Ryan Malone was placed on waivers by the Rangers today.
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Earlier this afternoon, Ryan Malone requested the Rangers place him on unconditional waivers so he could retire. The 35-year old veteran left wing was signed by Glen Sather during camp for one-year $700,000. He got into six games before the team designated him for Hartford. Malone is earning $100,000 with the Wolf Pack. In 24 games, he has four goals and six assists with 29 penalty minutes.

A declining forward who once scored at least 20 goals in five seasons, Malone was given another chance by the Rangers following an arrest for DUI and 1.3 grams of cocaine possession. He was bought out by the Lightning.

If this is indeed it, Malone finishes his NHL career with 179 goals and 191 assists for 370 points with 693 PIM in 647 games. He was on the ’07-08 Penguins who lost to the Red Wings totaling six goals and 10 assists with 25 PIM in 20 postseason games. Drafted by Pittsburgh in Round 4 115th overall out of St. Cloud State, he had a solid career eventually landing a seven-year $31.5 million contract with Tampa. He was productive the first four years totaling 81 goals and 97 assists for 178 points. Injuries and personal issues is how it ended. At least he got one final chance to go out on his own terms.

The move frees up cap space for the Rangers. Considering that they appear to be in talks with the Coyotes after GM Don Maloney visited MSG for last night’s game against the Panthers, a move could be on the horizon. Whether it’s to finally address a gaping hole at center by acquiring Antoine Vermette or Martin Hanzal or to actually upgrade sixth defenseman with Keith Yandle and Michael Stone available, that remains to be seen. With the trade deadline less than a month away, Sather should be busy.