Chad Johnson Down, Matt Zaba Up

In addition to sending defenseman Matt Gilroy down to Hartford (AHL) earlier this afternoon, the Rangers have also sent down goaltender Chad Johnson to the Wolf Pack, where he will see some game action tomorrow night as per Andrew Gross of Ranger Rants. It has been about two weeks since Steve Valiquette was placed on waivers, which was the exact same time Johnson was brought up to fill his role. With this, Johnson has not been in goal other than in practice, and at a young age General Managers must get these kids the most possible playing time, which is what is being done here.

So the Pack play Friday night, and then it is likely that Johnson is again recalled to serve as Henrik Lundqvist's back-up on Saturday when the Blueshirts host the Sabres at Madison Square Garden. However, Glen Sather needs to make a move for a veteran back-up now, as Johnson nor Zaba should be up and down like this for the remainder of the season. That is just inconvenient and will end up having a negative effect on their play.

Like I said this afternoon, sending Matt Gilroy down eliminates some cap money and provides for some wiggle room for New York. It has not been said how long Gilroy will stay with Hartford, but if it is a long time, I would imagine the available money would go towards a back-up netminder.

More Later....
(Image courtesy of AP Photo)