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As October turned to November, the New York Rangers found themselves with a 7-6-1 record through the first month of the 2025-26 campaign. That mark represents a step forward from last season's struggles, but it also highlights areas that still need attention.
After a disappointing 2024-25 season, the Rangers were aggressive in reshaping their roster over the summer. The front office made numerous moves, creating a significantly different team from the one that took the ice a year ago. So far, the changes have produced mixed results, with both highs and lows evident across the first 14 games.
New York's season began with a shutout loss to the Boston Bruins, but the team quickly rebounded with a strong stretch of play. However, the momentum was halted when goaltender Igor Shesterkin suffered an injury against the Washington Capitals, a development that has dramatically altered the trajectory of the season.
Grading the First Month
With the first month complete, the Rangers must be encouraged by the improvement over last year's output. Early on, the team looked much improved, but performances have since dipped. Prior to their matchup with the Edmonton Oilers, New York had dropped three consecutive games and five of their last six.
Much has been made of Dylan Garand's performance, and while the 24-year-old has been asked to shoulder a heavy load, he has largely risen to the occasion. Additionally, the production of Adam Fox and Alexis Lafreniere has been a major bright spot. Fox, who has stayed healthy and on the ice, has been a point-per-game player for New York. Lafreniere, meanwhile, has picked up right where he left off last season and is also averaging a point per game.
Despite these positives, there have been negatives as well. The team's recent struggles have exposed defensive miscues and lapses that are uncharacteristic of this group. Moving forward, the Rangers must be sharp in front of Shesterkin and rely on him to bail them out, or things could unravel quickly.
While the second month of the season will bring plenty of questions, the team deserves a decent grade for its 7-6-1 record through the first full month.
Final Grade: C+