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201 responses to “Rangers-4, Capitals-1”
ilb2001
So right after Shesterkin wins the battle of two Russians in the third they go into TV timeout. After the timeout Laviolette, with his team down three goals, leaves his first line on the ice. GG counters with his fourth. Reaves outmuscles Ovechkin, Rooney sets up Goodrow, who puts it through fifth hole. Game over.
ilb2001
This constant debate about deterrent. We, on this site, go back and forth. But somehow former NHLers, including a couple of HOF guys last night, believe there is such a thing as a deterrent. They mentioned it a few times last night, and I happened to agree. Reaves’ presence rendered Wilson useless last night. When would Wilson remain timid with his team down 3-0, 4-0?
tommyG
I like Barron’s game, plays with playable toughness, plays a all around game. I like his game way better than Chytil’s game.
ilb2001
Better team, better goaltending. Drury still has a lot of work to do to improve their lineup 5 on 5, but last night, no PP goals, all even strength, one per period. Workmanlike. They still aren’t spending enough time in the O-zone, their forechecking isn’t enough for long postseason drive. That needs to be addressed
ilb2001
His game is better than McKeggs as well, tommy. And at least a couple of more guys
bobbyo2019
impressive performance….looks like a team ready to win playoff games
tomk19
Barron couldn’t finish, but he played a solid game and seemed to make his line mates at least a little better. Not saying I want those 3 as our 3rd line after the deadline, but don’t see any reason why Barron shouldn’t be a part of it.
Also think the 3rd line looked good because the other 3 lines were locked in and made it difficult for Washington to get much momentum.
FWIW, it sounds like Washington will try to get a goalie before the deadline and one name that’s been mentioned is MAF.
ilb2001
I wonder if playing a lot of minutes is getting to Fox a bit. His game hasn’t been as sharp as one would expect. Him, and his partner.
SN
Best game of the season so far.
The difference the Big Red Barrron makes was in evidence in one of his first shifts on the forecheck. Puck battle in the corner with Ovi featuring Barron’s elbow inadvertently hitting Ovi in the face. Barron wins battle, moves puck and Ovi looks at him while he is skating away like, ‘who is that big fugger’.
Probability of Flip playing the same way is -2,355%
Upstate Ranger
More Barron, please.
SN
Jones looked completely overmatched out there. Would rather have Joe Willie or even Tinordi with Scheider (who again looked great); at least they can move some bodies and win some puck battles. Jones can make a nice pass but that is 20% of the game; esp in second season.
Fox was OK; he is not a great defender when things get physical. Very smart positionally, great stick and anticipation but obviously has trouble moving bodies down low. As stated before, be interesting to see how he and Lindgren hold up as the games get more and more physical.
Bdl
The Rooney line was the 3rd line. Goodrow played 19 minutes. Rooney played in the teens. Reeves was at 12. Nobody on the Barron line was over 10. Sorry, but this is pet peeve of mine. Only Brooks called them what they were.
ilb2001
Semantics, BDL
Bdl
Not at all Ilb.
Bdl
I don’t agree that Jones was completely overmatched, but you certainly saw why Jones playing in the playoffs would be a big problem.
ilb2001
Funny how they kept saying Washington looked rusty after 5 day break, but no one mentioned NY played only 4 games in over three weeks.
bobbyo2019
was thinking the same ILB …Rangers hadnt played since Sunday as well
James G
Agree with just about everything I’m reading this morning .
First off, if Barron asserts himself like that every game, Turk will be forced to play him and I think that’s what the coach wants to see from him.
Secondly, I feel like as the scheduled winds down and the playoff atmosphere sets in we’re going to see hiccups more frequently from guys like Lindgren, Fox, Miller etc. this is a very young inexperienced blueline as far as the second season is concerned and they’ll have to find ways to excel as they are exposed to it.
Third-do not allow these pissing matches about guys fans like vs guys fans don’t like make the water murky. Everyone can have their opinions but the reality of it is that they are a better team with a deterrent or two in the lineup. They’re better than the Caps (thought the same last year) and now they’re just not going to get pushed around by teams like them.
ilb2001
BDL-out of these three only Goodrow could be trusted to play real shutdown minutes, especially in April.
James G
I guess the Jones love/hate is just going to be what it is. This blog loves to over scrutinize players they want /don’t want in the lineup. It makes for mediocre game threads.
I’m not a fan of the average offensive defenseman but I don’t dislike Jones. Just don’t think he’s the right add this time of year when you have two out of six Dmen with post season games under their belts and one of those two can’t seem to stay in the lineup. Honestly just waiting to see who is here post deadline as far as additions and subtractions and will go from there.
BW
I thought both Jones and Schneider made a couple of plays that betrayed their youth and inexperience. You may be right that (presumably because of his size) Jones is not built for the playoffs (he may not be alone on this roster in that regard) but I suspect that a game or two of Nemeth being slow and out of position will lead to a similar conclusion. A conundrum.
James G
ILB I think Goodrow’s going to be more important than ever from now through the post season. Reaves, Kreider, Trouba as well. These are the guys who know what it takes and have to keep everyone else in check while elevating their games to post season quality/style
St Pete Eli
Stayed up late to watch the replay nice win against a pretty tough experienced team. Igor is gold. Somehow Kegger, Goat, Chytil, and maybe Hunt need to be replaced at the lifeline. Not sure it will happen but if they want to go far in the playoffs it’s necessary.
bobbyo2019
Barron played well …so did Goat boy but regardless Drury is gonna bring in some playoff experienced beef before deadline.. guys like Eakins, Pacquette, Carpenter or Beagle. Both Eakins and Carpenter played for GG in Vegas
BW
It may be recency bias or it may be that the uncertainty of his situation is hurting his play, but I’m not too anxious to give Strome a big long-term deal. I don’t think he’s the right 2c for this team. And it’s not like his presence next to Panarin is bringing out the best in the latter. Is there a better candidate on whom to spend the $6-7m you’d save not signing Strome and Georgiev (factoring in the need to get a back up goalie)?
tomk19
Can we acknowledge that Zibanejad has not been soft over the past few months? No, he’s not going to intimidate guys, but he’s using his big frame and for that I credit him and GG. I wish Rick Nash had been as physical as Zibanejad’s been of late. He’s obviously a key part of this team’s core and they need him to continue to play this way, especially in the postseason. If he does, his contract could go from,(what some consider), one of our worst, to one of our best contracts. Again, he needs to keep this up and do it in the playoffs.
Pete
found it surprising from the post article that Gallant said he hadn’t seen barron play that much…,you think he would be watching video of pack games at least when the likes of Gauthier, McKegg and Hunt are so clearly limited
Bring in Copp and could see he-Goodrow and kakko being a good shutdown line the playoffs. Reaves did an admirable job in that role last night, but don’t think that’s gonna work against the top teams in the east on a regular basis
careful expressing that opinion BW!
St Pete Eli
Pete
I think Goodrow with Andy and Reaves is the way to go forward. The 3rd line needs major reconstruction. I know was not for Lehkonen but a 3rd line of
Lehkonen, Copp, and Kakko would work for me. Than an effective RW for Bread and Stromeo.
SN
Goat Boy and Chytil are not the type of forwards you want getting a regular turn in the playoffs. The Big Red Barron was impressive last night; had some good looks and if he buried one, folks would be anointing him the next great thing but his overall 2 way game was just what that line needs.
Goat Boy played fine, but taking that penalty in the 3rd was just asinine and for the love of all things holy, can he bury the biscuit ONCE!
SN
Gallant’s job is to focus on what is in front of him and winning the next game. Dreary’s job is to focus on personnel moves and bigger picture. Some folks may not understand the GM runs the team and the coach manages practices and games.
Pete
yes SN, but when he keeps putting our dreck, don’t you think he’d ask Drury about some of the guys in hartford? past coaches certainly mentioned watching hartford games
not to mention Barron has been practicing with the big club for awhile, so gallants answers about wanting to see him play and also not having seen him much, just seem odd to me
Wicky
Oh pete, are you still in a mood?!
Wicky
The thing is your post before the end of it was pretty good…too bad you did what you did.
Pete
that would work even better Eli if Drury can pull all that off.
Wicky
I could have said the same thing about Jones “oh look out don’t say anything about him” like some people did this morning.
Wicky
The third line with reaves did a great job of checking the ovi line most of the game.
We know GG likes reaves and a certain type of player, but iirc wasn’t he a scratch at times in the playoffs for him in Vegas? Maybe an injury but I think he was.
Wicky
BW
There a several better options IMO than strome for a top 6 centre. Some in that 6 mil or less range, some that need $$$$ retention by another team..
The thing is does the team want to potentially pay the assets (I think they should but it’s my opinion on assets) and is the price in assets and cap worth the on ice performance difference?
Big questions but definite options out there.
Wicky
Someone mentioned the other day here an ideal situation regarding forward depth would be if the rangers could roll Goodrow on the reaves line.
Kudos
Pete
wick, yea gallant and last vegas coach both scratched reaves a few times in the playoffs. For gallant it was when they were losing in the finals i believe so wanted more offense
either way they would likely be well served to rest him a bit down the stretch
ilb2001
If this is their fourth line (Goodrow-Rooney-Reaves) going forward, this is a true contender. If this line is used as a checking/matching line with all the responsibilities attached to it, including TOI, we are looking at an early exit.
James G
Let me ask you guys something. I know we are all very smart and all but could it be that just maybe Drury IS doing his job and in communication with Knoblach down in Hartford (where Drury was the GM and hired the coach btw) and could it be that JUST maybe Drury knows a few things about Barron and his game that we aren’t privy to since he’s been following the player since prior to being drafted by the Rangers and all?
I think it’s possible and that maybe it has something to do with Barron’s management between the AHL and NHL.
While you guys would bet your lives on your eye tests and your distaste for Hunt and McKegg there is still that off chance that both Gallant and Drury are doing what they’re supposed to do. Just a chance!
James G
ILB I agree with you. That’s why a 3C would be a game changer too
SN
Hard to get caught up on 1st v 2nd v 3rd v 4th lines. This roster seems to shake out like a traditional bottom 6/top 6 given offensive production and roles.
Chytil and Goat Boy do not seem to fit bottom 6 roles for a playoff team. Those type of forwards are available in the trade market without giving up the farm.
ilb2001
Something tells me that the organisational patience with Lafreniere, not putting too much pressure on him and not asking too much from him is going to pay off big time. Good thing that the fans aren’t running this organisation, or else this “bust” would’ve been traded in a package for Phil Kessel already.
ilb2001
I think most of us understand that the line numbers are just that, nominal numbers in this modern hockey. But it’s still much easier to communicate that way because of perceived assigned responsibilities.
Wicky
The whole thing as pete and James (and others have previously pointed out) is the third line…it’s where kakko belongs at this point in his career and if they could add a guy like copp as it’s centre as well as a couple of wingers that have a scoring touch but a bit of size and north south tendencies (one for Panarin line and one for third line)…well add a lefty d and you’re looking at a something…a Sauer incident aside
Wicky
3 forwards, 1 d
Wicky
The third line (last night) of reaves, Rooney, and Goodrow did a very good job of checking the ovi line. Is that a cup run formula, probably not but they did well last night.
Part of it is absolutely the lack of options on the misfit toy line (Barron is a positive addition imho) his style fits a playoff game, not sure how much the rangers are willing to trust it into this post season but it might save an addition.
Gallant noted he thinks Barron likes skating in the middle more, but added that AHL Hartford head coach Kris Knoblauch said Barron could do both.
“He’s played in some games and we’ve liked what he’s done,” Gallant said. “He’s been a guy called up and sent down and back up. Young player who I think can skate well, he’s practiced real hard for us the last little while. So just keep doing what he was doing when he played, he did a real good job when he played those games. “He’s a big guy that can skate real well and we want to see him.”
James G
I will say I am becoming more open minded to the idea of Lehkonen as a third line body over Gauthier.
They could use a Fedotenko type in that spot.
If your bottom six was comprised of something along the lines of
Lehkonen-Copp-Barron-Goodrow-Rooney-Reaves youre much better suited for the playoffs.
Beezle
Jones: 19 NHL games total, 9 this season
Schneider: 14 NHL games
Some of you guys act like they are approaching game 500
Ilb agree Fox minutes need to be dialed back a bit at ES as they won’t cut his PP or PK time. I would bump up Schneider to play with Lindgren an extra two or three ES shifts.
Wicky
I’m not a fan of lehkonen’s size or overt physical game. He’s not a bad player and paired with the other two guys, it could work…definitely better than the current set up.
I am curious where kakko is in that set up. I don’t think he’s playoff top 6 ready (if he’s even healthy by then) at this point so if you shift him down to the third line I think lehkonen and kakko don’t give you enough overt physicality as a winger pair for the playoffs.
Just an opinion.
St Pete Eli
Don’t be shocked if Barron is traded at or before the deadline. GM’s have to give to get!
Chytil
Jones
Lundkvist
Kravtsov
The Goat
Georgiev
Barron
Hunt
Robertson
Hajek
Nemeth
1st rd pick
2nd rd pick
Could all be on the table.
St Pete Eli
Maybe even Krakko.
SN
Special K is a huge question mark; can’t wait and hope he returns and plays at a high level conducive to PO success. The more he sits, the more they need to replace what he ‘could’ have brought. If his ‘whatever it is’ injury continues to linger, they might as well shut him down. Plenty of games left to see where he is at, but hard just to jump on board for a young player.
.
Goodrow had to get away from Bread and Stromeo to score. I keed, I keed…
Bdl
A question for the advance STAT crowd in regards to goalies. Vali calling last night a stolen win. Watching it I felt the Rangers were in control. Shesterkin was solid. When the Rangers opened their lead, the Caps pressed, and Shesterkin made a bunch of big saves My question is, do these goalie STATS take into account the score of the game?, and the time of game these saves are being made? Some games are easy to tell a stolen game, like the Toronto game early in the season. Last night did not look/feel like a stolen game.
tommyG
I thought the opposite. I felt ranger’s played a solid 200 foot game and Igor didn’t have to work as hard as most games but made the big save when the team needed it. This was a solid team win. Nobody stole anything.
St Pete Eli
I have said this before elite goalies don’t steal games they do what they’re paid to do stop the puck from going into the net they defend. The Minx has Spoken!
James G
Wick I named a few guys earlier in the week that are more your cup of tea. Don’t find Lehkonen preferable. I can just see how he fits one of their current needs. Gauthier’s spot needs to be upgraded regardless
James G
I try not to look too deeply into the goalie stuff. Elite doesn’t win you championships. Elite just so happens to be in net when championships are won sometimes which confuses people.
As long as Shesty keeps doing what he’s doing and can stay healthy they’re in great shape as far as goaltending for the post season. Would be to his benefit to bring in one more guy who will put people in the trainer’s room if they get near the crease come post season.
James G
I will say though that I posted the comparison to Hank’s Vezina season last night and Shesterkin is going to finish with better numbers this year (though probably start in a few less). Take it with a grain of salt but that’s impressive stuff for a guy that I had my doubts about.
If they need the timely save/big save he’s there.
BDL- one last thing- sometimes even with a healthy lead the timing of a save can be crucial. We’ve both seen enough hockey over the years to know that all it takes is a weak goal or an untimely goal to get the other team a few puffs of life back into their lungs. Games can turn on a dime some nights.
James G
Also, it’s just my humble opinion but part of Valy’s job is to talk up/talk about the goalies. He gives us some great stuff but sometimes a cigar is just a cigar.
James G
Alex you spoiled my JamesGeau
James G
Wicky’s going to gloat now
James G
THERE IT IS!
Wicky
I see viel in San Jose went with chara, love that kid.
bobbyo2019
Messier said they need guys like playoff experience…like Eakins, Pacquette, Carpenter and Beagle…. Lehkonen too
James G
Which carpenter are you referring to?
James G
Beagle is 36 and doesn’t seem to have the legs anymore. I understand his face-off capabilities are strong but I just don’t know that I trust him
James G
I think any of us over the age of 20 know that Messier’s preference is shipping out youth for veteran experience. Especially “softer” players
James G
Brunch crowd:
“I mean what’s Messier know? He’s got like six Cup rings but that was all because of Gretzky. If they had corsi numbers and heat maps back then you’d see he wasn’t actually a good player”
ilb2001
I think Chara held back a bit, Wick. He had a few moments when he could’ve landed a few heavy ones. Did you see Viel gave him a few taps on the back after they were done?
St Pete Eli
Beagle dogs breakfast.
St Pete Eli
Simple truth Barron looks better than Chytiljuice.
Gravy
Have the Viel, it’s the best in the City.
SN
Valley Cat is the ultimate goalie fluffer. To Eli’s point, he is doing what he is paid to do. They won 4-1; not 1-0.
If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
bobbyo2019
Carpenter …..Blackhawks… Have to see if Beagle is healthy ….his face off percentage is well over 50%
Wicky
Ilb
Chara probably holds up on everyone or he’d have killed someone by now.
I did see the taps, pretty cool
cooscoos
She’sTwerkin covers up a lot of D errors. So long as the forwards aggressively back-check, the D will survive, maybe prosper. Fact is, most of the D is either wet behind he ears or focused on offense, some both.
cooscoos
Damn if superannuated Chelios doesn’t look like he could still lace them up and contribute.
James G
Viel: “thanks for not killing me”
James G
Bobby
Beagle for depth? 13th forward? 14th forward? Clearly not playing in top 9 or over Rooney right?
He was a dog at times (no pun) 6-7 seasons ago when the Rangers and Caps were battling it out in the post season. Guys like that don’t usually improve with age.
James G
Has it been a full calendar year since they’ve played the Pens? Is this not going to be a fun game? Better vaccum and mop the ledge to prepare. Remind the cleaning service that it’s an afternoon start.
bobbyo2019
Beagle would be depth and or 4th line option if other forwards are not brought in..Rooney and/or Beagle could play wing. Either preferable over Kegger
Pete
james, a certain level of deference should certainly be given to GM/coach, but they aren’t infallible and most coaches will reflexively defer/prefer to playing the low ceiling vet who is less likely to make a mistake than the rookie/young player who could be more likely to make a mistake. It was that line of thinking (and Drury was involved tho we don’t know his opinion) that never got Graves a real look here over two or three bad to mediocre veteran options
Similar mentality has the coach put out the 1st pp unit even with a 2-3 goal lead in the third when seemingly would be a good time to get the 2nd unit some desperately needed minutes.
And sure there could be things in Barron’s game that are an issue to Knoblauch and Drury, but there are equally obvious flaws and limitations in the games of Hunt, McKegg and especially Gauthier that Gallant and others would have to be blind not to see.
And now that we have a very good chance of at least making the playoffs there shouldn’t be any excuse not to give Barron a real chance the rest of the way
bobbyo2019
Pete, its pretty clear that the Rangers are gonna take a swing before deadline . Gorton and JD were jettisoned because their was dissatisfaction with the rate of progression. GG has the team winning consistently with a top goalie, so I expect we are gonna see more experienced players in the lineup and not Barron/Goatboy/ Jones etc
James G
Different team, different regime and different stage of competitiveness regarding the Graves debacle, Pete.
People have questioned every addition and subtraction that Drury has made since taking over as well as second guessed the coach who has them sitting at the top of the standings.
Just trying to add some reality to the narrative
James G
Not sure on how much Drury is willing to give up but I think it depends on what he can get. Pretty simple statement but while he’s not afraid to make a deal he’s not going to overpay for the hell of it on rentals.
I do believe that 2 of Gauthier, Chytil and Mckegg will not be starting in the post season
St Pete Eli
James
I hope it’s all three.
Beezle
Minx you need to go see if Avery is still in shape!
Pete
Well that comes with the territory James, and can’t say either Drury’s roster construction/management or Gallant’s roster management to date has been above reproach because they are where they are in the standings largely despite their 5-5 play and contribution from some of these bottom 6 guys, not because of them. And Drury was definitely in a leadership position when Graves was here, but we just don’t know if and to what extent he advocated for or against Graves.
Tricky thing with Lehkonen is his having another year left on his deal (and will likely take north of $2.5m to resign him). So figure he will be somewhat more expensive than a 3rd line rental who is a pending UFA. Yes you can always try and trade him after the season, but you’d get a very meager return, so really should trade for him if the plan is to keep him for next year (which may not be the best use of cap space.)
Jpp2.0
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Solar Bears have announced that the club has released forward Sean Avery from his ECHL Standard Player Contract.
Avery, 41, signed with the Solar Bears on Feb. 23. He did not appear in any games for Orlando.
I guess Avery wanted to move his skates from the Hudson River to Atlantic Ocean.
Eddie J
Wow! That didn’t last long.
Admiral Akbar
Why can’t we just be happy and enjoy this young team and young GM (whom other teams were trying to poach prior to the twin firings)?
The Rangers aren’t perfect, but there’s probably about 30 other teams who wish they had the Rangers’ problems.
James G
Not a single GM or coach is perfect, Pete.
Doesn’t mean they’re perpetually on the verge of screwing everything up.
Like you said- we don’t know he didn’t any more than we know he did on Graves. Doesn’t mean assessment of one player has anything to do with assessment of another.
We all have our opinions of course and this is just me throwing mine out there. I don’t worry about the other shoe dropping at this point. When something happens/doesn’t happen at the deadline we can reassess my point of view.
I really think they’ll go for it this year and yes that may mean bringing in player or players with term left. I don’t doubt it can happen just as I don’t doubt that if he gives up a lot for a guy on an expiring deal it’s because he plans on retaining them beyond the playoffs.
It’s like ILB said the other day- fans stress it more than Drury will. He’s got a playoff run to worry about and then a whole offseason to re-evaluate and move forward with whatever he thinks is necessary. Everything about bringing in player A meaning the end for player z is just speculation.
cooscoos
Avery needed one more day on someone’s payroll to qualify for max social security benefits..
St Pete Eli
Really tough 31 game schedule ahead for our boys. 4 games against the dirty puke birds, 3 against the fishsticks, 3 against the Canes, 2 against the Blues, and the Wild it ain’t gonna be easy.
Admiral Akbar
Fishsticks will be playing us like it’s Game 7, OVERTIME.
Third line convo would sound a hell of a lot different if Blais were available
cooscoos
Certainly at the very least, a few opposing players must have called him Overy, (sic).
Pete
good stuff james, this deadline definitely should give us plenty of insight into where drury thinks this team is and how much he values Gorton’s picks especially.
more i hear about him, one guy i hope we don’t overpay for is Chiarot. Not that obvious he is much of an improvement over Nemeth, if he is at all given his penchant for taking bad penalties (at least last playoffs that was the rub on him cuz he couldn’t keep up otherwise)
CraigWeather
Not expecting a win today…. weird start time… on the road against the ice chickens…. And especially if GG decides to go with Boy George, but who knows 🤷♂️ Stranger things have happened…. I hope to eat copious amounts of crow.
Pete
definitely the game to start Igor and let Georgie go tomorrow against the Canucks
Bdl
I don’t understand the Chariot interest, and perceived value. By any team.
Bdl
Pete,
Gallant has done the opposite most of the season. Would not be shocking to see Georgiev today.
Admiral Akbar
Agreed, bdl.
Let Pittsburgh deal with the backup as the “sacrificial lamb”, and go for the “surer” thing against Vancouver. Gallant has done this before.
Pete
he definitely has done it before, but first time playing the team you are battling for position with, i’d play our best.
and yea i was admittedly interested in Chiarot to a degree, but have been turned off more i have read about his deficiencies and the ask for a 1st at least for a guy who is likely a 5/6 on this team and not even a great one
Bdl
I think we would all play our best, but all we care about is today. Gallant has 30 more games to consider.
St Pete Eli
If by chance the Metro standings end the way they are now we get the dirty rotten stinking puke birds in rd 1. I hate the pens!!!
St Pete Eli
Minxmares today!
Jpp2.0
What a bunch of bull💩ing from Vancouver and Toronto.
Toronto’s not gonna get out of the 2nd with this defense. I watched 5 minutes of a leafs mid week. I stopped myself from saying they wouldn’t get out of the 2nd round, bc I thought to myself maybe they have a lot of dmen out. Then I saw the TOI and saw all their regulars were in.
Toronto’s built so piss poorly.
What the F is JT Miller gonna do for Toronto. Your gonna out score your way to a cup.
Crock of posturing 💩
Toronto’s trying to use the media to get clubs selling of dman to lower the price or be willing to retain.
And Vancouver somehow trying to make it sound like they aren’t selling
What the F is Vancouver actually doing?
Bc im of the mind. They need a full rebuild. Why? Bc hughes is gonna leave as soon as he can to join his brothers.
And Peterson’s only gonna stay if Vancouver overpays for him.
Let’s be real. I don’t think Hughes or Petersson are gonna be in Vancouver any longer than their current deals.
What in actuality is Vancouver doing.
JT ain’t re-signing in Canada.
It’s all just posturing.
That’s why I’ve decided. I’m not talking trade rumors or nothing.
I’m gonna post during the games and that’s it.
I’m not defending my stances when GMs and clubs just flat out lie for posturing means and people use it to say ‘what are you talking about’
I’m above it. I know the gig. I know the skinny skinny of what’s going on.
Toronto going JT Miller. Hahahaha.
Go for it Dubas. Do it. Do it
Bdl
Both Hughes and Petersson signed long term in Vancouver.
Bdl
As far JT goes, Vancouver is not the kind of organization that is going to have big interest in Kravtsov, Jones, or Nils. The guys they are going to want are Cuylle, Othman, Schneider, and Robertson. If a JT Miller deal gets done, it’s going to include Robertson, and one if those forwards. For me, that’s too high a price.
SN
If that is the case, move away from Canuckleheads in trying to get a deal done.
Robertson is almost untouchable for a short term rental is he will be very cheap for the next few years and have tremendous utility as another LD who can play PK.
Chytil, Jones, Nils etc have value but not for teams who already offensive Dmen. If the Ducks drop out and move Aharty and Fowler, need younger cheaper versions so Jones makes sense. Not wanting their 2 D mentioned, just saying there are teams that more sense than others.
Pete
actually Petterson only signed a 3yr deal so only two seasons left after this year. He said he wants to win, so not a sure thing he stays if vancouver is treading water.
With miller agree on current price and my guess is they’ll have a pretty good idea how likely JT is to stay in Vancouver and for what price by draft if they don’t already
St Pete Eli
JT wants to finish his career in pit. I am not saying it will happen for sure, but I guarantee that’s where he wants to be. The cost for Miller is too high when his contact is up he’s going to the puke pens.
Old Ranger Fan
It seems that the rest of the season is just for seeding positions in the East so you go with Igor in the 4 point game against the Pens. But I trust GG’s body of work. He’s made the right call more often than not.
St Pete Eli
I start Georgiev today. I doubt we score more than 1 or 2 goals against Jarry. Igor would probably need a shut out for our boys to pull out a victory.
Pete
Eli, unless they walk away from both Malkin and Letang and Rust, hard to see them being able to sign miller on anything but a very discounted deal
BDL, honestly if the cost was robertson and cullyle id probably make that deal and definitely if they had a way to keep him longterm. And if they did have such a way at any point couldn’t absolutely rule at Othman. His best case upside is likely the current version of Miller and could take him 5 to 6 years to get to that, which is fine in and of itself, but most GMs don’t have that long a shelf life
Bdl
Petersson will be an RFA when his deal expires.
ilb2001
Good morning, Boneheads!
I wonder how many teams would prefer Lundkvist and Jones instead of Schneider and Robertson. Things changed. There were times when offensive/cap moving D were very difficult to find and would fetch an arm and a leg. There are much more of them now.
Beezle
Reaves on Cindy: “He’s very superstitious — a little too superstitious for me..”
one word: Minxmares!
Bdl
Pete,
I have no doubt that you would. You don’t appreciate the Cuylle, and Othman of the world like I do. I value them considerably more than you.
Bdl
Ilb,
It depends on the teams.
St Pete Eli
Pete
I have to disagree the pens would find a way.
St Pete Eli
Beezle
I’m sick to my stomach already.
Beezle
No assets for a JT Miller rental unless they are taking 50% of salary. And honestly not inclined to give up more than Nils or Jones, though fine if you toss in Chytil.
Not that it should be a major issue but JT Miller is actually older than Strome. His next contract is his last big one – why would he give NYR or anyone else a below market value deal?
ilb2001
St. Pete, if they listened to you they’d forfeit today’s game and send Fox to Pittsburgh at the same time for free. 😃
St Pete Eli
Beezle
I can hear it already honk honk honk let’s go pens ugh!
St Pete Eli
ilb
I am no longer rational when the pens are involved.
ilb2001
I know, BDL. But I think more teams are now looking for bigger, two-way guys. To make my previous point, Alex Goligoski brought back James Neal and Matt Niskanen
ilb2001
As of this moment, the NHL lists Shesterkin as a starter. Also, the game is on ABC today.
Old Ranger Fan
Pens have decisions to make on LeTang and Malkin after this season. They won’t get moved at the deadline. If they can get them to take pay cuts and stay they could fit JT under the cap. They also have Jason Zucker on LTIR. They may be making a Kane/Kucherov cap avoidance move with him, but, still have him on the books next season and also have Rust as a UFA to deal with and Jack Johnson’s dead cap space. Their ability to take on another large salary may be limited.
St Pete Eli
If it’s Igor he better toss a goose egg.
bobbyo2019
You play Shesty in a divisional game..those points are more important …and screw the Pens …it’s not 5 years ago
Old Ranger Fan
Miller is not a rental. If you trade for him he is on the books for $5.25 MM next season. Would the Pens keep him and let Malkin walk? They current have no cap space and have Zucker on LTIR to be compliant.
ilb2001
Close your eyes, St. Pete
There is a very high probability these two teams meet in the first round. This is an important game from many different points of view. Including home ice
TYM
I want to hang on to Cuylle and Othmann. Too early to move either of them. Certainly not for a rental player.
ilb2001
The only reason to even consider anything Pete suggested for Miller is if Vancouver retains 50% and they have him for two SC runs. Even then, I would exclude Schneider from that list and would only consider one of the three left as a centerpiece. The rest would have to be draft picks (including the first) and lesser prospects/NHL players.
ilb2001
Malkin, at 34, would be the Rangers best center not named Zibanejad right now. And probably at 35 too.
St Pete Eli
ilb
Agreed a very important game.
I think we have the grandkids over today so at least I will need to record the game and watch later.
Beezle
I hate that f’ing horn!
Beezle
Minx we need to send you in to sabotage their sound system and replace with more suitable material 😉
St Pete Eli
The horn is bush league, but fits perfect for bush league fans!
St Pete Eli
Beezle
If possible I would gladly do it. I hate the pens!
Pete
Malkin pretty already announced he will take less $ to stay in Pitt, and wouldn’t be surprised if Letang does too, tho maybe not as much of a haircut. They’ll have to trade Zucker to afford Rust, who’ll be looking for a deal in the $5-7m/yr range.
Don’t see JT taking much of a discount for anyone and his deal at lowest should start at $7m/yr. Pens can’t make that work without moving on from likely two of Rust, Malkin and Letang. Rangers could make that work, but would require cost cutting elsewhere for sure.
And sure Pens having been playing well, but they aren’t some unstoppable force and Jarry has been better, but also not nearly the goalie Igor is
Jpp2.0
I was mistaken about Hughes. Pettersson signed for 3 yrs. Hughes gave them 6.
I’m really surprised he signed a 6 year deal.
And BDL, yes pettersson will be RFA at the end of his deal but RFA in the vein of trouba, mattka, buchnevich, boeser, and laine.
High one year QO that leads directly into UFA.
The fact they have Hughes on a 6 yr deal changes the dynamic and complexion of the long term picture from a hard cliff in 3 yrs to having 4-5 years of Hughes in the fold.
From a Vancouver perspective 4-5 window now. Miller makes sense in it.
I don’t know the guy personally at all. But I’ve heard talk from people who have met him and ran into him that he would love to get to Pittsburgh. Pretty much his hometown team, was his favorite growing up. It was made pretty apparent through the national podcasts last year season when Vancouver had all that turmoil as the season ended, that Miller made it clear like deal me, I’m not re-signing here, deal me now.
You add in Canadian taxes, and all the Covid stuff Players in Canadian cities are adhering to and the talk around the league that players don’t want to sign or traded to play in Canada.
I don’t see how Rutherford gets Jt to re-sign without a max term, market value deal. And Vancouver can’t afford to lock him up at that kind of money.
If I’m Rutherford. I’m moving Miller, boeser, and Pearson.
Miller gets you prime assets to insert into the roster now and cap flexiblility, boeser gets you a lot of cap flexibility and 1st/2nd and a roster player/quality prospect, and Pearson adds even more cap flexibility. That gives Rutherford players via trade for Miller/boeser, and the cap space to take on salary in other trades or UFA deals
I’m re-signing horvat and I’m keeping garland.
I think anything to the contrary is just posturing.
Pete
BDL, Othman is in a very different class as Cullyle at the moment from everything i have seen/read. And while Cullyle likely can play a meaningful bottom 6 role for us as early as next year, if the goal is to win a Cup while Panarin, kreider and Mika are still in their relative primes, can’t hug a guy like Cullyle that tight for a player who is clearly better like Miller and also not a pure rental.
Othman would be harder to give up for Miller for sure, but for a center that is locked up for longer i again wouldnt hesitate given that is a far bigger need for the foreseeable future than another left wing whose prime is again 3-5 years away at earliest. And you know i’m not impatient as far as letting prospects develop, it’s all about us having no centers close to NHL ready for a few years, let alone someone who can immediately slot into the top 6 and play with Panarin
JPP, makes all the sense for them to move miller if he has confirmed he won’t resign there, but don’t they would be ready to give up Petterson unless it’s a silly return. And if both Miller and Boeser are moved they will have the cap space to overpay to keep Petterson around even after paying Horvat (who they definitely should be keeping)
SN
With Igor and the balance in the roster, they are in the playoff mix, but would not call them too 4 Cup Contenders. With all the money tied up in new deals starting next season, Dreary has limited flexibility.
The hope was the new additions along with maturing young players could accelerate the timeline for Cup contention.
The Habs proved last season anything can happen and usually does in the playoffs but am very wary of getting rid of Wild Will Culleye, Robertson and definitely not Schneider. These are foundational players that are inexpensive and provide tremendous value as bottom 4 pair and Bottom 6 forwards along with playing the right way.
Still believe a trade for a young center is necessary for cap flexibility and should be Dreary’s primary focus along with bottom 6 rentals for a hopeful run.
Bdl
If the Rangers trade Will Cuylle, they will be searching for another Will Cuylle for the next 10 years. When you have them, you keep them.
Bdl
SN,
Absolutely agree about trading got a young center.
ilb2001
Getting Schneider in the mix certainly changed their D view/landscape. We, the fans, were hoping it was the case. I want to think that Drury and Co knew that and weren’t just hoping. My point is, even though unexpected can happen, Drury and Co should know who at this point is more expendable, and who, if any, is untouchable. Sometimes the fans know they’re better talent evaluators than the professionals.
ilb2001
Getting a young center is a necessity, but this one is going to hurt.
Bdl
You have your rental assets, and you have your term assets.
Bdl
I think that Jones and Robertson become the main trade chips on D. Nils probably survives because he has been underwhelming.
SN
As big of a JT Miller fan, not sure he gets them Over the hump. What he does add is more physicality than Stromeo which translates to the dot, the wall and alleviates some of the need (but not all) for the RW to be a Hunt type. He is also a lefty which helps the PP1 on the right dot and has flexibility to play middle or wing.
It allows Dreary to kick the can down the road for another season but leaves the same situation with a center playing with your top forward in his walk year and obviously also assets going the other way in the deal.
It does not address 3C and maybe The Big Red Barron is the answer there for a more defensively focused bottom 6.
Bdl
Maybe the Rangers can get Gorton and Bobrov to take Hendriksson, Kravtsov, and Nils, for Anderson.
Bdl
I like Miller as well. Root for him, and follow how he’s doing. Not interested in a second act.
SN
Could they afford Anderson? Would also render Stromeo a goner??
ilb2001
Anderson’s cap hit is a bit too rich for a winger at the moment, at least until they settle the 2C situation.
I don’t know how much GG wants to mess with their PP1 unit considering its success.
cooscoos
“As we know, there are known knowns. There are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns. That is to say, we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns — the ones we don’t know we don’t know.”
Not sure if that was said by Drury, Dolan, or Rumsfeld
St Pete Eli
coos
So it’s still unknown who said it?
cooscoos
I don’t know.
Pete
anderson also seems to get hurt a lot unfortunately, so coupled with his salary (another 5yrs at $5.5), they’re better off staying away
BDL, are you projecting Cullyle to be more than a good 3rd liner? Fair enough if so, but think you’d be in minority. But if not, a good 2C is far more valuable long term and still likely more valuable for this team even for a couple of years given the ages of Kreider, Mika and Panarin.
BW
BDL: I don’t know enough about Cuylle to evaluate your assertion but, it you change “Cuylle” to “Barron”, I think I’d agree. I’d hate to trade a guy like that for short-term gain.
Beezle
Coos dropping a snowflake on the blog!
Bdl
If you mean in the minority of the hobby prospect guys, you’d be correct, but certainly not in the minority of the true prospect guys. They see Cuylle as much more that a 4th liner.
Bdl
And my thoughts on Cuylle are not about what line I project him to play on, but on the style that he plays. He’s a big, rugged player. The type that all teams search for.
Bdl
A couple of things BW. You have to read full posts. Nobody here is looking to trade any of the big prospects for a rental/short term gain. And for some reason you think you are the only person here who likes Barron. There are at least a half dozen of us who have been touting Barron since he was a sophomore at the fall back university of people who want to go to Ivy schools 😁.
St Pete Eli
It is exactly why Cuylle was drafted big rugged player
Pete
yea i’ve seen good 3rd liner as his projected ceiling and realistically he may not be on our 3rd for a bit, unless Goodrow becomes a full time 4th liner next season or Blais is gone after next year. And or course he has to somehow leapfrog Hunty, McKegger and Gauthiery (sure Hunt will be kept around, but god help me if the latter two are here next year)
James G
Not sure who Drury will wind up wheeling and dealing with but again I think we’ll be in the dark until it happens. No leaks in this ship
cooscoos
Has Pizza Boy wandered into a dark cellar at midnight, looking for a black cat that isn’t there as we root for him to find the cat?
St Pete Eli
Craps don’t look so good.
ilb2001
Subban needs a good, old school Rupping….
Igor in goal. I’m ready for the Go Time Post.
Wicky
The initial organizational “blurbs” were eventual Kreider type replacement (not fast skater, but power forward). It’s as much about cap hits and drop off in on ice performance vs drop in $$$ at worst case (previous player scores 50 points at 7 million, new player scores 45 points at 3 million is a good trade off in value when it allows other $$$ to then go to other positions to strengthen them).
The other thing to bear in mind, incoming $$$ and salaries, depending on what they are, don’t just mean getting rid of the easily replaceable and very bad strome, but could also mean a guy like Lindgren or kakko being moved.
You have to be careful the $$$$ amounts brought in so you don’t adversely affect more than anticipated…I’m sure drury understands this better than many of us here.
Wicky
Hunt is under contract next season at $750k FYI
Wicky
I hate Subban…he’s garbage. What he did used to be the norm, it was disrespectful to score on the empty net from “close in”…I honestly would like to see more guys get smacked for doing it but that’s old school and it won’t happen…I still hate Subban and I hate the protecting of the perp the nhl does just as much.
Wicky
Jamesgeau…for now
St Pete Eli
Hunt is a decent player but he’s not what they need on the 3rd line. However I think he is just fine to give Reaves a breather.
5th best law school in the Ivy League, BDL. And centrally isolated.
I’m not sure where you get the impression that I thought my advocacy of Barron is unique. I know you like Barron. Nevertheless, I do as well😉
Pete
Lindgren may well become a cap casualty at some point before his deal is up or they don’t resign him, but it’s one they should be able to absorb if other D continue to progress. Nothing wrong with getting good value of a player for a period of time and moving on, something Slats couldn’t accept, hence re-signing both Girardi (not the worst gamble, that ultimately didn’t work out) and staal (idiotic move at the time). Drury should be doing that with Strome this offseason and may well be the same for Lindgren
Unless Kakko has an absurd ask this offseason, me thinks we keep him around for relatively cheap on a 2 yr bridge deal. Doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be moved in the right deal, but don’t see him becoming a cap casualty in near term given his draft pedigree and organizational hope he starts to show more offensively (which would increase his trade value if nothing else)
Upstate Ranger
My son is at the game today. 3 rows behind GG & the boys. Asked him if Shesty’s starting.
Wicky
Pete
The example about kakko…it was referencing if you bring in a guy (as an example) that makes 7.5 mil per for 3 more years…
Strome is projected at between 5 and 6 (if not close to that they can’t afford him whether folks want him back or not) if he’s at 5.5, there’s an extra 2 mil to deal with of the incoming player.
That 2 mil is most likely in the form of one of two players Lindgren or kakko because guys like Chytil and nemeth most likely are already having to be moved on for other more simple and straight forward cap adjustments for next season.
No one thinks kakko is getting 6 mil per, personally I’ve repeatedly said I expect him in the Chytil dollar range on a bridge deal…just a guess on my part.
That also doesn’t change the $$$ fact of a guy being brought in at $7.5 or so not only means a strome departure but indeed a most likely departure of kakko or Lindgren as well…which was the only point I was making.
Pete
just saying i disagree that kakko would be moved if they acquired a new center for that price (assuming he wasn’t part of the trade).
If there was a need to clear immediate cap space for next season then as you say they first cut bait with Georgie, Nemeth, Chytil as you say, but then Rooney, Blais, Reaves.
If the concern is for two years out and beyond then you look to Lindgren or Goodrow before Kakko
201 responses to “Rangers-4, Capitals-1”
So right after Shesterkin wins the battle of two Russians in the third they go into TV timeout. After the timeout Laviolette, with his team down three goals, leaves his first line on the ice. GG counters with his fourth. Reaves outmuscles Ovechkin, Rooney sets up Goodrow, who puts it through fifth hole. Game over.
This constant debate about deterrent. We, on this site, go back and forth. But somehow former NHLers, including a couple of HOF guys last night, believe there is such a thing as a deterrent. They mentioned it a few times last night, and I happened to agree. Reaves’ presence rendered Wilson useless last night. When would Wilson remain timid with his team down 3-0, 4-0?
I like Barron’s game, plays with playable toughness, plays a all around game. I like his game way better than Chytil’s game.
Better team, better goaltending. Drury still has a lot of work to do to improve their lineup 5 on 5, but last night, no PP goals, all even strength, one per period. Workmanlike. They still aren’t spending enough time in the O-zone, their forechecking isn’t enough for long postseason drive. That needs to be addressed
His game is better than McKeggs as well, tommy. And at least a couple of more guys
impressive performance….looks like a team ready to win playoff games
Barron couldn’t finish, but he played a solid game and seemed to make his line mates at least a little better. Not saying I want those 3 as our 3rd line after the deadline, but don’t see any reason why Barron shouldn’t be a part of it.
Also think the 3rd line looked good because the other 3 lines were locked in and made it difficult for Washington to get much momentum.
FWIW, it sounds like Washington will try to get a goalie before the deadline and one name that’s been mentioned is MAF.
I wonder if playing a lot of minutes is getting to Fox a bit. His game hasn’t been as sharp as one would expect. Him, and his partner.
Best game of the season so far.
The difference the Big Red Barrron makes was in evidence in one of his first shifts on the forecheck. Puck battle in the corner with Ovi featuring Barron’s elbow inadvertently hitting Ovi in the face. Barron wins battle, moves puck and Ovi looks at him while he is skating away like, ‘who is that big fugger’.
Probability of Flip playing the same way is -2,355%
More Barron, please.
Jones looked completely overmatched out there. Would rather have Joe Willie or even Tinordi with Scheider (who again looked great); at least they can move some bodies and win some puck battles. Jones can make a nice pass but that is 20% of the game; esp in second season.
Fox was OK; he is not a great defender when things get physical. Very smart positionally, great stick and anticipation but obviously has trouble moving bodies down low. As stated before, be interesting to see how he and Lindgren hold up as the games get more and more physical.
The Rooney line was the 3rd line. Goodrow played 19 minutes. Rooney played in the teens. Reeves was at 12. Nobody on the Barron line was over 10. Sorry, but this is pet peeve of mine. Only Brooks called them what they were.
Semantics, BDL
Not at all Ilb.
I don’t agree that Jones was completely overmatched, but you certainly saw why Jones playing in the playoffs would be a big problem.
Funny how they kept saying Washington looked rusty after 5 day break, but no one mentioned NY played only 4 games in over three weeks.
was thinking the same ILB …Rangers hadnt played since Sunday as well
Agree with just about everything I’m reading this morning .
First off, if Barron asserts himself like that every game, Turk will be forced to play him and I think that’s what the coach wants to see from him.
Secondly, I feel like as the scheduled winds down and the playoff atmosphere sets in we’re going to see hiccups more frequently from guys like Lindgren, Fox, Miller etc. this is a very young inexperienced blueline as far as the second season is concerned and they’ll have to find ways to excel as they are exposed to it.
Third-do not allow these pissing matches about guys fans like vs guys fans don’t like make the water murky. Everyone can have their opinions but the reality of it is that they are a better team with a deterrent or two in the lineup. They’re better than the Caps (thought the same last year) and now they’re just not going to get pushed around by teams like them.
BDL-out of these three only Goodrow could be trusted to play real shutdown minutes, especially in April.
I guess the Jones love/hate is just going to be what it is. This blog loves to over scrutinize players they want /don’t want in the lineup. It makes for mediocre game threads.
I’m not a fan of the average offensive defenseman but I don’t dislike Jones. Just don’t think he’s the right add this time of year when you have two out of six Dmen with post season games under their belts and one of those two can’t seem to stay in the lineup. Honestly just waiting to see who is here post deadline as far as additions and subtractions and will go from there.
I thought both Jones and Schneider made a couple of plays that betrayed their youth and inexperience. You may be right that (presumably because of his size) Jones is not built for the playoffs (he may not be alone on this roster in that regard) but I suspect that a game or two of Nemeth being slow and out of position will lead to a similar conclusion. A conundrum.
ILB I think Goodrow’s going to be more important than ever from now through the post season. Reaves, Kreider, Trouba as well. These are the guys who know what it takes and have to keep everyone else in check while elevating their games to post season quality/style
Stayed up late to watch the replay nice win against a pretty tough experienced team. Igor is gold. Somehow Kegger, Goat, Chytil, and maybe Hunt need to be replaced at the lifeline. Not sure it will happen but if they want to go far in the playoffs it’s necessary.
Barron played well …so did Goat boy but regardless Drury is gonna bring in some playoff experienced beef before deadline.. guys like Eakins, Pacquette, Carpenter or Beagle. Both Eakins and Carpenter played for GG in Vegas
It may be recency bias or it may be that the uncertainty of his situation is hurting his play, but I’m not too anxious to give Strome a big long-term deal. I don’t think he’s the right 2c for this team. And it’s not like his presence next to Panarin is bringing out the best in the latter. Is there a better candidate on whom to spend the $6-7m you’d save not signing Strome and Georgiev (factoring in the need to get a back up goalie)?
Can we acknowledge that Zibanejad has not been soft over the past few months? No, he’s not going to intimidate guys, but he’s using his big frame and for that I credit him and GG. I wish Rick Nash had been as physical as Zibanejad’s been of late. He’s obviously a key part of this team’s core and they need him to continue to play this way, especially in the postseason. If he does, his contract could go from,(what some consider), one of our worst, to one of our best contracts. Again, he needs to keep this up and do it in the playoffs.
found it surprising from the post article that Gallant said he hadn’t seen barron play that much…,you think he would be watching video of pack games at least when the likes of Gauthier, McKegg and Hunt are so clearly limited
Bring in Copp and could see he-Goodrow and kakko being a good shutdown line the playoffs. Reaves did an admirable job in that role last night, but don’t think that’s gonna work against the top teams in the east on a regular basis
careful expressing that opinion BW!
Pete
I think Goodrow with Andy and Reaves is the way to go forward. The 3rd line needs major reconstruction. I know was not for Lehkonen but a 3rd line of
Lehkonen, Copp, and Kakko would work for me. Than an effective RW for Bread and Stromeo.
Goat Boy and Chytil are not the type of forwards you want getting a regular turn in the playoffs. The Big Red Barron was impressive last night; had some good looks and if he buried one, folks would be anointing him the next great thing but his overall 2 way game was just what that line needs.
Goat Boy played fine, but taking that penalty in the 3rd was just asinine and for the love of all things holy, can he bury the biscuit ONCE!
Gallant’s job is to focus on what is in front of him and winning the next game. Dreary’s job is to focus on personnel moves and bigger picture. Some folks may not understand the GM runs the team and the coach manages practices and games.
yes SN, but when he keeps putting our dreck, don’t you think he’d ask Drury about some of the guys in hartford? past coaches certainly mentioned watching hartford games
not to mention Barron has been practicing with the big club for awhile, so gallants answers about wanting to see him play and also not having seen him much, just seem odd to me
Oh pete, are you still in a mood?!
The thing is your post before the end of it was pretty good…too bad you did what you did.
that would work even better Eli if Drury can pull all that off.
I could have said the same thing about Jones “oh look out don’t say anything about him” like some people did this morning.
The third line with reaves did a great job of checking the ovi line most of the game.
We know GG likes reaves and a certain type of player, but iirc wasn’t he a scratch at times in the playoffs for him in Vegas? Maybe an injury but I think he was.
BW
There a several better options IMO than strome for a top 6 centre. Some in that 6 mil or less range, some that need $$$$ retention by another team..
The thing is does the team want to potentially pay the assets (I think they should but it’s my opinion on assets) and is the price in assets and cap worth the on ice performance difference?
Big questions but definite options out there.
Someone mentioned the other day here an ideal situation regarding forward depth would be if the rangers could roll Goodrow on the reaves line.
Kudos
wick, yea gallant and last vegas coach both scratched reaves a few times in the playoffs. For gallant it was when they were losing in the finals i believe so wanted more offense
either way they would likely be well served to rest him a bit down the stretch
If this is their fourth line (Goodrow-Rooney-Reaves) going forward, this is a true contender. If this line is used as a checking/matching line with all the responsibilities attached to it, including TOI, we are looking at an early exit.
Let me ask you guys something. I know we are all very smart and all but could it be that just maybe Drury IS doing his job and in communication with Knoblach down in Hartford (where Drury was the GM and hired the coach btw) and could it be that JUST maybe Drury knows a few things about Barron and his game that we aren’t privy to since he’s been following the player since prior to being drafted by the Rangers and all?
I think it’s possible and that maybe it has something to do with Barron’s management between the AHL and NHL.
While you guys would bet your lives on your eye tests and your distaste for Hunt and McKegg there is still that off chance that both Gallant and Drury are doing what they’re supposed to do. Just a chance!
ILB I agree with you. That’s why a 3C would be a game changer too
Hard to get caught up on 1st v 2nd v 3rd v 4th lines. This roster seems to shake out like a traditional bottom 6/top 6 given offensive production and roles.
Chytil and Goat Boy do not seem to fit bottom 6 roles for a playoff team. Those type of forwards are available in the trade market without giving up the farm.
Something tells me that the organisational patience with Lafreniere, not putting too much pressure on him and not asking too much from him is going to pay off big time. Good thing that the fans aren’t running this organisation, or else this “bust” would’ve been traded in a package for Phil Kessel already.
I think most of us understand that the line numbers are just that, nominal numbers in this modern hockey. But it’s still much easier to communicate that way because of perceived assigned responsibilities.
The whole thing as pete and James (and others have previously pointed out) is the third line…it’s where kakko belongs at this point in his career and if they could add a guy like copp as it’s centre as well as a couple of wingers that have a scoring touch but a bit of size and north south tendencies (one for Panarin line and one for third line)…well add a lefty d and you’re looking at a something…a Sauer incident aside
3 forwards, 1 d
The third line (last night) of reaves, Rooney, and Goodrow did a very good job of checking the ovi line. Is that a cup run formula, probably not but they did well last night.
Part of it is absolutely the lack of options on the misfit toy line (Barron is a positive addition imho) his style fits a playoff game, not sure how much the rangers are willing to trust it into this post season but it might save an addition.
Jamesgeau
Damnit! Lol
Ha ha 😉
Doesn’t seem like the best idea…lol
https://twitter.com/osinttechnical/status/1497144019247267841?s=21
da Post excerpt:
Gallant noted he thinks Barron likes skating in the middle more, but added that AHL Hartford head coach Kris Knoblauch said Barron could do both.
“He’s played in some games and we’ve liked what he’s done,” Gallant said. “He’s been a guy called up and sent down and back up. Young player who I think can skate well, he’s practiced real hard for us the last little while. So just keep doing what he was doing when he played, he did a real good job when he played those games. “He’s a big guy that can skate real well and we want to see him.”
I will say I am becoming more open minded to the idea of Lehkonen as a third line body over Gauthier.
They could use a Fedotenko type in that spot.
If your bottom six was comprised of something along the lines of
Lehkonen-Copp-Barron-Goodrow-Rooney-Reaves youre much better suited for the playoffs.
Jones: 19 NHL games total, 9 this season
Schneider: 14 NHL games
Some of you guys act like they are approaching game 500
Ilb agree Fox minutes need to be dialed back a bit at ES as they won’t cut his PP or PK time. I would bump up Schneider to play with Lindgren an extra two or three ES shifts.
I’m not a fan of lehkonen’s size or overt physical game. He’s not a bad player and paired with the other two guys, it could work…definitely better than the current set up.
I am curious where kakko is in that set up. I don’t think he’s playoff top 6 ready (if he’s even healthy by then) at this point so if you shift him down to the third line I think lehkonen and kakko don’t give you enough overt physicality as a winger pair for the playoffs.
Just an opinion.
Don’t be shocked if Barron is traded at or before the deadline. GM’s have to give to get!
Chytil
Jones
Lundkvist
Kravtsov
The Goat
Georgiev
Barron
Hunt
Robertson
Hajek
Nemeth
1st rd pick
2nd rd pick
Could all be on the table.
Maybe even Krakko.
Special K is a huge question mark; can’t wait and hope he returns and plays at a high level conducive to PO success. The more he sits, the more they need to replace what he ‘could’ have brought. If his ‘whatever it is’ injury continues to linger, they might as well shut him down. Plenty of games left to see where he is at, but hard just to jump on board for a young player.
.
Goodrow had to get away from Bread and Stromeo to score. I keed, I keed…
A question for the advance STAT crowd in regards to goalies. Vali calling last night a stolen win. Watching it I felt the Rangers were in control. Shesterkin was solid. When the Rangers opened their lead, the Caps pressed, and Shesterkin made a bunch of big saves My question is, do these goalie STATS take into account the score of the game?, and the time of game these saves are being made? Some games are easy to tell a stolen game, like the Toronto game early in the season. Last night did not look/feel like a stolen game.
I thought the opposite. I felt ranger’s played a solid 200 foot game and Igor didn’t have to work as hard as most games but made the big save when the team needed it. This was a solid team win. Nobody stole anything.
I have said this before elite goalies don’t steal games they do what they’re paid to do stop the puck from going into the net they defend. The Minx has Spoken!
Wick I named a few guys earlier in the week that are more your cup of tea. Don’t find Lehkonen preferable. I can just see how he fits one of their current needs. Gauthier’s spot needs to be upgraded regardless
I try not to look too deeply into the goalie stuff. Elite doesn’t win you championships. Elite just so happens to be in net when championships are won sometimes which confuses people.
As long as Shesty keeps doing what he’s doing and can stay healthy they’re in great shape as far as goaltending for the post season. Would be to his benefit to bring in one more guy who will put people in the trainer’s room if they get near the crease come post season.
I will say though that I posted the comparison to Hank’s Vezina season last night and Shesterkin is going to finish with better numbers this year (though probably start in a few less). Take it with a grain of salt but that’s impressive stuff for a guy that I had my doubts about.
If they need the timely save/big save he’s there.
BDL- one last thing- sometimes even with a healthy lead the timing of a save can be crucial. We’ve both seen enough hockey over the years to know that all it takes is a weak goal or an untimely goal to get the other team a few puffs of life back into their lungs. Games can turn on a dime some nights.
Also, it’s just my humble opinion but part of Valy’s job is to talk up/talk about the goalies. He gives us some great stuff but sometimes a cigar is just a cigar.
Alex you spoiled my JamesGeau
Wicky’s going to gloat now
THERE IT IS!
I see viel in San Jose went with chara, love that kid.
Messier said they need guys like playoff experience…like Eakins, Pacquette, Carpenter and Beagle…. Lehkonen too
Which carpenter are you referring to?
Beagle is 36 and doesn’t seem to have the legs anymore. I understand his face-off capabilities are strong but I just don’t know that I trust him
I think any of us over the age of 20 know that Messier’s preference is shipping out youth for veteran experience. Especially “softer” players
Brunch crowd:
“I mean what’s Messier know? He’s got like six Cup rings but that was all because of Gretzky. If they had corsi numbers and heat maps back then you’d see he wasn’t actually a good player”
I think Chara held back a bit, Wick. He had a few moments when he could’ve landed a few heavy ones. Did you see Viel gave him a few taps on the back after they were done?
Beagle dogs breakfast.
Simple truth Barron looks better than Chytiljuice.
Have the Viel, it’s the best in the City.
Valley Cat is the ultimate goalie fluffer. To Eli’s point, he is doing what he is paid to do. They won 4-1; not 1-0.
If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
Carpenter …..Blackhawks… Have to see if Beagle is healthy ….his face off percentage is well over 50%
Ilb
Chara probably holds up on everyone or he’d have killed someone by now.
I did see the taps, pretty cool
She’sTwerkin covers up a lot of D errors. So long as the forwards aggressively back-check, the D will survive, maybe prosper. Fact is, most of the D is either wet behind he ears or focused on offense, some both.
Damn if superannuated Chelios doesn’t look like he could still lace them up and contribute.
Viel: “thanks for not killing me”
Bobby
Beagle for depth? 13th forward? 14th forward? Clearly not playing in top 9 or over Rooney right?
He was a dog at times (no pun) 6-7 seasons ago when the Rangers and Caps were battling it out in the post season. Guys like that don’t usually improve with age.
Has it been a full calendar year since they’ve played the Pens? Is this not going to be a fun game? Better vaccum and mop the ledge to prepare. Remind the cleaning service that it’s an afternoon start.
Beagle would be depth and or 4th line option if other forwards are not brought in..Rooney and/or Beagle could play wing. Either preferable over Kegger
james, a certain level of deference should certainly be given to GM/coach, but they aren’t infallible and most coaches will reflexively defer/prefer to playing the low ceiling vet who is less likely to make a mistake than the rookie/young player who could be more likely to make a mistake. It was that line of thinking (and Drury was involved tho we don’t know his opinion) that never got Graves a real look here over two or three bad to mediocre veteran options
Similar mentality has the coach put out the 1st pp unit even with a 2-3 goal lead in the third when seemingly would be a good time to get the 2nd unit some desperately needed minutes.
And sure there could be things in Barron’s game that are an issue to Knoblauch and Drury, but there are equally obvious flaws and limitations in the games of Hunt, McKegg and especially Gauthier that Gallant and others would have to be blind not to see.
And now that we have a very good chance of at least making the playoffs there shouldn’t be any excuse not to give Barron a real chance the rest of the way
Pete, its pretty clear that the Rangers are gonna take a swing before deadline . Gorton and JD were jettisoned because their was dissatisfaction with the rate of progression. GG has the team winning consistently with a top goalie, so I expect we are gonna see more experienced players in the lineup and not Barron/Goatboy/ Jones etc
Different team, different regime and different stage of competitiveness regarding the Graves debacle, Pete.
People have questioned every addition and subtraction that Drury has made since taking over as well as second guessed the coach who has them sitting at the top of the standings.
Just trying to add some reality to the narrative
Not sure on how much Drury is willing to give up but I think it depends on what he can get. Pretty simple statement but while he’s not afraid to make a deal he’s not going to overpay for the hell of it on rentals.
I do believe that 2 of Gauthier, Chytil and Mckegg will not be starting in the post season
James
I hope it’s all three.
Minx you need to go see if Avery is still in shape!
Well that comes with the territory James, and can’t say either Drury’s roster construction/management or Gallant’s roster management to date has been above reproach because they are where they are in the standings largely despite their 5-5 play and contribution from some of these bottom 6 guys, not because of them. And Drury was definitely in a leadership position when Graves was here, but we just don’t know if and to what extent he advocated for or against Graves.
Tricky thing with Lehkonen is his having another year left on his deal (and will likely take north of $2.5m to resign him). So figure he will be somewhat more expensive than a 3rd line rental who is a pending UFA. Yes you can always try and trade him after the season, but you’d get a very meager return, so really should trade for him if the plan is to keep him for next year (which may not be the best use of cap space.)
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Solar Bears have announced that the club has released forward Sean Avery from his ECHL Standard Player Contract.
Avery, 41, signed with the Solar Bears on Feb. 23. He did not appear in any games for Orlando.
https://www.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/news/2022/2/solar-bears-release-sean-avery
I guess Avery wanted to move his skates from the Hudson River to Atlantic Ocean.
Wow! That didn’t last long.
Why can’t we just be happy and enjoy this young team and young GM (whom other teams were trying to poach prior to the twin firings)?
The Rangers aren’t perfect, but there’s probably about 30 other teams who wish they had the Rangers’ problems.
Not a single GM or coach is perfect, Pete.
Doesn’t mean they’re perpetually on the verge of screwing everything up.
Like you said- we don’t know he didn’t any more than we know he did on Graves. Doesn’t mean assessment of one player has anything to do with assessment of another.
We all have our opinions of course and this is just me throwing mine out there. I don’t worry about the other shoe dropping at this point. When something happens/doesn’t happen at the deadline we can reassess my point of view.
I really think they’ll go for it this year and yes that may mean bringing in player or players with term left. I don’t doubt it can happen just as I don’t doubt that if he gives up a lot for a guy on an expiring deal it’s because he plans on retaining them beyond the playoffs.
It’s like ILB said the other day- fans stress it more than Drury will. He’s got a playoff run to worry about and then a whole offseason to re-evaluate and move forward with whatever he thinks is necessary. Everything about bringing in player A meaning the end for player z is just speculation.
Avery needed one more day on someone’s payroll to qualify for max social security benefits..
Really tough 31 game schedule ahead for our boys. 4 games against the dirty puke birds, 3 against the fishsticks, 3 against the Canes, 2 against the Blues, and the Wild it ain’t gonna be easy.
Fishsticks will be playing us like it’s Game 7, OVERTIME.
https://twitter.com/hayyyshayyy/status/1497371251039510528?s=21
https://twitter.com/NYP_Brooksie/status/1497372678516318208?t=ROMMKM6NqYJQrhoJ9YoYvg&s=19
Larry is right.
I’m going to be in the city tomorrow at this event. If anyone wants to stop by for a beer, I’d be happy to meet.
https://i.ibb.co/5BZ4wmc/Resized-Screenshot-20220224-094148-Facebook.jpg
Avery did that on a bet, no?
Third line convo would sound a hell of a lot different if Blais were available
Certainly at the very least, a few opposing players must have called him Overy, (sic).
good stuff james, this deadline definitely should give us plenty of insight into where drury thinks this team is and how much he values Gorton’s picks especially.
more i hear about him, one guy i hope we don’t overpay for is Chiarot. Not that obvious he is much of an improvement over Nemeth, if he is at all given his penchant for taking bad penalties (at least last playoffs that was the rub on him cuz he couldn’t keep up otherwise)
Not expecting a win today…. weird start time… on the road against the ice chickens…. And especially if GG decides to go with Boy George, but who knows 🤷♂️ Stranger things have happened…. I hope to eat copious amounts of crow.
definitely the game to start Igor and let Georgie go tomorrow against the Canucks
I don’t understand the Chariot interest, and perceived value. By any team.
Pete,
Gallant has done the opposite most of the season. Would not be shocking to see Georgiev today.
Agreed, bdl.
Let Pittsburgh deal with the backup as the “sacrificial lamb”, and go for the “surer” thing against Vancouver. Gallant has done this before.
he definitely has done it before, but first time playing the team you are battling for position with, i’d play our best.
and yea i was admittedly interested in Chiarot to a degree, but have been turned off more i have read about his deficiencies and the ask for a 1st at least for a guy who is likely a 5/6 on this team and not even a great one
I think we would all play our best, but all we care about is today. Gallant has 30 more games to consider.
If by chance the Metro standings end the way they are now we get the dirty rotten stinking puke birds in rd 1. I hate the pens!!!
Minxmares today!
What a bunch of bull💩ing from Vancouver and Toronto.
Toronto’s not gonna get out of the 2nd with this defense. I watched 5 minutes of a leafs mid week. I stopped myself from saying they wouldn’t get out of the 2nd round, bc I thought to myself maybe they have a lot of dmen out. Then I saw the TOI and saw all their regulars were in.
Toronto’s built so piss poorly.
What the F is JT Miller gonna do for Toronto. Your gonna out score your way to a cup.
Crock of posturing 💩
Toronto’s trying to use the media to get clubs selling of dman to lower the price or be willing to retain.
And Vancouver somehow trying to make it sound like they aren’t selling
What the F is Vancouver actually doing?
Bc im of the mind. They need a full rebuild. Why? Bc hughes is gonna leave as soon as he can to join his brothers.
And Peterson’s only gonna stay if Vancouver overpays for him.
Let’s be real. I don’t think Hughes or Petersson are gonna be in Vancouver any longer than their current deals.
What in actuality is Vancouver doing.
JT ain’t re-signing in Canada.
It’s all just posturing.
That’s why I’ve decided. I’m not talking trade rumors or nothing.
I’m gonna post during the games and that’s it.
I’m not defending my stances when GMs and clubs just flat out lie for posturing means and people use it to say ‘what are you talking about’
I’m above it. I know the gig. I know the skinny skinny of what’s going on.
Toronto going JT Miller. Hahahaha.
Go for it Dubas. Do it. Do it
Both Hughes and Petersson signed long term in Vancouver.
As far JT goes, Vancouver is not the kind of organization that is going to have big interest in Kravtsov, Jones, or Nils. The guys they are going to want are Cuylle, Othman, Schneider, and Robertson. If a JT Miller deal gets done, it’s going to include Robertson, and one if those forwards. For me, that’s too high a price.
If that is the case, move away from Canuckleheads in trying to get a deal done.
Robertson is almost untouchable for a short term rental is he will be very cheap for the next few years and have tremendous utility as another LD who can play PK.
Chytil, Jones, Nils etc have value but not for teams who already offensive Dmen. If the Ducks drop out and move Aharty and Fowler, need younger cheaper versions so Jones makes sense. Not wanting their 2 D mentioned, just saying there are teams that more sense than others.
actually Petterson only signed a 3yr deal so only two seasons left after this year. He said he wants to win, so not a sure thing he stays if vancouver is treading water.
With miller agree on current price and my guess is they’ll have a pretty good idea how likely JT is to stay in Vancouver and for what price by draft if they don’t already
JT wants to finish his career in pit. I am not saying it will happen for sure, but I guarantee that’s where he wants to be. The cost for Miller is too high when his contact is up he’s going to the puke pens.
It seems that the rest of the season is just for seeding positions in the East so you go with Igor in the 4 point game against the Pens. But I trust GG’s body of work. He’s made the right call more often than not.
I start Georgiev today. I doubt we score more than 1 or 2 goals against Jarry. Igor would probably need a shut out for our boys to pull out a victory.
Eli, unless they walk away from both Malkin and Letang and Rust, hard to see them being able to sign miller on anything but a very discounted deal
BDL, honestly if the cost was robertson and cullyle id probably make that deal and definitely if they had a way to keep him longterm. And if they did have such a way at any point couldn’t absolutely rule at Othman. His best case upside is likely the current version of Miller and could take him 5 to 6 years to get to that, which is fine in and of itself, but most GMs don’t have that long a shelf life
Petersson will be an RFA when his deal expires.
Good morning, Boneheads!
I wonder how many teams would prefer Lundkvist and Jones instead of Schneider and Robertson. Things changed. There were times when offensive/cap moving D were very difficult to find and would fetch an arm and a leg. There are much more of them now.
Reaves on Cindy: “He’s very superstitious — a little too superstitious for me..”
one word: Minxmares!
Pete,
I have no doubt that you would. You don’t appreciate the Cuylle, and Othman of the world like I do. I value them considerably more than you.
Ilb,
It depends on the teams.
Pete
I have to disagree the pens would find a way.
Beezle
I’m sick to my stomach already.
No assets for a JT Miller rental unless they are taking 50% of salary. And honestly not inclined to give up more than Nils or Jones, though fine if you toss in Chytil.
Not that it should be a major issue but JT Miller is actually older than Strome. His next contract is his last big one – why would he give NYR or anyone else a below market value deal?
St. Pete, if they listened to you they’d forfeit today’s game and send Fox to Pittsburgh at the same time for free. 😃
Beezle
I can hear it already honk honk honk let’s go pens ugh!
ilb
I am no longer rational when the pens are involved.
I know, BDL. But I think more teams are now looking for bigger, two-way guys. To make my previous point, Alex Goligoski brought back James Neal and Matt Niskanen
As of this moment, the NHL lists Shesterkin as a starter. Also, the game is on ABC today.
Pens have decisions to make on LeTang and Malkin after this season. They won’t get moved at the deadline. If they can get them to take pay cuts and stay they could fit JT under the cap. They also have Jason Zucker on LTIR. They may be making a Kane/Kucherov cap avoidance move with him, but, still have him on the books next season and also have Rust as a UFA to deal with and Jack Johnson’s dead cap space. Their ability to take on another large salary may be limited.
If it’s Igor he better toss a goose egg.
You play Shesty in a divisional game..those points are more important …and screw the Pens …it’s not 5 years ago
Miller is not a rental. If you trade for him he is on the books for $5.25 MM next season. Would the Pens keep him and let Malkin walk? They current have no cap space and have Zucker on LTIR to be compliant.
Close your eyes, St. Pete
There is a very high probability these two teams meet in the first round. This is an important game from many different points of view. Including home ice
I want to hang on to Cuylle and Othmann. Too early to move either of them. Certainly not for a rental player.
The only reason to even consider anything Pete suggested for Miller is if Vancouver retains 50% and they have him for two SC runs. Even then, I would exclude Schneider from that list and would only consider one of the three left as a centerpiece. The rest would have to be draft picks (including the first) and lesser prospects/NHL players.
Malkin, at 34, would be the Rangers best center not named Zibanejad right now. And probably at 35 too.
ilb
Agreed a very important game.
I think we have the grandkids over today so at least I will need to record the game and watch later.
I hate that f’ing horn!
Minx we need to send you in to sabotage their sound system and replace with more suitable material 😉
The horn is bush league, but fits perfect for bush league fans!
Beezle
If possible I would gladly do it. I hate the pens!
Malkin pretty already announced he will take less $ to stay in Pitt, and wouldn’t be surprised if Letang does too, tho maybe not as much of a haircut. They’ll have to trade Zucker to afford Rust, who’ll be looking for a deal in the $5-7m/yr range.
Don’t see JT taking much of a discount for anyone and his deal at lowest should start at $7m/yr. Pens can’t make that work without moving on from likely two of Rust, Malkin and Letang. Rangers could make that work, but would require cost cutting elsewhere for sure.
And sure Pens having been playing well, but they aren’t some unstoppable force and Jarry has been better, but also not nearly the goalie Igor is
I was mistaken about Hughes. Pettersson signed for 3 yrs. Hughes gave them 6.
I’m really surprised he signed a 6 year deal.
And BDL, yes pettersson will be RFA at the end of his deal but RFA in the vein of trouba, mattka, buchnevich, boeser, and laine.
High one year QO that leads directly into UFA.
The fact they have Hughes on a 6 yr deal changes the dynamic and complexion of the long term picture from a hard cliff in 3 yrs to having 4-5 years of Hughes in the fold.
From a Vancouver perspective 4-5 window now. Miller makes sense in it.
I don’t know the guy personally at all. But I’ve heard talk from people who have met him and ran into him that he would love to get to Pittsburgh. Pretty much his hometown team, was his favorite growing up. It was made pretty apparent through the national podcasts last year season when Vancouver had all that turmoil as the season ended, that Miller made it clear like deal me, I’m not re-signing here, deal me now.
You add in Canadian taxes, and all the Covid stuff Players in Canadian cities are adhering to and the talk around the league that players don’t want to sign or traded to play in Canada.
I don’t see how Rutherford gets Jt to re-sign without a max term, market value deal. And Vancouver can’t afford to lock him up at that kind of money.
If I’m Rutherford. I’m moving Miller, boeser, and Pearson.
Miller gets you prime assets to insert into the roster now and cap flexiblility, boeser gets you a lot of cap flexibility and 1st/2nd and a roster player/quality prospect, and Pearson adds even more cap flexibility. That gives Rutherford players via trade for Miller/boeser, and the cap space to take on salary in other trades or UFA deals
I’m re-signing horvat and I’m keeping garland.
I think anything to the contrary is just posturing.
BDL, Othman is in a very different class as Cullyle at the moment from everything i have seen/read. And while Cullyle likely can play a meaningful bottom 6 role for us as early as next year, if the goal is to win a Cup while Panarin, kreider and Mika are still in their relative primes, can’t hug a guy like Cullyle that tight for a player who is clearly better like Miller and also not a pure rental.
Othman would be harder to give up for Miller for sure, but for a center that is locked up for longer i again wouldnt hesitate given that is a far bigger need for the foreseeable future than another left wing whose prime is again 3-5 years away at earliest. And you know i’m not impatient as far as letting prospects develop, it’s all about us having no centers close to NHL ready for a few years, let alone someone who can immediately slot into the top 6 and play with Panarin
https://twitter.com/RickCarpiniello/status/1497584562863493120
JPP, makes all the sense for them to move miller if he has confirmed he won’t resign there, but don’t they would be ready to give up Petterson unless it’s a silly return. And if both Miller and Boeser are moved they will have the cap space to overpay to keep Petterson around even after paying Horvat (who they definitely should be keeping)
With Igor and the balance in the roster, they are in the playoff mix, but would not call them too 4 Cup Contenders. With all the money tied up in new deals starting next season, Dreary has limited flexibility.
The hope was the new additions along with maturing young players could accelerate the timeline for Cup contention.
The Habs proved last season anything can happen and usually does in the playoffs but am very wary of getting rid of Wild Will Culleye, Robertson and definitely not Schneider. These are foundational players that are inexpensive and provide tremendous value as bottom 4 pair and Bottom 6 forwards along with playing the right way.
Still believe a trade for a young center is necessary for cap flexibility and should be Dreary’s primary focus along with bottom 6 rentals for a hopeful run.
If the Rangers trade Will Cuylle, they will be searching for another Will Cuylle for the next 10 years. When you have them, you keep them.
SN,
Absolutely agree about trading got a young center.
Getting Schneider in the mix certainly changed their D view/landscape. We, the fans, were hoping it was the case. I want to think that Drury and Co knew that and weren’t just hoping. My point is, even though unexpected can happen, Drury and Co should know who at this point is more expendable, and who, if any, is untouchable. Sometimes the fans know they’re better talent evaluators than the professionals.
Getting a young center is a necessity, but this one is going to hurt.
You have your rental assets, and you have your term assets.
I think that Jones and Robertson become the main trade chips on D. Nils probably survives because he has been underwhelming.
As big of a JT Miller fan, not sure he gets them Over the hump. What he does add is more physicality than Stromeo which translates to the dot, the wall and alleviates some of the need (but not all) for the RW to be a Hunt type. He is also a lefty which helps the PP1 on the right dot and has flexibility to play middle or wing.
It allows Dreary to kick the can down the road for another season but leaves the same situation with a center playing with your top forward in his walk year and obviously also assets going the other way in the deal.
It does not address 3C and maybe The Big Red Barron is the answer there for a more defensively focused bottom 6.
Maybe the Rangers can get Gorton and Bobrov to take Hendriksson, Kravtsov, and Nils, for Anderson.
I like Miller as well. Root for him, and follow how he’s doing. Not interested in a second act.
Could they afford Anderson? Would also render Stromeo a goner??
Anderson’s cap hit is a bit too rich for a winger at the moment, at least until they settle the 2C situation.
I don’t know how much GG wants to mess with their PP1 unit considering its success.
“As we know, there are known knowns. There are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns. That is to say, we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns — the ones we don’t know we don’t know.”
Not sure if that was said by Drury, Dolan, or Rumsfeld
coos
So it’s still unknown who said it?
I don’t know.
anderson also seems to get hurt a lot unfortunately, so coupled with his salary (another 5yrs at $5.5), they’re better off staying away
BDL, are you projecting Cullyle to be more than a good 3rd liner? Fair enough if so, but think you’d be in minority. But if not, a good 2C is far more valuable long term and still likely more valuable for this team even for a couple of years given the ages of Kreider, Mika and Panarin.
BDL: I don’t know enough about Cuylle to evaluate your assertion but, it you change “Cuylle” to “Barron”, I think I’d agree. I’d hate to trade a guy like that for short-term gain.
Coos dropping a snowflake on the blog!
If you mean in the minority of the hobby prospect guys, you’d be correct, but certainly not in the minority of the true prospect guys. They see Cuylle as much more that a 4th liner.
And my thoughts on Cuylle are not about what line I project him to play on, but on the style that he plays. He’s a big, rugged player. The type that all teams search for.
A couple of things BW. You have to read full posts. Nobody here is looking to trade any of the big prospects for a rental/short term gain. And for some reason you think you are the only person here who likes Barron. There are at least a half dozen of us who have been touting Barron since he was a sophomore at the fall back university of people who want to go to Ivy schools 😁.
It is exactly why Cuylle was drafted big rugged player
yea i’ve seen good 3rd liner as his projected ceiling and realistically he may not be on our 3rd for a bit, unless Goodrow becomes a full time 4th liner next season or Blais is gone after next year. And or course he has to somehow leapfrog Hunty, McKegger and Gauthiery (sure Hunt will be kept around, but god help me if the latter two are here next year)
Not sure who Drury will wind up wheeling and dealing with but again I think we’ll be in the dark until it happens. No leaks in this ship
Has Pizza Boy wandered into a dark cellar at midnight, looking for a black cat that isn’t there as we root for him to find the cat?
Craps don’t look so good.
Subban needs a good, old school Rupping….
Igor in goal. I’m ready for the Go Time Post.
The initial organizational “blurbs” were eventual Kreider type replacement (not fast skater, but power forward). It’s as much about cap hits and drop off in on ice performance vs drop in $$$ at worst case (previous player scores 50 points at 7 million, new player scores 45 points at 3 million is a good trade off in value when it allows other $$$ to then go to other positions to strengthen them).
The other thing to bear in mind, incoming $$$ and salaries, depending on what they are, don’t just mean getting rid of the easily replaceable and very bad strome, but could also mean a guy like Lindgren or kakko being moved.
You have to be careful the $$$$ amounts brought in so you don’t adversely affect more than anticipated…I’m sure drury understands this better than many of us here.
Hunt is under contract next season at $750k FYI
I hate Subban…he’s garbage. What he did used to be the norm, it was disrespectful to score on the empty net from “close in”…I honestly would like to see more guys get smacked for doing it but that’s old school and it won’t happen…I still hate Subban and I hate the protecting of the perp the nhl does just as much.
Jamesgeau…for now
Hunt is a decent player but he’s not what they need on the 3rd line. However I think he is just fine to give Reaves a breather.
https://twitter.com/nyrangers/status/1497632830783901699?s=21
Yippee!
5th best law school in the Ivy League, BDL. And centrally isolated.
I’m not sure where you get the impression that I thought my advocacy of Barron is unique. I know you like Barron. Nevertheless, I do as well😉
Lindgren may well become a cap casualty at some point before his deal is up or they don’t resign him, but it’s one they should be able to absorb if other D continue to progress. Nothing wrong with getting good value of a player for a period of time and moving on, something Slats couldn’t accept, hence re-signing both Girardi (not the worst gamble, that ultimately didn’t work out) and staal (idiotic move at the time). Drury should be doing that with Strome this offseason and may well be the same for Lindgren
Unless Kakko has an absurd ask this offseason, me thinks we keep him around for relatively cheap on a 2 yr bridge deal. Doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be moved in the right deal, but don’t see him becoming a cap casualty in near term given his draft pedigree and organizational hope he starts to show more offensively (which would increase his trade value if nothing else)
My son is at the game today. 3 rows behind GG & the boys. Asked him if Shesty’s starting.
Pete
The example about kakko…it was referencing if you bring in a guy (as an example) that makes 7.5 mil per for 3 more years…
Strome is projected at between 5 and 6 (if not close to that they can’t afford him whether folks want him back or not) if he’s at 5.5, there’s an extra 2 mil to deal with of the incoming player.
That 2 mil is most likely in the form of one of two players Lindgren or kakko because guys like Chytil and nemeth most likely are already having to be moved on for other more simple and straight forward cap adjustments for next season.
No one thinks kakko is getting 6 mil per, personally I’ve repeatedly said I expect him in the Chytil dollar range on a bridge deal…just a guess on my part.
That also doesn’t change the $$$ fact of a guy being brought in at $7.5 or so not only means a strome departure but indeed a most likely departure of kakko or Lindgren as well…which was the only point I was making.
just saying i disagree that kakko would be moved if they acquired a new center for that price (assuming he wasn’t part of the trade).
If there was a need to clear immediate cap space for next season then as you say they first cut bait with Georgie, Nemeth, Chytil as you say, but then Rooney, Blais, Reaves.
If the concern is for two years out and beyond then you look to Lindgren or Goodrow before Kakko
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