Unfortunately, missing Trocheck is having a bigger effect on the top 6 than is seems. Zib and Miller not playing together has taken a lot of scoring potential out of the top 6 along with Panarin and Laf playing without Trocheck. Miller seems to be still injured, also. Trocheck's intensity and fearless play opened up the ice for Panarin and Laf.Who out of Panarin, Lafreniere, Cuylle, Zibanejad and Miller have had a decent start to their season? Zibanejad is the only one even close to decent. That’s 5 of your top six that are flat out are not getting it done. Panarin must be pouting about his contract or doesn’t like the coach or something. One good game so far.
Problem the Rangers have is there is such a drop off after the above five and Trochek that they know they will always be top six. The Rangers don’t have the third line or fourth line talent to bump a top six guy if they are shitting the bed. And it shows because the top six plays like they have no fear of being demoted to a third or fourth line, and laugh at the thought of one of them getting sat.And Sullivan seems fixated on the same PP people playing 90% of a PP no matter how bad they are. Sullivan should ask Laviolette how that worked out for him last year.
This is not looking good at all.
The season is still early, but last night's speed and talent display by the sharks against the Rangers was eye opening.
The other shocking display was from Raddysh and his shooting. I hope the sniper like quality of his shot does not go back into hibernation.
I’m not as optimistic Trochek is going to add much unless he’s the Trochek of two seasons ago and not last years version.