Rangers head into 2025-26 with a clearer plan and a roster overhaul aimed at a sharp bounce-back after a brutal 2024-25. Core veterans and a sharpened defensive unit are front and center as Mike Sullivan attempts to unlock a higher ceiling for Sam Miller-era stars and the kids waiting in the wings. Alexis Lafrenière faces seven-year, $52.15 million expectations while Mika Zibanejad looks to reverse a recent slide. A revamped blueline—Gavrikov, Borgen, Vaakanainen, Soucy—should lift Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick, who enter a season with real coaching-driven structure in front of them. The 3C question looms large, with Parssinen, Raddysh and company vying for a defined identity. In net, Shesterkin anchors, but Quick’s age adds a layer of risk and opportunity.

Fantasy takeaway: Fox remains the anchor on the back end and a primary multi-category producer. Miller, Lafrenière and Trocheck form the high-upside trio, while the third line’s stability could swing 12-15 extra wins or losses in close fantasy calls. Watch for expanded roles for Cuylle, Perreault and Othmann if Sullivan trusts them in top or third lines. If Lafrenière finally breaks out, and Zibanejad recaptures his scoring touch, the Rangers become a subtle, high-upside playoff dart board for managers who can time hot streaks and injuries on a deep scoreboard.