The New York Rangers secured their playoff aspirations with a dominating 4-0 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their need to solidify their standing after being locked with the Blue Jackets for the final wild-card position.
Heading for the game, the stakes were colossal, as both teams entered the match with 70 points, battling for the coveted playoff spot. Vincent Trocheck, one of the Rangers' forwards, remarked on the match’s significance, stating, "It's a massive game." The excitement was palpable as fans packed the arena, aware of the dramatic importance of this game.
The Rangers wasted no time displaying aggression. Just under two minutes after the puck drop, Mika Zibanejad's relentless forechecking led to a turnover against Damon Severson. He quickly facilitated the puck to Alexis Lafrenière, who capitalized on the opportunity, scoring the opening goal and setting the tone for the game. This swift success reflected the improvements Lafrenière has made since being placed on the line with Zibanejad and J.T. Miller, with head coach Peter Laviolette praising Zibanejad's determination and the deployment of Lafrenière: "He’s played really, really well for us," Laviolette stated, reflecting confidence in his players' synergy.
New York’s defensive play contrasted starkly with their previous outing against the Blue Jackets, where they conceded seven goals. The meeting on Saturday night was reminiscent of playoff-style hockey, as the Rangers showed resilience, blocking shots and limiting the Blue Jackets' high-quality chances. Igor Shesterkin, their goaltender, secured his fifth shutout of the season, showing deft ability and significant presence behind the net.
After the first period, which ended with Lafrenière’s early goal, the Rangers tightened their grip. Despite being outshot 9-4, their defensive strategy kept the Blue Jackets at bay, culminating in Artemi Panarin scoring off assists from Lafrenière and Will Borgen at 11:36 of the second period. This goal illustrated the Rangers' capability to transition counterattacks effectively, augmented by their sturdy forechecking.
Laviolette noted the team's growth during the second and third periods, asserting, "I thought we got... every minute of the game," marking the Rangers’ continuous improvement throughout the night. The gameplan, which involved clogging key areas on ice, allowed them to control gameplay. The Rangers managed to stifle any significant threats from the Blue Jackets.
Though the score was largely decided by the final stretch of the game, the Rangers didn't let up. They scored again with Vincent Trocheck hitting the net off Panarin and Cuylle with just under six minutes remaining to stamp their lead. The resolve displayed by New York was indicative of their playoff ambitions. Fox's return came at the right time as they entered the last 15 games of the regular season.
Despite the celebratory mood from the fans and media alike, Laviolette remained focused on the road ahead. “We got a lot of work to do,” he stated. The Rangers know the fight isn't over yet, with tough matchups looming, including Sunday night's game against the Edmonton Oilers. The message was clear—self-responsibility would dictate their success: "We’re in charge of winning hockey games and don’t have to look anywhere else."
Fox, who had missed the past eight games due to injury, was back just in time for this pivotal moment. Previously injured on February 25, Fox has been instrumental for the Rangers, tied for second on the team with 48 points this season. Laviolette’s confidence was evident, highlighting how Fox can reinvigorate their power play, especially after struggling without him.
The Rangers are determined not to pop the celebratory champagne just yet; they understand the season's challenges continue, and their focus remains on the remaining games, needing consistency and resilience to overcome what lies ahead. And as the clock ticks down to the postseason, their collective performance will be pivotal for their playoff dreams.
Next up for the Rangers, the clash against the Oilers will test their mettle and playoff readiness as they strive for victory again. With every game significant, pressure mounts to deliver and sustain their place among the contenders.