The Rangers lacked forward depth last season, often relying on a struggling Conor Sheary in their top six. General manager Chris Drury addressed this by adding numerous forwards in the offseason, creating a more balanced lineup. This season, the Rangers' bottom-six forwards have performed well, contributing to their last two victories.
Third Line: Will Cuylle, Noah Laba, and Eeli Tolvanen
Gritty winger Cuylle, previously spending significant time on the second line, now starts on the third line due to offseason winger additions. He uses his skating, speed, and strength to pressure opponents, win puck battles, and force turnovers.
Cuylle played a role in a goal against Tampa Bay on Oct. 1, where a pass to him deflected in. He also recorded an assist in the Oct. 2 win against Detroit.
Eeli Tolvanen, signed to a one-year, $1.5 million contract, has impressed early. He's been effective on the forecheck and defensively sound, as has center Noah Laba. Tolvanen already has two goals in three games, and Laba has an assist.
This third line is reliable whether the Rangers are leading or trailing. Cuylle, Tolvanen, and Laba offer defensive strength and offensive contribution, with the size, speed, and strength to challenge opposing top-six forwards. They are also key members of the penalty kill, which has successfully defended all 10 penalties New York has faced this season, limiting dangerous chances from the slot.
Fourth Line: Tye Kartye, Joe Veleno, and Jaroslav Chmelar/Matt Rempe
Defensive-minded center Joe Veleno, signed to a one-year, $1.2 million contract, was a reliable fourth-liner with the Montreal Canadiens. Despite no points in his first three games with New York, he's been effective on the forecheck and penalty kill, making smart, safe decisions and helping protect leads, as seen in the win against Detroit.
Tye Kartye was a strong bottom-six contributor last season, totaling five goals and nine assists in 24 games. This season, he has an assist in three games, plays physically, and excels on the penalty kill. He is noticeable on the forecheck and drives to the net, seeking opportunities from deflections and rebounds.
Physical winger Matt Rempe played in the season opener, while Jaroslav Chmelar, also physical, has played in the last two games. Neither is on the penalty kill, but both forecheck effectively and have provided solid defense in the team's first three games.
While the fourth line may not generate as much offense as the third, their physicality allows them to match up against opponents' top lines in a shutdown capacity.
Bottom-6 Forwards Will Be Key This Season
Despite losing key offensive players Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck, the Rangers now possess greater depth across their lineup. Through three games, their bottom-six forwards have provided strong defense and chipped in offensively. Their performance is crucial for the team's success in close games throughout the season.
