NHL Rumors: The New York Rangers could use some bottom-six scoring and depth

The New York Rangers aren’t in the bracket for Cup play, but the East is pretty wide open right now

B/R Open ice: Frank Seravalli doesn’t view the New York Rangers as a Cup team, but is more optimistic about them than others. They are not allowed to be a demolition team. Adding some points and improving the bottom six could go a long way.

** NHLRumors.com transcription

“I don’t think the Rangers are my cup contender, but I will say they are one of the most intriguing teams in the league. I know their home starts have been frustrating. I had to feel good about being up 5-1 against the Preds on Monday night to maybe break once and for all this very strange dichotomy, or the start of the season, between home and away.”

But I viewed what happened on the Rangers’ home ice this year as a blip and an aberration and an oddity. They have had no problems scoring on the road, where they were the best road team in the league. And I think the way they’ve defended Igor Shesterkin has been so much more impressive this year. I think the Rangers have a better chance to win now than at any time in the last three to four years. You might criticize me for that, but that’s my opinion and my opinion.

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I think they clearly need to find finishing power and scoring ability. But don’t underestimate: the impact of Vincent Trocheck, who returns to the lineup on Monday, gives that team such a big boost of support.

They are struggling in their bottom six. They need to improve their bottom six and become a deeper team, a harder team to play against, and come at you in waves.

I’m still a little optimistic about the Rangers. I’m not saying, you know, I don’t think at any point right now that they should try to tear it down and rebuild it. Maybe they don’t win a Stanley Cup, but look at the Eastern Conference. Except maybe Carolina, who really stands in your way and who you think is such a big overarching roadblock.

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