Physical Noah Laba gives Rangers' third line the 'courage' boost it needs
The New York Rangers have found a dynamic third line, a force that has been missing from the team for some time. This new-found energy comes in the form of rookie Noah Laba, a 6-foot-3, 214-pound skater with a unique blend of physicality and speed.
The Blueshirts' ultimate goal is to become a harder team to play against, and Laba's performance against the Senators on Thursday night in Ottawa showcased his ability to contribute to this goal.
In a pivotal play, Laba demonstrated his courage and determination. He battled Dennis Gilbert to steal the puck at center ice, bulldozing into Ottawa's zone and shaking off Senators captain Brady Tkachuk. This aggressive play set up Vladislav Gavrikov's 2-0 goal, contributing to the Rangers' 4-2 victory.
Head coach Mike Sullivan praised Laba's physicality and speed, noting that his presence brings a unique dynamic to the third line, which also includes Will Cuylle and Brett Berard. Sullivan emphasized the importance of Laba's physicality, stating that it enhances his effectiveness and contributes to the team's overall momentum.
Laba's impact on the team has been significant, earning him a spot in the Opening Night lineup and the trust of his coach. Through his first 29 games, he has accumulated four goals, four assists, and a plus-five rating, showcasing his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively.
Despite the need for improvement in puck management, especially in critical areas, Laba's learning curve has been steep. His commitment and enthusiasm, as noted by Sullivan, have been instrumental in his development. The trio of Laba, Cuylle, and Berard has shown promise, combining for 18 hits and 15 shots on goal in their first two games together.
Mika Zibanejad, a teammate of Laba's, praised his courage and ability to hold onto and skate with the puck. Zibanejad's perspective highlights Laba's resilience and determination, which are key attributes for a third-line center.
As the Rangers navigate the season, Laba's presence has brought a new level of courage and energy to the team, filling a gap that was previously absent. His performance and development will be crucial to the team's success, and his impact on the third line is already making a significant difference.
