The New York Rangers are in ninth place in the Eastern Conference when you look at the NHL standings more closely. The franchise has participated in 66 games, securing 32 victories, suffering 28 defeats, and experiencing 8 losses in overtime. It seems highly unlikely that they will reach the Stanley Cup playoffs, doesn’t it? Not exactly. The Columbus Blue Jackets, currently sitting in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, share an identical point total of 70 with the Rangers.

The two teams are now vying for their final opportunity to secure a shot at the playoffs. In a promising development for the Rangers, there’s fresh optimism as they pursue their aspirations in the 2024-25 NHL season. On X, NHL correspondent Mollie Walker disclosed an important update for the franchise, noting, “Adam Fox has been taken off injured reserve, per NHL media site.”

This is significant news for the Rangers as they pursue that crucial final playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Last month, Fox sustained an upper-body injury during a game against the New York Islanders, as the defenseman landed heavily on his shoulder while defending in front of his own net. Despite being seen in the team’s practice sessions, he was still in the process of recovery.

However, just as everyone believed he had made a recovery, coach Peter Laviolette remarked, “Nothing’s changed with him. That’s great he’s out on the ice and progressing, but he’s on IR still.” The coach expressed a hopeful outlook, allowing his player ample time to recuperate. It appears that the outcome of patience has ultimately benefited the Rangers, who are now set to welcome their top defenseman back to the main roster for the final stretch of the regular season.

What about Fox’s career? Beginning with the 2019-20 season, the defenseman has been a key player for the New York Rangers, participating in 415 games to date. During this time, he has netted 58 goals, provided 298 assists, and amassed a total of 356 points. In 2021, Fox inked a seven-year deal with the Rangers, highlighting the team’s awareness of his significance for their playoff ambitions. Recently, another significant contract was finalized for the franchise too, but with their goaltender.

New York Rangers getting on those deals

New York Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick was at the center of swirling rumors as the NHL trade deadline approached. As speculation swirled about his readiness to transition to a more competitive team, the Rangers executed a significant maneuver. Mollie Walker reported that the “#NYR have signed Jonathan Quick to a one year extension at $1.55 million AAV, per source.”

This appeared to be a straightforward agreement for Quick. However, it provided the supporters with a brief respite ahead of their concluding regular season games. What is the reason for that? Quick possesses a wealth of experience. Throughout his career, he has participated in 801 games, boasting a save percentage of .911.

Who would be willing to part ways with one of the most seasoned goalies in the NHL? There is no definitive answer! What is Quick’s take on his role with the Rangers? “For the most part I would say it helps as far as you are playing once a week as opposed to three, four times a week. For the body, you play that game and you have a couple days to recover and prepare for the next one. I just like being around the team. Coming and competing every day. However I can help the team, just tell me what I have to do and I’ll do it,” stated the goalie. With Igor Shesterkin and Quick on their roster, the Rangers will be going for that final push.