Scotty Hockey is stupified that Sather was actually able to get a return for Gomez and his contract.
Mike over at Rangerland.net says Sather is a Jedi for being able to make this move.
The Hockey Rodent says "Good Riddance" to Gomez.
Steve Gelbs at NYRangerscast is scratching his head over Bob Gainey including top prospect Ryan McDonagh, who Gelbs says is now probably the top prospect in the Rangers’ system, in the deal.
Ryan McFadden at The Manic Ranger writes that Ranger fans should be very nervous that Sather has so much freed up salary to play with.
Over at The Rangers Tribune, NYR Blogger says that Gomez must be crushed because he signed with the Rangers to become a New York Legend.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Qualifying Offers & Antropov
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes reports that Brandon Dubinsky, Ryan Callahan and Lauri Korpikoski all received qualifying offers from the Rangers today, meaning the Rangers retain negotiating rights to those players.
If a player rejects an offer, he becomes a free agent. If another team makes an offer, the Rangers have a right to match.
While over at ESPN.com Pierre LeBrun reports...
The New York Rangers have been unable to re-sign forward Nik Antropov, and it appears he's going to market. "He's definitely going to hit the market because the Rangers have no space to sign him," Antropov's agent, Mark Gandler, told ESPN.com on Tuesday.
Two sources told ESPN.com that Gandler asked the Rangers for five years at $5.25 million a year, which seems a little rich.
...five years at $5.25!?!?!? Is this guy crazy? Although Sather probably thinks this is a bargain.
If a player rejects an offer, he becomes a free agent. If another team makes an offer, the Rangers have a right to match.
While over at ESPN.com Pierre LeBrun reports...
The New York Rangers have been unable to re-sign forward Nik Antropov, and it appears he's going to market. "He's definitely going to hit the market because the Rangers have no space to sign him," Antropov's agent, Mark Gandler, told ESPN.com on Tuesday.
Two sources told ESPN.com that Gandler asked the Rangers for five years at $5.25 million a year, which seems a little rich.
...five years at $5.25!?!?!? Is this guy crazy? Although Sather probably thinks this is a bargain.
Tortorella: We're Soft
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has this quote from John Tortorella who was named assistant coach to Team USA..."I just think we’re soft. I’m not trying to insult anyone physically but I think we’re soft thinkers. I think we need to grow in what we need to do in preparation and practice habits."
...god its nice to hear a Ranger coach tell the truth about this team. Heck the soft label could be applied to the entire organization for the past 10+ years. Great job Torts!!!
Speaking of Team USA both Chris Drury and Ryan Callahan were invited to the U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Orientation Camp from Aug. 17-19 see here.
Heatley to Be Traded Tonight?
Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report thinks that the Ottawa Senators will trade Dany Heatley tonight to avoid having to pay him a $4 million bonus. However, he does not think the Rangers, despite opening up cap space with the Scott Gomez trade, will make a play for him...
"Maybe it’s possible the Rangers will reimburse the Senators for the $4 million if they can get a deal done another time. But I think Ottawa will trade Heatley tonight, and now I think he won’t be coming to New York."
...not sure where the Rangers go now, but there are definitely some snipers out there for the taking including Sedin twins, Havlet, Gionta and Afinogenov.
"Maybe it’s possible the Rangers will reimburse the Senators for the $4 million if they can get a deal done another time. But I think Ottawa will trade Heatley tonight, and now I think he won’t be coming to New York."
...not sure where the Rangers go now, but there are definitely some snipers out there for the taking including Sedin twins, Havlet, Gionta and Afinogenov.
Rangers Trade Gomez to Canadiens
Newyorkrangers.com reports that the Rangers have traded Scott Gomez, Tom Pyatt, and defenseman Mike Busto to the Montreal Canadiens for forward Chris Higgins (Smithtown native) and defensemen Ryan McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko.
From TSN...
Higgins, a 26-year-old restricted free agent winger, also struggled in 2008-2009, scoring a career-low 23 points in 57 games as he missed a combined 25 games with hand and groin injuries.
Prior to last season, however, Higgins recorded three straight seasons of at least 20 goals and he'll be a more economical option for the Rangers as he earned $1.7-million last season.
McDonagh, 20, was Montreal's first-round pick in 2007 and recorded 16 points in 36 games as a 6-foot-1, 212-pound sophomore at the University of Wisconsin in 2008-2009.
Valentenko, 22, has good size at 6-foot-2, 202 pounds, but left the Canadiens' farm team in Hamilton early last season to play for Moscow Dynamo in the KHL, where he finished with one assist in eight games.
On how the trade helps the Rangers Glen Sather told Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report...
“We’ve got lots of cap room now, and it opens lots of options.”
“Torts has talked about the young guys all year and we wanted to make some room for them, and we did.”
“Since this deal happened I’ve had three calls (from other teams), and it doesn’t take long for people to realize you’re going to make some changes.”
On being traded Higgins said...
“When I heard it happened, I was thrilled. If there was one place I was going to play other than Montreal, it would be in front of my friends and family.”
On palying for John Tortorella...
“I’ve always liked the way (Tortorella’s) teams have played. They don’t seem they take their foot off the gas pedal very often. Playing against the Rangers, they were one of the hardest teams to play against.”
...big fan of Higgins, especially being a LI guy. Injuries really slowed him down last season and expect a bounce back this year.
...i'll reserve judgement on Sather being able to open up cap room until I see what he does with it.
...sorry to see you go Scotty. In typical Ranger fashion the team brought you in to be a player you weren't and never surrounded you with a speedster winger who could light it up.
From TSN...
Higgins, a 26-year-old restricted free agent winger, also struggled in 2008-2009, scoring a career-low 23 points in 57 games as he missed a combined 25 games with hand and groin injuries.
Prior to last season, however, Higgins recorded three straight seasons of at least 20 goals and he'll be a more economical option for the Rangers as he earned $1.7-million last season.
McDonagh, 20, was Montreal's first-round pick in 2007 and recorded 16 points in 36 games as a 6-foot-1, 212-pound sophomore at the University of Wisconsin in 2008-2009.
Valentenko, 22, has good size at 6-foot-2, 202 pounds, but left the Canadiens' farm team in Hamilton early last season to play for Moscow Dynamo in the KHL, where he finished with one assist in eight games.
On how the trade helps the Rangers Glen Sather told Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report...
“We’ve got lots of cap room now, and it opens lots of options.”
“Torts has talked about the young guys all year and we wanted to make some room for them, and we did.”
“Since this deal happened I’ve had three calls (from other teams), and it doesn’t take long for people to realize you’re going to make some changes.”
On being traded Higgins said...
“When I heard it happened, I was thrilled. If there was one place I was going to play other than Montreal, it would be in front of my friends and family.”
On palying for John Tortorella...
“I’ve always liked the way (Tortorella’s) teams have played. They don’t seem they take their foot off the gas pedal very often. Playing against the Rangers, they were one of the hardest teams to play against.”
...big fan of Higgins, especially being a LI guy. Injuries really slowed him down last season and expect a bounce back this year.
...i'll reserve judgement on Sather being able to open up cap room until I see what he does with it.
...sorry to see you go Scotty. In typical Ranger fashion the team brought you in to be a player you weren't and never surrounded you with a speedster winger who could light it up.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Sunday Headlines
New York Post - Offer for Zherdev; Antropv likely out
New York Post - LARRY BROOKS: Partying players risk losing $hirts
Daily News - Eyeing talent and progress, GM Glen Sather points Rangers toward youth
Daily News - Rangers select Ryan Bourque, son of NHL great Ray Bourque, in NHL Draft
Newsday - Rangers select Ray Bourque's son in third round
Newsday - Rangers' Sather goes back to drawing board
Newsday - ARTHUR STAPLE: Sather knows it's time to get younger
The Bergen Record - Rangers get all they want in draft
New York Post - LARRY BROOKS: Partying players risk losing $hirts
Daily News - Eyeing talent and progress, GM Glen Sather points Rangers toward youth
Daily News - Rangers select Ryan Bourque, son of NHL great Ray Bourque, in NHL Draft
Newsday - Rangers select Ray Bourque's son in third round
Newsday - Rangers' Sather goes back to drawing board
Newsday - ARTHUR STAPLE: Sather knows it's time to get younger
The Bergen Record - Rangers get all they want in draft
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Kreider Not What this Team Needed
Both Scotty Hockey and Jess Rubenstein at The Prospect Park express their disappointment with the Rangers choosing Chris Kreider with their first round pick...
Scotty Hockey says...
"The kid the Rangers picked should make the team right around the time that Wade Redden's contract comes up. Chris Kreider may be the top skater in the draft but it has to be mentioned that he has looked so good skating for Andover - a U.S. high school - against kids two, three years younger and while playing just 26 games. Bring up Brian Leetch all you like, Leetchie dominated averaging three, four points a game and played in three World Juniors. He then played a year in college and a year against top competition with Team USA before getting an Olympics under his belt. This Kreider kid will not see anything remotely close to professional-quality play for a long time."
...and that was the nicest thing Scotty had to say about the pick.
While Rubenstein added...
"This is not about disliking Kreider but more about wondering what the Rangers are thinking with this pick. For a team that swears it is committed to building a core from the draft you seriously have to question a pick like this one."
...i've got to admit I didn't do much homework on the draft, so to hear Scotty and Rubenstein, whose opinions I fully respect, diss this pick has me thinking the Rangers didn't get the scoring forward this organization desperately needed.
Scotty Hockey says...
"The kid the Rangers picked should make the team right around the time that Wade Redden's contract comes up. Chris Kreider may be the top skater in the draft but it has to be mentioned that he has looked so good skating for Andover - a U.S. high school - against kids two, three years younger and while playing just 26 games. Bring up Brian Leetch all you like, Leetchie dominated averaging three, four points a game and played in three World Juniors. He then played a year in college and a year against top competition with Team USA before getting an Olympics under his belt. This Kreider kid will not see anything remotely close to professional-quality play for a long time."
...and that was the nicest thing Scotty had to say about the pick.
While Rubenstein added...
"This is not about disliking Kreider but more about wondering what the Rangers are thinking with this pick. For a team that swears it is committed to building a core from the draft you seriously have to question a pick like this one."
...i've got to admit I didn't do much homework on the draft, so to hear Scotty and Rubenstein, whose opinions I fully respect, diss this pick has me thinking the Rangers didn't get the scoring forward this organization desperately needed.
Second Day of Draft Produces Ray Bourque's Son
Rangers Obtain Boyle (No Not That One)
Newyorkrangers.com reports that the Rangers acquired forward Brian Boyle from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.Boyle, 24, was originally Los Angeles’ first round choice, 26th overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He appeared in 28 games with the Kings last season, registering four goals and one assist for five points, along with 42 penalty minutes. He established career-highs in games played (28) and penalty minutes (42).
...sweet!!! Another forward who can't score.
Rangers Give Zherdev Qualifying Offer; May Lose Betts
Steve Zipy at Blue Notes reports...
"Rangers president and general manager said a few minutes ago that the Rangers have given qualifying offers to some of their restricted free agents, including Nik Zherdev, but not Fredrik Sjostrom."
Sather adds that the agent for Nik Antropov was overpricing his client.
Zipay also notes...
...the GM said he believed that penalty-killing UFA center Blair Betts could be wooed by Edmonton. He is from Western Canada..."and Tom (Renney) always liked him."
...sorry so lax on the updates today, but the sun is out for the first time in a month on Long Island and I'm not sitting inside blogging all day. I'll have more later on the second day of the draft including the Rangers trading for Kings prospect Brian Boyle.
"Rangers president and general manager said a few minutes ago that the Rangers have given qualifying offers to some of their restricted free agents, including Nik Zherdev, but not Fredrik Sjostrom."
Sather adds that the agent for Nik Antropov was overpricing his client.
Zipay also notes...
...the GM said he believed that penalty-killing UFA center Blair Betts could be wooed by Edmonton. He is from Western Canada..."and Tom (Renney) always liked him."
...sorry so lax on the updates today, but the sun is out for the first time in a month on Long Island and I'm not sitting inside blogging all day. I'll have more later on the second day of the draft including the Rangers trading for Kings prospect Brian Boyle.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Senators Ask Too Much for Heatley
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports...
"Rangers general manager Glen Sather held a lengthy conversation with Ottawa GM Bryan Murray regarding the Senators’ disgruntled left wing Dany Heatley. However, the reports were that the Rangers believed the Senators were still asking for too much."
A source has also told this information to Pierre LeBrun at ESPN.
...i know Ranger fans are reluctant to trade away players like Staal and Callahan, but this team needs a finisher and it needs one now. And with the Rangers cap situation the only way to get one is to trade a good young player.
"Rangers general manager Glen Sather held a lengthy conversation with Ottawa GM Bryan Murray regarding the Senators’ disgruntled left wing Dany Heatley. However, the reports were that the Rangers believed the Senators were still asking for too much."
A source has also told this information to Pierre LeBrun at ESPN.
...i know Ranger fans are reluctant to trade away players like Staal and Callahan, but this team needs a finisher and it needs one now. And with the Rangers cap situation the only way to get one is to trade a good young player.
Rangers Pick Kreider at #19
The Rangers chose Chris Kreider of Andover Academy with the 19th pick in tonight's first round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Kreider is headed to Boston College next year.
For information on Kreider go to NHL.com.
On Kreider, Rangers director of player personnel Gordie Clark told Steve Zipay at Blue Notes...
"He's an elite, elite athlete physically, mentally. He's ripped. He blew through the combine in Toronto and he still has room to grow. He'll get thicker."
On being drafted by the Rangers, Kreider, a Red Sox fan, said...
"I spoke a lot with them during the season, but really not much since to be honest with you.We talked at the combine and I thought I could've been a little better, but I guess it was enough for them."
...during the telecast they stated that Kreider was the fastest prospect in the draft, which is something to look forward to. Probably will be a couple of years before we see this kid. Hopefully, he can fine tune his game at Boston College and be ready for the Wolf Pack in two years.
For information on Kreider go to NHL.com.
On Kreider, Rangers director of player personnel Gordie Clark told Steve Zipay at Blue Notes...
"He's an elite, elite athlete physically, mentally. He's ripped. He blew through the combine in Toronto and he still has room to grow. He'll get thicker."
On being drafted by the Rangers, Kreider, a Red Sox fan, said...
"I spoke a lot with them during the season, but really not much since to be honest with you.We talked at the combine and I thought I could've been a little better, but I guess it was enough for them."
...during the telecast they stated that Kreider was the fastest prospect in the draft, which is something to look forward to. Probably will be a couple of years before we see this kid. Hopefully, he can fine tune his game at Boston College and be ready for the Wolf Pack in two years.
2009 NHL Draft on Versus Starting @ 7pm
In case anyone is unaware the first round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft will be televised tonight on Versus starting at 7:00 p.m.
Zipay to Host Live Web Chat Today @ 2pm
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes will be hosting a live web today at 2 p.m. from the draft in Montreal. To participate click here.
Sens Want Dubinsky, Callahan and/or Staal for Heatley
Arthur Staple at Newsday is reporting that Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray is believed to be asking for one or two or three of the Rangers' young untouchables (Marc Staal, Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan) in any trade involving Dany Heatley.
...if I was Sather I'd be willing to part with one or two of those players as long Ottawa was willing to also take one of our big salary problems (ie Drury, Gomez, Redden or Rozsival).
...if I was Sather I'd be willing to part with one or two of those players as long Ottawa was willing to also take one of our big salary problems (ie Drury, Gomez, Redden or Rozsival).
Toronto Not Interested in Redden
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports that Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke shot down rumors that the Toronto Maple Leafs were interested in Wade Redden..."I don't know where that got started," Burke told reporters in Montreal. "We're not in discussions on that player."
...i knew no one was that stupid. Oh wait someone is.
Draft Day Headlines
New York Post - LOOKING TO SCORE DANY ON THE CHEAP
Daily News - Isles at center ice, Rangers eye trades
Newsday - Rangers weigh options as draft day arrives
The Journal News - Rangers taking wait-and-see approach with 19th pick
The New York Times - Islanders Have Their Pick of Blue Chippers in Draft
The Bergen Record - Rangers have options at 19
Daily News - Isles at center ice, Rangers eye trades
Newsday - Rangers weigh options as draft day arrives
The Journal News - Rangers taking wait-and-see approach with 19th pick
The New York Times - Islanders Have Their Pick of Blue Chippers in Draft
The Bergen Record - Rangers have options at 19
Thursday, June 25, 2009
The New York Rangers Blog Goes Twitter
I told myself I wasn't going to do this but I setup a Twitter account for the blog. Check me out at https://twitter.com/thenyrblog.
Messier On WFAN
Mark Messier was on WFAN's Steve Somers show tonight to discuss his career and Brian Leetch being inducted into the NHL Hall-of-Fame. To listen click here.
Cap to Rise By 5% for 2009-10 Season
Larry Brooks at the New York Post reports..."The NHL players union has voted to trigger the 5-percent escalator on the 2009-10 salary cap, The Post has learned.
This means that the 2009-10 cap will remain within a couple of hundred thousand dollars of last season's figure of $56.7 million."
...was hoping the cap would be increased by $10 million to allow the Rangers to get out of their cap woes. Guess not. Good luck Glen.
Possible #1 Pick Duchene Talks Grachev
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes has this quote from possible #1 pick in tomorrow's draft Matt Duchene on former Brampton Battalion linemate and Rangers prospect Evgeny Grachev..."I lined up against him in Russia it seemed like every shift (in the 2008 IIHF World Under-18 Championship in Kazan)," said Duchene, who has since befriended the big forward, and "helped him acclimate to North America and the Canadian lifestyle. I've helped him learn more English. We're friends. My mother had a photo of him and I on the screen of her computer when he was picked by us (Battalion). After the 8-0 game, (when Canada won the gold medal for the Under-18s), I went over to him and said, 'Don't worry about it, you're gonna be a great player,' and he will be. He's caught on real fast. He started playing the Russian style, trying to bull everybody over, but he's learned to use his size and speed and reach and is becoming a star."
...i've said it before, if the Rangers can't move salary to bring in a sniper this off-season and Grachev has a big camp, he could find himself with the big club next season.
Rangers Must Shed Salary to Bring In Heatley
Allen Panzeri at the Ottawa Citizen says the Rangers remain on Dany Healtey's list of potential teams he'd be willing to be traded to, however, the Rangers would need to move salary..."The New York Rangers are said to be one of the teams on Heatley's list and one of the teams that's actually interested in him. But the Rangers would first have to shed at least one of Scott Gomez ($7.357 million), Chris Drury ($7.050 million), Wade Redden ($6.5 million) and Michal Rozsival ($5.0 million)."
...shipping Redden off to Toronto then bringing in Heatley, where do I sign?
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Leafs Interested in Redden!!!!!
Tim Wharnsby at the Globe & Mail reports that it is believed that the Maple Leafs have been zeroing in on Wade Redden. Wharnsby adds that the Leafs have plenty of cap space to accomodate the acquisition of Redden.
...i'm starting to shake I'm so excited. If Sather can pull this off he'll be just as big of a genius as he was an idiot for signing Redden in the first place. Maybe more.
...obviously Leafs GM Brian Burke didn't watch much Ranger hockey last year. Not sure who the Rangers would have to take back (Wharnsby says the Leafs could be interested in moving Tomas Kaberle or Pavel Kubina), but I don't really care.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Leetch Gets Into Hall of Fame
The NHL announced today that Brian Leetch will join another former Ranger Luc Robitaille as well as Steve Yzerman and Brett Hull in the NHL Hall of Fame.The induction ceremony is scheduled for November 9th.
NHL.com has a great piece on Leetch's impact on American hockey.
Newyorkrangers.com has this quote from Leetch...
“I am humbled and excited by this honor, particularly for me it is difficult to think of myself as a member of the Hall of Fame,” stated Leetch.
...congrats Brian well deserved.
Leetch will also be joined by another former Ranger goaltender and broadcaster John Davidson, who will enter the Hall’s media wing as the 2009 Foster Hewitt Memorial Award winner for his career excellence in hockey broadcasting.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Rangers Making No Effort to Re-Sign Orr
In yesterday's Larry Brooks article in the New York Post he reports..."The Rangers, by the way, have made no effort to re-sign Colton Orr, who will have no trouble at all scoring a multi-year deal within hours of the opening of the market. We’re told Florida is keenly interested in the heavyweight."
And Blueshirt Banter and Scotty Hockey react.
...for Orr's importance to the Rangers see Game 6 of the Rangers first round loss to the Capitals this year and two years ago against the Flyers (Shanahan concussion game) when the Rangers were pounded from one end the ice to the other. The similarity: No Orr in the line-up.
Q&A With Adam Graves
Mark Malinowski over at The Hockey News has a nice Q&A with former Ranger great Adam Graves. Here's an excerpt...Toughest Competitors: "To play against...certainly to play with it would be Mark, easily. (Messier) is the toughest mentally and physically I've ever encountered in anything. I mean, he's just as mentally tough a guy as you're going find. To play against - Scott Stevens and Kenny Daneyko. Those would be guys who people certainly in the tri-state area would know very well. They were very, very tough and really hard to play against."
Graves also says his favorite movie is Braveheart, tv show is Friends and ice cream flavor is chocolate chip cookie dough.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Zipay Mock Draft
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes gives us his 2009 NHL Mock Draft and has the Rangers drafting RW Carter Ashton at #19. For more on Ashton go to NHL.com.
Here's an NHL.com video feature on him as well...
Here's an NHL.com video feature on him as well...
Antropov Looking for $4-5 Million Per
Andy Strickland over at HockeyBuzz says that Nik Antropov is seeking a 4-5 yr. deal worth somewhere in the neighborhood of $4-5 million per season..."The Rangers and Nik Antropov are having some preliminary discussions as they would like to re-sign the 29 yr old sniper, but in reality there is very little the Rangers can do unless they move some bodies."
...not sure how Sather's going to open up cap space when his biggest salary problems are the biggest under-performers on the team (see Redden, Gomez, etc.).
Father's Day Headlines
Newsday - Rangers ready to move up in first round of draft
New York Post - BLUESHIRTS HAVE A SHOT AT SENATORS SNIPER
...happy father's day to all the fathers out there.
New York Post - BLUESHIRTS HAVE A SHOT AT SENATORS SNIPER
...happy father's day to all the fathers out there.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Free Agency & Draft Thoughts with Gordie Clark
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants sat down with Rangers Director of Player Personnel Gordie Clark to discuss free agency and the up-coming draft.
On re-signing Antropov, Clark said Antropov had been if not the best Ranger forward, then one of their best forwards after he was acquired from the Maple Leafs. "The priority is we have that spot open," Clark said. "The priority is to fill it, to get the best player available to fill in."
...so does that mean the Rangers priority is signing Antropov? Very confusing. To me, that doesn't sound like a ringing endorsement for Antropov.
On the draft, Clark said it's not extremely deep and the talent is spread fairly equally among forwards and defensemen. It's a weak draft for goalies.
Clark notes that the Rangers main draft need is a finisher, most likely a wing, though a center would suffice and to develop another NHL-caliber goalie. However, with a weak goalie class, this may not be the year the Rangers make progress in that area.
Clark didn't rule out the Rangers drafting a blue-liner with their #19 pick.
On re-signing Antropov, Clark said Antropov had been if not the best Ranger forward, then one of their best forwards after he was acquired from the Maple Leafs. "The priority is we have that spot open," Clark said. "The priority is to fill it, to get the best player available to fill in."
...so does that mean the Rangers priority is signing Antropov? Very confusing. To me, that doesn't sound like a ringing endorsement for Antropov.
On the draft, Clark said it's not extremely deep and the talent is spread fairly equally among forwards and defensemen. It's a weak draft for goalies.
Clark notes that the Rangers main draft need is a finisher, most likely a wing, though a center would suffice and to develop another NHL-caliber goalie. However, with a weak goalie class, this may not be the year the Rangers make progress in that area.
Clark didn't rule out the Rangers drafting a blue-liner with their #19 pick.
Leetch Could Get Hall Call on Tuesday
Newyorkrangers.com reports Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. ET, the Hockey Hall of Fame selection committee will announce the members of the 2009 Hall of Fame induction class. This year's nominees include Brian Leetch, Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull and Luc Robitaille.If selected, Leetch stands to become the first U.S.-born defenseman to reach the Hall in more than 60 years worth of induction ceremonies.
...i think we can all pretty much guarentee Leetch is getting in.
...while it was great to see Messier get into the Hall. For me, seeing Leetch get in is much more special because he was a Ranger draft pick who we were able to see transform into one of the best defensemen of all time.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Mike Richter Goes Green
Former Ranger goaltender Mike Richter recently sat down with the Climate Crossroads Blog to discuss global warming and had this classic answer to the question...Imagine that you’re Frosty the Snowman. How would you explain global warming to a child in order to alert them of your imminent danger?
Richter: "I am going to sweat my snowballs off if we don't address global warming immediately!"
...Richter's interest in politics is no secret. If he runs for elected office, I'm sure he won't have any problems finding campaign volunteers in the tri-state area.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Rangers Draft Preview
Leslie Treff at Hockey's Future has a nice draft preview for the Rangers stating...
"The biggest team need is for scoring forwards, including a first-line center. Although the team had hoped that their 2007 free-agent signings of Chris Drury or Scott Gomez would have filled the need for a top line center, over the past two seasons, neither has done so."
Treff also notes that the Rangers need scoring on the wing and project F Kyle Palmieri as the team's first round pick.
...nothing really ground breaking here. If you didn't know that the Rangers needed scoring forwards you're not allowed to visit this blog again.
"The biggest team need is for scoring forwards, including a first-line center. Although the team had hoped that their 2007 free-agent signings of Chris Drury or Scott Gomez would have filled the need for a top line center, over the past two seasons, neither has done so."
Treff also notes that the Rangers need scoring on the wing and project F Kyle Palmieri as the team's first round pick.
...nothing really ground breaking here. If you didn't know that the Rangers needed scoring forwards you're not allowed to visit this blog again.
Rangers Offer Package for Heatley?
NHL Snipers reports that the Rangers have offered a package of players for Dany Heatley including...
"SCOTT GOMEZ, RYAN CALLAHAN, DAN GIRARDI, 19TH OVERALL PICK, 80TH OVERALL PICK"
...i know nothing about this site, but this rumor sounds very Eklundesque.
Speaking of possible off-season transactions The Manic Ranger would like to see the Rangers land Ian Laperrier, while Scotty Hockey has his eye on a Petr Sykora/Rangers reunion.
"SCOTT GOMEZ, RYAN CALLAHAN, DAN GIRARDI, 19TH OVERALL PICK, 80TH OVERALL PICK"
...i know nothing about this site, but this rumor sounds very Eklundesque.
Speaking of possible off-season transactions The Manic Ranger would like to see the Rangers land Ian Laperrier, while Scotty Hockey has his eye on a Petr Sykora/Rangers reunion.
Defense & Goalies to Watch
Newyorkrangers.com continues their draft preview by looking at the top defensemen and goalies in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft....the Rangers have lots of defensive depth and with Lundqvist in goal aren't in need of a goaltender so don't look for the Rangers to make much of a splash at these two positions.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
This One Will Last a Life Time...Sort of
15 years ago today the Rangers won their first Stanley Cup in 50 years. Enjoy it Ranger fans because the way things are going it might take another 50.Here's a look back from Steve Zipay in today's Newsday.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Callahan Has Zero Conversations With Rangers
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes says that several agents to whom he's spoken in the last few days are agreeing that it's fairly quiet on the RFA front, including Ryan Callahan's rep. Steve Bartlett, who said..."It's the nature of the beast right now, league-wide" Bartlett said. "I've had zero conversations with the Rangers. Most of the clubs are waiting to see what the cap number will be post-playoffs. I'm sure I'll have a conversation with them (the Rangers) at the draft."
...the Rangers have a reputation of low balling their free agents, so it should be interesting to see what the offer will be and what the Rangers will do if he gets an offer sheet from another team.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Rangers vs. Canucks #1 Stanley Cup Game 7
John Grigg at The Hockey News says the Rangers/Canucks epic seven game series in 1994 was the best Stanley Cup Game 7 in NHL history...1. 1994 – New York Rangers over Vancouver, 3-2After guaranteeing a win in the conference final to get his team to the Stanley Cup showdown, Mark Messier scores the game-winner for the Blueshirts, ending a 54-year Cup drought on Broadway.
...i think we all knew this already. Right Ranger fans.
The Avery Self Promotion Tour
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes reports that Sean Avery will be in full self promotion mode this summer including a possible appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon....this guy is a walking PR machine.
Top Wingers in the Draft
Newyorkrangers.com takes a look at the top wingers available during the June 26th NHL Entry Draft. For right wingers click here, for left wings here....wing is the definitely the position the Rangers need to focus on in the draft.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
MSG Vault Looks at 'Raucous Rangers' Moments Tonight @ 10pm
Tonight MSG Network's "The Vault" will look at the top Ranger enforcers at 10pm. To get ready newyorkrangers.com asks fans to choose their favorite 'Raucous Rangers' moment from these five choices...
1979 -- Bruins Go Into the Stands
1987 -- McPhee vs. Markwart
1992 -- Domi vs. Probert
1993 -- Kocur vs. Probert
1998 -- Cloutier Pounds Salo
...got to go with Cloutier. Solely on him going to the Isles bench after pounding Salo to ask who was next.
1979 -- Bruins Go Into the Stands
1987 -- McPhee vs. Markwart
1992 -- Domi vs. Probert
1993 -- Kocur vs. Probert
1998 -- Cloutier Pounds Salo
...got to go with Cloutier. Solely on him going to the Isles bench after pounding Salo to ask who was next.
Fotiu Does Q&A With Fans
Didn't get a chance to post this yesterday, but earlier today former Ranger Nick Fotiu held a Q&A with Rangers fans over at newyorkrangers.com. For the full transcript click here.
Here's an excerpt...
Question from GardenGirl: You were always the player of the people, and your showing up here to answer questions shows your continued dedication to Rangers fans. Thank you for all your years on the ice, and especially for showing up early all those times to throw pucks into the crowd. Do you feel that today's players have as much dedication and team spirit as you did? What keeps you so dedicated to the NYR after all these years? And what would you tell our current Rangers to inspire them about what a great privilege it is to skate on MSG ice and continue the NYR legacy?
Nick Fotiu: Growing up in New York, I was the first New Yorker to play for the Rangers. Nobody can break that record. A lot of players from New York like myself and the Mullen brothers never really leave New York. You have to grow up here to know what it means to be a New York Ranger. It's about tradition, loyalty and respect. Not just playing on the ice. The fans never forgot me and I never forgot them. You have to go out on the ice and not only play for the team. You have to play for the fans in the building. In New York, the fans made me feel like I was Mike Bossy or Bobby Orr every time I went on the ice.
Here's an excerpt...
Question from GardenGirl: You were always the player of the people, and your showing up here to answer questions shows your continued dedication to Rangers fans. Thank you for all your years on the ice, and especially for showing up early all those times to throw pucks into the crowd. Do you feel that today's players have as much dedication and team spirit as you did? What keeps you so dedicated to the NYR after all these years? And what would you tell our current Rangers to inspire them about what a great privilege it is to skate on MSG ice and continue the NYR legacy?
Nick Fotiu: Growing up in New York, I was the first New Yorker to play for the Rangers. Nobody can break that record. A lot of players from New York like myself and the Mullen brothers never really leave New York. You have to grow up here to know what it means to be a New York Ranger. It's about tradition, loyalty and respect. Not just playing on the ice. The fans never forgot me and I never forgot them. You have to go out on the ice and not only play for the team. You have to play for the fans in the building. In New York, the fans made me feel like I was Mike Bossy or Bobby Orr every time I went on the ice.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Could Rangers Get Heatley?
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes reports on Dany Heatley notifying the Ottawa Senators that he would like a change of scenery and wonders if the Senators would take a package anchored by Scott Gomez for him.
Here is the ESPN report on Heatley.
Heatley is currently making $7.5 million for the next five years. Gomez will make $7.3 million during the same period.
...if Ottawa would ever agree to a deal with Gomez it really won't help us cap wise. I would need Sather to move either Redden or Rozsival as well to make me happy.
...plus I'd hate to see Gomez go with Heatley coming in. Gomez would finally have someone to distribute the puck to.
Here is the ESPN report on Heatley.
Heatley is currently making $7.5 million for the next five years. Gomez will make $7.3 million during the same period.
...if Ottawa would ever agree to a deal with Gomez it really won't help us cap wise. I would need Sather to move either Redden or Rozsival as well to make me happy.
...plus I'd hate to see Gomez go with Heatley coming in. Gomez would finally have someone to distribute the puck to.
Sutter to Step Down
TSN is reporting that Devils coach Brent Sutter will announce that he is stepping down as the head coach of the New Jersey Devils today. Sutter, who was brought to New Jersey on July 13, 2007, spent two seasons behind the Devils' bench compiling a record of 97-56-11. He led the team to the post-season both years, but failed to move on past the first round, most recently falling to the Carolina Hurricanes in seven games.
...no tears being shed at this blog.
Live Chat with Zipay @ 1pm
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes will be hosting a live web chat today at 1pm. To participate click here.
Centers of Attention
Newyorkrangers.com looks at the centers that are available in the June 26th NHL draft. Including John Tavares, Matt Duchene and Evander Kane.
For where the Rangers stand on their needs at center visit The Prospect Park.
...with Drury, Gomez and Anisimov under contract and Dubinsky and Betts all but assured of being re-signed, not to mention prospects such as Moore, Pyatt and Stepan, I'd say center is not a pressing need for the Blueshirts right now.
For where the Rangers stand on their needs at center visit The Prospect Park.
...with Drury, Gomez and Anisimov under contract and Dubinsky and Betts all but assured of being re-signed, not to mention prospects such as Moore, Pyatt and Stepan, I'd say center is not a pressing need for the Blueshirts right now.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Rangers Make Gomez Available
Pierre LeBrun at ESPN reports that the Rangers have made Scott Gomez available around the league.
LeBrun adds that the LA Kings are looking for a star but isn't sure how interested they are in Gomez due to his contract.
...if this report is true I'm very encouraged that Sather is looking to dump salary. A must this off-season.
LeBrun adds that the LA Kings are looking for a star but isn't sure how interested they are in Gomez due to his contract.
...if this report is true I'm very encouraged that Sather is looking to dump salary. A must this off-season.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Rangers to Waiver Redden?
Bruce Garrioch at the Ottawa Sun reports..."There is talk the Rangers might waive D Wade Redden at the start of next season and send him to the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack to get his $6.5-million salary off the books. New York has tried to deal Redden, but nobody is willing to bite. He still has $32.5 million and five years left on his contract."
...don't tease me Bruce.
...the Redden signing, due to the contract length and amount, could be the worst in New York sports history.
Rangers Should Go Forward in Draft
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes says that with the Rangers "taking D-men (Staal, Sanguinetti, Del Zotto) and a goalie (Al Montoya) in four of the last five first rounds, the Rangers should grab whoever they deem the top forward available at 19 (Kassian, Ashton, Kreider, Holland) or higher, even though that player would be two or three years away from the Garden."
Speaking of defensive draft picks Blueshirt Banter has a great Q&A with Bobby Sanguinetti.
Newyorkrangers.com looks at the success teams have had with the #19 pick.
...with the draft right around the corner I'm hoping to have a lot more updates.
Speaking of defensive draft picks Blueshirt Banter has a great Q&A with Bobby Sanguinetti.
Newyorkrangers.com looks at the success teams have had with the #19 pick.
...with the draft right around the corner I'm hoping to have a lot more updates.
Rangers Need Star Power
Larry Brooks at the New York Post says without legitimate offensive talent it is impossible to thrive in the NHL...
"The Penguins have Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby, the Caps have Alex Ovechkin, Alexander Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green, the Hurricanes have Eric Staal, and the Rangers . . . well, and the Rangers have no one remotely comparable. Fact is, the Blueshirts don't have a forward who would be selected in the top, what, 100 in a league-wide dispersal draft."
Brooks says the oft-injuried Marian Gaborik could be that player for the Rangers.
He also mentions the Rangers trading Marc Staal for top tier talent...
"There is no player on the roster other than lone untouchable Henrik Lundqvist for whom the Rangers could acquire an elite offensive force by trade, though if we were in GM Glen Sather's golf shoes, we'd be calling Ottawa and offering Marc Staal for Heatley, we'd be calling Tampa and offering Staal for Vincent Lecavalier or Steven Stamkos, we'd be calling Colorado and offering Staal for the third-overall selection in the Entry Draft, and you get our drift."
...if there was ever going to be a typical Ranger free agent signing Gaborik would be it. I couldn't be more against the Rangers signing a player that can barely stay in the line-up.
...on the other hand if there was ever going to be a thinking outside the box move it would be trading players like Staal and Anisimov for top offensive talent. I'm not condoning this approach by Sather, but I'd understand. Plus the GM needs to unload two of the four biggest contracts (Drury, Gomez, Roszival and Redden).
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes suggests the Rangers look at Milan Hejduk and Jonathan Cheechoo.
"The Penguins have Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby, the Caps have Alex Ovechkin, Alexander Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green, the Hurricanes have Eric Staal, and the Rangers . . . well, and the Rangers have no one remotely comparable. Fact is, the Blueshirts don't have a forward who would be selected in the top, what, 100 in a league-wide dispersal draft."
Brooks says the oft-injuried Marian Gaborik could be that player for the Rangers.
He also mentions the Rangers trading Marc Staal for top tier talent...
"There is no player on the roster other than lone untouchable Henrik Lundqvist for whom the Rangers could acquire an elite offensive force by trade, though if we were in GM Glen Sather's golf shoes, we'd be calling Ottawa and offering Marc Staal for Heatley, we'd be calling Tampa and offering Staal for Vincent Lecavalier or Steven Stamkos, we'd be calling Colorado and offering Staal for the third-overall selection in the Entry Draft, and you get our drift."
...if there was ever going to be a typical Ranger free agent signing Gaborik would be it. I couldn't be more against the Rangers signing a player that can barely stay in the line-up.
...on the other hand if there was ever going to be a thinking outside the box move it would be trading players like Staal and Anisimov for top offensive talent. I'm not condoning this approach by Sather, but I'd understand. Plus the GM needs to unload two of the four biggest contracts (Drury, Gomez, Roszival and Redden).
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes suggests the Rangers look at Milan Hejduk and Jonathan Cheechoo.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Sather Tries to Justify Ticket Price Increases
Eric at 5-Hole reports that the Rangers, despite a recession and coming off an underwhelming season, have decided to raise ticket prices and includes a letter (along with translation) from Glen Sather who tries his best to fool season ticket owners into thinking the increase is justified...Here's a snippet...
Rangers Subscribers,
Hey Suckers!
Five years ago, we made it our priority to build the New York Rangers team for long-term success by developing a core foundation of young players and adding key veterans as our youngsters matured. Our philosophy remains steadfast, and this past season, six young players whose NHL careers began here in New York played major roles in taking us to the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.
A few years ago, I brought up a few players from the farm system (in this case, six), surrounded them with overpriced, underachieving veterans, and prayed for Henrik Lundqvist to play well. Except for Jagr. That guy was awesome. Especially that one year when he scored 54 goals. Too bad he destroyed his shoulder punching Scott Gomez in the playoffs. Speaking of which, he’s a Ranger! And I signed Chris Drury too! That was awesome.
...its amazing how blinded GMs and owners are by greed. Have the Dolans and Sather seen all the empty seats at the new Yankee Stadium and Citi Field? What a joke.
MSG Renovations A Year Behind Schedule
Tom Topousis at the New York Post reports that renovations to Madison Square Garden are about a year behind a schedule set up last year with the lower half of the arena bowl being rebuilt in time for the 2011-12 seasons and the upper half to be done the following year, 2012-13..Hank Ratner, vice chairman of Madison Square Garden, insists that the delay is the result of taking extra time in the planning phase...
"One thing we don't want to do is have to go back and change it midway through," he said.
Ratner adds that Garden officials had looked at the problems the Yankees faced in selling expensive luxury suites during the recession.
Renderings of the new Garden are also provided.
...didn't I post about this back in December? (See here).
Monday, June 1, 2009
TSN's Off-Season Game Plan for Rangers
Scott Cullen at TSN looks at what the Rangers will be facing this off-season...
"While the Rangers' cap situation isn't quite as dire as their actual salary commitments (thanks to front-loaded contracts for Scott Gomez, Chris Drury, Michal Rozsival and Wade Redden) would make it seem, but it's not easy to build a contending team under the cap when the top-priced players aren't performing."
...lots of holes to fill and not much cap room to do it. Sather is really going to have to dig into his bag of tricks.
"While the Rangers' cap situation isn't quite as dire as their actual salary commitments (thanks to front-loaded contracts for Scott Gomez, Chris Drury, Michal Rozsival and Wade Redden) would make it seem, but it's not easy to build a contending team under the cap when the top-priced players aren't performing."
...lots of holes to fill and not much cap room to do it. Sather is really going to have to dig into his bag of tricks.
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