Del Zotto included a #motivation hash tag. Hopefully, he comes into camp ready for a big year. He followed his best season with an up and down shortened campaign that left fans, bloggers and media scratching their heads. In 46 games, he had three goals and 18 assists for 21 points with a plus-six rating. Despite his offensive capabilities, he didn’t register a power play goal. Former coach John Tortorella didn’t always trust him on the point. Del Zotto still recorded eight of his 10 helpers on the man-advantage. One of three goals came while shorthanded. He struggled in the postseason tallying a goal and helper going minus-three over 12 games. 

Despite Del Zotto’s shortcomings, he was still on pace for close to 40 points. In his two full seasons, he’s averaged 39. There’s no doubt about his talent. He’s still a young player who can be part of the Rangers core. However, there are questions about his mental state. He has moments where he looks lost. Confidence is still an issue. Under Tortorella, his defense improved. In ’11-12, he delivered a career high 41 points with bests in goals (10), assists (31), game-winners (2), shorthanded points (3) and plus/minus (20). That included two goals and eight helpers during the club’s run to the Conference Finals- featuring the series clincher in the deciding game against the Caps.

Del Zotto is an interesting case. With Ryan McDonagh, Dan Girardi and Marc Staal ahead of him, he doesn’t have to play top pair. However, Staal’s eye injury remains a serious issue. Nobody can predict if he’ll ever be the same player. Tortorella leaned heavily on Del Zotto, who at times responded with more physical play. He must become more consistent. He enters the final year of a multi-year contract and is set to earn $2.9 million. If Staal is able to return, the Rangers boast a strong defense that also includes underrated Anton Stralman and John Moore. One to six, that’s solid. Imagine if Mike Sauer was part of it.

Glen Sather must improve the team’s depth. He can re-sign steady influence Steve Eminger. After that, the Rangers are thin. Brady Skjei is a ways away. Pavel Valentenko and Mikhail Pashnin remain in the KHL. Former 2011 fifth rounder Samuel Noreau reached agreement on his first pro contract. The 20-year old posted a career high 32 points (7-25-32) with Baie-Comeau of the QMJHL.  

Sather signed free agent defensemen Tommy Hughes and Conor Allen this Spring. Hopefully, they can develop under Ken Gernander.