Already into the middle of September, the Rangers are preparing for the upcoming season. With camp officially beginning on Thursday at MSG Training Center, the team is expected to announce Ryan McDonagh as new captain. Following a strong ’13-14 regular season that saw the defenseman establish career bests in goals (14), assists (29) and points (43), he emerged as an emotional leader during the team’s run to the Stanley Cup Final. Mac Truck lead the club with 17 points (4-13-17). Ten came against the Canadiens in the Eastern Conference Final.

“We’ve got a really good mix of guys here, so I don’t see that happening,” the 25-year old McDonagh told Jim Cerny about whether he expected a drop off from last year. “I think we all learned a lot, saw what it takes to be a champion, and are hungry for that chance again.”

Already one of the league’s premier defensemen, McDonagh will enter his fifth season. Since coming over from Montreal on June 30, 2009, the former Habs’ 2007 first round pick has been nothing short of spectacular. Entering last year, he was already considered one of the best defensive blueliners in the NHL. Under Alain Vigneault, he developed into a two-way threat also running the power play. Able to contribute more consistently on offense, it made him one of the league’s best bargains. Locked into a long-term deal that averages $4.7 million per cap hit, he’s signed through 2018-19.

If he does indeed become the Rangers’ 27th captain in franchise history, it’s well earned. McDonagh has always answered questions win or lose. Built with tremendous character, he’s an honest player who teammates can look upon for leadership. Encouraging for the Blueshirts is that even with the departures of key cogs Brad Richards, Brian Boyle and Anton Stralman, there’s still plenty of experience. Featuring veteran blueliners Marc Staal and Dan Girardi, the club also has number one center Derek Stepan ready to assume more responsibility. Elder statesman Martin St. Louis can also be looked upon along with Henrik Lundqvist. Glen Sather also went out and signed vet Dan Boyle to bolster the power play. Throw in Rick Nash, Carl Hagelin and Dominic Moore.

For the Blueshirts, they can take solace knowing they boast a strong core. With younger players such as Derick Brassard, Chris Kreider, Mats Zuccarello and John Moore ready to take the next step, it should still be a competitive roster capable of challenging for first in the Metropolitan Division and a high seed.