Struggling Rangers seek right wing to boost top line performance

Rangers shuffle top line in Game 5, Chytil back in lineup alongside Kreider and Zibanejad, seeking spark for Eastern Conference Final.

The Rangers' top line saw a new addition on Thursday night at Madison Square Garden, as Filip Chytil returned to the lineup for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Panthers. Chytil joined Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad, reuniting with the duo after being pulled from the lineup for Game 4.

Head coach Peter Laviolette continued to experiment with different line combinations throughout the game, trying to ignite his top-line duo at five-on-five. Players like Will Cuylle, Kaapo Kakko, Alexis Lafreniere, and Artemi Panarin were rotated in to provide a spark for the team.

Despite the lineup changes, Laviolette emphasized the overall stability of the team and the core lineup. Blake Wheeler, who recently returned from injury, was a healthy scratch with Chytil's return. The fourth line featured Cuylle, Barclay Goodrow, and Matt Rempe, while Jack Roslovic rejoined the third line alongside Kakko and Alex Wennberg.

The defense pairs also reverted to their original playoff lineup, with K'Andre Miller back with Braden Schneider and Jacob Trouba back on the left side of Erik Gustafsson. Laviolette praised the defensive pairs for their performance against the Panthers.

The Rangers are set to travel to Sunrise, Florida following the game, looking to bounce back in the series. The revolving door of right wings on the top line showcases the team's willingness to adapt and make changes in pursuit of success in the playoffs.