MSG Network analyst Joe Micheletti talks about the Rangers’ defensive woes, the trade deadline and the problem with the All-Star Game with The Post’s Justin Terranova.
Q: Where is the Rangers’ biggest issue right now?
A: Defensively, for sure. I think that over the last number of years we’ve gotten used to a team that’s really good defensively. This year they’ve had more blatant mistakes in their own defensive zone than they’ve had the past three years combined. I don’t think they’ve been as cohesive and consistent as they’ve been before. There has been a change in personnel. Marty St. Louis was a great leader and a pretty good defensive player, and so was Carl Hagelin. Those players had to be replaced. It’s still a work in progress as far as how they play individually and transforming that into good team play.
Q: Do the Rangers have to make a significant move at the deadline?
A: Glen Sather preached it in his tenure — and he is still involved even though Jeff [Gorton] makes the decisions — but the one thing Glen has passed on is he’s a patient guy. Earlier this season I said Chris Kreider looked prime to take another step. He not only has not taken another step, he’s regressed. There’s still plenty of time for him to find it. … The same with Kevin Hayes.
Q: Why do you think Alain Vigneault has been feistier with players than usual?
A: I think they needed a push because of the competitiveness. I think he knows them better now and has a better idea of what they can do and what their upside is. And, yes, he’s probably frustrated, too, as are the players.
Q: Are you a fan of John Scott playing in the All-Star Game?
A: I really like John Scott as a person and he has been through a lot in his career. He’s not one of the highest-paid players in the league and he’s also lost a lot of money with all the suspensions the league has given him over the years. I am not saying they weren’t deserved, but every time there’s a suspension you can question the length. He’s put in a difficult position and if he wants to go play, he should go play.
Q: Do you like the 3-on-3 tournament format?
A: Not really, but it doesn’t matter in an All-Star Game what format you put in place. You aren’t going to see a good hockey game. That’s just the way it is. Whatever format they want to try it’s OK, but it’s not going to be great hockey. It’s a time for players to get a break from the grind of a long season.
