Disappointment looms for several NHL teams as they compete for the last playoff spots. However, for the New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks, teams with high expectations at the season`s start, the introspection has already begun.
The New York Rangers` 7-3 defeat against the Carolina Hurricanes eliminated their playoff hopes. This game marked the second time recently that the Rangers conceded seven or more goals.
The Vancouver Canucks were already out of playoff contention before the weekend. A 3-2 overtime loss to the Minnesota Wild highlighted their frustrating season. The game`s outcome was overshadowed by concern for Derek Forbort, who suffered a broken orbital bone from a late hit by Minnesota’s Yakor Trenin.
The Canucks` performance in the game was also concerning. They squandered a 2-0 lead in the third period and managed only 14 shots on goal in a home game. Their home record is among the NHL`s worst.
Both the Rangers and Canucks are coming off strong previous seasons. The Rangers won the Presidents’ Trophy and reached the final four, while the Canucks topped their division and were close to the Western Conference Final.
Now, both teams face significant off-season questions. For the Rangers, major changes in hockey operations might be considered. In Vancouver, the future of coach Rick Tocchet, whose contract is expiring, is uncertain.
Roster changes are expected for both teams. The Rangers have key players locked into long-term contracts with trade protection, limiting their flexibility. The Canucks are likely to lose Brock Boeser to free agency and face questions around Thatcher Demko`s health and Elias Pettersson`s performance relative to his large contract.
Addressing the issues from these disappointing seasons will be challenging for both franchises as they aim to regain their status among the league`s top teams.
Key Weekend NHL Observations
• Despite defeating Vancouver, the Minnesota Wild still need one point to secure a playoff spot. The return of key forwards Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek from injury, and the expected debut of Zeev Buium, could make them a team to watch in the playoffs.
• The Columbus Blue Jackets surprised with two dominant wins over the Washington Capitals, despite Washington missing key players. Adam Fantilli`s strong performance and goalie Jet Greaves`s excellent play were highlights. Columbus still faces a tough path to the playoffs.
Upcoming NHL Week Highlights
• Nikita Kucherov is set to win his third Art Ross Trophy as scoring leader, with Nathan MacKinnon resting for Colorado`s final games.
• The St. Louis Blues can clinch a playoff spot with a win against Utah. After a winning streak, recent losses have increased the pressure.
• Alex Ovechkin is approaching 900 career goals, needing four more this week. The possibility of reaching this milestone against Sidney Crosby in the final game of the season is a major storyline.
• The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin on Saturday.
Tristan Blackwood