In particular, Miller had a tough night finishing minus-two before Tortorella adjusted the lines. Miller started the night with Brian Boyle and Carl Hagelin, who also didn’t see as much time. Hagelin also went minus-two in 14 shifts (10:55). He was switched off Derek Stepan’s line. Instead, captain Ryan Callahan supplanted him posting a four-point game to help lead the club to a big win. It kept them in eighth over the Islanders, who also were winners over the Devils. The Islanders have played one more game. Each New York club trails the slumping Devs by two for seventh.

The question moving forward is what happens with Kreider and Miller. Do they go down? The Rangers can easily reinsert Arron Asham and Kris Newbury if they feel the rookies aren’t ready. I still believe the more aggressive style they played tonight is how they need to to have any chance. Scoring goals hasn’t been a team strength. Tortorella prefers a more physical element, which Asham and Newbury can provide.

Maybe it’s better if they go down to Connecticut. But if they do, the team might have to make a move before Wednesday’s 3 PM deadline.