The New York Rangers picked up a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators last night (November 1), despite holding a hefty 41-18 edge in shots. While Artémi Panarin and Alexis Lafrenière found the net for New York, the evening belonged to Igor Shesterkinwho put in a remarkable performance in front of goal to claim victory.

Replay of the Rangers vs. Senators gamep

The Rangers opened the scoring just three minutes into the game when Lafreniere picked up the pocket of Josh Norris before he could clear the defensive zone. Lafrenière quickly found Panarin, who fired a shot past Linus Ullmark, using Travis Hamonic as a screen. Although there were no additional goals in the first period, the Rangers penalty kill made a key save after Sam Carrick was called for tripping Zack Ostapchuk. The Rangers held a 1-0 lead heading into intermission.

Midway through the second period, the Rangers gained a power play after Michael Amadio tripped Braden Schneider. However, the Rangers’ top power play unit struggled to get going for the first 56 seconds, then Chris Kreider went into the box for hooking Thomas Chabot. The Rangers spent much of the remainder of the second period shorthanded, with Adam Fox and Ryan Lindgren both taking penalties, but strong defensive efforts and strong saves from Shesterkin kept the score at 1-0.

Related: Rangers’ future must include Kaapo Kakko

Barely a minute into the third period, Norris was ejected for hooking Reilly Smith. The Rangers’ top power play unit couldn’t convert, but the second unit made good use of its scarce time on the ice. After a superb pass from Smith, Filip Chytil threaded the needle to find Lafrenière in front, giving the Rangers a 2-0 lead. Ottawa continued to pressure and managed to cut the lead to 2-1 when Brady Tkachuk served Adam Gaudette on a crosscourt pass midway through the period. But Shesterkin and the Rangers held on, sealing the 2-1 victory. The win improved the Rangers to 7-2-1, while Ottawa dropped to 5-5-0.

Rangers takeaways

1. Shesterkin was outstanding all night, stopping 40 of 41 shots, including a few highlight-reel saves. Without his exploits, the Rangers probably would not have won. With this performance, Shesterkin improved to 5-2-1 on the season, with a .931 save percentage and a 2.25 goals-against average. Now in the final year of his contract after reportedly turning down an eight-year extension worth $88 million, games like these highlight why the Rangers need to do whatever it takes to bring him back. Shesterkin has been the backbone of the team since its inception, and without him, the Rangers’ future remains uncertain.
2. Through the first eight games, the Rangers’ 5-on-5 play showed marked improvement, with the team controlling puck possession, tempo and high-danger scoring chances. However, in their last two games – against the Capitals on Tuesday and against the Senators last night – that control has diminished. The Rangers only managed 34% of expected goals at 5-on-5 against Ottawa and only 27% against Washington. This interruption of even-strength play could become costly, especially if the power play falters as it has in recent playoffs. To get back on track, the Rangers should consider reintroducing Zac Jones into the lineup. Jones brought out the best in Victor Mancini, who struggled when paired with Schneider. Meanwhile, Schneider was more effective alongside Jacob Trouba. Adding Jones into the mix could help the Rangers return to their early season form at even strength.
3. Mika Zibanejad’s season got off to a slow start, with much of his play coming from the perimeter and limited physical engagement. However, last night’s match suggests a positive change. Zibanejad was driving to the net more frequently, creating a great scoring opportunity for Kreider. His effort was evident, especially on one play where he rushed to attempt a diving pass to Kreider on the run. If Zibanejad continues to play with this level of intensity and starts getting more out of his shot, he could return to his 2022-23 form, which would be a huge boost for the Rangers.
4. Will Cuylle, Kaapo Kakko and Chytil continue to impress, contributing in all aspects of the game and giving Rangers some much-needed depth. This trio has consistently provided quality minutes and received more ice time thanks to head coach Peter Laviolette. However, they should also see more opportunities on the power play. Although they are often deployed in the final moments of unsuccessful power plays, giving them significant minutes with a new power play unit could diversify the Rangers’ offense and provide a fallback option if the first unit is struggling.
5. The Rangers made two significant moves this offseason, notably by calling on Smith and Carrick, both of whom have been outstanding additions. Carrick’s courage and shorthanded ability increased the efficiency of the fourth line and made the Rangers’ PK more formidable. Smith, meanwhile, has seven points in ten games and consistently demonstrates a high hockey IQ, positioning himself well and creating turnovers that generate offense. If Zibanejad regains his scoring touch, Smith’s responsible play could help turn the Zibanejad-Kreider line into a powerhouse.
6. Next game: Sunday, November 3, 1 p.m. EST against the New York Islanders at Madison Square Garden.