Hockey Is Back

Posted on September 18, 2024 by Derek

As football rolls into Week 3 in the middle of September, we’re closing in on training camp for NHL teams. Believe it or not, hockey is back.

After a long hiatus during the hot summer, players are starting to report to practice facilities for workouts. Rookie tournaments are wrapping up. Several teams have signed players to pro tryouts (PTO). The Devils will get a closer look at Kevin Labanc, Michael Hutchinson, Andy Welinski, and Jakub Zboril. All agreed to PTO’s. The biggest name is Max Pacioretty. He’ll look to earn a roster spot in Toronto.

On Monday, the Rangers released their training camp roster. Camp opens up on Wednesday, Sep. 18. The first day of on-ice session is Thursday, Sep. 19.

https://x.com/NYRangers/status/1835751567838044580

Kids To Watch

Rather than detailing every camp invite, including fringe veterans who are likely destined for Hartford, let’s highlight the kids to watch instead.

Up front, there really aren’t many prospects who’ll contend for the Opening Night roster. However, Brennan Othmann and Brett Berard are the most obvious candidates. Each had a good first pro season with the Hartford Wolf Pack. Berard led the Pack with 25 goals last season. He added 23 assists. His 48 points ranked third in team scoring, placing him right behind Othmann, who recorded 21 goals with 28 assists for 49 points. Each had some success in the Calder Cup Playoffs.

If either makes an impression in camp, then they’ll get strong consideration. Othmann is considered the prospect with the higher ceiling. A former 2021 first round pick, he pushed for a spot last year. However, with no experience, he was sent down to Hartford. Othmann made a brief cameo with the Rangers. However, after a solid NHL debut, he barely was used by coach Peter Laviolette in two more games. It was better for his development to go back down. We’ll see if he can make some noise in his second go-round.

Berard spent three years at Providence College. A 2020 fifth round pick, he’s a hard-working player who plays with tenacity. When he represented Team USA at the World Junior Championships, he played a checking role, which included penalty killing duties. The 22-year-old will battle Othmann for a spot in the top nine. If either can crack the roster, it could come at the expense of Kaapo Kakko. Kakko was brought back for one more year. If he struggles early, perhaps Othmann or Berard can make him expendable. Kakko is penciled in as the right wing on the third line.

Rempe Time

Around this time a year ago, few knew about Matt Rempe. A sixth round pick in 2020, the Calgary native surprised many in his second camp. His ability to stand out in preseason opened some eyes.

After spending part of the season honing his skills in Hartford, he was recalled by the Rangers for the outdoor game against the Islanders on Feb. 18. No stranger to brawling, Rempe got his welcome to the NHL moment during his first shift. Islanders’ enforcer Matt Martin challenged him. The two squared off at center ice before almost 80,000 fans at Met Life Stadium. He finished with five hits along with his first NHL fight in what amounted to a thrilling come from behind 6-5 Rangers’ victory over their crosstown rivals.

From that moment on, the larger than life Rempe became a fixture on the fourth line. He continued to battle all comers. When he wasn’t throwing his weight around, he parked himself in front of opposing goalies to make their job miserable. It was during a match against the Flyers that he got a piece of a shot for his first career NHL goal, which proved to be the winner in a 2-1 victory. It was a special moment.

Pretty soon, the Garden was serenading him with “Rem-pe, Rem-pe!” chants. He became a fan favorite. It was his engaging personality that was easy to admire. Somehow, he went from a longshot to making the national, to quote Kevin Weekes. He garnered all kinds of attention around the league.

Even when he made mistakes against the Devils that earned him a major and game misconduct, Rempe was there to answer questions. He also was accountable for his actions. On Apr. 3, he participated in a line brawl at MSG. Rempe squared off with Kurtis MacDermid at center ice. It was an entertaining bout between two warriors. MacDermid had called out Rempe for not answering the bell due to an elbowing major on Mar. 11. In the rematch between the Hudson rivals, he earned some respect from MacDermid.

Following posting a goal and assist with 71 penalty minutes and 50 hits in 17 regular season games, Rempe scored in his postseason debut to highlight a 4-1 win over the Capitals in Game 1 of the first round. The Blueshirts followed that up with two more goals in rapid fashion to pull away for the victory. During the Rangers’ run to the Eastern Conference Final, Rempe got in 11 playoff games. He proved that he learned from some of his past mistakes that included a four-game suspension.

It’s the energy and enthusiasm he provides that’s galvanized coaches and teammates on and off the ice. When he had his ice time reduced by Laviolette, Rempe never complained. Instead, he understood and was extremely supportive. That approach is why he’s already become one of the team’s most popular players. It’s pretty telling when he plays on an established team that features Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, Igor Shesterkin, Chris Kreider, and Mika Zibanejad.

What can Rempe do for an encore? For starters, nothing is guaranteed. It was his decision to work with former Oilers enforcer Georges Laraque in the off-season. He wants to become a better skater and smarter fighter. Rempe doesn’t want to be known as a novelty. He expects to earn a regular spot as a Blueshirt. Given his instincts and understanding of the game, he is serious.

Rempe should get some competition from Adam Edstrom and veteran Adam Erne, who agreed to a PTO. Sam Carrick and Jimmy Vesey should comprise two-thirds of the checking line. The puck is on Rempe’s stick.

Jones’ Time to Shine

In 2023-24, Zac Jones was used mostly as the Rangers’ seventh defenseman. A good skating left defenseman who never was known for his overall game, he took a step in the right direction. The 23-year-old former UMass product proved that he was fully capable of coming into the lineup and supplying steady defense.

A 2019 third round pick, it wasn’t certain if Jones would stick with the Rangers. There was always the possibility that he could’ve been traded. Instead, he made some nice improvements to gain the trust of the coaching staff. When Fox or Jacob Trouba went down, it was Jones who fit in seamlessly.

It resulted in a breakthrough season. Although he only got into 31 games last season, Jones drew the praise from Laviolette. His ability to transition from defense to offense made him a strong possession player. He posted career highs in goals (2), assists(7), and points (9).

Unlike 2023-24, Jones doesn’t have Erik Gustafsson blocking him. The veteran blue liner was a good Ranger, providing offense at even strength and on the power play. When he wasn’t re-signed, that opened the door for Jones. Entering camp, the sixth defenseman role is his to lose.

Robertson Hoping to Make Team

Matthew Robertson is hoping to change the mind of the organization. He should get a long look at a supporting role. He’s still behind Jones and veteran Chad Ruhwedel.

Can the 2019 second round pick finally make a lasting impression? At 23, he’s still yet to debut in the NHL. Robertson’s coming in with a different mindset. It’ll be interesting to see if he can make the roster. With competition from seasoned vets Connor Mackey and Ben Harpur, he’ll have to prove he belongs.

Lafreniere Looking for Extension

Alexis Lafreniere is no longer a question mark. The former 2020 top pick had a breakout season. Playing with Panarin and Vincent Trocheck in 2023-24, he set personal bests in goals (28), assists (29), and points (57). He followed that up by continuing to perform in the postseason. Lafreniere produced, scoring eight goals and adding six helpers for 14 points. Along with Trocheck, they were the best players against the eventual Stanley Cup champion Panthers in the Conference Finals.

With the Red Wings signing Lucas Raymond to an eight-year contract north of $64 million, that should be a good comparable. Raymond earned it by putting up new career highs in goals (31), assists (41), and points (72). If Lafreniere can score at least 30 goals and reach 70 points, he’ll have a strong case for a similar deal. His season will be worth watching.

Igor On The Clock

Imagine the quandry the Rangers could find themselves in if both Lafreniere and Shesterkin have big seasons. Unlike Lafreniere, Shesterkin is entering the final year of a deal that pays him a bargain price of $5.67 million.

Considered one of the game’s best goalies, the 28-year old is coming off a huge postseason. It was his brilliant play between the pipes that carried the Rangers to the Eastern Conference Final. After a strong finish to the regular season, he posted a 2.34 goals-against-average (GAA) and .926 save percentage in the postseason. Shesterkin made plenty of clutch saves against the Panthers to give the Rangers a chance. Goals were at a premium.

What if he can put together a second Vezina season? His attention will be turned to what happens with key Bruins’ restricted free agent Jeremy Swayman. He’s looking for a significant raise. The difference is that he’s only completed three full seasons. He’s 25. Shesterkin blows the candles out on his 29th birthday on Dec. 30.

Crosby Stays in Pittsburgh

In league news, Sidney Crosby is staying put in Pittsburgh. The 37-year old Penguins captain agreed to a two-year contract extension on Monday. Similar to what he’s being paid through 2024-25, Crosby will earn an $8.7 million cap hit.

One of the game’s greatest players, No. 87 is the true definition of a superstar. It would’ve been easy for Crosby to play out the final year of his contract. Especially with the Pens having missed the playoffs the past two seasons. Instead, he stayed loyal to the Steel City. There’s something to be said about loyalty in sports. Many great players don’t spend their entire career with one team. Now, there’s a chance that Crosby could.

Crosby has played in 1,272 games. With 592 goals, he’s eight away from 600. That’s despite missing significant time. Crosby has 1,004 assists and 1,596 points. Barring something unforeseen, he will achieve two milestones this season. The 600-goal mark and 1,600 points. It speaks volumes about how special a player he is.

In 2023-24, he continued to defy logic by scoring 42 times while adding 52 assists for 94 points. Crosby did everything possible to try to carry the Penguins into the playoffs. They fell a little bit short.

Crosby admitted that he actually watched the playoffs. His reason was that he wanted to learn from the teams that made it. His drive and determination are what define him. As special as Connor McDavid is, Crosby still is the face of the league. You can’t spell NHL without Crosby.

It’s great for the league that he decided to remain with a Penguin. Could anyone really have pictured him in another jersey?

Preseason On Tap

Once camp gets rolling, preseason is on tap. The Rangers begin with the Bruins on Sunday, Sep. 22 at 5 EST. It’s kinda crazy to schedule it during Week 3 of a busy NFL weekend. But that’s what they did. I doubt I’ll be around to watch. Next Tuesday, they’ll host the Islanders at 7 EST. That’s more reasonable.

With an exciting baseball season wrapping up, the Yankees and Mets both look like they’ll play in October. You know Met fans will be locked in on what happens the final week. They’re tied with the Diamondbacks for the second wildcard. That’s two in front of the fading Braves. But Atlanta will be playing the Mets for a big three-game series. The Yankees look to have a good hold on the AL East. Aaron Judge remains at 53 home runs.

Once things develop, I’ll have more on the competition. My fantasy hockey draft is Friday night. See you soon.

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Caufield to honor Gaudreau by wearing his number

Posted on September 9, 2024 by Derek

It’s been an emotional rollercoaster for the hockey world. Ever since the tragic deaths of Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau, there have been so many tributes from both players and fans.

A candlelight vigil was held last Wednesday, Sep. 4 at Front Street Plaza outside Nationwide Arena in Columbus. The Blue Jackets streamed the event live on YouTube.

On Monday at 12 PM, a memorial service will be held for family and close friends of John and Matthew Gaudreau. They will be live streaming the event on their official site. It’ll take place inside the arena.

Flames Remember Johnny Hockey

The Calgary Flames held a candlelight vigil on Sept. 4 outside Scotiabank Saddledome. They also live streamed the event on their social media channels. Similar to the Blue Jackets, a digital candle was available on the Flames app.

Flames captain Mikael Backlund made an emotional speech about former teammate Johnny Gaudreau. It was very well done. He remembered how Gaudreau prepared for games and how he was off the ice. To hear him tell it, Johnny Hockey kept things very loose. Something an emotional Backlund said he’s working on. It certainly was hard to watch.

The Flames will hold a memorial service for the family of Johnny and Matthew at 10 AM on Monday, Sep. 9.

Caufield Will Change Jersey to Number 13

How much does Johnny Gaudreau mean to USA Hockey? Plenty. In an announcement, Cole Caufield revealed that he will change his jersey to number 13 for the 2024-25 season.

The Montreal Canadiens forward made the announcement on Instagram. He is switching to No. 13 to honor Gaudreau.

“I wore 13 at a point in my career because of Johnny and now I will be wearing it again to honor him. He paved the way for smaller players and proved we had a future in the game at the highest level. I will be forever grateful to him for inspiring me and others.

Rest in Peace, Johnny Hockey.”

It’s a classy gesture. What Caufield said about Gaudreau is true. Johnny was so creative on the ice. His unique blend of speed, skill, and hockey IQ made him an exciting star. He had great hands. A game that once favored bigger and stronger players has trended towards smaller and faster players. Teams are no longer afraid to draft undersized players. It’s a different era.

Saying Goodbye Is Never Easy

It’s never easy to say goodbye. Having attended wakes, I believe in being there to support our friends and family. As difficult as it may be, all we can do is come and lend a helping hand.

When they hold the memorial services in Columbus and Calgary, there won’t be a dry eye. It’s still hard to believe Johnny and Matthew are gone. Honoring who they were is the best way to handle such a tragedy. Having heard enough stories, it sounds like both Gaudreau brothers were a pleasure to be around. God bless the family.

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Draisaitl signs record extension to stay in Edmonton

Posted on September 3, 2024 by Derek

Three days into September, a huge signing was made. The Edmonton Oilers and Leon Draisaitl agreed to a record extension earlier today.

The 28-year-old former Hart winner signed an eight-year contract extension worth $112 million. He was entering the final year of a deal that pays him $8.5 million.

By coming to terms with the Oilers, Draisaitl will become the league’s highest paid player next year. He’ll make $14 million per year, starting in 2025-26. By the time the contract concludes, Draisaitl will be 37.

It’s always a risk when a team signs a star player long-term into their mid 30s. We’ll see how it goes. The bigger storyline is how much teammate Connor McDavid will get. The game’s best player still has two years remaining on a contract that averages out to $12.5 million on the cap.

McDavid followed up a 32-goal, 100-assist, 132-point season by leading the postseason in scoring with a remarkable 42 points (8-34-42) to win the Conn Smythe. He nearly led a historic comeback. The Oilers came back from a 3-0 series deficit before losing the Stanley Cup to the Panthers in Game 7.

A three-time Hart winner and five-time Art Ross recipient, the 27-year-old McDavid has won almost everything. A Cup would cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats. He needs 18 points to reach 1,000 for his career. In just 645 games, he’s posted 335 goals and 647 assists for 982 points.

If Draisaitl can get $14 million, how much do you think McDavid will get? If he puts up over 150 points like he did in 2022-23, the Oilers could have to start with a higher number than they would like. Sixteen million might not get it done. Imagine McDavid approaching $18 million. It’ll depend on both the player and the cap.

The Oilers are entering a crucial year. After coming so close to winning a championship last June, expectations are through the roof. Featuring a roster that includes McDavid and Draisaitl as the big headliners, they also boast a strong nucleus. Zach Hyman, Ryan-Nugent Hopkins, Evander Kane, Evan Bouchard, Mattias Ekholm, Darnell Nurse, and Stuart Skinner all help make up a deep team.

With key additions Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson, that should improve their scoring. As if they need any more offense. They also were able to keep Adam Henrique, Mattias Janmark, Corey Perry, Connor Brown, and Derek Ryan. They let both Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg go to the St. Louis Blues. Each signed offer sheets that the Oilers didn’t match. Edmonton is hoping acquiring former Canuck Vasily Podkolzin can help offset the loss of Holloway.

On paper, they look pretty formidable. They’ll likely need a better season from Nurse. He has a $9.25 million cap hit. They can’t afford for him to be a liability.

With Draisaitl getting his raise, next in line is Bouchard. One of the game’s best offensive defensemen, he is making $3.9 million in 2024-25. He’ll become a restricted free agent next summer. The Oilers are going to have to pay a hefty price. Think between $9 and 10 million.

Training camps are over two weeks away. There are still key players unsigned. Most notably, the Red Wings’ Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond. That’ll be interesting to watch.

Hockey is around the corner. It’s hard to believe.

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Hockey World Mourns the losses of Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau

Posted on August 31, 2024 by Derek

On Thursday night, a horrible tragedy stunned the hockey world. Columbus Blue Jackets’ star forward Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew Gaudreau were killed by a drunk driver in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.

Johnny was 31 and Matthew 29. Each left behind families, including their parents. Johnny is survived by his wife Meredith, daughter Noa, and son Johnny, Jr. Matthew is survived by his wife. She was pregnant with their first child.

I’ve been struggling to find the right words. It’s unfathomable that both Gaudreau brothers died due to the gross negligence of a drunk driver. It’s truly sickening. They were mowed down on their bikes by a selfish person who acted irresponsibly. They deserve to rot in jail.

Our thoughts are with the Gaudreau family. What they’re going through is unimaginable. It was supposed to be a big weekend. They were going to celebrate sister Katie’s wedding in Gloucester, NJ. Instead, her wedding was postponed.

It’s a very sad time for the hockey world. Many tributes have poured in from former teammates of Johnny. He and Matthew were inseparable. Having seen some of the videos, it’s incredibly upsetting. It’s hard to believe.

We all know who Johnny Gaudreau was. He was a phenomenal hockey player who led Boston College to the Frozen Four in 2013-14. Younger brother Matthew was on that team along with Kevin Hayes. They were led by Gaudreau, who totaled 36 goals and 44 assists for 80 points to win the Hobey Baker Award as college’s top hockey player.

Selected in the fourth round by the Calgary Flames in 2011, Gaudreau made headlines by leading Team USA to the gold medal at the 2013 World Junior Championships. He led the tournament with seven goals and added two assists for nine points.

Nicknamed Johnny Hockey, the five-foot nine, 165-pound Gaudreau could do things with the puck that electrified fans. His game-breaking speed, along with his incredible skill, made him a star. After scoring on his first shot in his NHL debut, Gaudreau posted 24 goals with 40 assists for 64 points in 2014-15. He finished third for the Calder Trophy. At 21, he led the Flames to the second round of the playoffs, finishing with four goals and five assists.

Gaudreau spent the first nine years of his career with the Flames. An All-Star and Lady Byng winner, he averaged over a point-per-game. In 602 games as a Calgary Flame, he had 210 goals and 399 assists for a total of 609 points. That included two fourth place finishes for the Hart Trophy. In his final season with the Flames, he established career highs in goals (40), assists (75), and points (115) while playing with Elias Lindholm and Matthew Tkachuk on a lethal top line.

Following a disappointing finish to the season, Gaudreau became an unrestricted free agent in 2022. After much consideration, he chose to sign with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He decided to settle down with his wife in Columbus.

Although the Blue Jackets didn’t have much team success in his first year, Gaudreau still led them in scoring with 21 goals and 53 assists for 74 points in 80 games. He followed that up by again, pacing the Jackets with 60 points (12-48-60) in 2023-24.

A young team with a bright future that includes former first round picks, Kent Johnson and Adam Fantilli, the Blue Jackets look set up to improve. They took center Cayden Lindstrom with the fourth pick in June. Losing a great player like Gaudreau really hurts. He was a locker room leader and, from all accounts, a quality person.

It isn’t the first time tragedy has struck Columbus. It was three years ago that goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died after being accidentally hit by a fireworks mortar in the chest in Michigan. It is very hard to believe they are dealing with another tragedy.

As someone who followed Gaudreau’s career since his memorable performance for Team USA in 2013, he was a magician with the puck. A terrific passer, Johnny Hockey, frequently set up teammates for goals. However, he also had a good shot. When he wasn’t beating goalies from distance, he’d fool them by using his slick hands to score on a wrap-around. He was a unique hockey player with tremendous talent. I really enjoyed watching him play.

His brother Matthew played in the American Hockey League (AHL) with Bridgeport in the New York Islanders organization. After spending four years at Boston College, he spent seven seasons in the minors. He last played for Worcester on the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) in 2021-22.

Some of the best tributes to Johnny have been at The Saddledome in Calgary. Many fans left flowers. The hockey community is one big family. On the ice, we might be rivals. But off it, we aren’t. Our hearts are broken.

JOHNNY GAUDREAU (Aug. 13, 1993 – Aug. 29, 2024)

MATTHEW GAUDREAU (Dec. 5,1994 – Aug. 29, 2024)

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Sam Rosen to hang up the mic after 2024-25 season

Posted on August 18, 2024 by Derek

For four decades, Sam Rosen has been the voice of the New York Rangers. The longest active broadcaster in the NHL will hang up the mic after the 2024-25 season.

He made the announcement last Tuesday. Originally a studio host for pregame on MSG Network, Rosen took over play-by-play duties for mentor Jim Gordon in 1984.

A lifelong dream was fulfilled. Originally born in Germany to Polish parents as Sam Rosenblum, his family moved to Brooklyn, New York, when he was two years old. Growing up in New York City, he became a fan of the Rangers. Rosen frequently took the subway to games at the old Madison Square Garden on 49th and 50th Street at Eighth Avenue.

He attended Stuyvesant High School and City College of New York, where he was a catcher on the baseball teams.

Following a broadcasting stint at UPI Audio, Rosen joined MSG Networks in 1977. He served as the Rangers pregame studio host and part-time radio announcer in 1982. Two years later, he replaced the legendary Gordon on MSG.

Originally, Rosen teamed with Phil Esposito for two seasons. However, when Esposito moved upstairs to take over as the Rangers general manager, that opened the door for a new color commentator. Former Rangers goalie John Davidson replaced Esposito in the booth.

For two decades, Sam and JD became fixtures in living rooms. They were the voices of the Blueshirts. During the Rangers’ run to their first Stanley Cup in 54 years, Rosen and Davidson were there every step of the way. That included the memorable Stanley Cup clinching Game 7 on June 14, 1994.

Following an icing, Rosen was on the call for the final faceoff that Craig MacTavish won from Pavel Bure to finally give the franchise its first Cup since 1940. His call is fondly remembered by fans.

“The waiting is over! The New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup champions! And this one will last a lifetime!”

Perhaps the best part was that Rosen got to call his favorite team, finally winning a championship to end a long drought. That had to be emotional.

After teaming with Davidson for 20 seasons, with 2005-06 being the last, Rosen got a new partner. Joe Micheletti took over upstairs. A veteran analyst who’d worked with Howie Rose on Islanders telecasts, he’s been with Rosen nearly as long. This fall will mark their 19th and final season together. Micheletti raved about working with Rosen.

“You’ve made all of those who work with you better people, and you’ve helped us all reach heights that would not have been achievable without your support,” Micheletti said in a statement. “You have included all of us on your crowded list of friends. For all these reasons and many more, your legacy will last a lifetime.”

In 2016, Rosen was the winner of the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame for his contributions as a broadcaster. Entering 2024-25, he’s the longest-tenured active broadcaster in the NHL.

Now 77, Rosen indicated that he never thought about his age. However, it was when he turned 75 that he started to consider retirement. When he hangs up the mic, he can spend more time with his family, which includes four grandchildren. He’s hoping for the Rangers to go out on top. That would be the icing on the cake. 

With Rosen set to retire next year, Rangers’ play-by-play radio announcer Kenny Albert is the favorite to replace him. Albert has called games since 1995. He took over for Howie Rose. Albert is the voice of the NHL on TNT.

The Rangers begin the season on Oct. 9 against the Penguins.

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Rangers and Lindgren agree on one year for $4.5 million

Posted on July 30, 2024 by Derek

Three days before salary arbitration, the Rangers and Ryan Lindgren reached an agreement that’ll keep him in New York City for at least another year.

The 26-year-old defenseman re-signed for one year, $4.5 million. In doing so, the onus will be on Lindgren to earn a new contract next summer. If he wants to remain a New York Ranger past the upcoming 2024-25 season, it’ll be up to him.

By agreeing to take a one-year deal for fair market value, the gritty warrior knows that he’ll turn unrestricted next year. If he stays healthy and puts together a good season, Lindgren should be able to dictate the terms in free agency.

A defensive defenseman who brings his hard hat to work, the Burnsville, Minnesota native plays with physical edge and intensity. A staple on the Rangers blue line who’s teamed with Adam Fox on the top pair, Lindgren is a stabilizing force.

Similar to Dan Girardi, he’s played bruised and battered. A fan favorite, the former Bruins 2016 second round pick, remains part of one of the better trades the Rangers made in recent memory. He came over from Boston as part of the Rick Nash deal on Feb. 25, 2018.

At one point, former team president and general manager Jeff Gorton used Ryan Spooner to acquire Ryan Strome. A move that turned the original trade into a steal. Strome served as the second center until two years ago when he left to sign with the Ducks. Strome was a good Ranger who played with Artemi Panarin. He was replaced by Vincent Trocheck.

For five seasons, Lindgren has proven to be one of the Rangers’ most trusted defensemen. While not the most mobile skater, he’s gotten the most of his ability. In 333 career games, he’s totaled 10 goals, 70 assists, and 80 points with a plus-99 rating. In 2023-24, he had three goals and 14 assists for 17 points while posting a plus-22 rating over 76 games. He added 103 blocks and 114 hits while averaging 19:21 of ice time.

In the postseason, Lindgren tallied three assists. None were bigger than his great setup for Chris Kreider’s series clinching goal in the third period of Game 6 against the Hurricanes. It gave Kreider a natural hat trick. The Rangers came from behind to eliminate the Canes in six games, advancing to the Eastern Conference Final.

The Rangers have a lot of players on the roster who’ll be playing for new contracts. That includes Igor Shesterkin, Alexis Lafreniere, K’Andre Miller, Lindgren, Kaapo Kakko, Reilly Smith, Jimmy Vesey, Will Cuylle, Matt Rempe, Zac Jones, Jonathan Quick, and Chad Ruhwedel. If he makes the roster, you can add Adam Edstrom to that list.

Obviously, Shesterkin is front and center. He’s entering the final year of a contract that’s a $5.67 cap hit. A bargain. If he reaches next summer, there’s no telling what he’ll get. Shesterkin is looking to break the bank.

Lafreniere is coming off a career best season that saw him score 28 goals and add 29 assists for 57 points. If he can improve on those totals, 35 goals and 70 points are possible. That would mean a significant long-term extension for the former 2020 top pick. That could come at some point next season.

With team president and general manager Chris Drury making few changes to a roster that reached Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final, the pressure is on. They’re banking on a healthier Filip Chytil to supply offense to the third line. If he remains a Ranger this fall, Kakko must step up. It’s do or die. A projected third line of Chytil, Kakko, and Cuylle could be counted on to supply secondary scoring.

If Brennan Othmann can force his way onto the roster, he has to play in the top nine. That could impact Kakko if he gets off to a bad start. His future remains uncertain.

In subtracting Barclay Goodrow and replacing him with Sam Carrick, the Rangers look weaker. Goodrow was a trusted veteran checking center who doubled as an effective penalty killer. Carrick will be asked to fill the void. If he can, then the fourth line should be okay. It still includes Vesey and possibly Rempe, who wants to be more than a part-timer. He has the potential to become a regular instead of a sideshow who was barely used by coach Peter Laviolette in the playoffs.

Rempe will compete with Edstrom, Brett Berard, and Jonny Brodzinski, who remains a good option that the coaching staff likes. The 31-year-old earned it last season by filling in admirably.

There’s a lot riding on the line. If they can’t deliver a Stanley Cup next June, then there could be many changes made. It’s all hanging in the balance. With teams being them getting better, it’s going to be even more challenging. The Blueshirts won’t sneak up on anybody next season. They’ll get everyone’s best game.

Wrestling legend Sting had a saying. “With Sting, nothing is for sure.” The same applies to the Rangers.

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HARD HITS: Devils have closed the gap on Rangers

Posted on July 29, 2024 by Derek

In what’s been a scorching hot summer, business has slowed down. That’s what usually happens in late July.

The off-season begins with a flurry of fireworks but then cools off dramatically. If you’re hoping for the weather to change, that’s another story. It’ll remain muggy. At least, the heat index isn’t approaching 100 like it did earlier. It’s been a scorching month.

While we find ways to stay cool, the hockey off-season is very quiet. When teams combined to spend over $2 billion on Canada Day, it was going to die down quickly. Now, we’re as close to a holiday freeze. Ices, anyone?

For the Devils, that meant overturning a roster that was the biggest disappointment of 2023-24. They went from 52 wins, 112 points, and the second round to 38 victories, 81 points, and no playoffs. The casualties included two coaches, two goalies, and three defensemen.

Tom Fitzgerald was very busy. He subtracted John Marino, Kevin Bahl, and Brendan Smith. Marino was a year removed from being a key part of the successful season they had in 2022-23. He wasn’t as consistent, which led to him being dealt to the Utah HC for 2024 second round pick Mikhail Yegorov and a 2025 second. Yegorov is the goalie of the future.

Fitzgerald then replaced Marino by signing Brett Pesce. A shutdown defenseman with the Hurricanes, the 29-year-old from Tarrytown, NY, will be counted on. He’ll likely be paired with Jonas Sieganthaler. Though it might be interesting to see what Keefe decides to do with a blue line that features youngsters Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec. Adding physical veteran Brenden Dillon will make the Devils harder to play against.

Jacob Markstrom is the new number one goalie. He’ll look to rebound from a challenging year in Calgary. A former Vezina finalist, Markstrom should have better support in Jersey. Jake Allen is a solid number two.

Gone are 2022-23 tandem Vitek Vanecek and Akira Schmid. Schmid was packaged with Alexander Holtz to Vegas for Paul Cotter. Another gritty player who should improve the Devils’ bottom six.

With Fitzgerald also adding solid depth pieces in net-front presence, Stefan Noesen and Tomas Tatar, they should be more formidable. Kurtis MacDermid was also kept for three years. He’ll renew acquaintances with Rangers’ enforcer Matt Rempe, who took lessons from former Oiler Georges Laraque. That should make the Hudson rivalry more exciting.

The Devils will have both Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton healthy for the start of training camp in September. Injuries to both hurt them last season. Especially Hamilton, who was sorely missed on the back end. A full season for the ace defenseman would go a long way to pushing the Devils back into the postseason.

With the Rangers unable to make many changes, except for dumping Barclay Goodrow on waivers to the Sharks, you could make the argument that the Devils have closed the gap.

Unless you think adding Reilly Smith and Sam Carrick will make a difference for a team that won the Presidents’ Trophy and lost in six games to the Panthers, there isn’t much cause for excitement in the big city. Leaking information that they wanted to trade captain Jacob Trouba didn’t go over well. Both Trouba and teammates were upset with how that was handled. They reportedly didn’t like how Goodrow was treated, either. It’ll be interesting to see the dynamic in the locker room ahead.

Having re-signed Kaapo Kakko, Zac Jones, and Braden Schneider, Chris Drury must still reach an agreement with Ryan Lindgren. A year away from unrestricted free agency, the 26-year-old defenseman wants to remain a New York Ranger. The issue is term. With arbitration set for Aug. 2, both sides have over a week to get something done.

The Rangers qualified Lindgren for $3.6 million. The salary shouldn’t be an issue. It’ll come down to how many years. Four seems reasonable. We’ll see what happens.

The good news is that they still have a strong core. Featuring Russian dynamo Artemi Panarin, American defense stalwart Adam Fox, and pipe master Igor Shesterkin, they remain formidable. With Chris Kreider, Mika Zibanejad, Vincent Trocheck, Alexis Lafreniere, and K’Andre Miller, the Blueshirts should again challenge for first place in the division. They should have close company from their Hudson rivals.

The Devils boast a strong core that also includes captain Nico Hischier, along with the Hughes Brothers, Bratt, Nemec, and  unsigned restricted free agent Dawson Mercer. Quality additions, Markstrom, Pesce, Dillon, Noesen, and Cotter should make a difference. The improved depth has helped close the gap on the Rangers.

The Hudson rivalry will be even more exciting to watch. There are four big matchups set for 2024-25. Circle these dates:

Dec. 2 NJD vs. NYR 7 EST

Dec. 23 NYR vs. NJD 1 EST

Jan. 9 NJD vs. NYR 7 EST

Apr. 5 NYR vs. NJD 1 EST

BODY CHECKS

Martin Necas is staying put with the Hurricanes. After many trade rumors, including one that had him turning down the Sabres, he re-signed with the Canes for two years. The cap hit is $6.5 million. Fair value for a player of his capability. We’ll see if Necas gets more of an opportunity to play in the middle behind Sebastian Aho.

The Wild invested long-term on defenseman Brock Faber by extending him to an eight-year deal worth $68 million. The $8.5 million cap hit kicks in for 2025-26. His entry-level contract expires next year. Big money for the 21-year-old who finished a close runner-up behind Connor Bedard for the Calder Trophy. Faber came over from Los Angeles in the Kevin Fiala trade. One that has worked out well so far for both sides.

The Flyers kept leading scorer Travis Konecny by inking him to an eight-year, $70 million extension. That’s a cap hit of $8.5 million. Konecny has a year left on a contract that pays him a $5.5 million cap hit. He’ll be staying in Philly.

With the arrival of Matvei Michkov, things could be looking up for the Flyers. If he fulfills expectations, Michkov could be the Calder frontrunner. There’s considerable young talent on the roster. That includes Owen Tippett, Joel Farabee, Morgan Frost, Tyson Foerster, Bobby Brink, Cam York, and Jamie Drysdale. Adding Michkov to the nucleus should only help.

Much will depend on unproven goalie tandem Samuel Ersson and Ivan Fedotov. The Flyers missed out on the playoffs by four points last season. We’ll see if they can return to the postseason for the first time since 2019-20.

August is on deck.

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Rangers re-sign Schneider to bridge deal

Posted on July 13, 2024 by Derek

On Saturday, the Rangers re-signed Braden Schneider to a bridge deal. The cap hit is $2.2 million per year.

A former first round pick in 2020, the 22-year-old defenseman completed his third season with the Rangers. He played in every game, including the playoffs.

Schneider had five goals with 14 assists for 19 points during the regular season. He added 167 hits and 133 blocks. In 16 games during the postseason, he tallied two assists while registering 32 hits and 34 blocks.

He saw his role increase due to captain Jacob Trouba struggling with a broken ankle. Schneider was paired with K’Andre Miller for a good portion of the Rangers’ playoff run. His average ice time increased to 17:32, which was up from 15:54.

There’s a strong possibility that Schneider could supplant Trouba on the second pair next season. That’ll depend on what transpires between now and training camp. With nothing new to report on Trouba, who Rangers team president and general manager Chris Drury hoped to trade, catching the veteran by surprise, the likelihood is that he’ll stay put.

By signing Schneider to a fair deal, Drury will turn his attention to Ryan Lindgren. The unsigned restricted free agent filed for salary arbitration last week. A date hasn’t been set.

Lindgren completed a deal that paid him an average of $3 million. The number on his next contract should be over $4 million. How high it goes will depend on negotiations. It’ll be interesting to see what the term is. The Rangers likely don’t want to commit more than four years to a blood and guts player who could be susceptible to breaking down.

With Chad Ruhwedel also re-signed to a two-way deal, it looks like the Rangers are set on the blue line. Unless something unforeseen happens with Lindgren, they’ll likely head into September with the same defensemen except recently departed Erik Gustafsson (signed by Detroit).

That means Zac Jones should become a regular, with Ruhwedel and Matthew Robertson battling it out with Ben Harpur for the seventh defenseman role. Jones took a step forward when he filled in for injured defensemen last season. A fast skater who can transition quickly, his defensive play improved. It’ll be refreshing to see him play on the third pair. He deserves the opportunity.

With the off-season now as stagnant as the hot weather, there probably won’t be much else happening. Stay cool.

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Lindgren files for arbitration

Posted on July 5, 2024 by Derek

Earlier today, 14 players filed for salary arbitration. Ryan Lindgren was among them.

It isn’t surprising. He is a year away from becoming an unrestricted free agent. At 26, he just completed his fifth season.

Since being acquired by the Rangers from the Bruins in the Rick Nash deal, he’s become a staple on the blue line. Lindgren and former USA teammate Adam Fox have been inseparable. They are the Rangers’ top pair. While Fox is the standout who carries the offense, Lindgren provides 6 and physicality.

Cut out of the Dan Girardi mold, double five is a lot like the former number 5. Nicknamed by teammates the Warrior, Lindgren will do whatever it takes to help the team win. He usually is bruised and battered during games due to that style. A well-respected player in the locker room, he wants to remain a Ranger.

The question for the organization is how much they want to commit to a hard-nosed player who showed some signs of slowing down. Lindgren is a blood and guts player. With no replacement, he should return. 

Given the process of arbitration, the Rangers will low-ball him. Figure them to come in around $3.8 million. Lindgren could ask for as much as $5.2 million. The hope is that they can meet in the middle prior to the scheduled hearing.

It could come down to the contract length. Lindgren will probably want at least five years. The Rangers could counter with three. Four seems logical.

Now, it’s wait and see.

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Trouba situation with Rangers remains delicate

Posted on July 3, 2024 by Derek

Fireworks are on deck for the 4th of July. On a beautiful summer day in the Big Apple, barbecues and celebrations are being planned for Independence Day.  Hopefully, the thunderstorms won’t get in the way of tomorrow night’s festivities.

While it’s nice to think about what makes our country great, there’s the delicate nature that the Rangers face with Jacob Trouba. It’s one that was created by both Chris Drury and polarizing NY Post columnist Larry Brooks.

If you’re an interested party due to supporting the team, even if you don’t want Trouba back, the villains are Drury and Brooks. It’s pretty much known that the organization leaks stuff to Brooks. He then does their bidding for them. What a pathetic way to do things.

For his part, Trouba has every right to want to stay. However, he no longer possesses a full no-movement clause. When July 1 hit this past Monday, it became a moderated no-trade clause that is supposed to include his 15-team list. Only Trouba and Drury know the specifics. 

Trouba is a man of principles. When he asked to be traded out of Winnipeg to New York, it was due to then fiancée Kelly Tyson’s desire to become a doctor. Now married with their first child, Dr. Tyson-Trouba has a three-year residency at a New York hospital.

Originally, it was supposed to be completed this year, which would’ve coincided with Trouba’s no-movement clause expiring. Instead, her residency got pushed back to next year, complicating matters. The situation explains why Trouba would prefer to stay. He supports his wife and considers her an equal. That shouldn’t be criticized.

For his part, Brooks detailed the circumstances surrounding the Trouba family in a column on Monday.

When Trouba signed this current seven-year, $56M contract in July of 2019 after having been acquired as a pending restricted free agent from Winnipeg, his five-year no-movement clause was designed to expire in conjunction with his wife Kelly Tyson-Trouba’s completion of her three-year residency at a New York hospital.

But Dr. Tyson-Trouba’s residency was deferred for a year at the start so that the program which she is required to complete will end instead on July 1, 2025. The Troubas also welcomed their first child, a boy named Axel, in mid-January.

There is no guarantee that Jacob Trouba would accept a trade even to a club on his approved list if that means leaving his wife and nine-month-old (as of training camp) behind. It is not as if Dr. Tyson-Trouba can pick up, transfer her credits to another hospital, accompany her husband and still be licensed as a physician.

We are told that has become part of the league-wide conversation, with several teams that otherwise would have been in big-time on Trouba now likely to wait until next year when Dr. Tyson-Trouba’s residency ends with the defenseman having one final season on his contract.

Brooks went on to indicate that the communication between Trouba and Drury had been professional. However, how does that explain the previous column he wrote that mentioned the possibility of the Rangers wanting Trouba’s 15-team no-trade list last weekend so they could possibly move him? It reeks of hypocrisy by a veteran journalist who gets more things wrong these days. Patrick Kane was coming back. Oh, wait.

It feels like the organization tried to railroad Trouba. After having pulled similar tactics to offload Barclay Goodrow by placing him on waivers so the Sharks could claim him to get around his no-trade list, it looks like the Rangers were desperate to get rid of Trouba due to the $8 million cap hit that has two years remaining. While understandable, there’s a better way to do things. Especially with the captain being shocked to find out the way he did.

It isn’t like Trouba was the only player who struggled in the Rangers’ loss to the eventual champion Panthers. It’s all been documented before. Rinse. Repeat. Some of the team’s best players had a tough time. They weren’t as hobbled as the captain. Of course, he made no excuses afterward. If you play hurt, it doesn’t matter. Ryan Lindgren did. He, too, showed wear and tear.

At 30, Trouba isn’t the same player that he was a couple of years ago. If you play that grinding style by hitting and blocking shots, it has an effect over the long haul. Lindgren is four years younger. He’s shown signs of slowing down. That’s why the Rangers should be hesitant not to commit more than four years on his next contract. We’ll see how that goes.

If he remains a Ranger, Trouba’s likely to become a third pair defenseman who still kills penalties. That’s a lot to pay for a declining player. The Oilers could face a similar circumstance with Darnell Nurse, whose cap hit is $9.25 million with still four years remaining. That’s the risk teams take when they hand out these long-term contracts.

There have been some irrational takes on social media from fans who are frustrated with the Rangers’ current situation. Harassing Trouba and his wife are uncalled for. If you want to place a finger at someone, point it at Drury. Once highly thought of by the hockey world as an executive, his reputation is tarnished. If the Rangers fail to win a championship next year, Drury’s head will roll. He’ll find it difficult to get another job as a general manager of a hockey club.

This was an actual suggestion by the well liked Stan Fischler. It’s probably one of the worst ideas.

It’s disrespectful to take away the captaincy. Trouba is well-respected in the locker room. He’s always laid it on the line for the Blueshirts. Unfortunately, the same fan base that chanted, “Trou” after one of his big hits can turn on a player faster than Benedict Arnold. That’s the world we live in now. Full of experts based on analytics and charts.

The human side isn’t seen. It should be. Considering how things have gone this week, it’s highly likely that Trouba will remain a Ranger next fall. A lot of the haters will see red. Unlike the team, who will move on from this mess.

In the end, it’ll be business as usual. With the Rangers making minor additions. They signed Casey Fitzgerald and Bo Groulx yesterday.

The business side means turning their attention to Lindgren. Hard negotiations are ahead. He previously made $3 million and was qualified at $3.65 million. Obviously, that number will increase. It could reach as high as $5 million. If they were to go to arbitration, the Rangers would come in much lower. Usually, the two sides get together and find a middle ground. The sticky point will be the contract length.

Braden Schneider doesn’t have much leverage. He’ll want more than the bridge deal that’ll be offered. Given the Rangers’ cap situation, they’ll probably make Schneider earn it. They’re not in the position to invest long-term on a player who only started to play on the second pair.

At the present, it looks like the roster could look similar to last season. Perhaps an opportunity awaits Brennan Othmann or Brett Berard. Will Cuylle deserves to get a better look. Zac Jones likely will finally get his chance.

Maybe something good can come out of this. A lot of teams went bonkers on players. If a younger player can fill a role that a veteran would’ve taken, that could bode well for both the present and future.

Regardless of who won in free agency, there are no trophies awarded during the summer. That still must be earned. The Rangers should still be a good team. Whether rivals have caught up to them remains to be seen.

It’s time to move on.

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