"We're not robots": $68,000,000 Rangers center doesn't mince his words over locker room drama, team form

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Dec 19, 2024 18:32 GMT

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New York Rangers center Mika Zibanejad has spoken out about the team's recent struggles and locker room issues. Signed to an eight-year $68 million contract, Zibanejad has had an up-and-down season, with six goals and 15 assists in 31 games. His performance has been inconsistent, especially in losses where he has only recorded four assists.

In an interview published on Thursday, Zibanejad addressed the negative atmosphere surrounding the team.

“Obviously, it’s human beings that you have here,” Zibanejad said, via lohud.com, “We’re not robots, so obviously you're going to have feelings and thoughts that go along with it. But at the same time, I don't think that's something that we get taught. We get taught to just keep doing what we're doing. Try to be professional and go about your about your business, and that's what we have to do."

Zibanejad's comments came amid rumors and conflicts within the New York Rangers organization, which has experienced turmoil in recent years.

The Rangers have faced several challenges, including the controversial handling of players like Jacob Trouba, who was traded to the Anaheim Ducks on Dec. 6 after a tense offseason. The team's decision to waive Barclay Goodrow and trade others has caused frustration among players, creating tension between the management and the team.

"I’m not overly thrilled with how it went down. In my opinion, things could have been handled better," Trouba said on Dec. 7, via The Athletic.

New York has struggled this season, with a 15-15-1 record and sixth in the Metropolitan Division. Zibanejad’s drop in form reflects the team's struggles to find consistency. The morale has been impacted by recent losses, especially coming off a strong 2023-2024 season and winning the President's trophy.

Rangers also traded Kaapo Kakko after recent controversy

Kaapo Kakko was traded from the New York Rangers to the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday. In return, the Rangers received defenseman Will Borgen and two draft picks (third and sixth-round picks in the 2025 NHL draft).

Kakko has scored 14 points in 30 games this season. He was drafted second overall by the Rangers in 2019. Prior to his trade, Kakko was scratched in New York's game against the St. Louis Blues on Sunday. He was not happy with his healthy scratch in the game.

"I was surprised, I know we’re losing games, but I think it’s just easy to take the young guy and put him out," Kakko said on Sunday, via lohud.com. "That’s how I feel. ... I’ve not been the worst guy but that was me out of the lineup."

The Rangers will be back in action on Friday when they take on the Dallas Stars on the road.