Don’t mess with success
Rangers sticking with top 2016-17 trio
It wasn’t a coincidence. Last season, three consistent linemates — J.T. Miller, Kevin Hayes and Michael Grabner — each had career years for the Rangers.
So as the 2017-18 opener nears, coach Alain Vigneault isn’t overthinking things.
“There seems to be good chemistry with those three,” he said after practice Sunday. “We’re going to put them together right off the hop and see how they do.”
Given the trio’s prior effectiveness, particularly on offense, that decision seems a wise one.
Often running between wingers Miller and Grabner on the third line, Hayes rebounded from a turbulent 2015-16 campaign to notch a career high in points (49). Likewise, Miller recorded career highs in points (56), plus-minus (+17), and shooting percentage (16.7 percent).
But the highlight of their success was the resurgence of Grabner. A free agent last summer, the Rangers signed Grabner to a twoyear, $3.3 million deal. The 29-year-old Austrian was available for such a modest price, in part, because of his struggles the previous season. As a member of the Maple Leafs, Grabner produced just nine goals in 80 games.
With the help of his new line, he surpassed that mark in his first 16 outings with the Blueshirts. Of his 27 goals — second most on the club to Chris Kreider — 11 were assisted by either Hayes or Miller.
According to Vigneault, each member of the line offers something different. Grabner brings elite breakaway speed that can back up defenders. Hayes, a solid passer and playmaker, and Miller, a “power forward” who can attack the net, are both great decision-makers with the puck.
Heading into training camp, Miller admits he had no knowledge of how the lines would shake out. When he saw his name alongside Hayes and Grabner on the board, he wasn’t complaining.
“Obviously we would like to play together,” he said.
“I know they like playing with one another,” Vigneault said. “They feed off it. They like the opportunity and the challenge.”
After practice Sunday, the Rangers embarked on their team-bonding voyage to Lake Placid.
The trip, which runs through Tuesday, will consist of one practice and sev- eral additional activities, including listening to a speech from seven-time Mount Everest climber Ed Viesturs.
“Part of coming together as a team is obviously knowing one another a little bit more,” Vigneault said. “Any time you come to the rink there’s always hockey-related activities. [In Lake Placid], we’re going to do some other things where we’ll be able to pick up who’s got leadership qualities, who are the guys that go around [together] and like being around [each other].”
Vigneault and captain Ryan McDonagh are still discussing alternate captains for this season. While in Lake Placid, Vigneault will also consult general manager Jeff Gorton. A decision is expected Wednesday.