Mike Sullivan issues an unexpected statement regarding the New York Rangers top defensive pairing

The pairing was never part of the original blueprint, but circumstances forced opportunity. When Fox was placed on LTIR, the Rangers needed stability fast, not experimentation, and Sullivan turned to Gavrikov and Schneider for the hardest minutes.

So far, the results have been steady. Gavrikov, 30, has brought size, reach, and defensive calm, while Schneider has embraced a larger role without hesitation. Together, they have taken on top competition, starting shifts in the defensive zone and absorbing matchup pressure most nights.

Sullivan made that trust clear when asked about the duo. He highlighted their workload, their consistency, and Schneider's ability to handle increased responsibility, a notable endorsement for a 24-year-old defenseman still shaping his ceiling.

Schneider's growth has been one of the quieter developments this season. Drafted 19th overall in 2020, he has gradually evolved from sheltered minutes into a defender the coaching staff now trusts against elite forwards.

Gavrikov's game allows Schneider to play assertively. Clean exits, strong gap control, and physical finishes have defined their shifts. With Fox unavailable, that reliability has mattered more than offense.

Fox's absence leaves a massive hole no single player can replace. Instead, the Rangers have spread responsibility, and Gavrikov and Schneider have shouldered the heaviest share.

Long term, this experience could pay off. When Fox returns, Schneider will be a different player, battle-tested and confident in tough assignments.

For now, the Rangers need exactly what Sullivan described. Solid minutes, hard matchups, and defenders who don't flinch. Gavrikov and Schneider weren't the plan, but they've become the solution.