The 2024-2025 New York Rangers have seen their playoff hopes virtually extinguished, languishing four points behind the Montreal Canadiens with only six games left in the season. This year was marred by a lack of effort and poor performance, leading to questions about the team's leadership and roster decisions. Following a strong start, the Rangers stumbled due to numerous factors, including ineffective defensive pairings and troubling trade rumors. Key players like Jacob Trouba and Chris Kreider were embroiled in controversies that seemed to disrupt team cohesion.

Coach Peter Laviolette's decisions, particularly regarding player usage and tactical approaches, have come under fire. The return of Ryan Lindgren was deemed a pivotal moment, disrupting previously effective defensive combinations. The Rangers' struggles highlight the need for significant roster adjustments, with Kreider and Mika Zibanejad likely on the trading block as the team prepares for major changes.