NHL Rangers Crush Bruins 6-2: Will Panarin Keep Up His Scoring Streak or Can Kreider Shine in the Next Game?

The New York Rangers delivered a dominant performance with a 6-2 victory over the Boston Bruins in their Black Friday matinee. Artemi Panarin continued his scoring streak, but all eyes are now on whether Chris Kreider can step up in the next game.

After a shorthanded Bruins struggled to contain the Rangers’ offense, the spotlight turns to whether Kreider, with his recent trade rumors, can seize the moment and shine. This win solidifies the Rangers’ momentum as they eye their next challenge.

Is Artemi Panarin the Early Favorite for the Hart Trophy After Dominant Performance?

The New York Rangers’ 6-2 victory over the Boston Bruins showcased Artemi Panarin’s offensive brilliance, with the star forward extending his point streak to 8 games. His chemistry with linemates Vincent Trocheck and Alexis Lafrenière has become nearly unstoppable, as evidenced by their combined 9 points in the Black Friday matinee.

Panarin currently leads the Rangers in scoring with 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) through 21 games, putting him on pace to surpass his career-high 96-point season. The Russian winger’s ability to control play and create chances makes him a constant threat every shift.

Hart Trophy Contenders Through November

Will Chris Kreider Finally Break Out of His Slump Against Metropolitan Rivals?

While Panarin shines, Chris Kreider’s quiet night (0 points, -1) extended his goal drought to 7 games. The power forward’s regression since his 52-goal campaign has become concerning, particularly his declining shot volume (averaging just 2.1 per game vs. 3.4 last season).

With trade rumors swirling after June’s near-move to Anaheim, Kreider needs to rediscover his net-front presence. The upcoming home-and-home against Carolina presents a prime opportunity – he’s scored 12 career goals against the Hurricanes, his highest versus any opponent.

Can the Rangers Sustain This Offensive Firepower All Season?

New York’s 6-goal outburst marked their league-leading 4th game with 5+ goals in November. Their offense now ranks:

• 1st in goals per game (3.89)
• 2nd in power play percentage (31.4%)
• 3rd in shots per game (34.2)

However, sustainability questions remain. Their PDO (102.3) suggests some regression may come, while their middle-six forwards have benefited from unsustainably high shooting percentages. Igor Shesterkin’s .912 save percentage (down from .935 last season) also raises concerns about defensive support.

Rangers’ Month-by-Month Scoring

How Badly Will the Bruins Miss Charlie McAvoy Against Elite Offenses?

Boston’s struggles without their top defenseman (upper-body injury) were glaring, allowing a season-worst 42 shots. The defense corps combined for a -13 rating, with Hampus Lindholm (-3) particularly exposed against New York’s speed. McAvoy’s absence disrupts:

• Power play quarterbacking (0/4 vs NYR)
• Top-pair shutdown minutes
• Transition game breakout passes

With upcoming games against Colorado and Tampa Bay, the Bruins’ defensive depth faces its toughest test yet. Coach Montgomery may need to adjust systems until McAvoy returns.

Will the Rangers Pursue Another Defenseman Before Trade Deadline?

Despite the offensive explosion, New York’s blue line showed vulnerabilities – particularly in limiting high-danger chances (allowed 14 to Boston). With Braden Schneider still developing and Zac Jones inconsistent, GM Chris Drury might explore:

• Vancouver’s Luke Schenn (physical RHD)
• St. Louis’ Colton Parayko (playoff experience)
• Arizona’s Jakob Chychrun (puck-moving upside)

The Rangers possess trade capital with 3 second-round picks in 2024 and prospects like Brennan Othmann. However, cap space remains tight ($1.2M projected deadline room) without salary retention.