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New York Rangers Are the Most Fraudulent Team in the NHL

By Iain MacMillan

The New York Rangers sit atop the Metropolitan Division despite getting outplayed on an almost nightly basis.
The New York Rangers sit atop the Metropolitan Division despite getting outplayed on an almost nightly basis. / Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
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I don't take the "F Word" lightly, but after some careful consideration, I am ready to officially declare the New York Rangers FRAUDS of the NHL.

As a new New York resident, I hope this doesn't come back to bite me, but I have to speak the truth and point out frauds when I see 'em. I get no joy from doing this, but sadly, the numbers don't lie.

The Rangers currently sit first in the Metropolitan Division with 60 points, and WynnBET has them listed eighth on the odds list to win the Stanley Cup at +1800 (bet $100 to profit $1,800). I am here to tell you do NOT bet on them to win it all.

Where Rangers Rank Statistically

To support my point, let's take a look at where the Rangers rank in several key metrics as of writing this article on Jan. 26:

  • 31st in CORSI Percentage
  • 15th in high danger scoring chances per 60 minutes
  • 28th in high danger scoring chances against per 60 minutes
  • 19th in expected goals per 60 minutes
  • 21st in expected goals against per 60 minutes
  • 29th in Fenwick Percentage
  • First in Save Percentage

Igor Shesterkin Has Saved the Rangers Season

I want to highlight the final stat listed above, and go on record by saying that their goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, is NOT a fraud, and is the only reason the Rangers have nearly as many wins as they do. He leads all starting goaltenders in save percentage at .937, and should be the clear favorite to win this year's Vezina Trophy.

In fact, Shesterkin has allowed 51 goals this season. The advanced analytics say that his expected goals against is 79.4. His stellar play has prevented 28 fewer goals against than an average goalie would. That's outstanding.

With that being said, a goaltender can only take a team so far. They're doomed any night that Shesterkin isn't on his "A" game, or a backup goalie is giving him rest.

The Rangers aren't as good as people think. We might as well re-name them the New York Igors.

And for that reason, I'm declaring the New York Rangers the most fraudulent team in the NHL.

Disclosure: This has nothing to do with watching my Maple Leafs blow a 3-1 lead to the Rangers at MSG last week.

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