3 most impressive New York Rangers players from 4-2 win over Vegas Golden Knights feat. Jonathan Quick

The New York Rangers’ 4-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on February 2, 2025, was a significant performance that showcased the resilience, skill, and teamwork of several Rangers players. The win was especially remarkable given the presence of veteran goaltender Jonathan Quick, who added an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup. The Rangers displayed a balanced attack with contributions from several key players. However, three standouts emerged as the most impressive contributors to the win: Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Jonathan Quick.

1. Artemi Panarin: The Offensive Dynamo

Artemi Panarin is one of the most talented wingers in the NHL, and he demonstrated exactly why he’s so highly regarded in this game. Throughout the contest, Panarin played an instrumental role in both the offensive zone and in generating scoring chances for his teammates. With his elite playmaking ability, vision, and precision passing, Panarin was one of the most dangerous players on the ice.

Panarin was directly involved in two of the Rangers’ four goals. His first contribution came early in the game when he found Mika Zibanejad on a beautiful cross-ice pass for Zibanejad’s first goal of the night. The play was a perfect example of Panarin’s ability to read the game and exploit gaps in the defense. His ability to create space and set up his teammates with pinpoint accuracy was on full display.

Later in the game, Panarin himself scored a goal, capitalizing on a rebound in front of Vegas goaltender Logan Thompson. The goal was indicative of Panarin’s opportunistic nature, as he didn’t hesitate to pounce on a loose puck and send it past Thompson to give the Rangers a crucial 3-2 lead. Panarin’s speed and ability to think the game quickly allowed him to put the Golden Knights on the back foot and ensure the Rangers maintained their lead.

Throughout the game, Panarin’s chemistry with Zibanejad and other players was evident. His ability to seamlessly integrate into the team’s offensive scheme, while also maintaining his individual creativity, made him a constant threat. He registered multiple shots on goal, and his presence on the ice was felt in nearly every Rangers offensive zone shift.

Panarin’s performance not only showed his offensive talent but also his leadership. In a game that was tight and featured multiple lead changes, Panarin’s timely contributions provided the Rangers with the offensive support they needed to secure the win. His playmaking, vision, and finish were among the standout factors that led to the team’s success.

2. Mika Zibanejad: The Clutch Center

Mika Zibanejad, the Rangers’ number one center, has long been known for his ability to step up in big moments, and in this game against the Golden Knights, he proved once again why he’s so vital to the team’s success. Zibanejad was a key player in the win, contributing both offensively and defensively. He had a two-goal performance, which not only showcased his scoring ability but also his composure and calm under pressure.

Zibanejad’s first goal came after a beautiful setup from Panarin, as mentioned earlier. The pass was perfect, but Zibanejad’s finish was what truly stood out. His quick release and ability to get a shot off in tight spaces were on full display, beating Thompson with a precise wrister that found the back of the net. That early goal helped set the tone for the Rangers and gave them a 1-0 lead. Zibanejad’s ability to put the team ahead was crucial as the Golden Knights were known for their offensive firepower, and an early goal helped establish a level of control for the Rangers.

His second goal came late in the game, when the Rangers were holding a 3-2 lead. Zibanejad showed his ability to capitalize on a power-play opportunity, scoring a key goal that would essentially seal the victory for the Rangers. Zibanejad’s shot was a laser from the top of the circle, and his quick decision-making, coupled with a perfect screen from the Rangers’ forwards, made it nearly impossible for Thompson to track the puck. This goal gave the Rangers a comfortable 4-2 lead with less than five minutes to go, leaving the Golden Knights with little chance to mount a comeback.

Zibanejad was also effective in his defensive zone, taking key faceoffs and ensuring the team stayed strong in the neutral zone. His ability to match up against top-tier centers from opposing teams was evident as he played a well-rounded game that contributed to both ends of the ice. The leadership and steadying presence that Zibanejad provides are critical to the Rangers’ success, and this game was no different. His two-goal effort and his all-around play made him one of the most impressive players on the ice.

3. Jonathan Quick: The Veteran Goaltender

Jonathan Quick’s inclusion in the Rangers’ lineup for this game was a storyline in and of itself. Quick, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and one of the most successful goaltenders of his generation, was making his 1500th career NHL appearance, which added extra significance to the night. However, Quick didn’t just show up for a milestone game—he played an instrumental role in the Rangers’ victory.

Quick’s performance in goal was exactly what the Rangers needed. Despite being 38 years old, he showed that he still has plenty left in the tank. Quick made several crucial saves throughout the game, particularly in the first and third periods when the Golden Knights were pressing hard to get back into the game. His ability to stay calm under pressure and make key saves at pivotal moments kept the Rangers ahead and allowed the team to execute their game plan without worry.

One of the most impressive aspects of Quick’s play was his ability to track the puck through traffic. Vegas created several high-danger chances, particularly on the power play, but Quick was able to make critical saves, keeping the game within reach for the Rangers. His positioning and quick reflexes were sharp, and his ability to read plays developed in front of him was reminiscent of his younger days as one of the league’s elite goaltenders.

Late in the game, when the Golden Knights were pushing for an equalizer, Quick made a series of clutch saves, including a critical stop on a point-blank shot by Vegas forward Mark Stone. Quick’s poise and leadership in the crease were on full display, as he weathered the storm and gave his team a chance to capitalize on their offensive opportunities.

In his 1500th game, Quick not only added another milestone to his illustrious career but also showed that he is still more than capable of being a difference-maker between the pipes. His performance provided the stability the Rangers needed to close out the game and secure the win. Quick’s experience and composure in high-pressure situations proved invaluable to the Rangers, especially in a game that featured two skilled teams battling for playoff positioning.