Thursday, October 7, 2010

Stepan Could Make Some Noise

Bob McKenzie at TSN takes a look at 10 rookies who were not in TSN's Top 10 rookies that could make some noise this season...

1. Derek Stepan of the New York Rangers. Really, really like this kid. Great pedigree, a Minnesotan who played at Wisconsin and was one of the best players at last year's World Junior Championship. Hockey smart, with and without the puck. He's a hockey player's hockey player and while it may be a little much to expect him to be able to centre Alex Frolov and Marian Gaborik on the Rangers' No. 1 line, I keep wondering if he's not the Rangers' best option there and just allow him to grow into the position. The only thing I don't like about the kid is that I hear Ranger voice Sam Rosen calling him Stuh-PAN. I had always assumed it was Step-in. Sam would know. I find Stuh-PAN difficult to say quickly. I'm sure I'll get over it and hope to say his name many times this season. If Stepan can step up -- and really, it's tough to forecast with rookies -- the 20-year-old second-rounder could be a major impact player for a Ranger team that may be on the cusp of the playoffs.

...we really, really like him too.

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8 comments:

Anonymous said...

I really like Stepan too.

Christian said...

It's funny, with all of the Stepan hype, I've almost completely forgotten that Kreider is another forward to get excited about too!

Evan S said...

Stepan, Staal, Bourque, Werek,Del Zotto, Kreider, McDonagh, Dubinsky, Callahan. Youth movement? Served.

KCinMN said...

Step-ON will win the Calder

ry-man said...

hes on my fantasy team. people thought i was crazy but hes gonna be good.

Elissa said...

@ry-man I have him on 4 teams lol

Unknown said...

i have stepan on all my teams also

Unknown said...

I love the only thing he doesn't about HIM is Sam Rosen. Classic. I hope there are Rangers prospects within the broadcasting system.