Rangers Preview: Trusting the Process will be key to new and exciting season on Broadway

Posted on September 30, 2019 by Derek

The excitement is palpable over Opening Night this Thursday on Broadway. A new era of Rangers hockey will finally be upon us when the Winnipeg Jets visit MSG.

They’ll roll out the blue carpet for prize second pick Kaapo Kakko, star free agent addition Artemi Panarin, and former Jet Jacob Trouba. For once, it won’t be all about Henrik Lundqvist, who always looks like a GQ model instead of the franchise’s record holder in several goaltender categories.

This time, it’s bigger than the brand new ’19-20 season that officially begins on Wednesday with the usual allotment of four games. It’s about both the present and future for the new look New York Rangers. Similar to close Hudson rival New Jersey, who boast top pick Jack Hughes, added P.K. Subban along with KHL import Nikita Gusev, the Rangers are looking to challenge for the playoffs. Whether or not it’s realistic remains to be seen.

Let’s forget about the division they play in. Everyone knows the Metro should be very competitive from top to bottom. Even the projected best teams aren’t going to blow anyone away. It should be competitive and hard fought.

What’s most important for the new Blueshirts is the continued development of a mostly young core that still includes Lundqvist, Marc Staal, Chris Kreider, Jesper Fast, Mika Zibanejad and Brady Skjei. They all were around the last time the team was in the postseason. All seven will be looked upon as team leaders along with key additions Panarin and Trouba, who both understand what it’s all about.

It’s understandable why youngsters Filip Chytil and Vitali Kravtsov aren’t on the roster. Neither was going to play in the top six and probably wouldn’t have gotten ideal ice time that includes what should be an improved power play. Throw out the preseason that meant very little. Once you add Panarin and Trouba to a top unit that also features Zibanejad, Kreider and Kakko, it has big time potential to do damage.

Don’t forget they can have either rookie Adam Fox or a surprisingly sharp Tony DeAngelo man the points on a second unit with possibly Skjei that should include Ryan Strome, Pavel Buchnevich and either Vladislav Namestnikov or Brendan Lemieux. So, opponents will get two different looks. Eventually, expect Kravtsov or Chytil to be added once they earn a recall. Given the way the schedule is, it won’t be right away.

As breathtaking as the Bread Man will be to watch work with Zibanejad and key right wing Buchnevich, who must build on a strong finish, all eyes will be glued on number 24, Kaapo Kakko. The 18-year old out of Turko, Finland has the tools to become a power forward capable of scoring a lot of goals. He is a powerful skater with tremendous hockey sense and good hands around the net. This is the kind of player Garden Faithful have been waiting for.

If it doesn’t happen right away, fans must remain patient. It’s quite an adjustment going from European style rinks to the smaller and more challenging North American game. You can’t rush the development or success of a player that’s still only 18. That’s why it’ll be interesting to see how second-year coach David Quinn manages Kakko throughout a much longer season than he’s used to. Having Kreider to lean on should help.

Quinn learned on the job last year. Former first round pick Lias Andersson wasn’t fully ready for the NHL. He was mishandled by the organization. However, he worked extremely hard on his conditioning and diet in the offseason. Now 20, the seventh pick in the 2017 NHL Draft looks ready to contribute. He earned the third line center job with a strong camp. It should be fun to follow the Swede’s progress.

That’s what we mean by patience. How interesting will it be to watch rookie third pair Libor Hajek and Fox develop? There might be some bumps and bruises. That’s expected. Both are just 21 with five games of NHL experience. That would be Hajek’s initiation last Spring. Fox has the skating and skill to become a fixture in the top four and on the power play. He’s looked poised so far. The regular season is a different animal. We’ll see how it goes.

That’s probably why forgotten man Brendan Smith is the seventh defenseman, who can also double as a fourth line forward if needed. Actually, he too was part of the last Rangers postseason in 2017. So, that makes it eight experienced leftovers from the end of the Alain Vigneault era. He’s currently coaching the rival Flyers where former Blueshirt Kevin Hayes now centers the second line. It’s gonna be strange.

Having a mix of vets with younger players is all about balance. Buchnevich is still considered one of those promising forwards, who still must improve. He learned a lot under Quinn last season. The demanding coach pushed the 24-year old Russian to become a better overall player. He was a healthy scratch a few times due to inconsistency. He too was on that ’16-17 playoff roster. So, it’s really nine players that survived. But he’s younger and not yet a finished product.

By the end of ’18-19, Buchnevich had become a different player. He set a new career high with 21 goals and did a better job taking the body. He has a golden opportunity to produce even more while getting the first chance on the top line with Zibanejad and Panarin. They had some early chemistry when put together in preseason. We’ll see if it translates.

Adding veterans like Greg McKegg and even Micheal Haley should only help keep this team with enough edge necessary when things get nasty. In particular, McKegg proved he could play during the Hurricanes’ run to the Conference Finals. He was a part timer, who always added energy in a supporting role.

That’s why I thought the signing was underrated. He can play fourth line, take draws, and kill penalties. He hustles to win loose pucks and is fundamentally sound. Haley is the 13th forward that can step in if Quinn wants that physical element. He doesn’t back down.

The third line should be your classic two-way, hard working types in Andersson with Namestnikov and agitator Lemieux. A player who will never pass up an opportunity to finish a check. He also loves getting his jersey dirty in front and creates a distraction for opponents. Look how much attention the Isles paid to him on Saturday. Cal Clutterbuck gave him a chop and Matt Martin cross-checked him post scrum. That’s who Lemieux is. He also has a bit of skill as his 12 goals showed last year with Winnipeg and New York. He must remember to stay away from undisciplined penalties.

The fourth line will be centered by forgotten sophomore Brett Howden, who was beaten out by Andersson for a top nine spot. A heady player with solid passing skills and an effective penalty killer, he will work with Fast and McKegg on a checking line. We know what Fast brings. The grit and heart fans appreciate. It could be an effective trio.

It’s all about the top pair of Skjei and Trouba. If the defense is to work, the close USA friends must take on the tough assignments at five-on-five while logging important minutes on the penslty kill and power play. Trouba is the difference maker on the right side this team hasn’t had since Dan Girardi in his prime. However, Trouba is a much better skater with a big shot. He’s certainly capable of the kind of offense we haven’t seen from the right side in quite a while. Plus he’s physical and tough. I’m hoping having Trouba will influence Skjei, who must become more consistent overall. He looked better by the end of camp. A encouraging sign.

For now, Staal and DeAngelo remain as the second pair. They formed solid chemistry last year. Staal is the slower, stay at home type who plays the man hard. DeAngelo is the much better skater, who can carry the puck out of harm’s way and transition quickly. He will see some time on the power play due to his low, accurate shot. He also doesn’t take any crap. He turned his season around after a lot of time in the press box. Maybe even his career.

The wildcard is Hajek, who has the skating they prefer. That’s why he made it over Ryan Lindgren, who we will see sooner rather than later. Trust me on that one. Fox looks as good as advertised. It’s hard to believe he’s on his third organization due to not signing with Calgary and then Carolina, who traded him to the hometown Blueshirts where he wanted to play. He’s from Jericho, New York. I’m excited to see what he can bring.

Goaltending shouldn’t be an issue. Lundqvist looked sharp throughout preseason, getting stronger as it went on. At 37, his desire to get back to what he once was is unquestioned. He also wants to see the rebuild through and get back to the playoffs. It’s all about how he’s managed. He doesn’t have to play a hectic schedule anymore due to Alexandar Georgiev.

They can be an effective tandem who push each other. There’s nothing wrong with a little friendly competition. If the exhibition season was any early indication, they’ll have to be steady for this team to stay in the playoff race. That should include bubble teams such as the Devils, Flyers, Islanders, Panthers, Canadiens and maybe even the Sabres. I’m not even sure the Penguins are a lock. Don’t discount the Blue Jackets either.

Usually, I make a prediction in these previews. However, I honestly don’t know what to expect. I’ll say this. The team will be exciting. You’re going to see some flashes of brilliance from Panarin and Kakko. Zibanejad will be a huge key to any success. He is now the man they look to as the flexible top center, who is a power play weapon and good penalty killer. The center depth and young D could have some growing pains.

For that reason, I believe they’ll be competitive. But fall short of the postseason. If I had to guess on a number, I’ll say 85 points. It might be higher if the Bread Man and Kakko click. Especially in three-on-three overtime and shootouts.

It’s not about this season. It’s about what’s coming in the next decade. They’re on the right track.

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Kakko, Andersson and Hajek get new numbers, Gorton explains the tough decisions

Posted on September 30, 2019 by Derek

On what he referred to as “one of the toughest days in hockey,” Rangers GM Jeff Gorton explained why the team made the decisions they did to reporters.

Referencing the light schedule they have early on, it was a factor. However, he also made good points about what would be best for the development of Filip Chytil, Vitali Kravtsov and Ryan Lindgren. The latter two who probably could’ve made the 22-man roster.

Following hosting Winnipeg on October 3 this Thursday, the Blueshirts visit the Senators on Saturday night. That’s the first two games over three days. They then don’t play again until the following Saturday on Oct. 12 against the Oilers at home. Then they’re off for four days until the much anticipated first meeting at the Hudson rival Devils that’ll hopefully feature a battle between second pick Kaapo Kakko and top pick Jack Hughes in Newark on 10/17.

The schedule finally picks up with a back-to-back the following night at the Capitals. The Canucks visit New York City for a rare 1 PM matinee on football Sunday, Oct. 20. That’s three games in four days.

Gorton indicated that after internal discussions, the organization felt it was best for Chytil to go play his natural center position at Hartford. It certainly is something the 20-year old needs to work on if he’s to eventually become the player they think he can be.

He also felt that even though Kravtsov showed off some of his promising skill, he wasn’t guaranteed top minutes due to the current alignment. What’s the point of having the 19-year old on the roster right away if there could be some games where he only plays six to seven minutes a night? That’s basically what I tried to explain. He can get top line and power play duty while adjusting to the North American style. Don’t forget he played on the bigger ice surface in the KHL. As did expected Wolf Pack starting goalie Igor Shesterkin.

Lindgren could easily have made the roster. His strong play throughout camp including the physical edge he had against a full Islanders roster, impressed the Rangers staff. However, Gorton liked the flexibility veteran Brendan Smith brings due to being able to come in as either a defenseman or a energizing forward, which he became familiar with under coach David Quinn. Smith had a good camp and got rewarded.

In terms of putting veteran center Micheal Haley on the team for the purpose of signing him to a two-way contract, Gorton made sure to point out the element Haley can bring into the lineup. He can change the momentum of a game with a big hit or fight. He also is a solid forechecker, which explains why San Jose had him twice.

Even though the game is going away from that physical style, you still need those high character guys around to help inject life. Especially on a young roster with only a handful of vets who are actually over 30. I would liken Haley’s role to that of everyone’s favorite, Tanner Glass, who now works in the organization. Those good team guys are infectious.

I really liked how honestly Gorton answered each reporter’s questions. You can tell he gets it. He understands the unique situation they’re in. When pressed on Kakko, he didn’t hesitate to say that Kaapo can help this team right away and also was sick. He emphasized what he did in practice. You still saw it in some shifts where he had the puck like a magnet with defenders chasing him around the net. An area he’s most dangerous. Wait until it starts up for real.

On the cooler side, there are some new numbers for Kakko, Lias Andersson and Libor Hajek. Each will get to debut those numbers on Thursday night.

As expected, Kakko goes from 45 to his more familiar 24 that he wore in Finland. Andersson took number 28. That’ll take some getting used to. He’s not gonna remind anyone of Tie Domi. However, it sure beats wearing 50. He’s excited to be here after earning the third line center role.

They also spoke to Hajek, who indicated that he didn’t know if he would make the team after having seven months off due to his shoulder. He did note that the number change had to do with what he wore in the Czech Republic and for Saskatoon in the WHL.

As for Adam Fox, he said he liked 23. So, he’s keeping it. When asked sarcastically about number 18, he mentioned that it wasn’t available.

That’ll do it for now. Coming up next. The Rangers Season Preview. Stay tuned.

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Haley makes roster while Chytil, Kravtsov, Lindgren assigned to Hartford

Posted on September 30, 2019 by Derek

In a surprise, the Rangers signed Micheal Haley to a contract. The veteran agitator made the team following a pro tryout during training camp. This will be the 33-year old center’s second go round as a Blueshirt. He spent nine games on Broadway during ’12-13.

Best known for his tenacity and toughness, Haley has bounced around the league splitting time in the AHL. He’s previously played for the Islanders, Sharks twice, Panthers and now will rejoin the Rangers. With the team opting to go with only 22 players due to a light schedule early, he’ll be the extra forward behind Greg McKegg, who made the roster.

By signing Haley, the Rangers placed Boo Nieves on waivers. If he clears, he’ll be reassigned to Hartford. He didn’t have the best camp. However, it’s surprising that he didn’t make the roster while Haley did. Maybe it’s best for Nieves to move on. He’s been a good teammate. The former second round pick in 2012 has played parts of three seasons in New York. In 72 career NHL games, he’s 5-14-19 with 20 penalty minutes. Hopefully, someone will claim him.

Of course, the bigger news is who didn’t make the Opening Night roster. We knew Filip Chytil wasn’t due to a disappointing camp. Ryan Lindgren going to Hartford isn’t a shocker either due to their infatuation with Libor Hajek. He will need more game play to stay sharp.

However, Vitali Kravtsov not making it is a bit disappointing. Sure. The 19-year old 2018 first round pick taken number nine, has plenty of time to be called up. If he plays well with the Wolf Pack, my guess you’ll see him sooner rather than later.

I thought he deserved to be on the roster. However, the organization decided to start the season with only 22 players. Not 23. So, he goes down to Hartford with Chytil where he’ll get top line minutes and power play time. It’s not the end of the world.

From a development standpoint, it makes sense. I always knew this was a possibility. Especially with the top six set. Ryan Strome will center the second line for now due to nobody proving they’re ready for that big responsibility. David Quinn wanted to give it to Chytil, who played in 75 games last season and never went down. But he showed his age. He is 20 and not physically ready. He should learn the center position in the AHL.

I was willing to see what Kravtsov could do if he played on the third line. Instead, your likely third line is Lias Andersson, Brendan Lemieux and Vladislav Namestnikov. Unless Quinn opts for Jesper Fast and shifts the ornery Lemieux to the fourth line. But they want Lemieux in the top nine. He has chemistry with Andersson and Namestnikov can play either side.

The likely fourth line should look like McKegg, Brett Howden and Fast. A checking unit of two vets and a second-year player who was okay in preseason. All three can kill penalties.

The defense will be Brady Skjei-Jacob Trouba, Marc Staal-Tony DeAngelo, Libor Hajek-Adam Fox. A strong showing allowed Brendan Smith to make it as a versatile extra D who can double as a wing on the fourth line. Full credit to the veteran for proving he still can have a role.

As expected, Igor Shesterkin was sent to Hartford. The KHL import was good in limited action showing why the organization is so high on him. There’s no rush with Henrik Lundqvist and Alexandar Georgiev here.

I’ll have a team preview later. Plus an NHL one by tomorrow.

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A telling Quinn quote could bode well for Kravtsov

Posted on September 29, 2019 by Derek

Vitali Kravtsov should be given an opportunity to start with the Rangers on the third line. AP Photo via Getty Images

Following last night’s 4-2 loss to the Islanders in Bridgeport, coach David Quinn discussed both the final preseason game and the tough decisions he will make regarding the roster.

In less than 24 hours, the Rangers will make the final eight cuts to get down to what their 23-man roster should look like. While some are obvious such as Vinni Lettieri, Micheal Haley, Joe Morrow, along with both Igor Shesterkin and Yegor Rykov Hartford bound, the last few choices are always the hardest.

Quinn talked about taking the best 23 players. If that’s true, then there should be a place for Vitali Kravtsov. Only 19, the 2018 first round pick the club took with the number nine pick, has done enough to warrant keeping him at the start of the season.

A good skater with smart offensive instincts and size, the Russian forward showed enough in training camp to be given a spot in the starting lineup this Thursday against Winnipeg at MSG. One thing Quinn also noted prior to yesterday was that Kravtsov looks like he cares about making the right decisions with the puck in the defensive zone and neutral zone. A positive outlook that felt like a ringing endorsement.

While I believe he should be a top six forward, Kravtsov won’t be right away. With Quinn shifting versatile forward Ryan Strome to center the second line, that means at best Kravtsov can be in the top nine. As much as a third line of Lias Andersson, Vladislav Namestnikov and Jesper Fast makes sense, the Blueshirts would be better suited with Fast playing the right side on a checking line with Brendan Lemieux and Brett Howden, who should get the nod at fourth line center over veteran Greg McKegg.

You can stick Kravtsov with Andersson and Namestnikov, giving the third line more skill. Not a bad thing for two tenacious hard workers. There’s no reason not to try it out. If he’s ready, maybe Kravtsov will stick. If he stays, he should also see power play time on the second unit.

It really all depends on what the organization thinks is best. They could just decide to send down Kravtsov with Filip Chytil, who looks like he needs more time to develop at Hartford. Especially after a disappointing camp in which he struggled to distinguish himself. Chytil can play his natural position of center and learn while receiving top line and power play duties.

Three players the Rangers must decide on are Boo Nieves, Ryan Lindgren and vet Brendan Smith. Both Lindgren and Smith played well. But who would be better suited as a seventh defenseman? Assuming Libor Hajek is on the third pair with Adam Fox, it probably makes sense to send Lindgren to Hartford. That way he gets game action and stays sharp. He did enough to make the team, but being a scratch won’t help his development.

As for Nieves, he is a solid extra forward, who can come in and play fourth line while killing penalties. However, McKegg is more proven and had a better showing. He set up a couple of goals including Tony DeAngelo’s yesterday when the Islanders were “head hunting.” A Quinn reference to both Cal Clutterbuck and Matt Martin going after Brendan Lemieux while DeAngelo scored, which was appropriate.

If Quinn is serious about taking the best 23 players, then Kravtsov should be on the roster. Let’s see what he can do.

Here’s what my roster would look like:

Panarin-Zibanejad-Buchnevich

Kreider-Strome-Kakko

Namestnikov-Andersson-Kravtsov

Lemieux-Howden-Fast

Skjei-Trouba

Staal-DeAngelo

Hajek-Fox

Lundqvist

Georgiev

Extras:

F McKegg

F Nieves

D Smith

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Barzal scores with 2:20 left as Isles take preseason finale 4-2 over young Blueshirts

Posted on September 28, 2019 by Derek

It was a wild third period. For a game that didn’t mean a whole lot for either side, the action was fast and furious. There were a lot of hits dished out. Some dirty ones including a cheap shot from Cal Clutterbuck on Brendan Lemieux, who also took a cross check from Matt Martin post whistle.

In the final tuneup before they pare down their roster to 23, the younger Blueshirts gave a very good account of themselves in a competitive 4-2 loss to the Isles at Bridgeport.

The difference was a goal from Islanders number one center Mat Barzal, who took perfect Ryan Pulock feed and buried a one-timer past Alexandar Georgiev with 2:20 remaining. Jordan Eberle got the play started as the top line caught the Rangers fourth line out during a extended shift.

Prior to Barzal’s game-winner, Tony DeAngelo tied the game at two thanks to a quick backhand pass from former Hurricane Greg McKegg. His quick wrist shot beat Thomas Greiss. Prior to the goal, both Clutterbuck and Martin were running around like chickens by making a bee line for primary target Lemieux. He was at his agitating best throughout, drawing a penalty in the game. Lemieux let a flying Martin bounce off him. Play continued with DeAngelo sniping to tie it up.

Afterwards, you had the intensity of a NHL game between bitter rivals. Given that they went without their top two lines and top three defensemen, the Rangers have to be happy with how the kids played. A few vets also made their presence known including McKegg and Brendan Smith. Both of who had strong showings. McKegg looks like a lock for the final roster. As for Smith, the jury remains out. He sure played hard on the fourth line. He’ll likely get shuttled back and forth.

Despite allowing three goals on 25 shots, Georgiev was superb. He made several big saves and looks like the same steady backup, who can supplant Henrik Lundqvist to keep him fresh. His positioning was very good.

The only concern is Vitali Kravtsov, who looked to sustain a right arm injury on a freakish collision with Casey Cizikas. There were only 23 seconds left following Adam Pelech’s empty netter. Both were in pain on the bench.

However, Kravtsov looked okay at the end staying on the bench while Cizikas was bent over on the Isles bench. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious for Kravtsov, who made a case to stay. Ultimately, it’s up to the organization.

Quick Update on Kravtsov:

Sounds like he should be okay. That’s very good news.

Filip Chytil had a better third period following more struggles. He absorbed some tough checks to make good plays in the offensive zone. Is it too late? We’ll know soon enough.

That’s gonna do it. I’ll hop on Periscope for a bit later to discuss more on the game, the Isles’ cheap tactics, and the potential 23-man Rangers roster.

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Lias Andersson is your third center

Posted on September 28, 2019 by Derek

All training camp, Lias Andersson has been on a mission. Out to prove he can a better two-way center option due to a good workout regimen that saw him lose some weigh, the 2017 number seven pick taken by the Rangers in the first round has proven he belongs on the ’19-20 roster.

Improved skating along with his usual fiery grit have been on display throughout preseason. He entered tonight’s final exhibition match versus the Islanders with two goals. That tied him for the team lead with Artemi Panarin.

Andersson continues to make a good impression. He’s around the puck, wins defensive battles, and has been noticeably better offensively. His hustle was rewarded earlier this week in a home win. Tonight, he set up the lone goal for the Blueshirts by staying with the puck and finding Vladislav Namestnikov open for a quick one-timer that beat Islanders backup Thomas Greiss.

Given how well the third line has played in this game, it’s likely that you’ll see Andersson centering Namestnikov and Jesper Fast on Thursday night against Winnipeg.

It’s funny the way things work out. When the Rangers sent Derek Stepan and Antti Raanta to the Coyotes in exchange for that number seven pick and Tony DeAngelo, it didn’t look so good initially. But that’s the thing about trades. Things can change quickly.

DeAngelo looks like a top four defenseman who’s reliable at both ends, and Andersson is starting to look like the guy the Rangers selected. People forgot how young he was, even writing him off.

Well, he fits. Filip Chytil continues to struggle. He’s likely headed to Hartford. As for Vitali Kravtsov, he has a case. But the numbers don’t favor him. So, expect him to be sent down.

I’ll have a little more later.

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Key young Blueshirts on bubble in tonight’s preseason finale in Bridgeport

Posted on September 28, 2019 by Derek

It all comes down to this. For young forwards Filip Chytil, Brett Howden and Vitali Kravtsov, they’re on the bubble to make the Rangers 23-man roster as camp breaks. So much so that both 19-year old Kravtsov and 20-year old Chytil are slated to play with Howden on the first line in the final tuneup against the Islanders at Bridgeport.

The game is an hour away. With coach David Quinn pretty much set on his top six, top four D and of course Henrik Lundqvist, who’ll start Opening Night versus Winnipeg next week, he’s tinkered with the lines. Hence the following lineup for the sixth and final exhibition game tonight.

More excellent reporting from Vince Mercogliano, who’s quickly becoming the go to guy for Rangers news. He’s on The Athletic, but his tweets are top notch due to the information they contain. He’s also easy to discuss the team with. A big time plus.

While the trio of Chytil, Howden and Kravtsov will work together in a last attempt to catch the team’s attention, Quinn has Lias Andersson between Vladislav Namestnikov and Jesper Fast. That very well could be a checking line we see during the season. Although I like the chemistry between Andersson and pest Brendan Lemieux. I have to believe they’ll be together with either Fast or Namestnikov.

Another player who is looking to make one final impression is Boo Nieves. A little older than the kids due to playing four years at Michigan and a couple in Hartford, he is a solid fit for the fourth line due to his checking and penalty killing. However, it all depends on if DQ decides to go with both Andersson and Howden as his third and fourth centers. Nieves is also effective on draws. He also wouldn’t be a bad guy to carry as an extra forward.

Boo gets a look with Lemieux and soon to be ticketed for Hartford in Vinni Lettieri. With that a interesting third line even if it doesn’t blow away optimistic fans of the youth movement, Quinn has also decided to take a look at secret weapon Brendan Smith on the wing with former Hurricane Greg McKegg and Michael Haley. Of the trio, McKegg has been impressive throughout camp and should make the final cut. What they decide to do with Smith is anyone’s guess. He hasn’t hurt himself.

Libor Hajek gets a look with Tony DeAngelo as a top pair. A pairing we could see depending on Adam Fox, who is in the lineup with the forgotten 21-year old Ryan Lindgren. The steady defensive D, who finishes every check and blocks shots. The question is is Lindgren better off in Hartford instead of being an early healthy scratch? Probably.

Former Winnipeg Jet Joe Morrow gets one more shot on his PTO to try to earn a spot as an extra D. He’s paired with Tarmo Reunanen.

Alexandar Georgiev is expected to go all the way to get more action. Igor Shesterkin backs up. As impressive as he’s been, he’ll start with the Wolf Pack. The right move for the KHL import.

If there is one disappointing aspect, it’s that they never got to see what Yegor Rykov could do. An injury prevented him from even getting into a game. So, he’s headed to Hartford. Keep an eye on the former St. Petersburg SKA and Sochi HC defenseman, who was included in the Michael Grabner trade with the Devils. He’s still only 22.

That’s all for now. After the game, I’ll have a brief recap and go on Periscope live to give some final observations about who’ll make the roster.

Cya later.

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2019-20 Devils season preview

Posted on September 28, 2019 by hasan4978

With the Devils’ preseason now concluded and final roster decisions just days away, it’s time to look forward to the upcoming campaign, which for the Devils will start on Friday in Newark against the Winnipeg Jets.  Even though the team’s 5-2 preseason record is now irrelevant, there were still a lot of positive signs from the team’s seven-game preseason, starting with the return to the ice for franchise bellcow Taylor Hall.  Hall had not played a game since last December but in typical Hallsy fashion, made an instant impact with two goals and two assists in those two games.

Hall will have to be the engine that the rest of the team’s forwards can feed off of, starting with young centers Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes – all former #1 overall picks.  Hischier is going into his third NHL season and is looking to improve on an already strong all-around game, stating that working on his faceoffs was a goal of this offseason.  Improvement there would only add to the threat the 20-year old poses, and he was certainly a factor in the preseason with five points in five games.  Hughes obviously has much to prove having not played in a game that counts, but early returns are promising after a preseason where Hughes got the first star in his first two home games while scoring three goals total in four games played, including a game-winner against the Bruins in his first game (see above).  Although vet Travis Zajac’s always available to fill in during a pinch and will still have a pivotal role as the team’s top faceoff man and checking center, it’ll be the two youngsters counted on to center the Devils’ much improved top lines.

Along with a healthy Hall and crack goal scorer Kyle Palmieri, KHL import Nikita Gusev should fill a role in the top six, and early returns on the talented winger were also promising as Gusev scored four points (two goals) in five games, already inspiring GOOOSE! chants at the Rock.  The team’s last top six slot is a bit open-ended but will likely start with either third-year pro Jesper Bratt at 2RW, or FA signing Wayne Simmonds.  They couldn’t be more different as players but the team will need both the talented Bratt and gritty Simmonds’ skillsets throughout the year, and a proportedly healthy Simmonds should give the team needed physicality and play a big role on the team’s power play.  Bratt on the other hand is looking to take the next step forward this year after steady improvement throughout his first two seasons.  Only a fluke jaw injury early last year prevented Bratt from at least a 40-45 point season, as he talled just 33 in 51 games.

With the team’s top six improved, the back six up front should also be better starting with Simmonds or Bratt on the wing.  Zajac and 22-goal grinder Blake Coleman should provide solid PK work while Pavel Zacha will look to build on the improvement long-in-coming he showed late last year, and with a new long-term contract (and a new visa!) to boot.  Speedy Miles Wood took a step back last year after a camp holdout but still should add both skill and bang to the team’s back six.  If Wood doesn’t take a step forward this year he could be pushed for playing time by offseason import John Hayden, who was singled out for praise by coach John Hynes during camp.  And what of Jesper Boqvist?  A former second-round pick in 2017, Boqvist won’t turn 21 till the end of October and seemingly has won a job with a strong camp.  Assuming he’s on the roster, Boqvist could very well push for top six time as well as some power play usage.  Although he didn’t make the team, malinged 2016 first-round pick Mike McLeod defied my expectations and had a strong camp, putting the staff on notice and himself toward the front of the callup line.

On the blueline the picture is still a bit unsettled.  If the Devils had a dissapointment during camp, it was defenseman Ty Smith (as much of a dissapointment as a 19-year old can be, to be fair) having some rocky games and being squarely on the bubble to be returned to juniors.  Many – including me – figured on Smith to make the club after a strong camp and outstanding season in juniors last year but fortunately the team at least has roster flexibility and seven defensemen already under contract, plus career depth guy and camp wonder Matt Tennyson hanging around.  I’d still be surprised if Tennyson made the club but they could very well carry eight defensemen and extend the competition for the final spot into the regular season.  Still, the battle between Smith, Tennyson, Connor Carrick and Mirco Mueller for the #6 spot shouldn’t make or break the d-core.

What will determine how good the d-core is, will be how healthy and effective the top five of P.K. Subban, Damon Severson, Sami Vatanen, Andy Greene and Will Butcher can be.  Subban was GM Ray Shero’s key acquisition this offseason, a #1D at even strength who can add some punch to a previously suspect power play.  After an off year due to injury last season, Subban should thrive in Newark.  Severson showed improvement last year and should be just fine on the second pairing.  Butcher didn’t look as good offensively as I hoped last year following his sensational rookie campaign but he did improve defensively in the second half as well.  In many ways the biggest question marks are the vets…can Vatanen return to 2017-18 form?  Especially if he’s playing on his off (left) side given the addition of RD Subban to Severson on the right side of the top four.  And will Andy Greene be able to maintain a viable presence in the top four and being the top PK defenseman while staying healthy at 36 going on 37?  Both are free agents providing another level of intrigue to the d-core.

Of course in many cases the d-core is only as good as the goaltending, which was horrible early last season but did a 180 in the second half with the return of Cory Schneider to the form of a couple years ago, and the spectacular debut of 22-year old Mackenzie Blackwood in trying circumstances.  There’s some question as to who is going to play how much, the chalk would have Cory getting the first opportunity to regain his starting job and despite my personal skepticism of him he did everything he needed to do to give himself a chance to take back the starting job.

Cory concluded his preseason in style with a 30-save shutout of the Blue Jackets last night, silencing the infamous cannon in Ohio.  It’s not as if Blackwood was any slouch in the preseason either with a 2.28 GAA and .912 save in three games.  Either taking the job and running with it, or both playing well and providing a tag-team would dramatically improve the team from last year when bad goaltending sank the team in the first half before Hall’s injury kept them submerged in the second half.

With the improved talent and expectations surrounding the team you would think perhaps coach Hynes would be feeling pressure for the first time in his tenure here, but Shero has shown a lot of patience with the coach in the past.  To his credit, what Hynes lacks in x’s and o’s, he so far has more than made up for with locker room leadership and showing he’ll give younger players chances while getting on vets – at least sometimes.  Will that remain enough to stay off the hot seat with a slow start?  Or will the team get off to the dynamic start they did two seasons ago and play from in front?  That would certainly be more ideal than the former scenario.

I can’t even fathom making a prediction though…I do feel this team will be improved but I also think a lot of teams we’re competing with in the East are also improved.  And certainly if just a couple of our question marks go south, things could head off the track in a hurry.  All you can really ask from the preseason is good health and signs of improvement, and so far so good on both those fronts.

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Zibanejad and Lundqvist highlight Rangers shootout win over Flyers in preseason

Posted on September 26, 2019 by Derek

Mika Zibanejad celebrates with Lias Andersson. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NHL.com.

On a night some kids were still looking to make last impressions, it was the Swedish veterans who got it done. Henrik Lundqvist and Mika Zibanejad led them to a nice 2-1 preseason win over the Flyers in the shootout.

Going all the way, Lundqvist was sharp throughout stopping 32 of 33 shots including all three Flyer shooters. He definitely looks ready to go, earning the game’s first star, and leaving the ice with a grin.

Mika Zibanejad got the only goal in the shootout. Following a strong pad stop from Lundqvist on impressive Flyers rookie Joel Farabee, out came number 93. He flew in on Carter Hart and went to a nice deke, backhand top shelf inside the crossbar in the bottom of the third.

It wasn’t a Picasso or Renoir. The play was very choppy in the first two periods. There were a lot of icings and offsides. The third was better with the Rangers controlling much of the action. They created some good opportunities, but Hart had himself a good night as well.

The only goals in regulation came from Lias Andersson and Travis Konecny. Andersson continued his strong preseason with his hustle leading to him batting a puck in on a play set up from Tony DeAngelo, who had a very good game. He missed the first four due to signing late. He was superb throughout while teaming with Marc Staal, who had a solid night. They will likely be paired again to start the season, leaving Libor Hajek and Adam Fox as the third pair.

Brady Skjei had a good game. He played with Brendan Smith, who was surprisingly good even getting a couple of scoring chances. They both skated well with Skjei in particular making good defensive plays and creating offense.

Jacob Trouba was with Hajek, who struggled on one particular shift. He is a key to the revamped blueline. If he has issues, Ryan Lindgren can always come up and play. Trouba was physical and made some nice reads. He is going to do well.

In terms of two young forwards to watch, Vitali Kravtsov had a better game than Filip Chytil. They got to play with Zibanejad and were fairly quiet the first half. Playing back on the right wing, Chytil didn’t distinguish himself, even taking a lazy offensive zone minor penalty.

Meanwhile, Kravtsov got better in the third and was rewarded with an overtime shift. He got to play with Chris Kreider and Skjei. The combination nearly ended it. Kravtsov was in on Hart, but fanned on the shot. He also nearly had Kreider for the winner on a quick pass and one-timer.

I know he’s only 19. But I like what I’ve seen from Kravtsov. Chytil just hasn’t had a good camp. He looks off. Maybe they should send him down to Hartford and keep Kravtsov up. He can start on a third line with likely candidates Brett Howden and Vladislav Namestnikov. I wonder if the organization would rather get Kravtsov time in Hartford and hope Chytil finds his game. He has a season under his belt.

Andersson has definitely earned a spot by being more physical and active on the forecheck and responsible defensively. He lost some weight. It shows as he is faster to the puck and winning battles. You could make a case for him centering the third line. But I like the chemistry he has with Brendan Lemieux and believe Jesper Fast is a good fit on a checking line.

The coaching staff can always interchange depending how both Howden and Andersson are doing.

Kaapo Kakko played with Ryan Strome and Kreider mostly on the second line. The trio improved over the night. Their best shift was a good cycle where Strome held the puck and made a couple of good centering feeds for open teammates. For a guy who doesn’t play center a lot, he sure makes smart reads.

The Flyers goal came off a very good pass from Kevin Hayes. He was able to send the puck across with it banking off Konecny’s skate and then Staal. I’m not sure how Hayes got the puck over there. But he was a pain in the ass all night and his team’s best player. If preseason is an early indication, Hayes could become a Ranger killer. I already refer to him as Kevin BLEEPING Hayes.

Both goalies were superb throughout. While there weren’t a lot of highlight reel saves, Lundqvist got across on one and denied a Michael Raffl bid with a quick glove preventing a goal. He definitely looked like the old Henrik we’ve become accustomed to. Encouraging.

There were a couple of early scraps including Lemieux and Sean Couturier going at it until Brendan’s helmet came off. Vinni Lettieri was challenged by Scott Laughton due to him accidentally interfering with Hart. That was nothing much.

You also had Raffl take a cheap shot on Lettieri by taking out his legs before a face-off. DeAngelo had words for him. It was stupid. That’s the Flyers for you.

The best part of the shootout was when Kakko came out for the second shot. The crowd made tons of noise in hopes he would score. He made a great move and had Hart beat, but sent his backhand off the side of the net. Maybe next week when it starts up for real.

Farabee, who Lundqvist stoned, hit two posts during play. He’s the same age (19) as Kravtsov. He looks good. I think you’ll be seeing more of him even if it’s not right away.

Sam and Joe couldn’t wait for this one to end. It went long and it’s preseason. Can you blame them? Micheletti even quipped they should pull both goalies with eight minutes left in regulation.

Greg McKegg had another nice showing even creating a shorthanded bid for Boo Nieves, who couldn’t quite finish. I think McKegg makes it as the 13th forward. He knows how to play and is a good guy to have on a young roster.

The final preseason game is at Bridgeport on Saturday versus the Islanders. By then, we should have a good idea what the roster will look like.

My guess for Opening Night:

Panarin-Zibanejad-Buchnevich

Kreider-Strome-Kakko

Namestnikov-Howden-Chytil

Lemieux-Andersson-Fast

Extra: McKegg

Skjei-Trouba

Staal-DeAngelo

Hajek-Fox

Lundqvist

Georgiev

That would be 21 players. So, they can keep up to 23. Maybe it’s Ryan Lindgren as number 22 if they go with 7 D. If not, then it’s Nieves which means 14 F. Unless they decide to keep Kravtsov. You know how I feel. He deserves to make it.

Igor Shesterkin will be reassigned to Hartford on Saturday. Georgiev is expected to get the whole game at the Isles.

That’s all for now. I got a Fantasy Hockey Draft tomorrow night. That should be fun.

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Chytil to get a look on top line versus Flyers

Posted on September 26, 2019 by Derek

Tonight, the Rangers host the Flyers at 33rd and Seventh Avenue. It’s the fifth installment of six exhibition games.

Henrik Lundqvist is expected to get the start and go the whole way. A welcome change. He can use the extra work as preseason winds down. The roster is currently at 31 including promising KHL import Igor Shesterkin, who’ll have backup duty later.

Filip Chytil has been shifted back to the right wing. It’s where he had most of his success last season. He isn’t ready to become a full-time center. However, he’s only 20 and can still excel on the right side where there are less defensive responsibilities.

Coach David Quinn will get a closer look by having Chytil play on the first line with impressive rookie Vitali Kravtsov, who notched his first goal in the 3-1 victory the other night. Mika Zibanejad will center the two young forwards.

Based on the lines posted by the Rangers on Twitter, fans will also get to see the new second line. Ryan Strome will be between Chris Kreider and Kaapo Kakko. While some fans don’t want to see Strome as the second center, it’ll likely be this way for now until someone grabs that spot. Kravtsov has played center before, doing so for Russia at last year’s WJC. He did a nice job, but that was against players his age.

Here are the projected lines, which include a mind numbing third pair of Brady Skjei and secret weapon Brendan Smith. Relax. It’s preseason. I know it MATTAHS! Tony DeAngelo gets his first action pairing up with Marc Staal.

Lias Andersson will center a interesting third line with Brendan Lemieux and Vladislav Namestnikov. In the likely candidates who’ll get sent down, Boo Nieves anchors Greg McKegg and Vinni Lettieri. Nieves and McKegg are still in the mix for the extra forward. I would lean more towards the veteran McKegg if they decide Kravtsov is better off getting more ice time in Hartford. He is a solid energizer, who’ll had a similar role with the Hurricanes.

Well, the game starts in an hour. Follow me on Twitter @BattleOfHudson. I’ll tweet some stuff. Maybe not overboard because you know. Preseason!

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