Rangers veteran has the opportunity to reinvent himself following team injury

The New York Rangers begin preseason games this Sunday, Sept. 21, against the New Jersey Devils.

After the injury of Artemi Panarin was confirmed (although his timeline for return has not been confirmed), one of the names who appears as a potential substitute is Mika Zibanejad, who usually plays as a center. Zibanejad, 32, is not unfamiliar with the winger position, and in fact, being moved to the side could be what he needs to revitalize his career and redefine his legacy with the Rangers.

The Swedish forward could even be a fixed option for the right wing regardless of Panarin's health, since at center there are also other high-level alternatives like Vincent Trocheck and the new captain, J.T. Miller.

Rangers' Mika Zibanejad can improve his numbers as a right winger

Zibanejad's offensive production has decreased every season since the 2022-23 campaign.

By moving to the right wing, Zibanejad could free himself from the pressure of being the main center and focus on his offensive production, enhanced by other players like Will Cuylle and Miller.

With this change, Trocheck could lead the second line with Panarin and Alexis Lafreniere and provide greater offensive structure for coach Mike Sullivan. Even as a veteran player, Zibanejad has a good opportunity to reinvent himself.