Ryan Callahan joined Mike Francesa to discuss his trade to the Lightning.
http://www.lohoud.com

Ryan Callahan joined WFAN’s Mike Francesa on MikE’D ON just now. The former Ranger was very candid during his first interview with the FAN talk show host following last week’s deadline trade to the Lightning for Martin St. Louis.

When asked by Francesa if there was anything he wish he could’ve changed regarding negotiations on a new contract, Callahan didn’t hesitate saying, “I wouldn’t do anything different.” The former Rangers captain added that he always felt a deal would get done and still admitted to being surprised when he was traded.

“I thought we had a good chance to do something special,” Callahan told Francesa regarding his former team. “We were really starting to find our stride there late. … I was excited about going on a run with them. But you know. Things change. Now I’m doing it with them.”

On how difficult the transition has been, Callahan indicated he’s doing okay. “The Tampa organization and the Ranger organization are great organizations that have helped me move on.

“It takes a little bit. You know. The first game was a little strange. Putting on a new jersey. It’s a passionate fan base and an exciting group to play for.”

Though he never allowed the difficult negotiations and rumors bother him, Callahan admitted it was challenging. “It was tough. It was definitely hard. Something that war on you as it went on. I felt like I did a good job with that. I went to the rink and did the best I could.”

“I wanted to stay there. I thought I was going to. In my mind, I never thought about leaving or getting traded. Unfortunately, that’s part of the business that’s not fun. We couldn’t get something done. … I truly felt it would get done and I was trying to get something done.”

Callahan spoke highly of the strong support he got in his time here. He also was quick to point out the team he played on.

“There’s a lot of things. I spent almost eight years there. Just the fans at the Garden. They’re unbelievable. I had great teammates. That’s something I’ll definitely miss.”

When asked by Francesa what he thinks of the Rangers’ chances this Spring, he said: “They’re a very good team. Obviously, with Hank [Lundqvist] in net, they got a shot.”

On whether he stays in St. Petersburg, that remains to be seen. For now, Callahan is only concentrating on helping lead his new team to the postseason.

“I’m happy the rumors and negotiations are over. I can just focus on playing and trying to make the playoffs and do well in the playoffs.”