There are a lot of members of the New York Rangers who have to be happy about the Vladislav Gavrikov contract, but there’s one person in particular who should be the most ecstatic.
That is none other than Adam Fox.
This past season, Fox did not have a consistent defensive partner, which certainly seemed to hinder his game.
Gavrikov could be the perfect player to pair alongside Fox.
The newest Rangers addition can help take off some of the defensive load from Fox and help him re-unleash his offensive game that he’s been so known for.
Watching the Rangers during the 2024-25 season, it was clear that the team was in desperate need of a shutdown defenseman and steady play in their own zone, and that’s exactly what Gavrikov brings to the table.
A tandem of Fox and Gavrikov has the potential to be one of the best defensive duos in the entire NHL, and that’s not an exaggeration.
Even if they don’t play together, Gavrikov would be an elite second-pairing defenseman, hence taking both pressure and responsibility off of Fox.
Regardless of how Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan decides to use Gavrikov, Fox will benefit tremendously.