It’s a harsh question, but it likely needs to be asked: Is it Stanley Cup or bust for the Rangers?

There is so much that has been magical about this Rangers season.

From Artemi Panarin’s brilliant MVP-caliber campaign to Alexis Lafreniere’s breakout to Matt Rempe’s fists making him an icon among the fan base, the Rangers have hardly stepped a foot wrong and continue to deliver good feelings throughout head coach Peter Laviolette’s first season in charge.

The Rangers’ count stood at a franchise-record-tying 53 wins — still leading the Presidents’ Trophy race — after Tuesday night’s contentious 4-2 loss to the Islanders at UBS Arena (the result was a massive boost to their rivals’ playoff hopes).