rangers Defy Odds, Secure Comeback Win against Bruins
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In a thrilling matchup at Madison Square Garden, the New York Rangers managed to retake control of their game against the Boston Bruins, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory. This win was especially notable because it marked the first time the Rangers changed their defense in 19 games, and they did so successfully despite the lineup adjustment.
A Fresh Face on Defense
Urho Vaakanainen’s illness forced the Rangers to make a change, inserting Zac Jones into the lineup for the first time since December 23. Jones had been a healthy scratch for the previous 18 straight games and 20 of the last 21. This season alone, the 24-year-old defenseman had spent 26 games watching from the press box.
Figure: Zac Jones skates with the puck against Justin Brazeau during the Rangers’ 3-2 win over the Bruins on Feb. 5, 2025. NHLI via Getty Images
Head coach Peter Laviolette praised Jones’s performance, noting, “I thought he was really good. Not just moving the puck and the skating, but for me, it was the way he attacked defensively in the defensive zone.The way he closed, there was extra attitude in what he was doing out there. That’s what we’ve been looking for, too.”
Paired with Braden Schneider, the duo combined for two shots on goal, two blocks, and three hits in the win.
Fourth Line Transformation
The rangers’ fourth line has undergone significant changes following Adam Edstrom’s perhaps season-ending lower-body injury. What was once a bruising forechecking unit composed of Edstrom, Matt Rempe, and Sam Carrick has now evolved into a trio that skated in just their third game together on Wednesday night, with the addition of Jimmy Vesey.While Vesey brought a veteran presence to the line, rempe logged his highest ice time of the season at 10:08 before coming in at 8:18 in Wednesday’s win. Coach Laviolette commented, “I would guess that Matt’s played somewhere between 8-10 minutes depending on penalty kill, power play, depending on the score of the game if we’re down by a couple goals and we might double shift somebody or move the lines around a little bit. I think he’s done a good job. He was physical.I’d still like to see a little bit more with the puck from that group, offensively.”
Goaltending Performance
Igor Shesterkin played a crucial role in the victory, stopping 15 of the 17 shots he faced. This performance improved his season record to 18-18-2.
Key Points Summary
| Player | Role | Performance Highlights |
|———————–|——————————-|————————————————————-|
| Zac Jones | Defenseman | First game as Dec. 23; praised for defensive attitude |
| Urho Vaakanainen | Defenseman | Ruled out due to illness |
| Matt Rempe | Fourth Line | Highest ice time of the season (10:08) |
| Jimmy Vesey | Fourth Line | Veteran presence; third game with new trio |
| Igor Shesterkin | Goaltender | Stopped 15 of 17 shots; record improved to 18-18-2 |
The Rangers’ ability to adapt and overcome challenges, both in terms of lineup changes and injuries, has been a defining characteristic of their season. As they continue to navigate through the ups and downs, their resilience and strategic adjustments have proven to be key factors in their success.
For more on the Rangers’ journey this season, visit the New York Post.
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Rangers Defy Odds, Secure Comeback Win Against Bruins
In a thrilling matchup at madison square Garden, the New York Rangers managed to retake control of their game against the Boston Bruins, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory. This win was especially notable because it marked the first time the Rangers changed their defense in 19 games, and they did so successfully despite the lineup adjustment.
Interview with Hockey Analyst, Alexei Petrov, on the Rangers’ Comeback Win
We sat down with Alexei Petrov, a renowned hockey analyst and expert on the New York Rangers, to discuss the team’s recent victory and their resilience throughout the season.
fresh Face on Defense
A Fresh Face on Defense
Urho Vaakanainen’s illness forced the Rangers to make a change, inserting Zac Jones into the lineup for the first time since December 23. jones had been a healthy scratch for the previous 18 straight games and 20 of the last 21.This season alone, the 24-year-old defenseman had spent 26 games watching from the press box.
Figure: Zac Jones skates with the puck against Justin brazeau during the Rangers’ 3-2 win over the Bruins on Feb. 5, 2025. NHLI via Getty Images
Senior Editor (SE): How notable was Zac Jones’s performance in the Rangers’ comeback win?
Alexei Petrov (AP): Zac Jones’s performance was crucial. inserted into the lineup due to Urho Vaakanainen’s illness, Jones stepped up admirably.Coach Peter Laviolette praised his defensive attitude and skating ability. Jones’s contribution was notable, especially considering he had been a healthy scratch for 18 straight games.
Fourth Line Transformation
Fourth Line Transformation
The Rangers’ fourth line has undergone significant changes following Adam Edstrom’s perhaps season-ending lower-body injury. What was once a bruising forechecking unit composed of Edstrom,Matt Rempe,and Sam Carrick has now evolved into a trio that skated in just their third game together on Wednesday night,with the addition of Jimmy Vesey. While vesey brought a veteran presence to the line, rempe logged his highest ice time of the season at 10:08 before coming in at 8:18 in Wednesday’s win. coach Laviolette commented, “I would guess that Matt’s played somewhere between 8-10 minutes depending on penalty kill, power play, depending on the score of the game if we’re down by a couple goals and we might double shift somebody or move the lines around a little bit. I think he’s done a good job. He was physical.I’d still like to see a little bit more with the puck from that group, offensively.”
SE: How has the transformation of the fourth line impacted the Rangers’ performance?
AP: The transformation of the fourth line has added depth and versatility to the Rangers’ lineup. Jimmy Vesey brought a veteran presence, which has been instrumental in stabilizing the new trio. Matt Rempe’s increased ice time and physicality have also contributed to their effectiveness. While there’s still room for improvement, notably in offensive production, the fourth line’s performance has been a positive growth.
goaltending Performance
Goaltending Performance
igor Shesterkin played a crucial role in the victory, stopping 15 of the 17 shots he faced. This performance improved his season record to 18-18-2.
SE: How has Igor Shesterkin’s performance impacted the Rangers’ season?
AP: igor Shesterkin’s consistent performance has been a stabilizing force for the Rangers. His ability to stop critical shots and maintain composure under pressure has been key to their success. Improving his record to 18-18-2 reflects his resilience and contribution to the team’s victories.
Key Points Summary
| Player | Role | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Zac Jones | Defenseman | First game as Dec. 23; praised for defensive attitude |
| Urho Vaakanainen | Defenseman | Ruled out due to illness |
| Matt Rempe | Fourth Line | Highest ice time of the season (10:08) |
| Jimmy Vesey | fourth Line | Veteran presence; third game with new trio |
| Igor Shesterkin | Goaltender | Stopped 15 of 17 shots; record improved to 18-18-2 |
The Rangers’ ability to adapt and overcome challenges, both in terms of lineup changes and injuries, has been a defining characteristic of their season. As they continue to navigate through the ups and downs, their resilience and strategic adjustments have proven to be key factors in their success.
For more on the Rangers’ journey this season, visit the New York Post
