Can the Rangers Make a Playoff Push in 2025?
This season, the Rangers face a more competitive playoff race compared to last year, when they led the Metropolitan Division and secured a comfortable spot in the playoffs. Key players like Igor Shesterkin and Artemi Panarin helped propel the team to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2024, though they fell short of reaching the Stanley Cup Finals. However, with teams like the Montreal Canadiens, Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, and Boston Bruins all competing for a spot, the path to the postseason is much tougher. The Rangers now have less room for error, and every upcoming game will be crucial in determining if they can repeat last year's success and make a deep playoff run.
As of March 16, 2025, the New York Rangers find themselves in a tightly contested battle for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. In their most recent game on March 15, the Rangers secured a decisive 4-0 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, aiding them into the second wild-card position. Vincent Trocheck's two-goal performance in the third period, along with contributions from Alexis Lafreniere and Artemi Panarin, highlighted the team's offensive success. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin earned his fifth shutout of the season, making 21 saves.
The Rangers' current standing is uncertain, with several teams close behind in the playoff race. The Montreal Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets, each with 69 and 70 points, respectively, are within striking distance, and both have games in hand. The Detroit Red Wings and Boston Bruins, each with 68 points, are also in the mix and could easily close the gap in the coming weeks. The Rangers do hold an advantage in regulation wins, with 29, which outpaces the Blue Jackets, Red Wings, and Bruins, all of whom have 23 regulation victories. The Canadiens are at a slight disadvantage, with only 22 regulation wins. With such a tightly packed race, every game and point gained or lost will be vital in determining whether the Rangers can secure a spot in the postseason.
Looking ahead, the Rangers' schedule features critical matchups that will significantly impact their playoff picture. Upcoming games include home matchups against the Edmonton Oilers tonight, March 16th, and the Calgary Flames on March 18th, followed by a road trip to face the New Jersey Devils early April. Each of these games presents an opportunity to solidify their position or risk slipping in the standings. The Rangers' top line needs to be at its best, especially with the recent activation of Adam Fox from the injured reserve, which helps their defense. Fox's return adds a key element to the team's blueline, and his ability to contribute offensively will be crucial in these high-stakes games.
