MTPS: What To Do When Trocheck Returns

While his return isn't imminent—although he has started skating—it's fair to wonder what the New York Rangers will look like when Vincent Trocheck returns to the lineup.

The Rangers appeared to be headed for their fourth loss in five games when the third period of their game against Edmonton rolled around. Then, Mike Sullivan broke out the line blender and it spun out the following:

Panarin - Zibanejad - Miller
Cuylle - Laba - Lafrenière
Sheary - Parssinen - Raddysh
Edstrom - Carrick - Brodzinski

It looks like he found something.

Despite six years of data that shows that Mika and Panarin go together about as well as ketchup and ice cream, it's worked. Mika has been playing a fast and, dare I say, a nasty 200-foot game. And while it hasn't resulted in goals, this unit has done a great job owning the puck and pinning opponents in their own zone.

Cuylle, Laba, and Lafrenière have developed an insane and instant level of chemistry. And without a veteran on the line, Lafrenière has done less deferring than we've seen in the past and has been more of a play driver for two kids who are willing to crash the net and create havoc in the offensive zone.

Jusso Parssinen is starting to show the physicality, speed, and defensive chops that attracted Chris Drury going as far back as his time as a member of the Nashville Predators. He honestly reminds me of Vladislav Namenstikov—a really solid third line forward who is capable of playing either wing or center. The fourth line hasn't missed a beat with Matt Rempe shelved, as Jonny Brodzinski has brought a speed element that helps the unit gain the zone with the puck and continue to apply pressure.

After completing the comeback in Edmonton with a J.T. Miller overtime goal, the Rangers defensively dominated the Seattle Kraken for their second consecutive OT win, and first time winning three games in a row in almost a year.

So, the question is: What do the Rangers do when Vincent Trockeck returns?