For the first time in 2025-26, the New York Rangers hit the ice without star winger Artemi Panarin, who was sidelined Thursday against the St. Louis Blues with an illness. Not surprisingly, offense came at a premium.
The Rangers eked out a 2-1 overtime win over the Blues, thanks to another clutch game-winner from captain J.T. Miller.
New York will take wins any way it can get them, especially after losing five of its previous six games (1-3-2). But it’s also a sobering reminder of what this squad looks like without its biggest threat and leading scorer.