As the New York Rangers gear up for a critical stretch of February games, head coach Peter Laviolette appears ready to make some lineup adjustments for their upcoming Original Six showdown against the Boston Bruins on Saturday.
During Thursday’s practice, Arthur Kaliyev was largely absent from line rushes, suggesting he may be a healthy scratch. Jonny Brodzinski took his spot on the third line and could make his first appearance since Jan. 11. Kaliyev, who was claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Kings, has had an up-and-down start with the Rangers, recording two goals, one assist, and a plus-2 rating in 10 games. While his underlying metrics at 5-on-5 (52.77% xGF) indicate solid play, his production has dipped alongside linemates Filip Chytil and Chris Kreider.
Following back-to-back regulation losses—their first of 2025—the Rangers are looking for a spark. Kaliyev managed two shots in 15 shifts during Tuesday’s 4-0 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes but is still working his way back after missing more than three months due to a clavicle fracture.
“He’s coming off an injury and adjusting to a new team,” Laviolette said. “There have been times he’s been productive, and other times where there’s room for growth. He has a great shot and has contributed, but we’re looking for more consistency.”
One of Kaliyev’s best performances came in a 5-0 win over Ottawa on Jan. 21, where he scored a goal and had another overturned on review. However, his recent struggles, along with the third line’s drop in effectiveness, have prompted Laviolette to make a change. Brodzinski, who brings more speed and physicality, has been effective in limited action, tallying three goals, three assists, and a plus-4 rating in 20 games.
Despite the expected scratch, Kaliyev likely won’t be out of the lineup for long. Laviolette emphasized the importance of regaining game speed and physicality after a long absence. “Sometimes it takes time to get back up to pace and into battles,” he noted. “There have been times he’s done well, using his shot to create chances, and we just want to see that consistently.”
The Rangers face a crucial stretch, including two matchups against Boston over the next three games. The Bruins currently hold the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, four points ahead of New York, while the Rangers trail Tampa Bay by three points for the second wild-card spot. With five key games in eight days before the 4 Nations Faceoff, Kaliyev will likely get his opportunities, even if he sits out on Saturday.
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