The New York Rangers need another center. You will not convince me otherwise, as the moment the Rangers dealt Derek Stepan to the Arizona Coyotes, I began to worry. It’s not just about Stepan, though he was a fantastic player. It’s more about the vacancy created by his absence.
The lack of a top six capable center in addition to Mika Zibanejad and Kevin Hayes means that if Zibanejad or Hayes struggles, the Rangers have no replacement. Even worse, if Zibanejad or Hayes gets hurt, New York lacks the player to take his position.
Stepan played top line center, allowing Zibanejad and Hayes to develop in more fitting roles.