It feels like it’s been ages since the Rangers were the top team in the NHL, even though it was just last season.
Because despite having close to the exact same team as that Presidents’ Trophy-winning campaign, the Blueshirts — since they got back to full strength three weeks ago — have not come close to resembling the squad that dominated most of last regular season.
The best team in the NHL so far this season, the Jets, were at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night, and the Rangers did not measure up in an empty net-abetted 6-3 loss.
It was one of the better performances the Rangers have had in the last eight games, but it had to be with the hottest team in the league coming to their house just five days after they were embarrassed there by the Sabres in a five-goal defeat.
Winnipeg came into the night on a six-game winning streak, fresh off setting a new NHL record after winning their 14th game in their first 15 of the season.
Plus, they had the sharpest goalie in the league right now in Connor Hellebuyck behind them.
The task was always going to be a lofty one, but the issues that have plagued the Rangers lately – poor puck management and sloppy breakouts – were the difference.
Mika Zibanejad had a particularly tough night amid a stretch where the Rangers’ No. 1 center has not looked like himself. Three of his turnovers directly led to Jets goals.
There was also a moment at the beginning of the middle frame when the Swedish center had to retreat to the Rangers locker room.
Zibanejad’s teammates noticed something was wrong, a trainer escorted him off the ice and talked to him on the bench before he went to the room briefly.
The 31-year-old returned shortly after, but the Rangers continued to be hampered by his insufficient play.