Rangers Stanley Cup contender checklist: The pressure is on to get back on track

The New York Rangers have declined significantly after a strong three-year run that included two Eastern Conference Final appearances and the Presidents' Trophy in 2023-24. Following two straight poor seasons, the 2025-26 campaign ended with the team finishing last in the Eastern Conference and earning the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Team president Chris Drury has outlined a retooling plan built around core pieces Igor Shesterkin and Mika Zibanejad, though the process carries significant risk if not executed precisely.