With the Rangers struggling, it may be time to take a step back and remember some fond memories. After all, the current team isn’t doing anything to help, so reminiscing takes the sting off, sometimes. So let’s revisit Filip Chytil’s first NHL goal on March 30, 2018, marking the beginning of the rise of the Rangers’ future (probably) top-line center.
I remember being in the crowd that night when Chytil found the back of the net during his fifth game of the season. The goal came at 8:14 of the third period, narrowing the Rangers’ deficit to 5-2 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Though the Rangers ultimately fell 7-3, and much of the spotlight was on the return of J.T. Miller, Dan Girardi, and Ryan McDonagh, it felt symbolic that Chytil scored as the franchise began transitioning from its past to its future.
His goal came on a rebound off a Mats Zuccarello shot, initiated by Kevin Hayes rushing the puck into the zone and setting up the play. It was a glimpse of what was to come for Chytil’s game as he continues to grow into a key piece of the Rangers’ core.
