Noah Laba continues promising year against a childhood favorite in Rangers win.

Rookie Noah Laba scored early and added an assist as the New York Rangers beat the Philadelphia Flyers 6-2, and coach Mike Sullivan said Laba is receiving more penalty-kill responsibility.

Noah Laba played a central role in the New York Rangers' 6-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, scoring 1:04 into the game and later assisting on a second-period goal. Laba grew up in the Detroit area and said it felt surreal to face veteran Luke Glendening, whom he met as a child at prospect showcases. The rookie seized the third-line center role out of training camp and has been given increased short-handed ice time. New York's broader lineup shifts have also given other young players, including Gabe Perreault and Alexis Lafrenière, more opportunities this season. Key facts: - Noah Laba scored 1:04 into the game and recorded an assist, bringing him to 19 points on the season. - Coach Mike Sullivan said the team is giving Laba a more prominent role on the penalty kill. - Luke Glendening, a veteran claimed recently by Philadelphia, had an assist in the game and was a childhood favorite of Laba. - Tye Kartye and Conor Sheary were regular linemates with Laba; the trio posted a strong expected-goal share at five-on-five, per Natural Stat Trick. - Alexis Lafrenière has shown increased production in recent weeks, totaling 39 points in 63 games and getting more power-play time. - Gabe Perreault had a power-play goal and assisted on a play that led to a Zibanejad finish, and has received more playing time as the season progressed. Summary: Laba’s performances reinforce his role as the Rangers’ emerging third-line center and add depth to a team with limited center prospects. The club will face roster decisions after the season, with choices about players such as Alexis Lafrenière noted as part of that evaluation.