It’s Go Time!

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ilb here..

Preseason game 4, Rangers vs Devils (MSG)

Devils announcers. Yuck. At least Chico isn’t going to screech…

As you heard, the Rangers made more cuts today:

  • Forwards: Ryan Gropp, Malte Stromwall, Adam Tambellini
  • Defensemen: Alexei Bereglazov, John Gilmour, Vince Pedrie
  • Goaltenders: Alexandar Georgiev, Chris Nell

All have been sent to Hartford. A little surprising to see Bereglazov sent down only after one game. I guess the competition on the back end is pretty strong. Bereglazov  has a European Assignment Clause, something to watch for. The Rangers still have 38 players remaining in camp.

Enjoy!

194 responses to “It’s Go Time!”

  1. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    smoking

  2. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    I picked the “away” feed but all I see is Daneyko and Devils crap. NHL.TV at its finest.

  3. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    I hear Maloney. I guess it is part of MSG pre-season cost saving.

  4. 4everanger Avatar

    What was that?!

  5. Olga Folkyerself Avatar
    Olga Folkyerself

    Let’s Go Rangers!

  6. CCCP Avatar
    CCCP

    oscar like performance by woods

  7. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Who did they trade?

  8. ThisYearsModel Avatar
    ThisYearsModel

    Wood could play European soccer with that act. That is the end of Desjardins in a Ranger uniform.

  9. 4everanger Avatar

    Debils ride circles around Rangers. Literally. Mistakes in positioning on the PP are so obvious.

  10. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    Nash is auditioning for full-time PK duties. I guess it takes some time for some to get up to speed.

  11. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    Wow. I just saw the replay of that Desjardins hit.

    He barely touched the guy. The Rangers deserved a power play from that one. I couldn’t really tell how big the hit was though. I am sure the ref had a better view.

  12. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    John Hynes is still working on the whole fist bump thing.

    https://mobile.twitter.com/shaynepasquino/status/911044937495523328/photo/1

  13. tommyG Avatar

    OMG!!! Who are these refs tonight? These refs must be on new jersey’s payroll. Thank goodness this is a pre season game because I would have blown a gasket. How the hell does the devils get a power play again after a ranger gets attacked, punches thrown by a devil where a ranger doesn’t even do anything, gloves on and curled up on the ice and yet the devils get a power play.

  14. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    Wow. He skated his face right into that elbow.

  15. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    76 penalties later a goal is scored.

  16. tommyG Avatar

    I know the league told the refs to tail it back a bit but these a-hole refs are in mid season form. It’s hard to be a hockey fan with bad refereeing and a mickey mouse run league.

  17. ThisYearsModel Avatar
    ThisYearsModel

    They call penalties for face offs, penalties for getting attacked by the opponent, but Kreider gets tackled twice on one shift and nothing is called. Refs in midseason form.

  18. Olga Folkyerself Avatar
    Olga Folkyerself

    Who is this Cosmic Chuck? I didn’t see him on the roster anywhere…

  19. Olga Folkyerself Avatar
    Olga Folkyerself

    Did some fan get picked to play for the Rangers?

  20. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    This is the worst pre-season game yet. With no slashing penalties even.

    I forgot, the NHL vets take it pretty easy in pre-season.

  21. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    There ya go! Nice shot.

  22. Olga Folkyerself Avatar
    Olga Folkyerself

    Plenty of time.

  23. 4everanger Avatar

    Shattenkirk. The savior he is not. Very disheartening. Our considered best didn’t show anything. PP is a shame. Long season ahead of us with a lot of grief, I’m afraid.

  24. Olga Folkyerself Avatar
    Olga Folkyerself

    Meh. Time to send a few more down to Hartford.

  25. Cross Check Charlie Avatar
    Cross Check Charlie

    Somebody said that it could get ugly. Boy, were they right.

  26. Cross Check Charlie Avatar
    Cross Check Charlie

    For the most part, they had their NHLers on the power play and it was terrible.

    Saw some good things from Nieves and Crawley. Another assist for Andersson.

    Kovalchuk or whatever his name is. Where did he come from?

    Shattenkirk showed me nothing in this game. Can we give him back to the Capitals? Just kidding.

    Zibanejad must still be sick because his game was.

    Is it just me or did it seem like they didn’t win a face off all game?

  27. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Can we please send Nieves to the AHL where he belongs, he might have won 25% of his faceoffs…maybe.

  28. St Pete Eli Avatar
    St Pete Eli

    I told you guys 6th in Metro. Lottery pick coming up! This cotton candy team is doomed!

  29. #FreeCraigCarton Avatar
    #FreeCraigCarton

    Lundqvist moves like a robot. He’s gonna have a career year. I’m telling you. Nash shouldn’t be on he roster. He’s done. I don’t know about anyone trying out who was standing out so much. I hope the refs ease up in the regular season. It’s too much.

  30. CCCP Avatar
    CCCP

    QUICK REMINDER: THIS WAS JUST ANOTHER PRE-SEASON GAME.

    THANK YOU.

  31. Olga Folkyerself Avatar
    Olga Folkyerself

    In the pre-season any prediction is as good as any other.

  32. James G Avatar
    James G

    Whole lotta negativity for a pre season hockey game lost by a handful of vets and some guys that’ll be warming a bench in the minors in a couple weeks.

    Shattenkirk is a bust already eh? I do believe that is a blog record!

  33. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    I don’t think there is a single thing wrong with critiques of the team that played, regulars or not.

    I guess I’m not sure how that “evaluation” means negativity all around or “doom and gloom”.

    But people posting about the posts of others is just as negative as posters criticizing the rangers. Being part of the problem isn’t the answer.

  34. James G Avatar
    James G

    That’s great insight and I agree but you missed the point Wick. It’s pre season. Don’t like seeing my fellow brethren stress over meaningless games that guys are half assing. There will be plenty of time for negativity once the actual games start with the actual Rangers roster playing

  35. James G Avatar
    James G

    If anyone wants an actual game to get sick over the Giants play the Eagles tomorrow at 1! 🙂

  36. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    James
    I don’t see the difference personally. If a player “sucks” (aka plays poorly)…preseason, regular season, playoffs…he “sucks”.

    To some “fans”, part of their right as a fan is to complain about the team they live and die with.

    I think it’s just as obnoxious when posters gripe about others criticism and negativity as the actual criticism and negativity.

    Perhaps, to ease your (generalized “your”, not you specifically James) anguish, if this team “sucks” so bad, root for another one. If you don’t like what posters post, find another blog.

    Just my opinion of course which, other than carp and his expertise and insight, is all any of us have here…just opinions.

  37. St Pete Eli Avatar
    St Pete Eli

    If I’m trying to make the team or keep my job I’m not going to half ass it during a practice run. But hey that’s just me. And since I’ve been a fan for so many years I guess my negativity is a way to for the inevitable!

  38. St Pete Eli Avatar
    St Pete Eli

    Prepare for the inevitable I stand corrected!

  39. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    To be positive, fonataine showed some good speed on the wing. Unlikely he sticks up here this year, but a bottom 6 guy to watch at least if there is an injury down the line.

    Can’t be a good sign however that Gropp was already sent down, did he even get in one game? Would be fitting if sather’s last “top” pick fizzled, especially after he overplayed his hand that draft and blew the Talbot trade (and the Hags trade by proxy)

  40. James G Avatar
    James G

    Don’t know what to tell you or anyone else Wick. If some feel the fourth preseason game is the time to start making proclamations about this team then so be it. My opinion is that it’s a bit early to start declaring what’s what and who’s who. Next time I’ll just say “I wouldn’t read too much into a game like this” maybe it’ll read a bit easier 🙂

  41. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    These games are about the young players. The vets are just looking to get out of the game healthy. From what I have seen ( did not see last night), the youngs players have been promising. Easily 4 of them will play for the Rangers soon. There could be more.

  42. James G Avatar
    James G

    Gropp, Tambellini, Bereglazov, Gilmour. It sort of paints a picture of what the organization’s feelings are on players that are basically in camp as a formality when you see how quickly they get cut from camp. Seems like most of these decisions may have been made during or right after Traverse City. Tambellini got some playing time at least.

  43. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    Good morning, boneheads!
    Does anyone want to write a “game in review” post? 😃
    Gorton seems to be accumulating puck moving D-men in the system. Never a bad idea.
    Any more cuts today?

  44. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    I really liked Nieves last night.
    And who is this kid Crawley?

  45. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Group played it two games. Much better than he was last year, though not a high bar.

  46. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Don’t say Neives. You will wake Wicky.

  47. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Crawley a 4th rounder from this years draft. I believe an overage junior.

  48. James G Avatar
    James G

    This camp is basically about Andersson, Chityl, Nieves, DD and figuring out who is going to make up the 3C, 4C and Fast’s spot to start. If I were a betting man i’d put my money on the fact that Kampfer is the 7th man going into the season and Crawley, Pionk and Graves are just getting a nice long look.

  49. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    James,
    Crowley will sent down soon. I do wonder if the Rangers are trying to figure out a way to have Pionk, and DeAngelo on the team. Also they need to do right by Graves and trade him so he can start his NHL career. He’s just rotting away.

  50. Old Ranger Fan Avatar
    Old Ranger Fan

    They have some guys who would not make it through waivers so that will play a part in who they keep. Does DeAngelo have to go through waivers?

  51. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Hard to imagine an acceptable scenario where kampfer is the 7th dman, unless somehow holdnen and staal are somehow moved!

    I agree Graves is getting a raw deal, but I wouldn’t move him yet as a lefty d could go down and by end of the season they could decide to buy out staal or maybe find a team crazy enough to take on his deal when his nmc changes to a limited ntc.

    Have to wonder if the rangers could do it over and knowing they’d get shatty, would they still sign smith? Seems like he will be blocking people sooner rather than later (especially if they can’t get rid of staal at some point)

  52. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    DeAngelo is waiver exempt.

  53. James G Avatar
    James G

    I don’t really mind Smith because he has some physicality that others lack.
    Completely forgot about D’Angelo in all this defensive depth talk. Maybe Kampfer isn’t the 7th and for that matter maybe Tony D steals a spot from Holden. There’s obviously more to unfold as we go forward.

    As for Graves I think his future depends on organizational moves that are or aren’t made this season. He could be part of a package yes, but he could also be important to this team if a regular Dman is traded this season
    Food for thought- all this LD isn’t bad to have around if they’re really considering moving Mcdonagh right?

  54. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    Kampfer is a decent #7. Especially at his cap hit. He may not make it through waivers. Doesn’t mean they will worry about it.

  55. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Yea depth on d is never a bad thing and Graves isn’t bringing anything back of value on his own and likely wouldn’t be a big piece in a trade given in both cases as he has no NHL experience, so think you hold him for now.

    Think they’d have to be blown out of the water to even consider moving mac this season or next offseason. Now if he hasn’t been extended by the deadline next season or they know they don’t want to meet his number then they have a decision to make, but that would be a very hard one to pull the trigger if they are still in the playoff hunt next season.

    What do people think we should be open to giving Mac? Somewhere btwn 7 and 8m/yr?

  56. cooscoos Avatar

    Happy Kampfer

  57. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    On July 1st, 2019, when his next contract starts, McD will be 30. It’ll have to be either a 4-5 year deal, or a significant home team discount. Both are not very likely, that’s why Carp keeps mentioning that he will probably be traded next summer.

  58. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Ideally a 4-5 year deal tho don’t think 6-7 is the end of the world for Mac if the amount isn’t awful. Always a risk as players old but see him holding up better than a staal or Girardi. Maybe he would take a five year deal at like 7-8m with a full nmc, on the theory that he is captain for the next 5-6 years and he can take it year by year thereafter. But you know in this case there will be good teams willing to give him that much for longer (unlike Yandle or even shatty who only had bad to mediocre teams willing to give both top term and dollar)

  59. Cross Check Charlie Avatar
    Cross Check Charlie

    ilb – apparently you and I weren’t the only ones to notice Nieves. There’s an article in the Post today about him maybe sticking as the fourth C.

  60. cooscoos Avatar

    Boo

  61. aneirin Avatar

    Boneheads criticizing the players, Other boneheads criticizing the boneheads criticizing the players, boneheads criticizing the boneheads criticizing the boneheads criticizing the boneheads. My god, it’s like a self-referencing loop in C. I sure hope the variables are set up properly or we might never get out of this loop.

  62. James G Avatar
    James G

    This will obviously be something we discuss more and more as we move forward and I want to just State now that I’m not a fan of the notion of trading our captain. With that said I will say that once the lines of communication open up about a new contract there will have to be a proactive decision to get a deal in place sooner than later. The last thing we or Gorton want is for McD to be headed towards an expiring contract with GMs lining up patiently for July 1. Get him a contract or trade him while you can still get equal value.

  63. James G Avatar
    James G

    An open letter to Eli Manning,

    ELI!!!!
    Those aren’t Eagles flying above you. Those are vultures. So unless you want them picking at your eyeballs and that doofy face of yours you better accept the fact that you’re gonna get beat up today because of your inept offensive line and get us a win.

    Love,
    New York

  64. St Pete Eli Avatar
    St Pete Eli

    aneirin it’s a causality loop. And and Sather is the cause!

  65. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Not at all advocating trading Mac, but if the goal was maximizing his trade value he should have been traded this offseason, as you will get less for him next offseason and even less at next year’s deadline (absent him agreeing to an extension at the time of the trade). Would think they do all they can to extend him later this year or at start of the offseason next year. If it can’t be done they have a real tough choice to make

  66. James G Avatar
    James G

    Just for the sake of converation, if Mcdonagh was on the trade block while Duchene was still available would it be possible to still offer an additional player in order to get Duchene +? Maybe a Cal Foote or a Gabe Landeskog?

  67. Headzo Avatar
    Headzo

    Eli sux season ovah. Is it October yet? Good lord.

  68. aneirin Avatar

    All this talk about Duchene. Why? This is a player that will be here for at best two years and he fills a need that has already been addressed for the future. This, in a microcosm is what’s wrong with modern society, everything is instant gratification, everybody thinks tactically in situations that needs strategic thinking. If this were war, it would be Vietnam. Look for what’s best in the long term, not the short term. The latter might possibly get you 1994 again but it will with certainty get you all those years that followed.

  69. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Colorado just isn’t a good fit for the rangers if they ever sought to trade Mac and it would be beyond comprehension to have traded stepan and to then turn around and trade any combination of young cost controlled players/picks for Duchene at all

  70. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    I agree with James re mcdonut. I don’t want him traded and any re-signing of him for 7 mil or less per should be done imo….BUT if the organization isn’t planning on keeping him, they should absolutely move him soon to fill a need.

    The only lefty D with significant value to use on a deal is the aforementioned mcdonut and skjeL, both would go a long way in getting very good value back.

    The real travesty here is if mcdonut or skjeL is moved and staal is still in our top 6.

    And yes, free Ryan Graves!!!

  71. St Pete Eli Avatar
    St Pete Eli

    Staal is the only statue I would agree with taking down!

  72. cooscoos Avatar

    Is aneirin the mad bomber?

  73. James G Avatar
    James G

    Wowza. So the offensive genius who they sent Tom Coughlin packing for has 50 seconds left on the clock and hands the ball back to Philly on 4th and 1. 28 yard punt 61 yard field goal. game over. 0-3. Brilliant. Maybe it’s time to switch to synthetic blend when he does his hair so his brain can function better. Sickening.

  74. E3 Avatar
    E3

    Gmen on a roll.

  75. E3 Avatar
    E3

    You can’t spell GMen without a GM.

    McAdoodle doo, looks like poo, Irish Stew, sniffing glue, fans say Boo, at the zoo, who knew?

    Boyeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

  76. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Have to get a young cost controlled rising star as the starting piece of any deal if Mac were to be moved and likely a 1st or top prospect as well (given what the Devils got for Larson). Duchene isn’t that and not sold that Mackinnon fits the bill either given his scoring history so far. Moot point for now as Mac isn’t going anywhere this season at the very least

  77. E3 Avatar
    E3

    hank and Mac for pecker rimmer, Subban, and a #1.

  78. James G Avatar
    James G

    Every time we have to listen to Salmon Joe do pxp im going to take a knee…

  79. CCCP Avatar
    CCCP

    So I don’t get it… if we are trading McD for equal value, wouldn’t the equal value equal the same in money we would have to pay to McD to keep him? What am I missing?

  80. cooscoos Avatar

    Would you still root for McDonagh if he, like Beckham, after a score, crawled on the ice like a cocker spaniel and pretended to take a leak behind the opposing goalie? I might be through with football. Going to sleep on it.

  81. CCCP Avatar
    CCCP

    NFL is the worst.

    They found Tim Tebow’s praying offensive. They didn’t allow players to wear a decal honoring the slain Dallas officers. They didn’t allow players to wear 9/11 cleats in honor of the victims but they allow this? Let that sink in…

  82. E3 Avatar
    E3

    I’d prefer if ODB squatted as if on the can and squeeze out a deuce.

  83. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Although, tebow was a d bag.

  84. 4everanger Avatar

    Never overestimate a stupidity of your enemies and loyalty of your friends…Just saying.

  85. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    Micah Blake McCurdy‏ @IneffectiveMath

    Six metro teams each have a better than 50% of making the playoffs even though all of them making is impossible. I love stats.

  86. Gregg T Avatar

    Anybody with a right mind who abhors institutionalized racism would support this. The great irony is the amount of money the owners make on the backs of these poor guys who are killing themselves in front of our eyes…and then trying to cover it up. Clearly not limited to the NFL but any conflict in which the league can come down on the side of appearing morally defensible will surely be worth the press. They cant be as overtly racist as they are and still print that kind of money without throwing a bone to their product every now and then.

  87. SN Avatar
    SN

    Did they cut Stall yet?

  88. SN Avatar
    SN

    One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do
    Two can be as bad as one,
    its the loneliest number since the number one

  89. SN Avatar
    SN

    Love Smith’s physicality. That hit last night was a beaut. Blaze Bro jumped him and then THE looked for him later in game in a scrum.

  90. SN Avatar
    SN

    Pageau!!!

  91. Pablo Diablo Avatar
    Pablo Diablo

    I think we have too much depth, this is a good time to trade away Staal and throw in some descent prospects to get the deal done.

  92. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    SN

    you’re 2 to 4 years early and it’s Staal.

  93. cooscoos Avatar

    “…poor guys who are killing themselves in front of our eyes…” LOL

  94. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    All I know (and it isn’t much) is regardless of how you feel about the NFL and the overall current “state” of things there was a show on tonight called legion of brothers that everyone should watch for some perspective.

  95. UKRanger Avatar
    UKRanger

    Too much futbawhl tawk here, i’m #TakingAKnee til the hawkey tawk comes back…..

  96. UKRanger Avatar
    UKRanger

    You know the world has gone to pot when Barys Astana captain NIgel Dawes is the leading goalscorer in the KHL and Magnus Hellberg is sporting a .936 s% and a 2.16 GAA..!!

  97. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Coos,
    It’s over for me. Just can’t look the other way anymore. I’ll miss the game I grew up loving, but not what is taking place now.

  98. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    Good morning, boneheads!
    I’m starting to realize that this training camp is different comparing to the last 2 years or so. Still too many players in the mix. That includes forwards and D-men.

  99. James G Avatar
    James G

    Agree, ILB. Just reading uncle Larry’s article in the Post and he suggests they may choose to go with 14 forwards (Plus Fast on IR) and 7 defensemen. That roster would include both first rounders Plus Puempel and Lettieri and one of Tony D or Neil Pionk on the blue line. Also makes me curious as he eluded to it being a safe assumption that Graves is Hartford bound.

  100. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    DeAngelo not only should be on the team, he should be playing. 14 forwards? I don’t know about that one. Unless you are moving one of the 1st rounders to wing ( I would not), there is not room for both of them to play. Does it make sense for the two of them, and Letteri to be healthy scratches?

  101. Old Ranger Fan Avatar
    Old Ranger Fan

    It looks as though Graves is about ready for the NHL but is caught up in the number of D they have acquired since last year. I don’t think he is going to get a shot with them. They at least need to let him play some at the NHL level to showcase him for trade value. At this point all he would be is a throw in with other assets in a trade. He will eventually play for another team.

  102. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    I don’t think both 1st rounders will be on the team. If Andersson makes, where do you play Chytil? 4th line?

  103. AnthonyM Avatar

    I don’t like the idea of keeping two spare forwards because you are probably keeping a kid glued to the bench when he should be getting ice time in Hartford and, more importantly, you are eating up cap space. Granted, Lettieri isn’t making much but it still eats into the Rangers cap space.

    Frankly, I’d like to see Lettieri make the team because the more paesans the better 🙂 Also, I remember seeing his dad Tino play in the old NASL. Might be good karma for next year if we want to sign John Tavares as an UFA because I saw his uncle (also named John) dominate indoor lacrosse in the old Major Indoor Lacrosse League. Uncle John was as good and probably better than the Gait brothers.

  104. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    If you are rebuilding, it’s an easy decision, cut DD and keep both kids. The two safest moves are, Chytil goes home, and Andersson is your 3/4. Even safer is, Andersson to Hartford, Miller and DD you 3/4.

  105. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    I think Beverly and Graves deserve to and should be in the top 6, reality is different though.

    Every year AV is here I feel less confident about the rangers obtaining the only important goal…the Cup.

    This year I feel like the rangers as an organization have just lost touch with the way the NHL is played. This is the least confident I’ve been in a ranger team in the preseason in a long time.

    That might be a good sign though, usually I think they’ve got a legit cup chance, this year I think it’s a 6-8 playoff seed at best.

  106. Beezle Avatar
    Beezle

    I really can’t get worked up over the anthem stuff but have to say Kap probably never expected things to get this I don’t know what. But I do know the NYG suck on so many levels as to make me not even want to watch another game this season. The GM and head Coach both need to be shown the door. If they can trade OBJ for a quality guard and RB, please do so. Don’t care how much talent he has, don’t want him on the team. What was worse than the dog act was his comments post game about penalty potentially hurting the team and how he just doesn’t give a crap. Gone. Now. Hockey can’t start soon enough.

  107. SN Avatar
    SN

    AV is not a risk taker. They might give these kids a taste of the league in the first 9 games and then move them back to AHL or back home.
    .
    JT, Haze and VC are RFAs and up for new deals after this season with Nash and Grabbers UFAs.
    $23M in cap space for signings.

  108. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Don’t think there is much harm of rotating the two kids between wing and center on the 3rd line whole fast is out and even giving them each a night off in that span. It would let the team see if both or even either are ready for the NHL and at the end of that time they can decide who stays or goes to Hartford and/or Europe. Not going to stunt anyone’s long term development in a 9 game period, if anything it could show them what they need to work on most to make that next leap.

  109. SN Avatar
    SN

    Staal sucks
    did I get the spelling right?
    Asking for a friend.

  110. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    You want to put Andersson and Chytil in the best position to succeed. For me that would be Chytil 3, and Andersson 4. Problem with that is, I don’t think that puts the Rangers in the best position to succeed. I want to give an opinion as to what I would do, except I’m not really sure what I would do.

  111. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    I think the spelling is Stahl.

  112. CCCP Avatar
    CCCP

    It’s Staawhl*

  113. James G Avatar
    James G

    Wick, can you elaborate on ‘lost touch with how the NHL game is played? Not busting chops just curious what you’re thinking. I agree that this is an off year. They seem to be trying to walk the tight rope a bit between rebuild on the fly and win now. I think this is the most mobile the blueline has been but may also be the most compromised defensively it’s been in a while. if they don’t have reliable 3rd and 4th line that can be defensively responsible AV’s system may crumble

  114. James G Avatar
    James G

    Right, SN. But the irony here is that it’s a risk going into this season with so much uncertainty at center. What if Miller really can’t handle the defensive responsibility? can’t win a faceoff? what if his #s decline after a position change after two seasons of being one of the most valued offensive weapons they’ve had? No amount of Shattenkirk QBing the PP makes up for that. If minimal risk= nothing more than eliminating the use of rookie forwards then maybe there’s a bigger problem than we see right now pertaining to the coach of this team

  115. James G Avatar
    James G

    BDL, I also have no idea as to how this all works out either. I think it’s going to come down to someone making a case for themselves to be in the lineup every night. Are they going to use DD and Dejardins as 3C/4C? or use them both on the 4th line and give Andersson the shot at 3C? or is it all systems go on this move of Miller to 3C? Kind of a mess. Especially when you add the possibility of Chytil to the equation.

  116. UKRanger Avatar
    UKRanger

    I can’t see Desjardins making the team, but stranger things have happened. I think Andersson makes it, Chytil goes back home for a year and Lettieri is the spare until Fast is back (or possibly Boo Nieves).

    I think waiver eligibility and that Holden is still here will influence the D choices

  117. Cross Check Charlie Avatar
    Cross Check Charlie

    “JT, Haze and VC are RFAs and up for new deals after this season with Nash and Grabbers UFAs.”
    ———————
    I think we’ve seen enough of Haze to know that he’s a guy that’ll kill your team. He has all the talent in the world, but he’s lacking something and that keeps him from being a good player. Let him go.

    You have to let Nash go unless he’ll play for peanuts. He was signed to be a big goal scorer and he isn’t one any more.

    I’m not sure what to do with Grabner. How much do you sign him for? He certainly has value and is worth keeping.

  118. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    i still think we miss the playoffs. Saw some of the football games with some friends and one (an islander fan) asked me for my ranger prediction. i said we’ll miss the playoffs, that i like the Stepan deal but it was made for the long run not this year.

    meanwhile “people” like SN will blame Staal for our failings but we’re simply not a very good hockey team.

  119. Cross Check Charlie Avatar
    Cross Check Charlie

    I don’t see Desjardins making the team. He hasn’t shown enough to warrant a roster spot.

    DD on the other hand has played fairly well. If he makes it as 4th line center I think that can be a good spot for him.

  120. Gravy Avatar
    Gravy

    Life was easy when you could slot 1C as a 1C/2C. Now we’re trying to decide between two kids, two castoffs, and one guy who’s better on the wing.

  121. cooscoos Avatar

    Anthony Weiner beat it on camera but he couldn’t beat it in court.

  122. BobbyO Avatar
    BobbyO

    Don’t see Rangers missing playoffs with an improved defense and they still should have enough offense …Hayes will be fine

  123. cooscoos Avatar

    We need (and have needed) a Messier type, if not in scoring, in rah-rah.

  124. cooscoos Avatar

    Haze favorites:

    Movie: King Bong
    City: Hong Bong
    Vacation Spot: Bong Island
    Video Game: Donkey Bong
    Sport: Ping Bong
    Sinatra Song: September Bong

  125. Rob Avatar
    Rob

    Somebody should tell McAdoo field goals are worth 3 points

  126. SN Avatar
    SN

    Yup, one of your top 4 Dmen can no longer handle the role but the team stinks so it doesn’t matter.
    On the Left hand side please.
    .
    Miller handles the face offs fine, leave him in the pivot- he Will be a productive 2C; Haze is another BC enigma, hopefully VC doesn’t make it 3.
    .
    Don’t think either kid is on the squad in Nov – they need another 12 months of getting stronger for the NHL grind. What’s the rush, this team is not a Cup contender.

  127. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    SN

    he’s 3rd pair this year. his injuries have put him in that position

  128. cooscoos Avatar

    Staal sucks. Blame it on what you will, but he sucks.

  129. cooscoos Avatar

    Bigly

  130. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    AV just said JT starting the season on the wing. Interesting.

  131. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    disagree completely cooscoos

  132. ilb2001 Avatar
    ilb2001

    Sounds like both rookies showed enough to move JT back in wing. At least one of them will make the team. If not both, according to AV.

  133. cooscoos Avatar

    JT does not belong at Center for a myriad of reasons, namely a few:

    Centers must have excellent defensive instincts and talents.
    He has been confused enough at wing and is now on the cusp of understanding his responsibilities there.
    Maybe on the verge of being our top wing and only The Peter Principle sends him to Center. (e.g. – making your top salesman your sales manager. You not only lose your top salesman, he knows nothing about managing salesmen.)

  134. cooscoos Avatar

    I’d love to be wrong, Alex. To me, he’s just a big, expensive goof. We agree to disagree.

  135. James G Avatar
    James G

    Just learned of AV’s comments. Frankly I’m relieved. Oman’s also very curious. This may not be a playoff team this season but we are going to see at least one future rangers star (hopefully) begin his career.

  136. cooscoos Avatar

    I will admit that Staal plays better and with a hint of a needed edge if he is knocked around a bit and resents it. Unfortunately, he can’t sustain the mindset.

  137. cooscoos Avatar

    Guessing that with AV’s conservative nature, he will choose the rook who right now plays more two-way (Andersson).

  138. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Can’t remember who was posting about guys that need new contracts, but you forgot skjeL is also up for a new contract after this season.

    James,
    I haven’t forgotten, I’ll get there 😉

  139. SN Avatar
    SN

    Keeping Miller at wing because he cant’ or won’t play D at center is funny when Haze, Zika and at least one rook will be your other pivots and a retread are your other options.
    .
    Miller’s D challenges were trying to force passes up middle. He was not getting beat on boards (Zika), floating around the zone not marking his man (Haze) along with lack of horizontal movement (vet retreads) and two huge unknowns (2 rooks).
    .
    he will perform at either position. Let’s see where the roster is at Game 10.

  140. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    This is AV we are talking about, he may have already penciled in Desharnaid as 3C and Nieves as 4C, not for their play on the ice but because they are both great in the room (helping to fill the gaping void left when Glass was not retained)

  141. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    With Andersson, and Chytil in the lineup.
    Kreider, Zibanijad, Zucc
    Nash, Hayes, Buchnevich
    DD, Chytil, Miler
    Grabner, Andersson, Puemple.

  142. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Oh man, bdl going to cause someone serious issues with that lineup.

  143. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Left out Vesey. Let’s try again.
    Kreider, Zibanijad, Zuccarello
    Vesey, Hayes, Buchnevich
    Nash, Chytil, Miller
    Grabner, Andersson, DD.

  144. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Without Chytil.
    Zibanijad line.
    Hayes line.
    Nash, DD, Miller.
    Grabner, Andersson, Puemple.

  145. James G Avatar
    James G

    BDL I hate your lines. But I still like you so..

  146. James G Avatar
    James G

    SN I think the assumption is Miller at center may not be as effective as Andersson when it comes to a two way game and considering the 1C/2C they need someone who is going to be.
    You’re right though let’s see what happens in game 10.

  147. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    If you don’t like my lines, you don’t like me.
    By the way James, you are probably going to have to send me the league info again. I did something that I can’t get back in. Next time I will make sure my son walks me through it. Because I will do the same thing again and wonder what the heck did I do.

  148. SN Avatar
    SN

    James – are you referring to Lias Andersson the 18 yo rookie who has played a total of 5 preseason games? They know he is more effective than Anderson as a center. This is smoke and mirrors around assessing vet play. Really about DD as Pete has correctly noted.
    .
    If they take Miller off wing, then Kreider is the only forward who can win a 50-50 board battle.
    .
    The final pivot spot is probably Boo over Lisa A and Heetle as a more traditional 4C option over Day Jar Dens. But be surprised to see Zika – Haze – DD – Day Jar Dens as your centers in the lineup on Game 10.

  149. SN Avatar
    SN

    don’t be surprised…

  150. James G Avatar
    James G

    No dice BDL, your forfeit 😉

  151. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    we need to trade Grabner. he is NOT a 4th line player.

  152. James G Avatar
    James G

    Alex that statement is wrong in like six different ways.

  153. James G Avatar
    James G

    BDL- email. Everyone else- no email

  154. James G Avatar
    James G

    First, i don’t see AV using the two sophomore on one line.

    Second, given his chemistry w Nash I think Vesey and 61 should be paired. Why not put them along side pass happy Hayes while you’re at it

    Miller and Grabner stay together as they were effective last season.

    Guess which line that leaves in tact?

  155. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    damn magnet ads worse than BDL lines

  156. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Alex,
    On this team he is, but not in the traditional way. He will get third line minutes because he will be on the PK, and be on the ice in late game situations. You are getting to wrapped up in who his line mates are.

  157. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    not wrong at all James. wasted asset as 4th liner. use him correctly or trade the man.

  158. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    BDL

    you have your opinion I have mine. He’s better than both Buch and Vesey. I have no problem in trading him as opposed to marginalizing him.

  159. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Alex,
    You said that without a smiley face. I’m hurt. 😡

  160. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    Vegas has just set the over/under on Alex posts with the words “Grabner” and “marginalized” in it at 612 for the upcoming season. I’m taking the over. 😉

  161. tommyG Avatar

    I could see the rangers making the 7th or 8th spot but it wouldn’t surprise me to see the rangers miss the playoffs either. Lundquivst is past his prime and I don’t like the back end when it comes to defending and that’s not a good combination.

  162. Bdl Avatar
    Bdl

    Alex,
    I’m not saying this to be a wise guy, just to point something out, you contradict yourself. You talk about how the team needs to rebuild/ retool, yet you insist a guy who will not be on the team next year, play more than two guys who may very well he here long term.
    I do not marginalized Grabner by putting him on the 4th. The 4th line is his true value to the team. One of the top 2 or 3 best 4th liners in the game.

  163. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    Booby

    but which will be more

    BDL writing out lines with Grabner on fourth line

    Somebody else suggesting Skjei or we need a fourth line center who can win faceoffs

    or said marginalizing

  164. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    or SN misspelling Staal’s name

  165. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    that would be trading Skjei

  166. James G Avatar
    James G

    Alex I respect your opinion but do you honestly feel that
    a) A player should be traded because he’s good in a role for his team

    And
    b) that he’s more important long term to this team than Vesey or Buch?

  167. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    I don’t know, Alex. I gotta go with Vegas on this one.

  168. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    James re first point he’s too good to be a 4th liner. that says a lot (not good) about the lineup maker and that certainly includes AV if he goes that route

    re second point again i have zero problem in trading Grabner now – gives Vesey, Buch and another young un a spot in lineup without wasting a valuable asset in Grabner

  169. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    Booby keep in mind there is also a cause and effect. BDL posts his lineup I then respond in kind so score is 1-1 or a push.

  170. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    In all seriousness, though…I think that putting Grabner anywhere but the 4th line marginilizes the whole team. Especially the kids and hopefully the big impact they can make in the upcoming years.

  171. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    Booby

    couldn’t disagree more. But the other option is to trade him and i am certainly on board doing that.

  172. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    Yeah, I know. The whole blog knows. I think it’s time we put this convo to bed forever.

  173. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    Booby

    i trust you will take others to task for repetitiveness of posts. some are pretty obvious.

  174. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    Only if Sioux comes back.

    Man, I just realized how much I miss busting that guys chops. I really hope he’s doing well.

  175. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Shots fired….

    Must be close to the regular season, some one is bullying and projecting blame again.

    Now play nice everyone.

  176. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    I wonder what skjeL’s new contract will be?

    Oh, almost forgot…and which team will give it to him

    Bwahahahaha

  177. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    BDL

    not contradicting at all. I am saying trade the guy if he’s put on the 4th line. that simple. he’s not a 4th liner. wasted asset.

    I am not insisting he play more than others. I am insisting that he be traded. Just like you do over and over and over again in suggesting trading Zucc.

    We ALL have our wish list. some longer than others.

  178. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    Remember that time Wicky threatened to beat the crap out of everyone here because he’s such a bully?

  179. James G Avatar
    James G

    Alex not attacking you in any way I know a lot of people are responding to you now.
    But the concept of a player being “too good to waste on the fourth line” just doesn’t make sense to me.

    The fourth line is an important one. It’s not like 10 years ago where it’s a throw away line.
    If he’s better than other players on that line how does it benefit the team to trade him?
    The goal is to roll 4 effective lines. Just because a player isn’t in a top 6 or top 9 role it doesn’t mean he’s being wasted and when it comes to having your best TEAM on the ice there’s no such thing IMHO as a player being too good to be in a certain spot regardless of minutes

  180. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Alex well on his way to insulting every other poster here….brilliant!!!

  181. Wicky says "obviously" switchbacks suck Avatar
    Wicky says “obviously” switchbacks suck

    Oh poop, forgot my “;)”…
    My apologies

  182. cooscoos Avatar

    I’m all out of marginalized, but luckily I found some butter in the back of the fridge.

  183. Alex Avatar
    Alex

    James

    we clearly disagree. hopefully he’s traded rather than wasted here.

    Wicky

    stuff it with your aggressive tude.

  184. cooscoos Avatar

    Trade that wacko Beckham while you can still get mucho for him.

  185. Booby Avatar
    Booby

    Beckham was quoted recently saying that Lawrence Taylor was one of his idols and role models. All you need to know about the guy.

  186. Pete Avatar
    Pete

    Was grabber too good to be a 4th liner the two seasons before he joined the rangers? I hope he performs as well this year as he did last year, but it would be a departure of his past tendencies and probably unrealistic for him to have such a high shooting percentage this year. Not to mention you aren’t getting much if you traded grabner any time soon.

  187. Rob Avatar
    Rob

    Why are we dogpiling on Beckham?

  188. Rob Avatar
    Rob

    Instead of peeing Beckham should have pooped out the football. Not sure why he didn’t think of that.

  189. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    its Go time again!

    The philthy Phlyers are going down!

  190. SN Avatar
    SN

    Go Time?
    Ilb…cccp….doodie….E3….
    help

  191. tomb Avatar
    tomb

    Nice. Excellent assist by MCDonagh

  192. SN Avatar
    SN

    Camper is not good.

  193. CCCP Avatar
    CCCP

    NEW POST!

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