The New York Rangers are facing a mix of challenges and promising developments early in the 2025-26 NHL season. From an unexpected scoring drought at home to standout performances and injury concerns, here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team.
Home Ice Woes
The Rangers have made an unwanted mark in NHL history, becoming the first team to be shut out in their first three home games of a season. This 180-minute scoreless stretch at Madison Square Garden is the second-longest home drought to start a season in league history. Only the 1928-29 Pittsburgh Pirates endured a longer wait. In their latest loss, the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Rangers 2-0, despite the Rangers having several quality chances. Goaltender Stuart Skinner made 30 saves for the Oilers. Artemi Panarin was denied on a breakaway, and Will Cuylle had a close-range shot stopped. The Rangers have failed to score on their first 90 shots on home ice, leading to frustration among fans. Despite the scoring slump, the Rangers are trying to remain positive. Captain J.T. Miller stated that there is a lot to like about their game and it is a unique situation. Coach Mike Sullivan highlighted that the team is controlling play and territory, limiting shots and scoring chances, and generating good looks.
Sam Carrick's Impressive Start
Amidst the team's struggles, Sam Carrick has emerged as a surprising bright spot. The fourth-line winger has recorded three assists in the first five games, showcasing strong performance at both ends of the ice. Carrick's contributions have been particularly noteworthy considering the hope for more production from the team's depth forwards. The line of Adam Edstrom, Sam Carrick, and Matt Rempe has been the Blueshirts' most efficient line at 5v5. Carrick's line had a team-best expected goal share of 77.48 percent.
Vincent Trocheck on Long-Term Injured Reserve
Adding to the Rangers' challenges, forward Vincent Trocheck has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR). Trocheck suffered an upper-body injury during the game against the Buffalo Sabres on October 9 and will now miss a minimum of 10 games or 24 days. This is a significant blow to the team, as Trocheck has been a strong contributor, scoring 26 goals and 33 assists last season. In a corresponding move, the Rangers recalled defenseman Scott Morrow from AHL Hartford.
Igor Shesterkin's Strong Play
Despite the team's difficulties, goaltender Igor Shesterkin has been playing at an elite level. In four games, he has one shutout and two wins, with a 0.76 goals-against-average (GAA) and a .972 save percentage (SV%). Shesterkin's strong start is an encouraging sign for the Rangers, especially after what he considered a subpar season. Coach Mike Sullivan praised Shesterkin, calling him a world-class goalie and one of the very best.
Other Rangers News
- Chad Ruhwedel Retirement: Former Rangers defenseman Chad Ruhwedel announced his retirement from the NHL on August 12, 2025. He spent most of the 2024-25 season with Hartford of the American Hockey League.
- Ryan Lindgren's Contract: In July 2024, Ryan Lindgren signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Rangers, avoiding arbitration.
- Barclay Goodrow's Departure: Barclay Goodrow was claimed off waivers by the San Jose Sharks in June 2024. Several Rangers veterans lamented the loss of Goodrow. He was traded to the New York Rangers for a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft.
- New Additions: The Rangers agreed to terms with defenseman Chad Ruhwedel on a one-year contract. The team also named J.T. Miller as the new captain.
- Home Game Struggles: The Rangers have had a historically poor start to the season at home. They became the first team in NHL history to go three consecutive home games without a goal to begin the season.
- Will Borgen Injury: Rangers defenseman Will Borgen did not practice due to a lower-body injury and his status is uncertain.
As the 2025-26 season progresses, the Rangers will need to address their scoring struggles while relying on Shesterkin's stellar goaltending. The team is back in action on October 16 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, seeking to turn their fortunes around.
