Newsday - New Ranger Brashear deflects boos from fans
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Gaborik Seeks Redemption
John Grigg at The Hockey News gives his Top 10 redemption-seeking players this season, where Marian Gaborik checks in at number two...
2. Marian Gaborik, RW, New York Rangers
He just may be the most electrifying player in the league, when he’s actually playing. Gaborik’s reputation precedes him - and it’s not a good one. He topped an unflattering Top 10 list earlier this summer. And he made headlines late last season when he was quoted basically as saying he hadn’t been watching Minnesota games and only cared about his comeback, not the Wild’s playoff aspirations. When he did get back, Gaborik posted 13 goals and 23 points in 17 games, numbers that would have won him the Rocket Richard Trophy and placed him second in the scoring race if he had played the full season. Gaborik is looking to show Rangers fans he is worth $7.5 million a season by staying healthy, putting up lots of points and being a good teammate. If those don’t happen, Broadway will be merciless.
...no pressure or anything Marian.
2. Marian Gaborik, RW, New York Rangers
He just may be the most electrifying player in the league, when he’s actually playing. Gaborik’s reputation precedes him - and it’s not a good one. He topped an unflattering Top 10 list earlier this summer. And he made headlines late last season when he was quoted basically as saying he hadn’t been watching Minnesota games and only cared about his comeback, not the Wild’s playoff aspirations. When he did get back, Gaborik posted 13 goals and 23 points in 17 games, numbers that would have won him the Rocket Richard Trophy and placed him second in the scoring race if he had played the full season. Gaborik is looking to show Rangers fans he is worth $7.5 million a season by staying healthy, putting up lots of points and being a good teammate. If those don’t happen, Broadway will be merciless.
...no pressure or anything Marian.
Cherepanov Monument Unveiled in Omsk
Beyond the Blueshirts reports that a permanent memorial marking the final resting place of former New York Rangers prospect Alexei Cherepanov was unveiled in Omsk on Wednesday during a somber ceremony attended by Cherepanov’s parents, his Avangard Omsk teammates, club officials, junior team members, friends and fans."The design for the sculpture, which depicts the young hockey player in full equipment with his stick raised as if he’d just scored a goal, was based on a sketch by Denis Speransky, who submitted the drawing as part of a competition held earlier this year."
...a very fitting tribute to a talented hocket player.
Brashear Turns Boos into Cheers with Threat
Seth Rothman at Inside Hockey reports on how Donald Brashear began changing Ranger fans' opinion of him by threatening them at Wednesday night's Rangers Fan Fest event in the lobby of The Theater at Madison Square Garden...
"In fact, when Brashear was introduced Wednesday night at a Rangers Fan Fest event in the lobby of The Theater at Madison Square Garden by emcee Dave Maloney, he was received by a mix of boos and cheers. Brashear quickly attempted to quell the uprising when he reached the stage.
“Enough booing,” Brashear said. “I’ll take you all one by one.”
Predictably -- and perhaps intelligently, the boos changed to cheers and laughter, and the fans seemed to warm to Brashear’s self-deprecating humor as the hour-long event went on."
...while Ranger fans may be complaining about Brashear now, the first time he pummels someone who sneezes near Gaborik we'll all be reminded of his value to this team.
Rothman also offers highlights of a Q&A, including this confrontation between newest Ranger Chris Higgins and fans who booed him for growing up a Canadiens fan...
At one point, Higgins even chastised the fans for booing, to which an adult fan yelled: “Get used to it!”
...Higgins better grow some thick skin fast.
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has more on the event here.
"In fact, when Brashear was introduced Wednesday night at a Rangers Fan Fest event in the lobby of The Theater at Madison Square Garden by emcee Dave Maloney, he was received by a mix of boos and cheers. Brashear quickly attempted to quell the uprising when he reached the stage.
“Enough booing,” Brashear said. “I’ll take you all one by one.”
Predictably -- and perhaps intelligently, the boos changed to cheers and laughter, and the fans seemed to warm to Brashear’s self-deprecating humor as the hour-long event went on."
...while Ranger fans may be complaining about Brashear now, the first time he pummels someone who sneezes near Gaborik we'll all be reminded of his value to this team.
Rothman also offers highlights of a Q&A, including this confrontation between newest Ranger Chris Higgins and fans who booed him for growing up a Canadiens fan...
At one point, Higgins even chastised the fans for booing, to which an adult fan yelled: “Get used to it!”
...Higgins better grow some thick skin fast.
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has more on the event here.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Individual Tickets Go on Sale September 12th
Newyorkrangers.com reports that individual seats to all 41 home games will go on sale September 12th at 10 a.m....while the price of tickets have increased, I'm begging all my readers to purchase tickets so that the Ranger players are actually playing front of real Ranger fans not just clients of AIG.
Dubinsky Scores Twice in Pre-Camp Scrimmage
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes continues his great work reporting from pre-camp by telling us that Bradon Dubinsky scored two goals today including a laser shot under the crossbar past Matt Zaba from the left dot....Sather sign this guy now!!!!
Other Zipay observations include...
"Donald Brashear set up Patrick Rissmiller for a high backhanded flick past Zaba from in tight...Corey Potter zipped a wrister past Zaba as well....Dan Girardi was paired with Potter... Evgeny Grachev played back on D for awhile near the end of the workout..."
...the demise of Patrick Rissmiller has been greatly exaggerated.
Don't Be Caught Dead Wearing Potvin Jersey at MSG
Sean Leahy at Puck Daddy takes a team-by-team look at jerseys that a fan wouldn't be caught dead wearing in an opposing arena...In New York Rangers: Denis Potvin
It's the chant that reaches saturation after the eighth time in a period; Denis Potvin is not a welcomed guest inside Madison Square Garden. His hit on Rangers forward Ulf Nilsson during the 1978-79 season was the beginning of the hatred for the former Islanders defenseman. Nilsson would break his ankle on the play and miss the rest of the season. The fact that Potvin was a member of the hated Islanders made the hit even more unforgivable.
It's the chant that reaches saturation after the eighth time in a period; Denis Potvin is not a welcomed guest inside Madison Square Garden. His hit on Rangers forward Ulf Nilsson during the 1978-79 season was the beginning of the hatred for the former Islanders defenseman. Nilsson would break his ankle on the play and miss the rest of the season. The fact that Potvin was a member of the hated Islanders made the hit even more unforgivable.
Other notable jerseys include Mark Messier jersey in Vancouver and Jaromir Jagr in Washington.
...i don't think a person wearing a Potvin jersey at MSG would last two seconds.
Limited Season Tickets Available
Newyorkrangers.com reports that a limited number of seats are available for full-season subscriptions that include full playoff rights and more....anyone interested better get on them fast as despite the high price they will go fast.
Zherdev Going to Atlanta?
CHAMPIONAT.RU reports that Nikolai Zherdev may be close to a deal with the Atlanta Thrashers..."Negotiations are underway with several teams, but while I'm in limbo - the contract is signed. I hope in the next two or three days all will be determined. The most serious dialogue is precisely the" Thrashers ". However, there are other options. But personally I would like to get into the "Atlanta", which serve several good Russian players. With them, it would be easier and more enjoyable to play. " - Zherdev said in an interview with Sport-Express.
Lyle Richardson at Spector's Hockey says Zherdev would have to accept a one-year contract worth probably around $1.5 million if he wants to play with the Thrashers.
...the guy rejects the Rangers one-year $3.25 million offer and may now have to accept a one-year $1.5 million contract to play for Atlanta? Zherdev needs to fire his agent immediately.
Gaborik Couldn't Be Happier
Newyorkrangers.com has a nice feature on Marian Gaborik with lots of quotes...
On coming to the Rangers...
“It’s a new challenge and a new opportunity, and I am looking forward to it,” said Gaborik.
On Tortorella...
“He seems like an offensive-minded coach,” Gaborik, 27, said of Tortorella. “Obviously, though, we have to take care of things defensively. But I don’t have a problem with that since I played in Minnesota for nine years."
On his health...
“I am skating free,” stated Gaborik. “Obviously it is still before training camp and I still have to tune things up, but I feel good and excited.”
On playing at MSG...
“I haven’t played at MSG very often, but when I did it was always a great atmosphere, so it’s got to be even better when you are playing for the Rangers. It’s going to be a fun ride.”
...right now I'm loving what I'm hearing from pre-camp. Dubinsky close to signing, Gaborik healthy, players arriving early. Loving it!!!
On coming to the Rangers...
“It’s a new challenge and a new opportunity, and I am looking forward to it,” said Gaborik.
On Tortorella...
“He seems like an offensive-minded coach,” Gaborik, 27, said of Tortorella. “Obviously, though, we have to take care of things defensively. But I don’t have a problem with that since I played in Minnesota for nine years."
On his health...
“I am skating free,” stated Gaborik. “Obviously it is still before training camp and I still have to tune things up, but I feel good and excited.”
On playing at MSG...
“I haven’t played at MSG very often, but when I did it was always a great atmosphere, so it’s got to be even better when you are playing for the Rangers. It’s going to be a fun ride.”
...right now I'm loving what I'm hearing from pre-camp. Dubinsky close to signing, Gaborik healthy, players arriving early. Loving it!!!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
More Pre-Camp Reports
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes reports from pre-camp practice with this update...
"Chris Drury, Sean Avery and Steve Valiquette (absent yesterday) were on the ice for the loose, close to two hour-session....Vinny Prospal eventually will be en route from Tampa, Ales Kotalik due in tomorrow....Drury at one point was centering Marian Gaborik (on the left) and Ryan Callahan..."
Zipay also adds that Girardi was paired with Redden on defense and Dubinsky centered Brashear and Rissmiller (he's still on the team?).
...i'm starting to get excited!!!
For Zipay's interview with Enver Lisin click here.
Elsewhere, Marian Gaborik told Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants that despite skating on the left wing for the most part during today's pre-camp practice that he is more comfortable and used to playing on the right side.
....nice it's only pre-camp and our top player is already unhappy. Please put Gaborik where he is most comfortable.
Newyorkrangers.com also has a piece on the Rangers players work-ethic being the key to this season.
"Chris Drury, Sean Avery and Steve Valiquette (absent yesterday) were on the ice for the loose, close to two hour-session....Vinny Prospal eventually will be en route from Tampa, Ales Kotalik due in tomorrow....Drury at one point was centering Marian Gaborik (on the left) and Ryan Callahan..."
Zipay also adds that Girardi was paired with Redden on defense and Dubinsky centered Brashear and Rissmiller (he's still on the team?).
...i'm starting to get excited!!!
For Zipay's interview with Enver Lisin click here.
Elsewhere, Marian Gaborik told Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants that despite skating on the left wing for the most part during today's pre-camp practice that he is more comfortable and used to playing on the right side.
....nice it's only pre-camp and our top player is already unhappy. Please put Gaborik where he is most comfortable.
Newyorkrangers.com also has a piece on the Rangers players work-ethic being the key to this season.
Rangers Top 20 Prospects
Leslie Treff at Hockey's Future has the Rangers Top 20 prospects with Evgeni Grachev checking in at #1...
1. (3) Evgeny Grachev, C/LW Grade: 8.0C
Acquired: Third Round, 75th overall, 2008 NHL Entry Draft
Age: 19
Grachev has continually risen in both the eyes of the Rangers management and HF since he was drafted in June of 2008. Although at times early in the 2008-09 OHL season, he seemed to give an inconsistent effort on the ice, after he adjusted to North American play, he was a standout for the OHL Brampton Battalion. Named OHL Rookie of the Year in April 2009, Grachev was the top first-year scorer in the league. Although the Russian forward was drafted as a center, he spent much of the 2008-09 season playing on the left wing. At 6’3, 212 lbs, and the ability to make things happen in front of the net, Grachev is a prototypical power forward, who is now thought to become NHL-ready sooner than originally expected. He will get a good look in the Traverse City Rookie Tournament, and then later in the month at the Rangers’ main training camp. Although it is likely that he will start the season as a member of the Hartford Wolf Pack, an excellent showing this fall could lead to a spot on the Rangers roster this October.
Artem Anisimove, Ryan McDonagh, Derek Stepan and Michael Del Zotto round out the top five.
...while Grachev is the obvious #1 prospect, it's nice to see a big return on the Gomez trade with McDonagh as the #3 prospect.
...i can't believe I'm saying this but nice job Sather.
1. (3) Evgeny Grachev, C/LW Grade: 8.0C
Acquired: Third Round, 75th overall, 2008 NHL Entry Draft
Age: 19
Grachev has continually risen in both the eyes of the Rangers management and HF since he was drafted in June of 2008. Although at times early in the 2008-09 OHL season, he seemed to give an inconsistent effort on the ice, after he adjusted to North American play, he was a standout for the OHL Brampton Battalion. Named OHL Rookie of the Year in April 2009, Grachev was the top first-year scorer in the league. Although the Russian forward was drafted as a center, he spent much of the 2008-09 season playing on the left wing. At 6’3, 212 lbs, and the ability to make things happen in front of the net, Grachev is a prototypical power forward, who is now thought to become NHL-ready sooner than originally expected. He will get a good look in the Traverse City Rookie Tournament, and then later in the month at the Rangers’ main training camp. Although it is likely that he will start the season as a member of the Hartford Wolf Pack, an excellent showing this fall could lead to a spot on the Rangers roster this October.
Artem Anisimove, Ryan McDonagh, Derek Stepan and Michael Del Zotto round out the top five.
...while Grachev is the obvious #1 prospect, it's nice to see a big return on the Gomez trade with McDonagh as the #3 prospect.
...i can't believe I'm saying this but nice job Sather.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Dubinsky Talks Contract
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes was able to speak with Brandon Dubinsky today at an informal team scrimmage about his contract situation...
“I want to be a Ranger,” said Dubinsky, 23, still an unsigned, restricted free agent. “The Rangers want me here; something’s gonna get done real quick and this will all be an afterthought. I’m in here working hard, getting ready for the season, not worrying about that; everything falls into place eventually, so I’m not losing any sleep over it. Obviously there’s been a lot of speculation and stuff, but I know where we’re at and where we’re gonna be…It might be 12 days away from camp, but 12 days is a long time, you can have a lot of conversations in 12 days, it only takes one.”
...this Dubinsky quote has me feeling a whole lot better.
Zipay also has observations from scrimmage including locker assignments, Higgins scoring and Potter saying players have come into camp leaner than last year because of Tortorella's letter stating they better be in shape here and here.
“I want to be a Ranger,” said Dubinsky, 23, still an unsigned, restricted free agent. “The Rangers want me here; something’s gonna get done real quick and this will all be an afterthought. I’m in here working hard, getting ready for the season, not worrying about that; everything falls into place eventually, so I’m not losing any sleep over it. Obviously there’s been a lot of speculation and stuff, but I know where we’re at and where we’re gonna be…It might be 12 days away from camp, but 12 days is a long time, you can have a lot of conversations in 12 days, it only takes one.”
...this Dubinsky quote has me feeling a whole lot better.
Zipay also has observations from scrimmage including locker assignments, Higgins scoring and Potter saying players have come into camp leaner than last year because of Tortorella's letter stating they better be in shape here and here.
Rangers = Doughnut
John Kreiser at NHL.com looks at the key questions for Eastern Conference teams and compares the Rangers to a doughnut...
New York Rangers -
What do the Rangers and the doughnuts at Tim Horton's (a new arrival in the Big Apple) have in common? A hole in the middle -- in the Rangers' case, that means the absence of a No. 1 center. With Scott Gomez gone to Montreal and high-scoring but oft-injured winger Marian Gaborik signed from Minnesota, the Rangers now have a winger who can put the puck in the net but no one who resembles a No. 1 center who can get him the puck -- and are tight enough against the cap that they likely won't be able to deal for one unless they're willing to give up some young talent.
...the Rangers are more like a doughnut factory there are so many holes (center, defense, power play).
...Sather took some chances this off-season, hopefully they'll pay off.
New York Rangers -
What do the Rangers and the doughnuts at Tim Horton's (a new arrival in the Big Apple) have in common? A hole in the middle -- in the Rangers' case, that means the absence of a No. 1 center. With Scott Gomez gone to Montreal and high-scoring but oft-injured winger Marian Gaborik signed from Minnesota, the Rangers now have a winger who can put the puck in the net but no one who resembles a No. 1 center who can get him the puck -- and are tight enough against the cap that they likely won't be able to deal for one unless they're willing to give up some young talent.
...the Rangers are more like a doughnut factory there are so many holes (center, defense, power play).
...Sather took some chances this off-season, hopefully they'll pay off.
Drury Enshrined in Little League Hall of Excellence
TSN reports that on Saturday Chris Drury was enshrined into the Little League Museum Hall of Excellence.
On winning the Little League World Series in 1989 over Taiwan...
"Certainly, 20 years ago, I had one of the greatest weeks in my life," said Drury, getting a standing ovation from the crowd as he picked up his honour. "It's certainly not something I'll ever forget."
When asked to order his athletic accomplishments...
"I try to not rank anything, the Stanley Cup, the silver medal," Drury said. "It's something pure and innocent that whole summer growing as a team, growing as a family. ... It's still pretty special to me."
...i wonder if a Stanley Cup with the Rangers would top his list?
On winning the Little League World Series in 1989 over Taiwan...
"Certainly, 20 years ago, I had one of the greatest weeks in my life," said Drury, getting a standing ovation from the crowd as he picked up his honour. "It's certainly not something I'll ever forget."
When asked to order his athletic accomplishments...
"I try to not rank anything, the Stanley Cup, the silver medal," Drury said. "It's something pure and innocent that whole summer growing as a team, growing as a family. ... It's still pretty special to me."
...i wonder if a Stanley Cup with the Rangers would top his list?
Bourque Stays Hot in QMJHL Preseason
Ranger prospect C Ryan Bourque continued his hot start to the QMJHL preseason on Sunday night, scoring a goal and adding the shootout winner in the Quebec Remparts' 4-3 win over visiting Chicoutimi.
Bourque, who was picked by the Rangers in the third round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, now has three goals and two assists in three preseason games with Quebec.
For more on Bourque and other Ranger prospects visit newyorkrangers.com.
...with our lack of depth at center its too bad we can't bring Bourque up.
Bourque, who was picked by the Rangers in the third round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, now has three goals and two assists in three preseason games with Quebec.
For more on Bourque and other Ranger prospects visit newyorkrangers.com.
...with our lack of depth at center its too bad we can't bring Bourque up.
Preseason Tickets Go on Sale Tomorrow
Newyorkrangers.com reports that tickets to the Rangers' three preseason home games vs. Boston, Detroit and Washington on Sept. 15, Sept. 21 and Sept. 24 will go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 1, through Ticketmaster via phone or online. To order click here. You can also do some online sports betting.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Rangers Still Rumored As Destination For Heatley
Bruce Garrioch at the Ottawa Sun gives his five possible destinations for Dany Heatley with the Rangers being one...
2. New York Rangers
GM Glen Sather likes to stick his nose into everything and this is where Heatley really wants to go. The Rangers refused to give up D Marc Staal and C Brandon Dubinsky at the draft for Heatley. They’d have to offer C Chris Drury, but Sather is loath to deal his captain. “The Rangers love players with star power and they could find a way to take on Heatley’s $7.5-million salary. Sather is the type of GM who doesn’t let players like Heatley get away,” said a league executive. With more than $6 million in cap room, the Rangers wouldn’t have to move much.
...it's hard to take any rumors involving the Rangers seriously as they're mentioned in almost every one b/c of Sather's willingness to overpay.
...i'm no cap expert, but I thought the Rangers had a lot less than $6 million available. If anyone knows, please post in comments.
...sorry for the late posts, I had my fantasy football draft today.
2. New York Rangers
GM Glen Sather likes to stick his nose into everything and this is where Heatley really wants to go. The Rangers refused to give up D Marc Staal and C Brandon Dubinsky at the draft for Heatley. They’d have to offer C Chris Drury, but Sather is loath to deal his captain. “The Rangers love players with star power and they could find a way to take on Heatley’s $7.5-million salary. Sather is the type of GM who doesn’t let players like Heatley get away,” said a league executive. With more than $6 million in cap room, the Rangers wouldn’t have to move much.
...it's hard to take any rumors involving the Rangers seriously as they're mentioned in almost every one b/c of Sather's willingness to overpay.
...i'm no cap expert, but I thought the Rangers had a lot less than $6 million available. If anyone knows, please post in comments.
...sorry for the late posts, I had my fantasy football draft today.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Lundqvist Filling Richter's Shoes?
In his guest blog post at the Rangers Report, Patrick Hoffman wonders if Henrik Lundqvist is the new Mike Richter..."Doesn’t this come close to sounding like another star Broadway athlete that played between the pipes on Broadway for many years, one that put up solid numbers on more than a few sub-par clubs, won a Stanley Cup with a nearly perfect team, did a ton of charity work and was an all-around good guy? In my eyes, and may be yours, right now at least, Henrik Lundqvist is almost equivalent to the all-time winningest goaltender in Rangers’ history that starred for the Blueshirts for 14 seasons."
...my answer to that question is an emphatic "NO."
...while Lundqvist has been great as a Ranger, I've seen too many soft goals, long stretches of average play and playoff failures to even be considered in the same class as Richter.
...i think during Richter's career we Ranger fans got spoiled by his goaltending. His acrobatic and sometimes amazing saves became almost routine. Then after Richter was forced to retire we had to endure the goaltending follies of Herbert, McLean and Dunham. So now when we see Lundqvist dominating games we just assume he is as good if not better than Richter. But do yourself a favor, the next time "Rangers Classics" has a game from the 1990's sit down and watch Richter go to work. You'll realize there is no comparison.
Ranger Junior Prospects Continue to Impress
Jess Rubenstein at The Prospect Park has exhibition game recaps for three Ranger prospects playing Junior hockey.
In his North American debut, 2009 5th round pick Roman Horak, who had a goal and an assist, was named the game's first star in the Cilliwack Bruins (WHL) 4-2 win.
Chris Doyle followed up his exhibition debut (1g) with an even better performance scoring two goals and adding an assist as the Prince Edward Island Rockets defeated the Arcadie-Bathurst Titan 5-4.
And finally, Ryan Bourque had an assist as his Quebec Remparts defeated the Chicoutimi Saguenéens 6-3. However Bourque was a -2. Bourque now has four points this exhibition season.
...man you know I need the Rangers season to start when I'm posting about junior hockey exhibition games.
In his North American debut, 2009 5th round pick Roman Horak, who had a goal and an assist, was named the game's first star in the Cilliwack Bruins (WHL) 4-2 win.
Chris Doyle followed up his exhibition debut (1g) with an even better performance scoring two goals and adding an assist as the Prince Edward Island Rockets defeated the Arcadie-Bathurst Titan 5-4.
And finally, Ryan Bourque had an assist as his Quebec Remparts defeated the Chicoutimi Saguenéens 6-3. However Bourque was a -2. Bourque now has four points this exhibition season.
...man you know I need the Rangers season to start when I'm posting about junior hockey exhibition games.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Sanguinetti Attends Upper Deck Rookie Photo Shoot
Rangers prospect D Bobby Sanguinetti was recently invited to the Upper Deck NHL Rookie Photo Shoot.
For video click here.
...nice to see Sanguinetti getting some recognition. It will also be nice to see him get some ice time with the Rangers this year as well.
...definitely check out the video where you can see Sanguinetti smartly getting a prime spot next to number #1 pick John Tavares of the Islanders in one of the group photos.
Lots of Roster Problems for Rangers
Lyle Richardson over at Fox Sports looks at potential roster problems for every Eastern Conference team and says this about the Rangers...
New York Rangers: Trading away Scott Gomez this summer leaves the Rangers without an experienced first-line center. It remains to be seen if oft-injured star winger Marian Gaborik, signed this summer via free agency, can play a full season. There's legitimate concern about the caliber of their defense corps. If overpaid veterans Wade Redden and Michal Rozsival fail to step up this season the Blueshirts could be in trouble.
...this roster observation has me a little nervous going into the season.
New York Rangers: Trading away Scott Gomez this summer leaves the Rangers without an experienced first-line center. It remains to be seen if oft-injured star winger Marian Gaborik, signed this summer via free agency, can play a full season. There's legitimate concern about the caliber of their defense corps. If overpaid veterans Wade Redden and Michal Rozsival fail to step up this season the Blueshirts could be in trouble.
...this roster observation has me a little nervous going into the season.
Rangers Need to Step Up Interest in Kessel
Mark Everson at the New York Post says if the Rangers are interested in Bruins restricted free agent Phil Kessel they're going to have to setup their efforts as trade talks are heating up with other clubs...
"The Rangers are believed to have talked seriously with the Bruins about trading for Kessel, but not lately. At least two other teams are believed to have stepped up their bidding of late. Kessel is rehabbing from rotator cuff surgery, but may be ready to skate when camps open next month.
A righty center/right wing, Kessel led the Bruins with 36 goals last season, despite missing 12 games, and stood plus-23. He went 6-5-11 and plus-7 in 11 playoff games for Boston. He won't turn 22 until Oct. 2."
Kessel is demanding a $5 million-a-year salary, which the Bruins can't afford due to their cap situation.
...if there was ever a spot where the Rangers were going to trade Dubinsky this would be it. Kessel is a rising star in the league and, in my opinion, has a higher ceiling than Dubinsky.
...cap wise not sure how the Rangers can fit him in, especially since the Bruins will not be able to take the salaries of Redden or Rozsival back.
"The Rangers are believed to have talked seriously with the Bruins about trading for Kessel, but not lately. At least two other teams are believed to have stepped up their bidding of late. Kessel is rehabbing from rotator cuff surgery, but may be ready to skate when camps open next month.
A righty center/right wing, Kessel led the Bruins with 36 goals last season, despite missing 12 games, and stood plus-23. He went 6-5-11 and plus-7 in 11 playoff games for Boston. He won't turn 22 until Oct. 2."
Kessel is demanding a $5 million-a-year salary, which the Bruins can't afford due to their cap situation.
...if there was ever a spot where the Rangers were going to trade Dubinsky this would be it. Kessel is a rising star in the league and, in my opinion, has a higher ceiling than Dubinsky.
...cap wise not sure how the Rangers can fit him in, especially since the Bruins will not be able to take the salaries of Redden or Rozsival back.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Season Subscriber Summer Festival Rescheduled for Sept. 5
This weekend's Rangers Season Subscriber Summer Festival has been rescheduled for September 5th due to forecasted weather conditions.The original festival was scheduled for this Saturday, August 29th at the Madison Square Garden Training Center in Tarrytown, N.Y. Rangers players and alumni who planned on attending were Ryan Callahan, Dan Girardi, Aaron Voros, John Tortorella, Nick Fotiu, Dave Maloney, Adam Graves, Ron Duguay and Brian Mullen.
Activities included a Summer barbecue featuring youth hockey clinics, autograph and photo sessions, open skates, player forums and interactive games.
...according to the official press release the festival is "...to celebrate the loyal and passionate Rangers fans by uniting them with their favorite players and alumni for an unforgettable day." And obviously in the world of the Dolans you're only considered a loyal and passionate Rangers fan if you're a season ticket holder.
...how about a festival for the rest of us lowely Rangers fans?
Avery to Replace Roenick as Best Interview?
With the retirment of Jeremy Roenick, Craig Custance at The Sporting News gives a top 10 of who will replace him as the best interview in the NHL and Sean Avery makes the list at #6...6. Sean Avery, New York: I've got to admit it. I miss the pre-suspension Sean Avery. He was another guy who you never knew what to expect when you sat down to talk. Last summer, I was in Dallas and was interviewing him about the Rangers off-season moves and he said there was no way Wade Redden would work out in New York. I almost pulled a groin getting back to the hotel to put his comments on a blog. And that was one of the tamest things he said during that Dallas trip. To his credit, he's toned his act WAY down since crossing the line last year. He really had no choice. But here's hoping he finds a happy medium this season to keep things interesting.
...after what happened last year, I don't think we're going to be hearing anymore 'Sloppy Second' quotes coming from Avery. But we can hope.
Help Me, Help You
With training camp just around the corner, I need some advice from my readers.
Please let me know how I can better this blog. Let me know what you like, what you don't like, things I should be doing, anything. I asked this last year and got some great advice.
Send all ideas and comments to my e-mail at nyrfan94@yahoo.com.
Please let me know how I can better this blog. Let me know what you like, what you don't like, things I should be doing, anything. I asked this last year and got some great advice.
Send all ideas and comments to my e-mail at nyrfan94@yahoo.com.
Messier Promotes Head Safety
Greg Wyshynski at Puck Daddy reports on Mark Messier's crusade to promote head safety in hockey...Here's a quote from Messier...
"When helmets were first designed, they were designed to stop catastrophic injuries -- meaning death in our sport," he said. "As we've progressed in our sport through the years, we've come upon an epidemic we didn't see coming many years back, which is the concussion problem. Our [current] helmets aren't designed to stop concussions."
Messier also briefly talked about his future as special assistant with the Rangers...
"Not sure where this will take me," said Messier, during a conference call this week. "I'll take my time, see what I really like and if I really like it. I feel I have a lot to offer, obviously."
...great job by Messier promoting safety, as these helmets sound like they can prevent concussions that may come from a nasty elbow, which Messier knows all about.
More Guest Blogging at Rangers Report
The Rangers Report continues its week of guest blogging (I think they're actually doing it next week also) with Doodie Machetto giving his five keys to the Rangers Season, which includes the third defensive pair, special teams, Artem Anisimov, John Tortorella and Glen Sather.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Injury Prone Gaborik Could Hold Rangers Back
Ryan Dixon at The Hockey News gives one reason for every team to worry this year. Here's what he said about the Rangers...
New York Rangers - We actually come to refer to Marian Gaborik’s time in Minny as his “Doug Jarvis years” after he barely touches the ice on Broadway.
Jarvis hold's the NHL record for consecutive games played with 964.
...it's pretty scary when the Rangers entire season rests on a player who can't stay healthy.
New York Rangers - We actually come to refer to Marian Gaborik’s time in Minny as his “Doug Jarvis years” after he barely touches the ice on Broadway.
Jarvis hold's the NHL record for consecutive games played with 964.
...it's pretty scary when the Rangers entire season rests on a player who can't stay healthy.
Rangers Fan Base Ranked #12
In their annual fan base rankings The State of Hockey News says Ranger fans are ranked #12 down 5 spots from last year...
#12 - New York Rangers - 15.5
Pct. of Capacity in 2008-09: 99.8% (18,172, 12th in the NHL)
Online Presence: 5.5
Last Year's ranking: 7th
Justification: The Rangers will always have a distinctive advantage of being NYC's #1 team regardless of where it finishes in the standings. If you ever watch the NHL Network's "NHL Live" program New York Rangers fans are always quick to call in to offer their thoughts to the lucky guys (sometimes gals) working the show. New Yorkers are tough on their teams but they're immensely loyal and that is certainly the case for the Rangers as well. However there are signs that some of that strength is eroding slightly. The Rangers lately have basically been just good enough to get to the playoffs only to be bounced in the 1st round and the fans clearly have much higher expectations and do not have a whole lot of faith in General Manager Glen Sather. For the first time in a while the Rangers failed to average a sellout for the season and that should set off some alarm bells even though the difference is quite small. It could a prelude to a more notable drop if the team does not show some definite progress and with Sather hedging his playoff hopes on the wonky groin of the often injured Marian Gaborik it does not provide a wide margin of error.
...the Ranger fan base should be #1 for having to deal with Sather and the Dolans. The Dolans are the single reason for the Rangers not averaging a sellout for the season last year as they've priced out the average fan. The Rangers organization has become a money making enterprise for the Dolans not entertainment for the fans. It's a shame because New York is a great hockey city and the Rangers fan base should be in the top 5 of this list every year. But with the economy where it is and the Dolans more worried about the bottom line, the real Ranger fans are starting to stay away from the World's Most Famous Arena. Which is obviously hurting our reputation as a great hockey fan base.
#12 - New York Rangers - 15.5
Pct. of Capacity in 2008-09: 99.8% (18,172, 12th in the NHL)
Online Presence: 5.5
Last Year's ranking: 7th
Justification: The Rangers will always have a distinctive advantage of being NYC's #1 team regardless of where it finishes in the standings. If you ever watch the NHL Network's "NHL Live" program New York Rangers fans are always quick to call in to offer their thoughts to the lucky guys (sometimes gals) working the show. New Yorkers are tough on their teams but they're immensely loyal and that is certainly the case for the Rangers as well. However there are signs that some of that strength is eroding slightly. The Rangers lately have basically been just good enough to get to the playoffs only to be bounced in the 1st round and the fans clearly have much higher expectations and do not have a whole lot of faith in General Manager Glen Sather. For the first time in a while the Rangers failed to average a sellout for the season and that should set off some alarm bells even though the difference is quite small. It could a prelude to a more notable drop if the team does not show some definite progress and with Sather hedging his playoff hopes on the wonky groin of the often injured Marian Gaborik it does not provide a wide margin of error.
...the Ranger fan base should be #1 for having to deal with Sather and the Dolans. The Dolans are the single reason for the Rangers not averaging a sellout for the season last year as they've priced out the average fan. The Rangers organization has become a money making enterprise for the Dolans not entertainment for the fans. It's a shame because New York is a great hockey city and the Rangers fan base should be in the top 5 of this list every year. But with the economy where it is and the Dolans more worried about the bottom line, the real Ranger fans are starting to stay away from the World's Most Famous Arena. Which is obviously hurting our reputation as a great hockey fan base.
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