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Pavel Dorofeyev third line demotion is a tough reality check for Rangers $11 million winger

Pavel Dorofeyev was moved to the third line during the Rangers loss in Ottawa. While the analytics show elite scoring chances, New York needs tangible results from their $11 million offseason addition right now.

By Justin Bonhard · Blue Line Station

Published: Monday, 26 October 2026 at 12:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Rangers coach Mike Sullivan demoted $11 million winger Pavel Dorofeyev to the third line during a 7-4 loss to Ottawa.
Dorofeyev has registered only three goals through his first 13 games with New York despite strong underlying metrics.
The winger holds a -3.1 goals above expected rating, which ranks as the sixth-worst mark in the NHL.

The Story in 60 Seconds

New York Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan demoted winger Pavel Dorofeyev to the third line during Saturday's 7-4 road defeat against the Ottawa Senators. Despite scoring a third-period goal past Jonas Johansson, the $11 million AAV offseason acquisition has managed just three goals in his first 13 games with New York.

Writer Justin Bonhard notes that Dorofeyev possesses strong underlying analytics, including seven unblocked high-danger shot attempts, but suffers from a -3.1 goals above expected mark. Bonhard argues the demotion serves as a necessary reality check for the high-priced forward to convert chances into production.

Read the full article on Blue Line Station

Pavel Dorofeyev third line demotion is a tough reality check for Rangers $11 million winger

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