do think a fresh look helps once in a while,” Laviolette said. “I don’t know how long it lasts or where it goes, but I thought today it was good. All the lines contributed in a positive way. Minutes were pretty even.” The Rangers will play next on Thursday night against the Buffalo Sabres.
