Celebrating 25 Years of Triumphs, Turmoil, and Talent on Broadway Ice
As the 21st century hits the quarter mark, the New York Rangers find themselves reflecting on a roller-coaster 25-year stretch defined by heartbreak, heroism, and some unforgettable hockey. From near misses in the Stanley Cup Final to dominant regular seasons and franchise-altering performances, the Rangers’ journey from 2000 to 2025 has been anything but ordinary.
To honor this milestone, a special 20-man All-Quarter Century team was unveiled, showcasing the very best to wear the Blueshirts over the past 25 years. Leading the roster? Three names that have become synonymous with Rangers greatness in the modern era: goaltender Henrik Lundqvist, forward Chris Kreider, and offensive dynamo Artemi Panarin.
A Reign in the Crease: Henrik Lundqvist
Drafted in the seventh round in 2000, Henrik Lundqvist didn’t arrive with much fanfare—but he left as a legend. Making his debut in 2005, Lundqvist quickly established himself as the backbone of the franchise, becoming the most decorated goalie in Rangers history.
With 459 career wins (sixth all-time in the NHL), a sparkling .918 save percentage, and a Vezina Trophy win in 2012, “The King” stood tall in the biggest moments. Perhaps nothing defines his postseason heroics better than his NHL-record six consecutive Game 7 victories. Though the Stanley Cup ultimately eluded him, Lundqvist was the heart of a Rangers team that consistently contended, including a trip to the Final in 2014.
His successor, Igor Shesterkin, already boasts a Vezina Trophy of his own and a lucrative eight-year deal, but Lundqvist’s legacy is firmly entrenched atop the Rangers’ goalie mountain—for now.
The Steady Force: Chris Kreider
Kreider, the only Ranger to have spanned nearly the entire 25-year stretch, evolved from an explosive prospect into a seasoned leader. Debuting during the 2012 playoffs, he’s provided a rare blend of power, speed, and scoring touch, eventually becoming one of the most consistent and respected forwards in franchise history.
Kreider’s fingerprints are all over the Rangers’ deepest postseason runs—particularly in 2014, 2015, 2022, and 2024, when the team reached the conference finals. As one of the longest-tenured players and a bridge between eras, he embodies Rangers loyalty and longevity.
The Superstar Spark: Artemi Panarin
When the Rangers signed Artemi Panarin in 2019, they knew they were getting a star. What they got was a franchise-altering offensive engine. “The Breadman” quickly became a fan favorite and offensive juggernaut, producing highlight-reel moments and record-breaking stats.
Panarin played a pivotal role in the Rangers’ Presidents’ Trophy-winning campaigns in 2015 and 2024 and was instrumental in their resurgence as a perennial playoff contender. His presence marked a turning point in the team’s rebuild, injecting flair, creativity, and leadership.
A Quarter Century of Contrasts
The last 25 years have seen their share of highs and lows for Rangers fans. While the Stanley Cup has remained out of reach, there’s been no shortage of unforgettable moments: a Finals appearance, multiple deep playoff runs, two Presidents’ Trophies, and a record-setting 55-win, 114-point season in 2023–24.
But the lows were just as memorable. The early 2000s featured a playoff drought, and 2017–18 marked a painful bottoming-out with a last-place finish. Even more shocking was the 2024–25 collapse—missing the playoffs just one year after winning the Presidents’ Trophy, a rare and sobering feat in NHL history.
Looking Ahead: The Next 25
While Lundqvist, Kreider, and Panarin headline the All-Quarter Century team, the future may belong to names like Shesterkin, Adam Fox, and Alexis Lafrenière. With talent in place and lessons learned from a quarter-century of near-glory, the Rangers are poised to chase the ultimate prize once more.
As we look back on the stars who defined the modern Rangers era, one thing is clear: Broadway has never lacked for drama—or brilliance—on the ice.
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