Stanley Cup Playoffs: 3 dark horse candidates from the Eastern Conference

New York Rangers

The New York Rangers were one of the eight teams who benefitted from this year’s playoff format, as they were sitting two points behind the Blue Jackets for the final Wild Card position prior to the NHL stoppage. However, they were really heating up in the new year and looked like they were likely going to sneak into a playoff spot had the regular season continued.

Leading the charge was the newly signed Artemi Panarin. The 28-year-old had himself a Hart Trophy like season, posting an incredible 32 goals and 95 points in just 69 games, both of which are career highs. They also had extremely productive seasons from Mika Zibanejad and defenceman Tony DeAngelo. Their biggest x-factor however may be rookie sensation Igor Shesterkin.

Shesterkin, 24, spent the first half of the season in the AHL before being called up in early January. He has been sensational during his first stint in the NHL, posting a 2.52 goals against average and a .932% save percentage 00along with a 10-2-0 record.

His play has hardly come as a surprise, however, as he was considered the number one prospect in the entire NHL at the start of 2020. If he is able to continue playing at that high level, and Panarin continues to bring the offense, the Rangers could be a very scary team to face off against in the playoffs.