Player Discussion Nils Lundkvist

[Miamipuck]

If we play a leftie on the right side during a PO series, dumping the puck into that corner and hammering that D finishing every hit becomes one of the keys for any team we play.

McDonaugh got killed playing the offside in that very same scenario and he was way better at it than anyone we have on our current roster. I do mean he got hammered, I can remeber the hit to this day, not the guy that hit him, my teeth were rattled thru the tv. He was not the same player after.

 

[chosen]

McDonaugh got killed playing the offside in that very same scenario and he was way better at it than anyone we have on our current roster. I do mean he got hammered, I can remeber the hit to this day, not the guy that hit him, my teeth were rattled thru the tv. He was not the same player after.

He was the best defenseman on last season's Stanley Cup winning team.

 

[Miamipuck]

He was the best defenseman on last season's Stanley Cup winning team.

Hedman is the best defenseman on that team and McD was tracking to be an all around perennial Norris trophy candidate and a few yeras later looked like he was cooked here. So yeah he took a beating and wasn't the same player.

 

[chosen]

Hedman is the best defenseman on that team and McD was tracking to be an all around perennial Norris trophy candidate and a few yeras later looked like he was cooked here. So yeah he took a beating and wasn't the same player.

Hedman was not the best defenseman on that team and it wasn't a close call.

McDonagh always drew the opposing #1 line. It may or may not have been because Hedman had a lingering injury, but no matter the reason McDonagh was their best.

 

[Miamipuck]

Hedman was not the best defenseman on that team and it wasn't a close call.

McDonagh always drew the opposing #1 line. It may or may not have been because Hedman had a lingering injury, but no matter the reason McDonagh was their best.

Agree to disagree, McD drew defensive assignements but wasn't the top defenseman.

 

[duhmetreE]

Agree to disagree, McD drew defensive assignements but wasn't the top defenseman.

Hedman has been living off of name the past couple of seasons ( he might have been hurt). McDonagh-Cernak was the top pair last playoffs

but besides the point. Our defense was terrible here. We gave up on McDonagh because we thought he had worn out.... but it was AV and a Ruff defense.

That trade is what one of the things Gorton will be remembered for IMO.

 

[Amazing Kreiderman]

Agree to disagree, McD drew defensive assignements but wasn't the top defenseman.

True, but neither was Hedman.

It was Sergachev.

 

[Vitto79]

Just watched the game. Several times I noticed him making confident plays that he wouldn't have attempted two weeks ago. I want to see that continue vs. Boston.

hes going to get better that’s obvious

just keep playing him . His outlet passes are strong

 

[Chytilmania]

Hedman has been living off of name the past couple of seasons ( he might have been hurt). McDonagh-Cernak was the top pair last playoffs

but besides the point. Our defense was terrible here. We gave up on McDonagh because we thought he had worn out.... but it was AV and a Ruff defense.

That trade is what one of the things Gorton will be remembered for IMO.

Even though he's one of my all time favorite Rangers they had to trade him. If we go all the back to that deadline and sign him to a monster deal, this team looks WAY different. Probably no Panarin, Kakko or Laf. The return blew but it was still the right call. I also like having Miller, Lindgren, Jones and Robertson.

 

[Raspewtin]

him and nemeth have actually played quite well lately. they had some rough plays with the puck but are really tightening up and it's nice that it's coming against some of the more "playoff style" teams.

 

[Chimpradamus]

He was the best defenseman on last season's Stanley Cup winning team.

That doesn't say much. He was the #1 D-man for NYR. Was he a franchise D-man? Not even close. He was like prime Vlasic and not strong enough offensively. Then we had the red haired pirate and Girardi setting records for defensive turnovers. Such a smart idea to dump Strålman who could actually move the puck and skate ahead of these. Yeah, great. Like ditching Zubov ahead of Derian Hatcher(s).

The NYR teams had Lundqvist as a franchise star goaltender. No other player ever played like a star at that level during his career. They could be #1 anything, but they were never a franchise player like Fox or Panarin, who always deliver and strongly.

You could argue McDonaugh played like a star in one playoff run, just because he outscored his pathetic forwards. Then there were two, but Lundqvist was still obviously ahead, so there were never any questions about any Conn Smythe. If NYR ever won a cup the answer for the trophy would be automatic. So, not really a star. And you need a system to win a Cup, 3 star players and some depth. NYR had barely depth and/ or not enough star players.

Then we had Gaborik under Torts and Nash under Vigneault. Just great. f***ing great. The three useless ones (Fumblez, Dreaden and current GM Dreary) under whoever, Richards diminshing into nothing, it never ended, there was no strategy.

Saying McD was the best D-man on a cup run where Lundqvist was in net is like saying: "Well, he's really solid defensively and on a legit team he would probably play on the 2nd pairing. You know, holding the fort when the franchise D-man has to rest." That was the NYR #1 D-man.

As for Staal and Girardi, total trash, yes, they were great at blocking shots from them being unable to handle a puck like a professional defenseman. The biggest turnover machines I've ever seen. Total jokes. Yeah, so cool bleeding because you suck because YOU turned the puck over, as per standard. And the dinosaur coaches couldn't see that.

 

[egelband]

IDK why but I can picture Lundkvist playing the majority of the season but then Jones taking his spot in the playoffs.
Nemeth won't come out because we need a vet and PKer.

I think Nemeth‘s spot in the lineup is almost completely contingent upon Nils also being in the lineup. Barring injury, once Nils is ready to fly solo, Jones will cooler up and Nemeth becomes the 7D. Just my sense.

 

[GoAwayPanarin]

I think Nemeth‘s spot in the lineup is almost completely contingent upon Nils also being in the lineup. Barring injury, once Nils is ready to fly solo, Jones will cooler up and Nemeth becomes the 7D. Just my sense.

I can assure you that was NOT the plan. I'm sure they signed him to give Nils a friendly Swedish face who also graded out well in some areas where we were lacking, but if you're planning to sign a guy who "might" be a 7th D somewhere along the way, you don't give him 3 years at the amount that he got, not when you have all of the defensive prospects that this team has.

 

[egelband]

I can assure you that was NOT the plan. I'm sure they signed him to give Nils a friendly Swedish face who also graded out well in some areas where we were lacking, but if you're planning to sign a guy who "might" be a 7th D somewhere along the way, you don't give him 3 years at the amount that he got, not when you have all of the defensive prospects that this team has.

Nemeth isn’t going to be a long term starter. He’s Nils tutor/ sidekick this year - or less - and then insurance thereafter. They’ll trade him if it becomes an issue. But he’s not blocking prospects for three years. They have him that deal because that’s the market rate.

 

[Matt Rentfree]

Lundkvist brought up how he’s particularly learned a lot from watching the Rangers’ No. 1 defenseman Adam Fox. So what was the most helpful advice he received from the reigning Norris Trophy winner?
https://nypost.com/2021/11/17/rangers-keeping-nils-lundkvist-in-nhl-despite-dwindling-time/
“In the beginning of the season he said, ‘The guys aren’t as smart as you think’ and to just go out there and have fun,” Lundkvist said with a smile.

 

[brakeyawself]

That doesn't say much. He was the #1 D-man for NYR. Was he a franchise D-man? Not even close. He was like prime Vlasic and not strong enough offensively. Then we had the red haired pirate and Girardi setting records for defensive turnovers. Such a smart idea to dump Strålman who could actually move the puck and skate ahead of these. Yeah, great. Like ditching Zubov ahead of Derian Hatcher(s).

The NYR teams had Lundqvist as a franchise star goaltender. No other player ever played like a star at that level during his career. They could be #1 anything, but they were never a franchise player like Fox or Panarin, who always deliver and strongly.

You could argue McDonaugh played like a star in one playoff run, just because he outscored his pathetic forwards. Then there were two, but Lundqvist was still obviously ahead, so there were never any questions about any Conn Smythe. If NYR ever won a cup the answer for the trophy would be automatic. So, not really a star. And you need a system to win a Cup, 3 star players and some depth. NYR had barely depth and/ or not enough star players.

Then we had Gaborik under Torts and Nash under Vigneault. Just great. f***ing great. The three useless ones (Fumblez, Dreaden and current GM Dreary) under whoever, Richards diminshing into nothing, it never ended, there was no strategy.

Saying McD was the best D-man on a cup run where Lundqvist was in net is like saying: "Well, he's really solid defensively and on a legit team he would probably play on the 2nd pairing. You know, holding the fort when the franchise D-man has to rest." That was the NYR #1 D-man.

As for Staal and Girardi, total trash, yes, they were great at blocking shots from them being unable to handle a puck like a professional defenseman. The biggest turnover machines I've ever seen. Total jokes. Yeah, so cool bleeding because you suck because YOU turned the puck over, as per standard. And the dinosaur coaches couldn't see that.

I think McD had ONE season, not just a playoff run, where he looked like a #1 Dman. But that's about it. Ideally, I think he's a middle pair shutdown guy.

Out of all the defenders we have traded over the past 5-10 years, I think Pionk was really the only one that I would want back. He's been the Jets top all around Dman for a few years now. With Morrisey being their top shutdown guy. But Pionk would be an upgrade offensively over Trouba. All though I don't remember if he can play LD. So he wouldn't quite fit with our current build with Fox and Trouba at RD. But still, just on talent, he's a guy I kind of regret letting go. All though, this season, he has had some issues. Not quite sure what's going on with him honestly or why they've been playing Schmidt in the first pair. But even with that, Pionk is still contributing at a high level and being a physical guy out there.

 

[Chimpradamus]

I think McD had ONE season, not just a playoff run, where he looked like a #1 Dman. But that's about it. Ideally, I think he's a middle pair shutdown guy.

Out of all the defenders we have traded over the past 5-10 years, I think Pionk was really the only one that I would want back. He's been the Jets top all around Dman for a few years now. With Morrisey being their top shutdown guy. But Pionk would be an upgrade offensively over Trouba. All though I don't remember if he can play LD. So he wouldn't quite fit with our current build with Fox and Trouba at RD. But still, just on talent, he's a guy I kind of regret letting go. All though, this season, he has had some issues. Not quite sure what's going on with him honestly or why they've been playing Schmidt in the first pair. But even with that, Pionk is still contributing at a high level and being a physical guy out there.

I can agree McD was a poor man's star player (at least compared to Lundqvist) both for the season and the playoffs, absolutely. He was great that year but there wasn't enough of that in the rest of the squad. I just vividly remember him being very strong in the playoffs and one of three anchors you need to win a Cup. NYR only had two.

Yes, that trade was a big mistake. Trouba demands $8m every season. Is he an $8m defenseman though? Well... maybe in bursts? Not enough consistently anyhow, I would've hoped for a bit more of that. He can lose focus alot. To then give the choice for $5.85m and still have Pionk who is also developing instead of being at his peak? I think most would've kept Pionk. He struggled a great deal, but he played in a really shitty situation.

But, I cannot say what effect Trouba has in the leadership and locker room, the "intangibles" so to say. I cannot say I'm displeased with him. Maybe a bit of a sour taste with my ignorance of the mental and social part. I cannot say the veteran/ pup formula is to be trifled with too much. Or?

Hypothetically speaking it would've been great to imagine Pionk staying here, playing with Miller and dominating. We can dream, right? At least I'm not outraged about Trouba, merely grumpy. To my fault I also lambasted Pionk playing here, so I have to take blame in any eventual error.

 

[brakeyawself]

I can agree McD was a poor man's star player (at least compared to Lundqvist) both for the season and the playoffs, absolutely. He was great that year but there wasn't enough of that in the rest of the squad. I just vividly remember him being very strong in the playoffs and one of three anchors you need to win a Cup. NYR only had two.

Yes, that trade was a big mistake. Trouba demands $8m every season. Is he an $8m defenseman though? Well... maybe in bursts? Not enough consistently anyhow, I would've hoped for a bit more of that. He can lose focus alot. To then give the choice for $5.85m and still have Pionk who is also developing instead of being at his peak? I think most would've kept Pionk. He struggled a great deal, but he played in a really shitty situation.

But, I cannot say what effect Trouba has in the leadership and locker room, the "intangibles" so to say. I cannot say I'm displeased with him. Maybe a bit of a sour taste with my ignorance of the mental and social part. I cannot say the veteran/ pup formula is to be trifled with too much. Or?

Hypothetically speaking it would've been great to imagine Pionk staying here, playing with Miller and dominating. We can dream, right? At least I'm not outraged about Trouba, merely grumpy. To my fault I also lambasted Pionk playing here, so I have to take blame in any eventual error.

Yea, even with Trouba playing better this season than the last two, I don't think he's worth anything near his contract.

And yes, I would also love if Pionk were our 2RD instead of Trouba right now, especially with the difference in their contracts. It's a shame. But mistakes happen. If we had brought in someone other than Trouba, someone actually worth what they are getting paid, it wouldn't feel nearly as bad watching Pionk be awesome in Winnipeg.

But, at least Trouba seems to be transitioning a bit to fulfill more the role we need him to this season. I think he's definitely playing better defensively and we really don't necessarily need him to provide a ton of offense. So I am glad at least that it seems like he is focusing on that more. But that is where my disappointment with Miller really comes in. He's not producing much. And we could definitely use someone like Jones I think, playing next to Trouba who can handle the physical/defensive side more. I just think where Miller is right now, he's more of a defender than 2 way Dman. So honestly wouldn't mind seeing him on the 3rd line pairing with Lundkvist, and someone with a bit more offense playing with Trouba.

 

[Chimpradamus]

Yea, even with Trouba playing better this season than the last two, I don't think he's worth anything near his contract.

And yes, I would also love if Pionk were our 2RD instead of Trouba right now, especially with the difference in their contracts. It's a shame. But mistakes happen. If we had brought in someone other than Trouba, someone actually worth what they are getting paid, it wouldn't feel nearly as bad watching Pionk be awesome in Winnipeg.

But, at least Trouba seems to be transitioning a bit to fulfill more the role we need him to this season. I think he's definitely playing better defensively and we really don't necessarily need him to provide a ton of offense. So I am glad at least that it seems like he is focusing on that more. But that is where my disappointment with Miller really comes in. He's not producing much. And we could definitely use someone like Jones I think, playing next to Trouba who can handle the physical/defensive side more. I just think where Miller is right now, he's more of a defender than 2 way Dman. So honestly wouldn't mind seeing him on the 3rd line pairing with Lundkvist, and someone with a bit more offense playing with Trouba.

I think Miller has the same problem Lundqvist currently has, they don't feel they have the physical ability to play their game to the fullest. They should both improve focusing on their strongest qualities paired with more acceleration in their mobility. The first speed burst is crucial in all sports.

 

[romba]

Miller's grown a TON this year over last, has been pushing the pace carrying the puck recently, and is overall much better with his gaps. Trouba has looked great this year, very physical and separating the man from the puck with great support from his teammates, hasn't been beat wide once per game like the last 2 years, and he has been getting better in the O zone too (not a net negative there like the past 2 years). Sure let's break that pairing up why not

 

[brakeyawself]

Nils had a decent game yesterday. Hopefully he can build on it. Would still like to see him become a bit more physical and maybe put himself in front of opponent shots more often.

 

[brakeyawself]

Miller's grown a TON this year over last, has been pushing the pace carrying the puck recently, and is overall much better with his gaps. Trouba has looked great this year, very physical and separating the man from the puck with great support from his teammates, hasn't been beat wide once per game like the last 2 years, and he has been getting better in the O zone too (not a net negative there like the past 2 years). Sure let's break that pairing up why not

I would see he's grown a "ton" in the last few weeks. Preseason and early in the season, I don't think anyone could have made that claim.

But yea, the last few weeks have been better.

 

[AIexisLafreniereNYR]

Nils is making strides. You can tell his confidence was hurt playing in the best league, and smaller ice defiantly is a factor. It’s noticeable hes sooooo much more comfortable out there!

 

[ThirdEye]

Yea, even with Trouba playing better this season than the last two, I don't think he's worth anything near his contract.

And yes, I would also love if Pionk were our 2RD instead of Trouba right now, especially with the difference in their contracts. It's a shame. But mistakes happen. If we had brought in someone other than Trouba, someone actually worth what they are getting paid, it wouldn't feel nearly as bad watching Pionk be awesome in Winnipeg.

But, at least Trouba seems to be transitioning a bit to fulfill more the role we need him to this season. I think he's definitely playing better defensively and we really don't necessarily need him to provide a ton of offense. So I am glad at least that it seems like he is focusing on that more. But that is where my disappointment with Miller really comes in. He's not producing much. And we could definitely use someone like Jones I think, playing next to Trouba who can handle the physical/defensive side more. I just think where Miller is right now, he's more of a defender than 2 way Dman. So honestly wouldn't mind seeing him on the 3rd line pairing with Lundkvist, and someone with a bit more offense playing with Trouba.

Eh... Trouba is a way better fit for this current team than Pionk. Pionk's specialty is the PP and he wouldn't have seen any time there if he were on the team. Trouba is the better 5 on 5 player and overall just brings more to the table

Is he worth 8 million? Probably not, but you can certainly make an argument based on his play this season.

 

[Chimpradamus]

I think he's really starting to find his game a bit more. Like a highlight play from the Flyers game. Lundqvist holds his pressure at the blue line very well and isn't afraid to cycle back to apply more pressure with his natural mobility. Wait until he isn't afraid to do this in all zones. For example, his defensive play was added to the game highlights with his excellent gap control:


Sure, his point production and goal scoring in his game isn't there yet. His dangerously offensive part isn't there, but he's learning how to be a proper defenseman as a basis. I would be much more worried if he poured in points but sucked at defense, the classic for a young defenseman. He does the opposite. This is a very team minded individual. He doesn't want to mess up the team for his own glory, so he takes the side door until he feels comfortable. For the team.

And I know there are tons of Jones fans wanting him to get a shot at the big league and Lundkvist being moved down. But then you have to realize Jones got those big minutes at the equivalent of Fox's spot, in the farm league. You cannot compare their situations and production at all.

Lundqvist is focusing on learning how to mess with the opposition defensively. All conflict is about messing with the opposition. And here we see a prime example of an offensive defenseman as Lundqvist maximizing his defensive messing about, not caring about his offensive numbers. I think it's absolutely great, because the defensive part is tougher to learn.

I know many Jones fans will read this and have a below moderate mood in terms of alot of emotional connections, but Jones not playing isn't the fault of Lundqvist. It's not an artificial polarizing conflict within the own roster.

I think it's an accurate estimate to give Lundkvist a chance to learn the ropes. Just because if the team can implement his shot and his confidence in the game, he has an accuracy that is better than anything any other defenseman on the team has to bring. His shot is lethal and his cycling when he's roaming is very intelligent.

Statistically speaking, Lundkvist and Nemeth had a wonderful game and it showed against the Flyers. I know Jones deserves a chance, but wait for injuries. He will get his chance.