The New York Rangers are making bold adjustments in an effort to jumpstart their stagnant power play. During Sunday’s practice, head coach Peter Laviolette made a surprising move by promoting forward Alexis Lafrenière to the first power play unit, replacing veteran center Mika Zibanejad. The decision marks a significant opportunity for Lafrenière, who has seen limited time on the top unit in the past but has yet to secure a consistent role there.
The revamped first unit now features Lafrenière alongside Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider, Vincent Trocheck, and Adam Fox, while Zibanejad shifts to the second unit with Reilly Smith, Filip Chytil, Will Cuylle, and K’Andre Miller.
Zibanejad Responds to the Change
Zibanejad, a key player for the Rangers, addressed the shift candidly. Speaking to Mollie Walker of the New York Post, he emphasized the importance of team focus over personal feelings:
“I don’t think there’s time for that right now. This has nothing to do with me personally or something that I’m going to make about myself,” Zibanejad said. “We’re not in a place in our season to feel sorry for yourself. It’s a different opportunity, it’s another opportunity for that unit with Laffy coming up – and deservedly so. Honestly, just for me, to help the unit that I’m playing on and we go from there.”
Zibanejad’s professionalism in accepting the change underscores the urgency surrounding the Rangers’ need for offensive improvements.
Power Play Woes Plague the Rangers
The Rangers currently rank 23rd in the NHL in power play efficiency, converting at a disappointing 17.9% rate. The team’s struggles were magnified during Saturday’s 6-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, where they surrendered two short-handed goals. The defeat highlighted ongoing issues with execution on special teams, a problem that Chris Kreider addressed bluntly:
“It’s supposed to be a strength of our team. Tonight it was a detriment,” Kreider admitted.
Lafrenière’s Opportunity to Shine
This latest development places significant pressure on Lafrenière to deliver results. The 2020 first-overall pick has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his young career but has yet to fully meet the high expectations set for him. His promotion to the top power play unit represents a chance to solidify his role as a key contributor for the Rangers.
Second Unit Adjustments
Meanwhile, the second power play unit will look to capitalize on Zibanejad’s presence and experience. With Reilly Smith, Filip Chytil, and K’Andre Miller alongside him, the revamped group has the potential to provide a balanced attack that can relieve some of the pressure on the first unit.
A Crucial Turning Point
The Rangers’ current power play shake-up comes at a critical juncture in their season. With mounting pressure to perform and disappointing special teams play contributing to recent losses, the team hopes these adjustments will inject much-needed energy and creativity into their lineup.
Only time will tell if Lafrenière’s promotion will spark the offensive resurgence the Rangers desperately need. For now, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the young forward steps into this pivotal role.
