Laviolette Addresses Media On Expectations For Rangers

The Rangers recorded a franchise record 114 points and clinched the best record in the league, winning the President Trophy for the fourth-time in franchise history and first since the 2014-15 season. Head coach Peter Laviolette was asked if there is any extra added pressure for a Presidents Trophy winning team in the playoffs:

There will be major pressure regardless. Many people always bring up the fabled curse, as there have been only eight instances where the Presidents Trophy winner has gone on to win the Stanley Cup in the same season, and three additional teams at least made it to the finals. Most are really wondering how the Rangers will respond compared to last seasons flameout against the Devils in seven games in the first round. Laviolette says there has been no discussion about how the playoffs went for the Rangers last year:




Granted, he wasn't the head coach for the team last year, so no need to discuss. It's a whole new season. The Rangers have proved they are the best in the regular season. Now apply that same level of success in the playoffs.