Rangers’ Sean Durzi-Marcus Pettersson pairing is already showing serious cracks

The New York Rangers' second defensive pairing of Sean Durzi and Marcus Pettersson has struggled recently, prompting head coach Mike Sullivan to split them during a 6-3 loss to the Los Angeles Kings. Durzi shifted alongside rookie Alberts Smits, while Pettersson played with Braden Schneider. Sullivan indicated the team is considering keeping the duo separated as they evaluate different defensive combinations ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Edmonton Oilers.

Blue Line Station reports the duo surrendered seven goals over the Rangers' last six games, holding an expected goals-for percentage of 44.1 according to MoneyPuck. Durzi has also been playing through minor injuries. While the Rangers traded significant assets to acquire both defensemen over the offseason, the coaching staff continues seeking solutions to steady the team's defensive zone play.