With a day off on Columbus Day, the Rangers made a move claiming forward Adam Cracknell off waivers.
The 32-year old from Saskatoon spent last year with the Stars setting career highs in games (69), goals (10), assists (6), points (16) and plus/minus (9).
What it likely means is he’ll become the extra forward on the roster. 2017 first round pick Filip Chytil has only gotten into two games with Alain Vigneault barely playing him. It doesn’t look like the 18-year old center will reach nine games. Figure the Rangers to send him back to Zlin ZPS HC in the Czech Republic where he can further develop. There’s no point in keeping him here.
With the team still carrying eight defensemen, that means they can keep 13 forwards. It doesn’t make sense to continue playing 11 forwards with seven D.
The Rangers host the Blues tonight. They were 3-2 winners over the Islanders in a shootout won by lethal sniper Vladimir Tarasenko. He also scored twice giving him three goals. He should be a handful for the Ranger blueline tonight.
We’ll see if Ryan McDonagh stays on the right side with Marc Staal. They’ve been good so far. We’ll see how long it lasts. Brady Skjei and Kevin Shattenkirk seem like a good fit. As for the third pair, it’s anyone’s guess. Figure Brendan Smith to get back in. Either Nick Holden or Steven Kampfer will sit. Does Tony DeAngelo play or sit?
All good questions. The Rangers look to even their record later.