Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanajed will face significant sanctions

The tension is palpable. Head Coach Peter Laviolette is under scrutiny to orchestrate a turnaround.

For a team teetering on the edge, strategic adjustments are not just necessary; they're critical.

The spotlight is also glaring at Mika Zibanejad and Artemi Panarin, whose performances have notably dipped in this crucial series.

The duo, once heralded for their on-ice leadership, now faces the ire of the Rangers' faithful.

Fan frustration has escalated, with vocal criticisms being amplified across social media.

The sentiment grows stronger, with another fan expressing disbelief at the leaders' underwhelming playoff presence

Amidst this turmoil, some fans are advocating for a radical change in the team's hierarchy.

Suggestions have been made to reassign the "A" from Zibanejad and Panarin to emerging talents like Adam Fox, Igor Shesterkin, and Alexis Lafreniere.

This shift could potentially inject new vigor into the lineup and reshape the team dynamics.

Despite his prowess in regular seasons, Panarin's playoff performance has been underwhelming since his days with Columbus.

This trend has unfortunately continued, with a paltry 3 points in the last 5 games.

Zibanejad, expected to deliver like a first-line center, has faltered similarly, managing only 2 points with 13 shots on goal in the same span.

Tonight, the Rangers face a dual challenge: overcoming a formidable Panthers team and proving to their fans�and themselves�that they have the heart and skill to reverse their fortunes.

As the city watches, will the Rangers rise to the occasion or crumble under the pressure? The answer lies not just in their gameplay, but also in their ability to embody the true spirit of New York: resilience.