2013 didn’t quite measure up for the Rangers. Viewed by many as pre-season Cup favorites, they were inconsistent and ultimately got John Tortorella fired. A year removed from the franchise’s first trip to the Conference Finals since ’97, a revamped roster failed. Failed is the operative word. It’s time to evaluate a team that was over matched by the Bruins, who are on the verge of reaching the Stanley Cup Finals.

FORWARDS

1.Arron Asham (27 GP 2-0-2 +2 50 PIM): Asham’s first year on Broadway was incomplete. He missed a chunk of games due to a groin injury and struggled to fit in. However, he scored twice and performed better in the postseason until Tortorella curiously sat him out.

Grade: C

2.Brian Boyle (38 GP 2-3-5 -13 145 Hits): Without former sidekick Brandon Prust, Boyle struggled mightily. Disappointing play resulted in healthy scratches. But the defensive faceoff specialist who doubles on the penalty kill played himself back into the lineup and delivered another strong showing in the playoffs notching three goals and two assists while using his big body more.

Grade: C

3.Derick Brassard (13 GP 5-6-11 +3 2 PPG): The centerpiece of the Marian Gaborik trade was outstanding after coming over from Columbus. His playmaking was on display. Brassard is the best passer on the current roster and added grit while pacing the club in the postseason with 12 points. The Rangers have a big decision on him next year.

Grade: A

4.Ryan Callahan (45 GP 16-15-31 +9 154 Hits 66 Blocks 6 PPG 2 SHG 4 GW): There’s nothing the captain won’t do to lead his team. Only missed three games despite a torn labrum. Captain Cally is approaching legendary status in terms of his pain threshold. His OT winner clinched a playoff berth. Ultimately, he was too banged up netting only two goals in two rounds. He could benefit from a coaching change due to the taxing style he played. He’s asked to do way too much.

Grade: B+

5.Ryane Clowe (12 GP 3-5-8 +5 14 PIM 30 Hits): Exactly the type of player the team lacked, he proved that he can still contribute more than he did in San Jose. Clowe is similar to Brandon Prust in that he’s willing to stand up for teammates but has more offensive capabilities. The question is the concussions. How much are the Rangers willing to spend to re-sign him?

Grade: B

6.Derek Dorsett (Playoffs: 11 GP 1 A -5 28 PIM 28 Hits): Another part of the Gaborik deal, the 26-year old from Saskatchewan added grit and physicality to a vanilla roster. However, he was undisciplined taking bad penalties at inopportune moments. I don’t think he was 100 percent and should benefit from some time off. He’s capable of contributing while taking on all comers.

Grade: INC

7.Benn Ferriero (4 GP 0-1-1): After coming over from the Sharks, the 26-year old got into four games showing a solid work ethic before being sent back to Connecticut. At this point, looks like a depth player who can be recalled if necessary.

Grade: INC

8.Marian Gaborik (35 GP 9-10-19 -8 7 PP Pts 4 GW): It is interesting to note that Gabby had seven power play points and four game-winners before he was dealt. Without question, the Rangers missed him. But one can’t argue with the return. He was wildly inconsistent. Whether you want to blame Tortorella or Gaborik, nine goals in 35 games for a three-time 40-goalscorer didn’t cut it.

Grade: C

9.Micheal Haley (9 GP -1 12 PIM 21 Hits): The ex-Islander pest was decent in an abbreviated stint but spent most of the year with the Whale before Tortorella controversially inserted him for Brad Richards. That decision might’ve doomed him. Haley plays hard but doesn’t have much of a future.

Grade: INC

10.Carl Hagelin (48 GP 10-14-24 +10 28 Blocks): In many aspects, Hagelin is similar to Callahan. He can be utilized anywhere and inject energy. The best skater on the team, he showed a willingness to battle and had a strong first round before a torn labrum made him ineffective against the bigger Bruins. On a stronger roster, he’s a third liner. The classic overachiever.

Grade: B+

11.Jeff Halpern (30 GP 1 A -5): If there’s a symbol of Glen Sather’s off season failure, it’s the defensive minded vet who Tortorella once had in Tampa. Once used in a checking role, Halpern’s minutes evaporated before Montreal claimed him. Not shockingly, he played better there.

Grade: F

12.Chris Kreider (23 GP 2-1-3 -1 36 Hits): Despite a tumultuous rookie pro season where he struggled mightily, the 22-year old former No.1 pick showed maturity. He never complained once about being sent between Connecticut and New York while also sitting in the press box under the demanding Tortorella. While complaints are justified regarding his mishandling, Kreider needed more fine tuning. The fourth line stint benefited him. He used his body and scored the OT winner in Game Four. Future looks bright.

Grade: C+

13.Brandon Mashinter (4 GP -2 7 Hits): Not much to say other than his skating needs work. Perfect for the AHL.

Grade: INC

14.J.T. Miller (26 GP 2-2-4 -7 47 Hits): Like most young players, he needs time to mature. I’ve been on him for a while, enjoying his strong showing while helping lead Team USA to gold at the WJC. A superb skater who plays with purpose, Miller should develop into a solid NHLer. He already has keen defensive awareness similar to Brandon Dubinsky. Has more upside. Must be handled delicately.

Grade: C

15.Rick Nash (44 GP 21-21-42 +16 3 PPG 9 PP Pts 3 GW 176 SOG): His first year in Manhattan was good. Can’t argue with the production. Following a concussion, Nash returned and caught fire carrying the team for a stretch. The ultimate highlight reel scored and set up amazing goals before disappointing with one goal in his second postseason. He still had great set ups resulting in game deciders including Kreider’s OT winner. But didn’t finish checks and was too much on perimeter. Must play with more edge.

Grade: B-

16.Kris Newbury (6 GP 1 A +1 9 PIM 9 Hits): The classic AHL vet who’s a solid leader under Ken Gernander. Newbury certainly worked hard when given the chance but didn’t play smart. Took costly penalties dooming any comeback hopes.

Grade: D

17.Darroll Powe (34 GP -2 74 Hits 17 Blocks 18 SOG): Loved the energy he brought. Powe was acquired for Mike Rupp and was a dependable penalty killer who can play fourth line. Even took some faceoffs before concussion ended his year. Hard to fathom he didn’t record a point. The ex-Flyer is capable of chipping in. He’ll need to to stay in lineup.

Grade: C

18.Taylor Pyatt (48 GP: 6-5-11 +5 PPG 85 Hits): Another player who didn’t do enough to justify his signing. However, Pyatt raised his level in Spring tallying twice and adding two helpers. Got uniform dirty and forechecked. Played too much. Should be on fourth line.

Grade: C

19.Brad Richards (46 GP 11-23-34 +8 3 PPG 9 PP Pts 3 GW): Still ranked third in team scoring due to strong finish. I believe not playing in winter hurt him the most. He never was right. Always a step behind turning over pucks. At 33, he’s not done. Buying him out would be a mistake unless there’s an alternative plan.

Grade: D

20.Mike Rupp (12 PIM -3 7 Hits): For whatever reason, it didn’t work out here. I have no problem with Rupp, who by all accounts was a high character and great teammate. Who will ever forget that two-goal Jagr salute in the Winter Classic? Got more ice-time in Minnesota and fits better.

Grade: INC

21.Brandon Segal (1 GP 2 PIM): Gritty vet looks destined for Connecticut.

Grade: INC

22.Derek Stepan (48 GP 18-26-44 +25 4 PPG 10 PP Pts SHG 6 GW 16.7 Shooting Pct.): The soon to be 23-year old is turning into a gem. Taken in the ’08 second round No.51 overall, Stepan took the next step in his development with a very good third season. He ranked first in several offensive categories while anchoring the top line. He also became a shorthanded threat working with Callahan and might become a Selke candidate. Scoring dried up but still led us with four in playoffs. Between him and Ryan McDonagh, Sather has his work cut out.

Grade: A

23.Christian Thomas (1 GP 2 SOG 3 Hits): The former 2010 second rounder showed improvement with Connecticut. Following a slow start, Thomas finished with 19 goals and 35 points along with a plus-five. It all depends on how he adjusts to a faster game against stronger competition. Certainly possesses the wheels and shot. Should get a look in camp.

Grade: INC

24.Mats Zuccarello (15 GP 3-5-8 +10 27 Hits): What’s not to like about the diminutive Norwegian who gets nose dirty, uses speed and open space to find teammates? Zuccarello certainly benefited under Tortorella gaining his trust with improved overall play. What’s more? His seven points ranked second in team postseason scoring. That included three power play assists. An area he excels at. Only wish is for him to think shot more. Must be re-signed.

Grade: B

DEFENSEMEN

1.Stu Bickel (16 GP 49 PIM -2 13 Hits): As much a symbol of the ’11-12 success story, the popular undrafted 26-year old Minnesota native never established himself in his second year. His foot speed was always a question mark and got exposed as the team’s sixth defenseman. Eventually, Steve Eminger replaced him and even Matt Gilroy was higher on the depth chart. I admire his toughness but it looks like he’ll be better served elsewhere.

Grade: F

2.Mike Del Zotto (46 GP 3-18-21 +6 8 PPA SHG 81 SOG): Who is he? The player who stepped up last season and scored clutch goals or the enigma who mysteriously disappears. When Marc Staal went down, he played better. But couldn’t duplicate it in a forgettable postseason. Two points from supposedly our offensive D who was hideous defensively is unforgivable. Hard to believe he only turns 23 later this month. I supported him but after hearing about his obsession to be liked, think they should trade him.

Grade: D

3.Steve Eminger (35 GP 3 A +9 53 Hits 41 Blocks): The epitome of a tireless worker who gets the most out of his limited ability. Certainly not the most mobile, Eminger has always stepped up when called upon due to injuries. Really an extra who’s easy to respect. If the Rangers are healthy, that’s what he should be.

Grade: B-

4.Matt Gilroy (15 GP -3 14 SOG): I have no clue why the former Hobey Baker winner was on our roster. Part of Slats’ puzzling summer that killed our depth, Gilroy tried. Sadly, he’s just not NHL caliber. A great story who needs a lot of work.

Grade: F

5.Dan Girardi (46 GP 2-12-14 -1 102 Hits 125 Blocks 2 PPA GW): If Callahan’s the heart, then Girardi’s the soul of our team. Now 29, he’s arguably the best move in Slats’ 13 years. Signed as a free agent, Danny G has developed into a top pair blueliner capable of stifling the opposition. Just ask Alex Ovechkin. Even without Marc Staal, he shined tallying a pair of power play goals while sacrificing his body. Did show some wear and tear towards the end. He’ll score a huge payday next summer.

Grade: B

6.Roman Hamrlik (12 GP -3 10 Hits): The poor 39-year old Czech vet had a rough go of it after Sather claimed him from Washington. That should’ve served as a warning. Once an original Lightning No.1 pick in ’92, Hamrlik’s seen better days. His insertion into a depleted lineup was insane. Fittingly, multiple turnovers led to Greg Campbell putting the final nail in the coffin. He’s had a good career. Time to retire.

Grade: F

7.Ryan McDonagh (47 GP 4-15-19 +13 GW 69 Hits 78 Blocks): When it comes to the best of Slats, it doesn’t get any better than the former Wisconsin product who he stole from Montreal for Scott Gomez. Thanks Bob Gainey. After being up and down in his second full year, McDonagh was at his best against Ovechkin, making him eat his words. He also added a goal and three helpers while jumping in plenty. McDonagh could easily have had 5-6 goals. A cornerstone D for years, he must be re-signed quickly.

Grade: B+

8.John Moore (13 GP 1-5-6 +9 20 Hits 18 Blocks): The 22-year old former Jacket’s inclusion in the Gaborik trade could be a steal. As bad as Slats is with free agency, he’s that good when it comes to moves unless it’s with Phoenix. There’s no doubt that the speedy Moore can play. Boasting a cannon along with strong stickhandling, he might be better than Del Zotto. He definitely seems to have a higher IQ. Struggled in second round. Must get stronger.

Grade: B-

9.Marc Staal (21 GP 2-9-11 +4 PPG 3 PP Pts 47 Hits 36 Blocks): The Rangers’ alternate captain was on his way to a big season before taking a puck to the eye that came close to ending his career. A scary moment which is why the movement for half visors is necessary. Tortorella was right about how much they missed him. Kudos for returning and then realizing his visibility wasn’t 100 percent. Who knows what to expect in the future. We can only hope.

Grade: A

10.Anton Stralman (48 GP 4-3-7 +14 75 Hits 42 Blocks): The 26-year old Swede is one of Slats’ most underrated additions who has become a dependable regular on our D. A solid puck mover capable of adding offense, his defense improved leaps and bounds under Tortorella. Once he went down, we were doomed. Has another year left at a bargain salary ($1.8 million).

Grade: B

GOALIES

1.Henrik Lundqvist (43 GP 24-16-3 2.05 GAA .926 Save Pct. 2 SHO): Without Lundqvist, our team is sunk. There’s no more important player on the roster. The 31-year old Swedish King demonstrated why he won his first Vezina and is considered tops in the sport. He again carried an inconsistent offense as far as they could go. Stole first round against Caps and performed at a ridiculous level against Boston. Only criticism is whether he’s right moving forward. A year away from D Day, only time will tell.

Grade: A

2.Martin Biron (6 GP 2-2-1 2.32 GAA .917 Save Pct.): Easily the most likable backup we’ve had since Glenn Healy, the 35-year old French Canadian has one more year left at reasonable cost ($1.3 million). The perfect teammate has a future in broadcasting.

Grade: B