The Rangers have lost four straight games and seven of their last eight since returning from the break, deepening concerns about their form.
Defenceman Braden Schneider described the team’s current mindset, telling TSN that the group is feeling fragile. He said the players still believe they are a good team with the ability to win games, but added that they must avoid letting small moments in games affect them.
New York currently sits last in the Eastern Conference by points percentage, holding a 20-21-6 record, despite the standings remaining tightly contested.
“It’s not fun to lose. We’re trying to look for answers, trying to find answers,” said centre Mika Zibanejad.
Head coach Mike Sullivan, in his first season with the Rangers, said the solution must come from within the squad. He stressed that the answers are in the locker room and that the team needs to bring consistent enthusiasm to its daily work if it wants to turn things around.
Injuries have added to the challenge, with starting goaltender Igor Shesterkin and top defenceman Adam Fox sidelined. Their absence has forced others, including veteran goalie Jonathan Quick, to take on larger roles.
However, Sullivan said injuries cannot be used as an excuse, acknowledging that while the players are human and affected by losses, the team must find a way to respond on the ice.
