2 Guys 1 Cup : A New York Rangers Podcast

The lottery balls don’t bounce our way, so we stop doom-scrolling and actually talk through what Pick 5 can still mean for the Rangers. We argue about tanking, draft process, and whether the only real path to a star is finally nailing a blue-chip selection. • why the draft lottery randomness fuels conspiracy talk but doesn’t prove anything • the tanking argument versus playing to win and living with the results • what we look for when evaluating NHL draft prospects, especially body control and pace • why the Rangers’ history of missing on elite forwards changes the pressure on this pick • the case for best player available over drafting for need • what a trade up to No. 2 might cost and why it almost never happens • a breakdown of the top defensemen versus the top forwards expected near Pick 5 • why draft rankings disagree so much and what that says about tiers • later first-round names and sleepers worth tracking with the second pick • when offseason trades and roster dominoes are most likely to fall 

We get back together live on Long Island to vent, laugh, and map out what would actually make the Rangers fun again by September. We dig into Drury’s guarded messaging, Sullivan’s decisions, and why the next big move has to bring real impact instead of more hedging. • liking the late-season effort and wanting it to carry over • needing a healthy JT Miller, Fox and continued Mika surge • insisting on adding an impact player with top-six bite • breaking down “hedging” language from Drury and Sullivan • calling out the Rangers’ limited media access and Zoom-only approach • crediting Vince Mercogliano for pushing on access and accountability • debating Brady Tkachuk trade reality and what it would cost • questioning injured usage and heavy minutes for key players • criticizing veteran-heavy lineups over development in meaningless games • sorting out blue line fit, puck-moving needs and Schneider versus Borgen • reacting to the trade deadline dud and what it signals • previewing the draft lottery night and why the top-five pick is must-hit • arguing best player available over drafting for need • talking Alex Tuch, contract length rules and cap-space temptation • discussing backup goalie options and why Garand feels ready 

We wrestle with another lifeless home shutout and the shock of Panarin choosing LA, then pull apart what the return says about leverage, direction, and the word “retool.” The map forward is messy, but the choices can’t stay vague.• how a no‑move clause and a single destination crushed trade leverage• why the return stings and what a fair Trocheck package must include• the “letter” as PR shield and what it signals about direction• retool versus rebuild benchmarks across the next two off‑seasons• prospect skepticism around Greentree and a thin pipeline• Hartford depth issues and the need to draft a goalie• identity gaps: pushback, pace, and finishing talent• cap space as a weapon and absorbing bad money for assets• who stays, who goes, and how to actually reset the room

We chart the fallout from the Letter 2.0, why the vibe feels like 2004, and how to turn a PR reset into a real plan. We map trade timing, value, and roles, and we say what it takes to stop the cycle and build a spine that lasts.• GM silence pushing questions onto coaches and players• Why this reset leans closer to 2004 than 2018• Thin prospect pipeline and what profiles to target• Panarin market setting and retention strategy• Trocheck’s multi-asset value case• Lafrenière’s left wing usage and evaluation window• Schneider’s trajectory and trade thresholds• Productive losses as development, not surrender• Power play identity and star support gaps• Guests queued for prospect insight and draft prep

We hit a breaking point with the Rangers: a fragile core, a stalled identity, and a front office that feels scared to act. Early buy‑in faded when results didn’t come, and the room slipped into solo habits. We lay out a three‑year plan built on bold hockey trades, cap flexibility, and roles that fit skill.• why “fragile” from coach and players signals a core issue, not a bench issue• good players on a bad team and how that happens• Drury’s risk aversion, poor summer bets, and prospect hugging• trade Trocheck and Schneider for prime‑age RFAs, not picks• stop defaulting to no‑move clauses across the roster• power play roles that match skill sets and urgency• kids who drive play but can’t finish and how to fix it• why a 10‑game heater still isn’t a plan• three‑year roadmap: reset the core, weaponize cap space, attract a star“Thanks for tuning in. We’ll try to get on next week. Hopefully, our schedules line up.”

We grind through a tough Vegas loss and a stagnant offense, question role fit for the top six, and weigh whether injuries are quietly dragging the team down. We also share a personal tribute to Larry Brooks, the voice who connected fans to the heartbeat of the franchise.• top six not finishing and role mismatch• questions over JT Miller’s health and usage• Zibanejad’s effort vs discomfort in current role• Panarin’s variance against stronger teams• penalty kill collapse since early November• five-on-five structure strong, scoring thin• goaltending highs masking droughts• roster construction frustration and trade urgency• drafting and center depth regrets• broadcast booth chemistry with Maloney and Kenny• heartfelt reflection on Larry Brooks’ legacy“Guys, we will talk to you probably either Tuesday or Thursday… To end R I P Larry Brooks. Yes, pour one out later.”

We break down a tense 14-game start marked by strong team defense, a broken power play, and a top six that can’t finish. We weigh patience against change, outline fixes at the net front, and debate whether a bold trade is the reset this core needs.• Jekyll-and-Hyde form and home shutouts• Top-six droughts and aging curve realities• Why net-front skill anchors power-play identity• Role clarity for Miller, Zibanejad, and Panarin• Bottom six outperforming expectations• Carolina’s defensive clinic and momentum swings• Prospect patience versus savior narratives• Trade thresholds and cap constraints• Short-term schedule and realistic record targets• Historical context and what sustainable winning requires

We torch two grim losses to San Jose and Calgary, call out the sleepwalk starts, and lay out fixes the coaches and front office can make now. The finishes aren’t there, the hunger isn’t there, and the clock is ticking on a core that was supposed to contend.• why Celebrini brilliance can’t excuse a home loss• Calgary no-show and the danger of “we’ll be fine”• leadership admitting complacency and why that’s fatal• veterans generating chances but failing to finish• Lafrenière, Kakko, Cooley ceilings and usage• fourth-line energy versus top-six responsibility• shooting percentages due to regress but urgency required• short-term fixes: move Mika to wing, test Laf with Panarin• call-ups versus placeholders and ice-time as leverage• GM trust issues and the cost of holding prospects too long• trade for a true star if you can’t draft one• fans, tickets, and belief when culture slips

We unpack a tight, low-scoring start where the team defense shines, Igor looks calm, and the power play sputters. We debate whether a true superstar is required to win a Cup, how to fix the top six, and what smart, non-rental trades could actually move the needle.• controlled chances against but poor finishing• reliance on 2–1, 3–2 games to survive• Panarin’s ceiling vs playoff gravity• Lafrenière’s role and puck-protection gaps• faceoff splits hurting PP zone time• net-front void and PP1 indecision• term targets over rentals at the deadline• cap space strategy and window timing• leadership tone, accountability, and mindset• West Coast swing expectations and benchmarks

We break down a 2–1 OT loss that showcased elite structure and a stubborn scoring drought. Strong defense and fourth-line energy clash with a top six that can’t finish, while contracts and no‑move clauses limit options.• tighter neutral zone, fewer rush chances allowed• top six struggles at five-on-five• fourth line drives forecheck and late shifts• power play hesitancy and lost zone time• aging core and no‑move clauses reduce flexibility• Schneider’s elevated minutes and Robertson’s stability• debate on Trocheck usage and line balance• early trade window possibilities under cap constraints• metrics show they’re close, results say not yet• schedule outlook and realistic 1-1-1 vs 3-0 paths“Most likely next Wednesday… hopefully after two more wins and maybe some goals”

Shawn and Roc dive into the first two Rangers preseason games, analyzing the impressive performances from Gabriel Perrault, Noah Laba, and Matthew Robertson while discussing how the roster is shaping up under new coach Mike Sullivan.• Perrault showing noticeable improvement with added muscle and willingness to go to dirty areas of the ice • Robertson making a strong case for the NHL roster despite waiver considerations• Analyzing the new broadcast team with Dave Maloney replacing Joe Micheletti alongside a new play-by-play announcer• Discussing potential line combinations with Taylor Raddysh possibly starting on the second line• Evaluating Connor Sheary's PTO performance and chances of making the roster• Comparing current young talent to previous Rangers draft classes and development paths• Examining the NHL's no-tax state advantage and its impact on competitive balance• Speculating on when roster cuts will happen and which prospects might stick aroundThe Rangers have three more preseason games before opening night on October 7th, with significant roster decisions still to be made as training camp progresses.

The Rangers emerge from their offseason coma as training camp begins with JT Miller being named the 29th captain in franchise history. Miller brings leadership qualities, intensity, and scoring ability that were missing during last season's struggles when the team failed to meet championship expectations.• JT Miller named team captain, bringing much-needed leadership qualities including intensity, scoring ability, and media savvy• Rangers' 100th anniversary celebration will feature eight themed nights honoring different eras throughout franchise history• Eddie Giacomin, considered the greatest goalie in Rangers history until Henrik Lundqvist, passed away this week at age 86• Power play configuration without Chris Kreider creates questions about who will take the net-front role• Debate over whether acquiring Kirill Kaprizov would significantly improve the team or just replace Artemi Panarin• Multiple roster spots up for competition including third-line center and seventh defenseman• NHL salary cap projected to increase by approximately $9 million next season, creating future flexibility• Team's championship window appears to be approximately 2-3 years with current core group• Alexis Lafrenière's development remains a key storyline as he enters another season• Training camp offers opportunity for new coach Mike Sullivan to implement his system

Shawn and Rock discuss the current state of the Rangers after the draft and free agency period have concluded. They analyze how quickly the team's offseason moves were completed and evaluate if the team has improved overall.• Assessment of the Rangers' third line construction options after losing Kaapo Kakko• Debate about whether prospects like Matthew Berard, Brennan Othmann, and Gabe Perrault are ready for NHL roles• Analysis of Taylor Raddysh’s potential impact on the third line alongside Parssinan• Discussion of Mika Zibanejad's potential position shift between center and wing• Concerns about defensive pairings and Carson Soucy's fit within the team structure• Evaluation of Vladislav Gavrikov's signing and what it means for the blue line• Examination of coach accountability versus player accountability after last season's collapse• Speculation about Artemi Panarin's future with the team when his contract expires• Analysis of the Rangers' draft success in recent years and their promising prospect pipeline• Consideration of potential trade targets and free agent options for future seasonsTake the season one game at a time. We've seen in recent history how a coach's first season usually goes well before experiencing a downturn, so let's not get too high or too low as the year progresses.

When the free agent frenzy hits, no one captures the raw emotion and strategic analysis of Rangers hockey quite like the Two Guys One Cup podcast. In this impromptu midday episode, Shawn and Roc break down the Rangers' biggest offseason moves with unfiltered passion and insider perspective.The centerpiece of discussion is Vladislav Gavrikov's seven-year, $7 million deal with the Blueshirts – a contract both hosts view as surprisingly reasonable in today's inflated market. "He probably took less to come here," they observe, noting comparable defensemen commanding $8.5 million or more. The contract's structure reveals Drury's blueprint: a five-year competitive window aligned perfectly with the team's core of Panarin, Zibanejad, and Fox.Meanwhile, K'Andre Miller appears headed to Carolina, with rumors suggesting draft pick compensation centered around a future first-rounder. This sparks heated debate about asset management and whether the Rangers are getting proper value for a defenseman once glowingly praised by opposing coaches during playoff battles.Beyond these headline moves, the hosts dive into roster construction puzzles: Who centers the third line? Which prospects might finally break through? And most critically – can star players who excel in the regular season finally deliver when the playoffs intensify?For Rangers fans navigating this transformative offseason, this episode provides the perfect blend of tactical insight and genuine fan perspective. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Drury's plan to build a true Cup contender.

The Rangers have made the controversial decision to give up this year's first-round pick instead of next year's, moving forward from a disappointing season while setting up for future success.• Rangers' rebuild failed to produce a cornerstone player despite high draft picks• Current prospects like Lafrenière may be complementary players rather than true stars• Rangers historically trade players too late, diminishing their value• K'Andre Miller trade situation remains unresolved heading into the draft• Metro Division appears weak, potentially creating an opportunity next season• Zibanejad's contract and performance raise questions about his future with the team• Florida's championship blueprint focused on finding undervalued players• Potential defensive options include Gavrikov and Provorov• Ranger's prospect pipeline includes centers but lacks right-handed defensemenIf you haven't already, please subscribe to the show and check out our Patreon page for additional content.

Recorded during Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals, Shawn and Roc remember Brian Wilson of Beach Boys who passed away earlier in the week before diving into the Chris Kreider trade and his Rangers legacy. Is trading K'andre Miller enough to turn the roster over and compete? Will "running it back" in the top 6 be enough? These questions and more get discussed throughout the episode.

The hockey world is buzzing with news of Mike Sullivan's impending appointment as the New York Rangers' new head coach. This fascinating development reconnects Sullivan with GM Chris Drury, dating back to their days when Drury wore the captain's "C" and Sullivan served as an assistant coach.Sullivan's journey from Rangers assistant with a struggling power play to two-time Stanley Cup champion with Pittsburgh represents a compelling narrative of growth and redemption. Now, he returns to Madison Square Garden with the championship pedigree Drury has coveted since taking the GM position.What makes this situation particularly intriguing is the potential addition of John Tortorella as associate coach. The prospect of these two experienced hockey minds working in tandem could finally provide the leadership and accountability structure this talented Rangers roster has lacked. Their successful collaboration during the Four Nations tournament suggests they have the chemistry to transform this underachieving group.Meanwhile, Joe Micheletti's retirement after 19 years as color commentator marks the end of an era in Rangers broadcasting. Many fans are eager for a replacement with genuine Rangers DNA – someone who has worn the sweater and understands what it means to represent this storied franchise.The roster itself presents significant challenges. With approximately $9.67 million in cap space and several key players needing contracts, Drury faces difficult decisions. Questions persist about whether this core group can win together, or if more substantial changes are needed beyond another coaching change.Sullivan inherits a team with undeniable talent but questionable mental toughness and leadership. Can he instill the necessary accountability to elevate them past Florida and Tampa Bay in the Eastern Conference? His history of holding players responsible – even stars like Marc-André Fleury, whom he benched for Matt Murray en route to a championship – suggests he might be the right person for this critical moment in Rangers history.What do you think of Sullivan's hiring and the potential addition of Tortorella? Can this coaching tandem finally maximize the potential of this Rangers roster, or are more significant changes needed?

With Adam Fox headed to IR, what will the Rangers do come trade deadline? Push for the playoffs or sell off the pending UFA’s.

We quickly share our thoughts on the 4 Nations tournament as it pertains to the Rangers. Adam Fox only playing 13 minutes in the hard fought USA/Canada game. 

After pounding the desk since November 2021, Shawn and Roc’s wish to bring JT Miller back to Broadway finally came true.  

The endless trade rumors surrounding JT Miller-Mika, the waiver claim on Arthur Kaliev, what happens now with Chytil out. 

First show of 2025 after the Rangers 2-1 win over the Boston Bruins. It’s come to a point where after a rangers win, there’s excitement over the standings, and after a loss, the equal excitement over the draft lottery. A lot is discussed between JT Miller/ Mika trade rumors, what should this team command if they were to trade Adam Fox, and much more. 

Kaapo Kakko traded to SeattleWhat’s GM Drury’s plan? Will Miller, Mika, Kreider and others survive the season?What players could the Rangers look to acquire?

Shawn and Roc jump on after the Buffalo game to discuss the week that was! Trouba trade, Tkachuck rumors, what moves could be on the horizon?

With the Rangers season at a crossroads, where do they go from here? Coaching change? Roster overhaul? If the rangers were to make trades… who goes? 

Recorded after the Rangers 3-2 win over San Jose. Where do the Rangers turn if Chytil is out long term again? 

With the Rangsrs off to a 8-2-1 start, Shawn and Roc discuss the problems with Mika and the defense. 

With the Rangers off to a 4-0-1 start, Shawn and Roc break down the first 5 games. 

2024 Season Preview

SKIP THE FIRST MINUTE Offseason Round up! Glad to be back!! 

A week of highs and lows comes to an end. With impressive back to back wins over Philly and Boston, the Rangers came home and lost to Buffalo, while also losing  Kakko for the foreseeable future.  

Season 3 Thanksgiving Episode! Recorded right after the Rangers 1-0 shutout win over Pittsburgh, we talk about the past week, standings, potential deadline moves.  What is the best Christmas movie ever? Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?

With the Rangers sitting at 11-2-1, Shawn and Roc break down the last 2 weeks of games, talk about the HOF induction for Hank, Vernon, Barrasso and Turgeon, how Lavy's system has been the key to success, injuries and much more! 

After the Rangers took care of Arizona 2-1 in the home opener, Shawn and Roc are back to talk about the first 3 games. 

Pre season is over, camp is over, the roster has been set and it seems the lines have as well...for now.  Some talk on how the pandemic may have clouded national judgement on Laf at the draft, a very heated argument on the roster construction and Chris "Zoom Zoom" Drury's offseason. And who knew we would finish the show talking about 90's video games.

Recorded 9/25-  1 Pre Season game in, and we finally have Rangers hockey to talk about! Injuries, theory on Jim Ramsay's dismissal, possible combo's, and thoughts on camp.

Shawn and Roc are back after taking the summer off!!  Plenty of catching up on the state of the Rangers and the NHL, as Shawn's "Summer of Aaron" has come to an early end. Recorded week of 9/18

Its officially the dog days of summer, and with no real current Ranger news to speak of, the Shawn and Roc dove headfirst into tv shows and movies, before discussing some 2000's ranger teams, bad contracts, the Sather regime and much more. 

With Rocky Margarita on vacation this week, Shawn is joined by special guest and Rangers season ticket holder since 1977, Jeff Fortgang. We touched on the K'Andre Miller signing and some current topics, but mostly got to hear stories about the old MSG crowd, stories of Jeffs interactions with players, front office and ownership. Plenty of Sather and Torts dirt on this one!

Post Draft and Free Agency Recap Show.  We briefly get into Gabriel Perrault as a prospect, the signings of Blake Wheeler, Nick Bonino and several others. Where do the Rangers sit cap wise? What kind of deal will Lafreniere and Miller sign?  Will Lafreniere improve? It is July, but there are still a lot of questions surrounding this team. 

We are grateful to be joined by The Draft Analyst himself, Steve Kournianos! We dive right into Connor Bedard, Rangers targets at 23, Steve's take on where the Rangers are at and what needs to be addressed during this offseason. 

The Rangers have officially announced Peter Laviolette as their new Head Coach. Shawn and Roc give their thoughts on the hire, status on the roster, and what we think this summer will yield!

Expecting Peter Laviolette to be named the Head Coach today or in the coming days took a swift turn with news of the Rangers seeking permission to interview John Hynes, formerly of the Preds and Devils. We dive into Hynes, where this coaching search is at, Drury and his tenure so far, and a high level preview of the draft. 

The first episode of season 3. While all is quiet in Rangerstown, Shawn and Roc discuss the coaching vacancy, pay tribute to Tina Turner, discuss the cap and what the team needs to add next season... pricks

A week after the post mortem, the Rangers have "parted ways" with head coach Gerard Gallant. Where does this franchise go from here? Shawn and Roc are back to give their opinions on the next coach, what we could be in line for this off season, addressing the ridiculous trade notions for the kids and much more. #NYR

After several lackluster starts, the Rangers beat the Caps convincingly yesterday. The re-emergence of the kid line sparks conversation, will Patrick Kane find his game in the playoffs, and should the Rangers have a Ring of Honor.

After splitting the 2 games vs Carolina and another comeback win over Florida, the Rangers still sit in 3rd place. Shawn and Roc really just dive into an open conversation about the franchise as a whole rather than breakdown the week that was. Its a different show, and one we hope you find interesting!

Shawn and Roc return after a 2 week break to discuss the recent surge. The Rangers have currently scored 15 straight goals, as their offense is clicking on all cylinders. 

While the trade deadline is Friday, it looks like Showtime (Patrick Kane) will be traded to the Rangers on wednesday! We break down the week that was, quell some over reactions and some concerns, where will Kane fit in, what have we seen from Tarasenko so far, and much more!

Welcome back to NY Tyler Motte. Coming off a nice 3-0-1 road trip, the Rangers bring back a key depth piece from their playoff run last year. We break down this trade and how it will affect their ability to make any further moves. Plus which Rangers team had more talent '23 or '94? Looking back on trade deadlines past.