Rangers’ Gamble on Arthur Kaliyev Pays Off in Dramatic Overtime Victory

The New York Rangers took a calculated risk by claiming 23-year-old winger Arthur Kaliyev off waivers from the Los Angeles Kings, and it didn’t take long for the move to bear fruit. Kaliyev made his debut Thursday night at Madison Square Garden in a thrilling 3–2 overtime win against the New Jersey Devils, providing a much-needed spark to a team looking to rebound from a tough loss to the Dallas Stars just 24 hours earlier.

A Strategic Acquisition

Head coach Peter Laviolette spoke glowingly of the decision to bring in Kaliyev, highlighting the opportunity to tap into the young forward’s potential.

“Chris (Drury) and I communicate all the time,” Laviolette explained, referencing the Rangers’ general manager. “That goes a little bit more to his side and the people watching him. Obviously, there is communication; we watch the player as well. He is a young player, there is potential there, and like I said, we are bringing him in and giving him an opportunity.”

Kaliyev, the 33rd overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, had struggled to find consistency with the Kings, tallying 71 points in 188 career games before being waived earlier this week. However, his arrival in New York has provided a fresh start—and for the Staten Island native, a chance to come home.

A Dream Come True

For Kaliyev, the move to the Rangers is more than just a career reset; it’s a childhood dream realized.

“I didn’t expect it, obviously, but it’s kind of like a dream come true,” Kaliyev said Thursday. “I used to always come watch games here. It’s crazy. Not much more words you can say.”

Despite missing the start of the 2024–25 campaign due to a clavicle injury sustained in training camp, Kaliyev wasted no time integrating himself into the Rangers’ lineup.

Turning Point for the Rangers

Thursday night’s game marked a pivotal moment not just for Kaliyev but for the Rangers as well. The team improved to 19-20-2 at the midway point of the season, showing resilience in a tightly contested matchup.

Goaltender Igor Shesterkin returned from a four-game absence and made 21 saves, stabilizing the Rangers’ defense. On offense, Adam Fox and Artemi Panarin each found the back of the net, while Sam Carrick secured the victory with an overtime goal.

Kaliyev’s presence on the ice was noticeable, as the young winger brought energy and creativity to a Rangers team in need of a jolt.

The Road Ahead

While it remains to be seen how Kaliyev will perform over the long haul, his debut offered a glimpse of the potential that attracted the Rangers to claim him. As Laviolette and the front office continue to reshape the roster, Kaliyev could prove to be a key piece in the team’s retooling efforts.

For now, the Rangers and their newest acquisition are enjoying a successful first step in what both hope will be a mutually beneficial partnership.