Dubinsky Update, Higgins Hits the Stage

So it seems that all the attention is not on Nikolai Zherdev, who's arbitration hearing was held earlier today. (See Below Post) The New York Post learned a bit more information on the Dubinsky front today. We were told earlier in the month that Dubinsky rejected his qualifying offer, but not much was released since then. Today, The Post found out that Sather and Dubisnky's agent have been talking often lately:

"The Post has learned the team is in conversations with Dubinsky's representative regarding contracts of varying lengths, though neither party would characterize the state of the discussions that will accelerate upon the conclusion of Zherdev's final 96 hours."

As I have stated before, I feel Dubi will be signed once the whole Zherdev thing is settled, but until then, it is still up in the air. Read my post on Dubi from last week HERE.

Also, newly acquired Ranger, Chris Higgins participated in the 12 Angry Mascots Show at Comix Comedy Club last night. The Blueshirt Banter was there, and interviewed him after the show. I highly recommend reading the interview. Here is a portion of what Higgins had to say on stage, courtesy of Blueshirt Banter:

"Anyway onto Higgins: During the show he admitted to only having met two Rangers in person—Avery and Voros. Also in the interview—which is below the jump—Higgins also said he hasn’t met Tortorella yet but they have spoken on the phone. He also said that Lundqvist was the best goalie in the league and they would always have a shot with him in the pipes."

Make sure to check out my post about Zherdev's arbitration hearing (below) that I posted earlier in the day, if you have not done so just yet.
(Image courtesy of AP Photo)

Zherdev's Day Has Finally Come

The long awaited day has finally come, the day in which Nikolai Zherdev's arbitration hearing will take place in Toronto, Ontario. A lot has happened leading up to this event, and the drama and suspense has done nothing but increase vastly. Zherdev tied for the team lead in points scored (58), as he registered 23 goals and 35 assists in 82 games played with the Rangers last season. Based on his play early on last season, the 24 year-old winger was on pace to score more than just 23 goals. Nik led the team in most categories in the month of November, but then once the All-Star break came in January, Zherdev seemed lost out there. Z had several long stretches where he couldn't net a goal, or even record a point. When fans thought Nik was at his all-time worst after the second half of the regular season, they were taken by surprise when matters got even more awful, as the young Russian did not obtain a single point in the seven game playoff series with the Washington Capitals.

The decline of Zherdev's game picked up speed once Tom Renney was replaced by current head coach, John Tortorella. It seemed as if Zherdev was just not meant to play under a "Torts" type coach, because Nik just was not himself on the ice. Tortorella recognized Zherdev's fall, the lack of effort, and the one-dimensional play Nik was bringing to the ice, so he benched him for two whole periods late in the regular season. Well, that didn't help even the slightest bit, the action just made matters worse. Zherdev and Tortorella are not made for each other, as they hold polar-opposite personalities.

So just to recap what has happened so far this summer as far as Zherdev goes; We learned that Zherdev received a qualifying offer of $3.25 million from Glen Sather and the Rangers in late June. Then, in early July, a Russian article was translated and quoted Zherdev on saying that he felt he wanted to come back to the Rangers, but he also wanted around $4 million. From there, another Russian interview had Nikolai saying that he felt Renney had more trust in him than Tortorella did. All was quiet after the Russian interviews, until early this week, we found out that Zherdev and his agent, Roland Hedges, put in a bid of $4.5 million for his arbitration hearing which takes place today.

Here is the order of events that will take place from now until a decision is made on the final salary for Zherdev, and the options the Blueshirts and Nik will have. The arbitration hearing will take place sometime today in Toronto, ON, Canada. The Rangers will send a representative and Zherdev will be present with his agent. The arbitrator will listen to both cases, and consider the bid each party puts in. Once the actual hearing is complete, the arbitrator has 48 hours to make a decision on a final salary for Zherdev. After the arbitrator sets the salary, the Rangers have 48 hours to consider the option to reject the amount and allow Zherdev to become a UFA, accept and sign Zherdev to a contract, or accept and sign Zherdev and then eventually trade him for something in return. If the Rangers reject the arbitrator's set amount, and Zherdev becomes an un-restricted free agent, then Nik and his agent have the right to talk to any team in the league to try and negotiate a deal, or Nik can always make the move toward the KHL, where he comes from.

In my opinion, anything over $4 million is too expensive for a one-dimensional player like Zherdev right now, and the Rangers will end up rejecting the offer if that is the case. If Zherdev is awarded anything under $4 million, but higher than $3.25 million, Glen Sather and the Blueshirt Brass will most likely consider signing, and then trading Zherdev for something in return. If Zherdev is awarded $3.25 million, then the Rangers will likely sign him, as that is the amount the qualified him at, but that is very doubtful.

So the options are wide open right now, but the arbitrator's final decision, which we will find out anywhere between today and early next week, will change that. I would love to have Zherdev on this team, as he is great depth scoring, but at $4.5 million it will be impossible to fit the Russian into the lineup. This promises to be a very interesting situation, but I feel that after this is all settled, Glen Sather will be making any last moves he wishes to before camp begins in September.

(Image courtesy of AP Photo)

Around the NHL: Sergei Zubov to KHL

The 39 year-old former Ranger defenseman, who was a part of the 1994 Stanley Cup Championship team, has decided, like many others, to make a move to play overseas, in the KHL. TSN reports that Zubov signed with SKA St. Petersburg.

The Moscow native played 16 years in the NHL, after being drafted by the Rangers in the 1990 NHL Entry draft. Twelve of Sergei's 16 seasons were spent with the Dallas Stars, who he also captured a Stanley Cup with in 1999. Zubov was one of the superior puck-moving defensemen in the league during the earlier years of his career. His game has obviously slowed since then, and he only played in 10 games in the 2008-09 season, due to hip surgery. Sergei was rumored to be coming back to the Rangers at one point this summer, but that is clearly not possible now.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Cablevision to Spin Off MSG

Bloomberg.com is reporting that Cablevision Systems Corporation has announced their official split off Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks, and the New York Rangers today. I will make it clear that this does not mean that James Dolan is selling the Rangers, as some false reports have stated. Dolan continues to hold ownership of the team, it is just that it becomes its own seperate company in a sense.

Here is the quote from Bloomberg.com:

"Cablevision Systems Corp. said today it will spin off its Madison Square Garden assets, including the New York Knicks basketball team and Radio City Music Hall, sending the stock up as much as 14 percent.

Cablevision Chief Executive Officer James Dolan will become executive chairman of Madison Square Garden and keep his role as head of the New York-area cable-television provider, the company said today in a statement. Hank Ratner will lead Madison Square Garden."

THN Sets Rangers Lines for 2009-10

In the most recent recent edition of The Hockey News, there was a section devoted to predicting all thirty NHL team's lineups. Here is what they had as far as the Rangers go:

S. Avery - B. Dubinsky - M. Gaborik
C. Higgins - C. Drury - N. Zherdev
A. Kotalik - A. Anisimov - Ryan Callahan
D. Brashear - T. Arnason - P-A Parenteau

M. Staal - D. Girardi
M. Rozsival - W. Redden
M. Gilroy - B. Sanguinetti

H. Lundqvist
S. Valiquette

Alright, I will start with the offense, as that is where I notice the major problems. I agree with the Gaborik and Dubinsky pairing, but I do not think that Sean Avery will be the winger on that line. I would maybe lean more towards placing Callahan there instead. Now, if you look on the second line, you notice that Nikolai Zherdev is on the left wing. Well, it seems doubtful that we will keep Zherdev, simply because he will be too expensive. Now don't get me wrong, I would love to have Nik back, but he will be too much money for Slats to fit him in. If we were to miraculously keep Zherdev, then he is also a great option for the first wing, opposite Gaborik. Also, I believe that Drury will be playing with Kotalik, as they had decent chemistry beck in their Buffalo years together. Finally, the fourth line. I do not see Arnason and Parenteau making the team, but I do see Byers and Boyle obtaining those two fourth line spots, along with Brashear.

As far as the back end of the lineup goes, I have no problems. Gilroy will most likely be a definite for making the sixth pairing, and then Del Zotto and Sanguinetti will fight for that last spot on the blueline. Training Camp and pre-season will determine who gets the gig. Staal and Girardi should be played together for sure, as they were stellar in the playoffs, going against Washington's top line.

And then obviously Henrik Lundqvist and Steve Valiquette in goal. There are no ifs, ands or, buts about that.

So Hockey News, in my opinion, made the most mistakes when laying out the offense, but besides that, they were pretty spot on.

My Rangers Third Jersey Design

You may have noticed that as the summer gets older, the hockey news gets much slower. There has been talk, however, about the Blueshirts bringing back the third jersey, so for lack of a better thing to do, I created my very own third jersey design for the Rangers.

The third jerseys were done away with once the NHL switched to all Reebok sweaters two years ago, but just last year, teams started to bring them back. I have a feeling that the entire NHL will eventually add an alternate jersey to their arsenal, and that could happen within the next two seasons. If the Rangers were to bring the alternates back, they should let Sean Avery design it, he is a fashion professional after all. So without further or do, here is my third Jersey Design, which was also featured on the Manic Ranger (second jersey):

It is basically the current version of the former Navy Blue Liberty Jersey that the Rangers wore back in the day. I also wouldn't mind this design in a white jersey, because I was one of very few fans of the white liberty jerseys. Comment and tell me what you think.

Rangers Represented Well on USA U20 Team, Grachev?

Beyond the Blueshirts reported today, that Rangers prospects Derek Stepan, Chris Kreider, and Ryan Bourque were all invited to be a part of a four game series between the Russian Under 20 team and the USA Under 20 team. The series will take place next month in Lake Placid. Ryan Bourque has been a part of the USA team once before, but this is a first for Kreider and Stepan.

Another storyline, which is a bit alarming, is that Blueshirts prospect, Evgeny Grachev was not invited to the team Russia camp. Grachev's absence on the invite list is certainly not because Team Russia did not consider him, but it could be one of two other factors; Either the Rangers believe Evgeny has a good shot at making the NHL roster this season and they don't want to risk injury, or it is because of the concussion that kept Grachev out of his last two OHL playoff games last season. We did find out that Grachev sat out in the final day of development Camp earlier in the month because of an injury, but it was not specified if the two were related.

(Photo courtesy of teamusa.org)

Joel Lundqvist to Sweden

Steve Zipay at Blue Notes is reporting that Henrik Lundqvist's identical twin, Joel, has signed a contract with the Swedish Elite team, Frolunda. Henrik and Joel played on that very team before making the move to the NHL. Joel registered 7 goals and 19 assists for 26 points in his three year NHL career with the Dallas Stars. Obviously the Blueshirts got the better of the two brothers.
(Sent from my BlackBerry)

Rangers Sign Sam Klassen

The Rangers have added to their depth of prospect defensemen today, by agreeing to terms with Sam Klassen of the Western Hockey League. Klassen, 20, scored two goals and 18 assists for 20 points in 72 games played with the Saskatoon Blades last season. Klassen has pretty good size to him as well, with his 6-2, 200 pound frame.

ISS Scouting Report per Zipay:
"A late bloomer who plays both ends of the ice very well. Has impressed ISS scouts with his play. Developing into a very good two-way defenseman. Currently the Saskatoon Blades top pairing and plays against the other team's top line on a regular basis."

Klassen did take part in the Rangers Development Camp earlier this month, and must have caught the eyes of coaches, and Glen Sather. Sam is a defensive-defensemen and is not afraid to drop the gloves. Overall, I am liking all these signings of prospect defensemen, and we will have a great blueline down in Hartford for years to come.
(Photo courtesy of Liam Richards)

Zherdev Submits Arbitration Bid: $4.5 Million

Reports are coming out of the New York Post that Ranger RFA, Nikolai Zherdev and his agent, Roland Hedges, have submitted a bid of $4.5 million in his arbitration hearing which takes place on this coming Friday. So this means that Zherdev believes he deserves something along the lines of $4.5 million per year. The bid is also a tell-tale sign that the 24 year-old winger also feels that he is a much better player than he actually has proven.

Let me put this in perspective for you. Zherdev registered 23 goals and 35 assists for 58 points with the Rangers last season. Nik went on to contribute a grand total of zero points in the Blueshirts' seven playoff games. For this, Nik is convinced that he deserves four and a half million per season. A player that scores under 60 points, gives a half effort every night, and posts a goose egg for the playoffs dos not deserve over $4 million. Phil Kessel of the Boston Bruins, who seems like he will be going to another team, is expected to get a contract paying him somewhere between $4.5 and $5 million. The difference between Nik and Phil is that Kessel scored 36 goals last season (13 more than Zherdev), and registered 11 points in only 4 more playoff games than Zherdev.

The Rangers are yet to submit their bid of what they think the Russian youngster should be paid, but I am expecting something between $3.25 milion and $3.75 million. Sather realizes that he does not need Nik on this team, therefore there is no reason to overpay for him. If arbitration lands Zherdev anything below four, there is a chance that the Blueshirts can sign, and then trade him. If arbitration awards Zherdev what he wants, then I expect Sather to walk and move on.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Rangers Current Cap Situation (UPDATE- Full Roster)

So I have been doing a little research, looking into the cap hits that the players under contract bring along with them for the 2009-10 season. NHL Numbers has played a big part in my research, and is a fantastic tool for fans to get an outlook of current Cap situations for all NHL teams. I did just that for the Blueshirts, and found out that with the current players we have under contract, we are paying a total of $47.9 million, which puts us at $8.9 million under the cap. Here are the players under contract along with their cap hits:

Gaborik- 7.5
Drury- 7.05
Kotalik- 3
Callahan- 2.3
Higgins- 2.25
Avery- 1.94
Brashear- 1.4
Voros- 1
Arnason- TBA
Lisin- .790
Redden- 6.5
Rozsival- 4
Girardi- 1.6
Staal- .830
Lundqvist- 6.88
Valiquette- .725
--------------------
Total Cap: 47.9
Cap Space: 8.89

Just something to look at for the weekend, but keep in mind, this is without any of our third paring defensemen, Dubinsky, Zherdev, Anisimov, fourth liners on the NHL roster. So that is about eight or nine positions that need to be filled with the remaining cap space.

UPDATE: Took my research a bit farther using Cap Geek, a tool that allows you too add/subtract players to the roster with their cap hits and more. So this tool is taking Cap Calculating to the next level.

Here is Cap Geek's Calculation of the below roster. I gave Dubinsky $2 million, as he will probably get something around there. (Cap Geek Automatically made the lines, that is not my doing)

FORWARDS
Marian Gaborik ($7.500m) / Chris Drury ($7.050m) / Ales Kotalik ($3.000m)
Ryan Callahan ($2.300m) / Chris Higgins ($2.250m) / * Brandon Dubinsky ($2.000m)
Sean Avery ($1.938m) / Donald Brashear ($1.400m) / Artem Anisimov ($0.822m)
Enver Lisin ($0.790m) / Brian Boyle ($0.525m) / Dane Byers ($0.500m)
DEFENSEMEN
Wade Redden ($6.500m) / Michal Rozsival ($5.000m)
Matt Gilroy ($1.750m) / Daniel Girardi ($1.550m)
Bobby Sanguinetti ($0.855m) / Marc Staal ($0.827m)
GOALTENDERS
Henrik Lundqvist ($6.875m) / Steve Valiquette ($0.725m)

ROSTER: 20; PAYROLL: $54.156m; CAP ROOM: $2.644m

Morris Signs With the Bruins

TSN is reporting that former Ranger defenseman, Derek Morris has signed a one year/$3.3 million contract with the Boston Bruins. Derek came over to the Rangers at the trade deadline, when Glen Sather sent Nigel Dawes, Petr Prucha, and Dmitri Kalinin to the Phoenix Coyotes. Morris registered 5 goals and 15 assists for 20 points in 75 games played last season. That would be considered below-par for Morris, but I still believe that Morris was pretty solid here in New York, and was a big help in the Blueshirt's playoff push.

It makes sense that the Bruins would sign Morris, as they traded away another former Ranger defenseman, Aaron Ward to the Carolina Hurricanes earlier on Friday. They are still in a bit of a cap dilemma, and need to make another move, but we will see.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

About that First Line Center...

After the trading of Scott Gomez, and the acquisition of Marian Gaborik, the question of who will be centering the first line came up, and a lot of debate came along with it. As of now, we have Chris Drury and Brandon Dubinsky (RFA) who are Tortorella's options for the first line center position, in my opinion anyway. The suggestion of starting Artem Anisimov on the first line was also presented by some, but I believe that Artem needs to earn that rank by playing on the third line for half the season at minimum, and show that he can compete at the NHL level like he did with the Wolf Pack.

Then comes the majority of the Blueshirt Faithful that feel Glen Sather needs to show off his trading talent by bringing in an accomplished center that way. From what I have heard, the Rangers have had talks with the Dallas Stars regarding 29 year-old center, Brad Richards. Richards recorded 16 goals and 32 assists for 48 points in 56 games played with the Dallas Stars last season. Based on that, you can tell that Brad's game is playmaking, and that is what the Rangers lost in Gomez, and possibly now Zherdev. If Richards played the full season last year, he was on pace to scoring somewhere between 20-25 goals and 50-55 assists, landing him around 70 points on the season. That is a decent improvement from Gomez, maybe not worth his 7.8 cap hit, but it is not horrendous. Plus, those numbers would inflate a bit when playing with Gaborik.

As far as making a deal for Richards, it was rumored that the Blueshirts had either Redden or Rozsival on the table, plus a prospect and a pick, maybe more/less. The fact that Slats had conversations with the Stars was confirmed by sources close to the Rangers, but what has not been confirmed is that it is a done deal. As I have stated before, my feeling is that all talk is on hold until the Zherdev situation is over, because Nik could become a key trading component, and maybe that is what Dallas wants.

Another player that was brought up as a possibility is Marc Savard of the Boston Bruins. The Bruins are currently in a Cap Dilemma and are looking to shed some salary. Getting rid of Savard would dump salary, but who would we have that they want that wouldn't be adding the salary back on? Noone.

So my thoughts are this. If Sather cannot find a way to trade for a first line center in a good deal that meant getting rid of Rozsival/Redden, then just let Dubinsky (once he is signed) play with Gaborik for this year, as that will help develop his game big time, and also let all the new rookies have a season under their belt, and then make a run for Savard or someone like him in free agency next summer. We are not making a legitimate run at the cup this season, so there is no reason to rush the process. Plus, you could always experiment with the players we have now, and then make a move at the trade deadline. But once again, I don't think that anything is happening until Zherdev's situation is settled in arbitration, which is next week.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Construction Day

I have decided to give the Rangers Tribune a bit of a makeover, so I will be trying some different things on the site today. Don't be surprised if you see some changes that appear and disappear, as I am just trying some things out. Just thought I would keep readers in the loop.

Thanks for your cooperation.

Avery Makes a Fashion Statement

Women's Wear Daily reports that Rangers forward, Sean Avery has signed a one-year contract with Common Wealth Utilities, agreeing to serve as a design collaborator and marketing pitchman for the New York-based men’s wear label. Avery mentioned that he likes the clothing line, and wants to learn more about the industry.

Read the full article at Women's Wear Daily: http://www.wwd.com/wwd-publications/wwd/2009-07-23?id=2218689&date=today#/article/menswear-news/ranger-sean-avery-joins-commonwealth-utilities-2219058?navSection=issues&navId=2218689

(Photo courtesy of topnews.in)

Roenick: "Chelios Wants to Play in New York"

Jeromy Roenick has put his well known big mouth to use once again, this time informing the media that Chris Chelios wants to play for the New York Rangers and Glen Sather. Here is the quote:

"Chelly wants to play until he's 50," Roenick said. "Chelly wants to play in New York, for the Rangers and Glen Sather. And I'll tell you this: No person had a bigger effect on my career."

Chelios, 47, filled the role of seventh defenseman for the Detroit Red Wings in the last two seasons. In 2008-09, Chelios only played in 28 games in the regular season, and six in the playoffs. It is a great accomplishment to be able to play a sport even at such an old age like Chris does, but the Rangers are in the process of a youth movement, and Chelios would not fit well in the lineup. Chelios is a great leader and personalityto have in the locker room, but that is about it. Chris' days are limited, and I don't believe that the fans of New York want to see those limited days spent here in New York.

Rangers have plenty of defensive depth in Del Zotto, Sanguinetti, McDonagh, Potter, Sauer, and Gilroy. So there is really no need to add a player that is way past his prime to the lineup. Thanks, but no thanks, Chris.
(Image courtesy of AP Photo)

What About Dubinsky?

Ryan Callahan, Christopher Higgins, Enver Lisin, Brian Boyle, Dane Byers, Corey Potter are among the numerous Ranger Restricted Free Agents that have already received contracts and have been re-signed by General Manager Glen Sather. Take notice that 23 year-old center, Brandon Dubinsy is not mentioned within that list. Obviously, this is because he has yet to be re-signed as an RFA, and suspicion has begun to grow.

After yesterday's signing of Enver Lisin, many began to worry why Dubi has yet to be re-signed by the Blueshirts. Well, I will present you with the most realistic situation to try and explain this puzzling situation. Dubinsky and his agent realize that the team needs a center to play with Gaborik, and Drury is not the favorite for that position, and that coming straight from Tortorella's mouth. They are also cognizant of the fact that Dubi's availability is always asked by General Managers when talking trade with Glen Sather, mainly because of the bulky potential and expectations that Brandon carries along with him. With all that said, Dubinsky and his agent are probably looking to make a bargain here and cash out for more than Sather would like. We know that Dubinsky rejected his qualifying offer, which is common among RFAs, but this has been on-going since then, and I believe that the Ryan Callahan contract changed the direction of conversation that Dubi's agent and Slats were having. Many will say, "Well how does a 41 point scorer bargain for a high-paying contract?". This is how.

Another situation, which is total speculation, is if Glen Sather was holding out to re-sign Brandon, and waiting for the Zherdev situation to be completed. If Sather ends up signing Zherdev and needs to trade him, which is likely to happen, Slats can then have a solid package of Zherdev and Dubinsky to ship away for a number one center in return. Slats would have a solid foundation for a trade with Dubi and Zherdev, and he would build on it from there, based on what the specific team's asking price was. This move would leave us with a decent center to compliment Gaborik, and it has been rumored that the Blueshirts were in search of just that.

Situation one, where Dubi and his agent try to cash out is the much more likely one. Sather has made a clear youth movement based on the moves he made, and I doubt he will go and trade one of our better youngsters that is talked so highly upon withing the organization. Dubinsky is a big part of this team's future plans, and Tortorella knows that, and always explains his liking for Brandon's game, and how he will turn him into the player he is expected to be. Yet another reason to keep him here.

In the end, Dubinsky will most likely be re-signed, and playing in a Ranger uniform next season. Worst comes to worse, another team gives Brandon an offer sheet, and Slats has to match/top it, but that is even doubtful. If Dubinsky was traded like my pure speculated theory above, the Blueshirt faithful would be irate, so I don't see that happening, just projecting a possible scenario. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Rangers Sign Lisin

Enver Lisin, 23, was acquired in a trade last Monday that sent forward Lauri Korpikoski to the Phoenix Coyotes. Lisin scored 13 goals and 8 assists for 21 points in 48 games played with the 'Yotes last season. Lisin has a lot of offensive potential as he is one the faster players in the game, but lacks effort in the defensive zone. I expect Enver to make the Ranger roster out of camp this season.

For more on Lisin, read last Monday's Post: http://www.rangerstribune.com/2009/07/more-on-enver-lisin.html

"Z" Situation Heats Up, Everything on Hold

The Nikolai Zherdev situation is beginning to become of the more intriguing stories in the NHL right now. You could say this is because nothing else is going on, or it is possibly because how it has become an on-going drama. Just to re-cap: The 24 year-old right wing was qualified at $3.25 million in late June by General Manager Glen Sather. We were then notified that Nik elected to take the Rangers to salary arbitration. Zherdev's agent made some comments regarding the situation, but it wasn't until a few days ago where Nik actually came out and spoke about it.

A fellow Ranger beat writer translated an interview that Zherdev had with the Russian Press. In it, Nik mentioned that he and his agent feel he deserves more than the qualifying offer ($3.25 million) that was received, and when asked about it having to do with coach Tortorella, Zherdev stated that he would not like to accuse people falsely, but he believes that Tom Renney had more trust in him than Torts ever did. Some fairly strong statements made by the youngster. Nik went on to say that he is looking for a 3-4 year contract.

I know this is a drawn out story, and some fans don't want to hear about it anymore, but what has come out lately means two things to me. First, that Zherdev will not be a Ranger next season, and secondly, that any deal Sather has in mind is on hiatus until this on-going Zherdev saga is settled in arbitration.

There has been much talk that the Blueshirts will make a move in acquiring Brad Richards as a first line center. Torts loved Brad while coaching Tampa, and Richards was Avery's only friend during Aves' short time with Dallas. Anyway, this move will not be possible until Zherdev's case is put to rest, because it will determine whether Sather will sign Zherdev and trade him, or if Nik becomes a UFA and frees up salary space for Slats to trade one of Redden/Rozsival to take in the $7.8 million cap hit of Brad Richards.

As a reminder, Zherdev's arbitration hearing will take place on Friday, July 31st.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Torts Sends Clear Messages, "Shut Up and Play"

Who better to start off the week talking about than John Tortorella? Torts has been active with the media as of late, touching upon some subjects that fans find compelling. Personally, I think Torts has been saying all of the right things, what fans want to hear, much unlike Renney did in his stint with New York. Overall, though, Tortorella's messages are revolved around mental toughness, and how this team cannot be soft thinkers. Here is a look at some of the topics Torts talked about over the last couple days.

Tortorella on Donald Brashear (NY Post): "I don't agree at all with what happened with Blair Betts. We all know that was wrong," Tortorella said of the blind-side hit to the head from the then-Washington winger that concussed the now former Rangers center and broke his orbital bone. "But . . . but . . . you also have to understand the situation that we're in now where we're looking to make changes on the hockey club and believe that Donald has a unique presence that will help us.

"I don't condone anyone trying to hurt another player. I don't know that's what happened with Bettsy, but if I ever think that Donald is trying to injure someone while he plays for the Rangers, that will be addressed.

"Things happen in hockey. We have to block out what happened to Blair Betts. The organization has to block it out," Tortorella said. "If any of our guys have an issue with Donald, then settle it like men, because they are going to be teammates and they are going to have to respect each other."

"I think Donald is a good enough skater that we'll be able to move him up and down our lineup depending on game situations," the head coach said. "He's an intimidating force with good enough hockey sense, who knows how to play on the defensive side of the puck.

"He's going to bring a certain demeanor to our team that we need a lot more of. We were too non-descript last year. I don't want a team that's non-descript. I want a team that has personality."

Tortorella on Team's Toughness (Newsday): "The time of trying to maneuver and whine behind people's backs is over," Tortorella told me this week. "Shut up and play."

Drury's reaction: "We're a soft team," he said. "I don't think we're physical enough on the ice, and I think [the players] want to have a say in what we do. And it's got to change. It's a disease if you let it go on."

"I think all the guys that are left appreciate what coach Tortorella wants to do," Drury said. He also knows what's coming in September. "Just from what I've been reading, I think this training camp is going to test us mentally and physically like we've never been tested before."
-----------------------------------------------------------
As you can see, Tortorella is not holding back from saying ANYTHING to these players. The head coach's messages are sharp and clear, leaving no questions from anyone. Players now know what is expected of them when they hit the ice in Camp in September.

I like that Torts addressed the whole "Brashear thing" the way he did, basically saying that players have to get over what Donald did to Betts, and learn to respect him as a teammate. Also, Tortorella made it clear that he will not stand for Brashear taking any of his usual cheap shots on opponents.

These are some of the best quotes from a Ranger Coach since Herb Brooks. "Shut up and play", gotta love it! Looking forward to the 09/10 post-game press conferences.
(Image courtesy of AP Photo)

Dull Weekend, Another Video

As expected, this weekend has been dead as far as hockey news goes, and will probably get even slower as we approach the month of August. Being that nothing else is going on, I am taking advantage of my discovery of how to embed YouTube videos onto the blog, and posting a video "previewing" what is to come from the Rangers newly acquired star, Marian Gaborik. (Video courtesy of LoFFen1987)

Hockey's Finest- Brandon Dubinsky Video

Just a video that I found Interesting and thought I should share with my readers on this Saturday, which probably will not hold much hockey news. Great video, now get Dubi re-signed! He is a great leader all around, and shows heart in every game, just as teammate Ryan Callahan. Both of these players should be Blueshirts for a very long time.

Shanny to Make a Return to the Blueshirts?

I have been following a rumor lately about the possibility of free agent Brendan Shanahan returning to the Rangers this season. I did not post it up because it was a weak rumor, but it has come to my attention that the rumor is in fact strong, as some other beat writers have mentioned about it.

You may remember that during the last season Shanahan signing in New York was labeled "imminent" by many, but nothing ended up happening between Shanny and Slats. Well, I was suprised to find out today that Shanahan did not want to come back to the Rangers because Renney did not want him here. In his exit interview, Renney did mention, however, that the one thing he regrets is not pushing Sather to re-sign Jagr and Shanahan. From what I am hearing today, that statement from Renney is obviously false. Now that Renney is gone, Sather has made a push to bring 'ol Shanny back.

Anyway, the veteran winger ended signing with the New Jersey Devils for one year at $800,000. Shanahan, 40, scored six goals and eight assists for 14 points in 34 games played last season with the Devs. I will admit that I was a big Shanahan fan while he was in New York, and that I would have no problem accepting him back on this team, as long as he is payed around $800,000 again, and doesn't play anything more than third/fourth line and special teams.

Many fans do not want Shanny back, and I can understand why. He is up there in age and is getting slower, but I don't think it hurts to play him on the fourth/third line and the powerplay, especially for that price. Brendan is a legitimate leader, and that factors in greatly as well.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Nigel Williams, Addition to Very Bright Future

Basically this trade adds to our depth of up and coming defensive prospects, as newly acquired Nigel Williams has a lot of potential from what have I read. Hockey's Future had him as one of the top Avalanche prospects. Here is another Hockey's Future analysis on the 6-2, 226 pound defenseman.

"Williams possesses a big 6'4 225 lb frame. He has unusually good puck-handling and skating skills for a player of his size."

I said it the other night when we traded for Lisin, and I will say it again tonight; Slats is in the process of building one of the better farm systems in the league. Sather is really pulling out his bag of tricks to trade for some of the top prospects in the game. Lisin and Williams are both top end prospects that add to the Rangers pool of youngsters with potential. I will go as far as calling this somewhat of a re-build. We relieved ourselves of Gomez, brought in a top scorer, and then have traded lack-luster prospects for players that will be superior players in the NHL in years to come, and will be bringing up some prospects to play on the NHL roster this season. The Blueshirts have a very good future ahead of them.

If things go as planned, it is safe to say that the Rangers will have one of the best defenses in the league in a few years. We already have Marc Staal and Dan Girardi excelling in the NHL, and then have "top six" potential defensemen in Sanguinetti, Del Zotto, Gilroy, Sauer, and now Williams.

(Photo courtesy of THN)

Fahey Traded for Williams/ Gaborik to Wear 10

Hartford Wolfpack defenseman Brian Fahey was traded to the Colorado Avalanche today for defenseman Nigel Williams. Williams was drafted 51st overall by Colorado in 2006. The 21 year-old defenseman(6-4, 226 pounds) recorded 7 goals and 14 assists for 21 points in the AHL last season.

Also, it was confirmed that newly acquired winger, Marian Gaborik will be wearing the number 10 with the Blueshirts.

Sullivan Confirmed

Read my earlier post: http://www.rangerstribune.com/2009/07/sullivan-to-join-coaching-staff-next.html

Cherepanov Case Ruled an Accident

According to an article released by the Associated Press this morning, the death of Rangers former first round pick, Alexei Cherepanov was indeed an accident, as there was already an existing disease in his heart that was not known until after the tragedy. With that said, team doctors of Avangard Omsk will not be held accountable for the accident, as there was no way they could have known. Here is a quote from the actual article:

"Cherepanov, a first-round New York Rangers draft pick in 2007, died after collapsing on the bench during an Oct. 13 game in Chekhov, a small city outside Moscow. Authorities say an autopsy showed he suffered from myocarditis, a condition that obstructed blood flow to his heart and other organs.

Investigators questioned Avangard's players, coach and doctors as well as other medical specialists after Cherepanov's parents suggested team doctors were negligent in allowing him to play hockey, the Investigative Committee said in a statement.

But doctors had no way of knowing about Cherepanov's condition, according to the statement — which seemed to lay more blame on Cherepanov than anyone else."

It is good to hear that this case is finally closed, and that the doctors are not at fault for what happen, but nothing can relieve family, friends, and us fans of the pain when thinking of the tragic death. Alexei would have been a superior player in this league, and it is a real shame his life was taken from him at such a young age.

R.I.P. Alexei

(Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Sun)

Sullivan to Join the Coaching Staff Next Season

It was mentioned earlier this year when Torts first came to New York, that he wanted his assistant coach from Tampa Bay, Mike Sullivan, to be part of his coaching staff here in New York. Sullivan was not allowed to come to the Rangers at the time, mainly because he was still the assistant coach of the Lightning. The official announcement confirming that Sullivan will be assisting Tortorella with the coaching duties of the Blueshirts in 09-10 is expected to come tomorrow. Sullivan played hockey at Boston University and then was drafted by the Rangers in 1987. Mike played in the NHL for 11 seasons.

As you know, Tortorella does not like more than two coaches on the bench at a time, so that means interim assistant coach, Jim Schoenfeld, will return to his main job as assistant General Manager. I felt like Schoenfeld did a solid job during his temporary position as assistant coach, and handled the defense well.

Sullivan

2009-10 Rangers Regular Season Schedule

Here is the entire New York Rangers 2009-10 Season Schedule. Camp opens on September 10th, Pre-season on September 15th, and Regular Season on October 2nd.

Date--------------Away-----Home----Time
October 2010
Fri Oct 2, 2009 Rangers Penguins 7:30 PM
Sat Oct 3, 2009 Senators Rangers 7:00 PM
Mon Oct 5, 2009 Rangers Devils 7:00 PM
Thu Oct 8, 2009 Rangers Capitals 7:00 PM
Sun Oct 11, 2009 Ducks Rangers 5:00 PM
Mon Oct 12, 2009 Maple Leafs Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Oct 14, 2009 Kings Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Oct 17, 2009 Rangers Maple Leafs 7:00 PM
Mon Oct 19, 2009 Sharks Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Oct 22, 2009 Devils Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Oct 24, 2009 Rangers Canadiens 7:00 PM
Mon Oct 26, 2009 Coyotes Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Oct 28, 2009 Rangers Islanders 7:00 PM
Fri Oct 30, 2009 Rangers Wild 8:00 PM

November 2010
Sun Nov 1, 2009 Bruins Rangers 1:00 PM
Tue Nov 3, 2009 Rangers Canucks 10:00 PM
Thu Nov 5, 2009 Rangers Oilers 9:30 PM
Sat Nov 7, 2009 Rangers Flames 10:00 PM
Thu Nov 12, 2009 Thrashers Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Nov 14, 2009 Rangers Senators 7:00 PM
Tue Nov 17, 2009 Capitals Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Nov 21, 2009 Panthers Rangers 7:00 PM
Mon Nov 23, 2009 Blue Jackets Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Nov 25, 2009 Rangers Panthers 7:30 PM
Fri Nov 27, 2009 Rangers Lightning 7:30 PM
Sat Nov 28, 2009 Rangers Penguins 7:30 PM
Mon Nov 30, 2009 Penguins Rangers 7:00 PM

December 2010
Sat Dec 5, 2009 Rangers Sabres 7:00 PM
Sun Dec 6, 2009 Red Wings Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Dec 9, 2009 Rangers Blackhawks 8:30 PM
Sat Dec 12, 2009 Sabres Rangers 7:00 PM
Mon Dec 14, 2009 Thrashers Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Dec 16, 2009 Islanders Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Dec 17, 2009 Rangers Islanders 7:00 PM
Sat Dec 19, 2009 Rangers Flyers 1:00 PM
Mon Dec 21, 2009 Rangers Hurricanes 7:00 PM
Wed Dec 23, 2009 Panthers Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Dec 26, 2009 Islanders Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Dec 30, 2009 Flyers Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Dec 31, 2009 Rangers Hurricanes 8:00 PM

January 2010
Sat Jan 2, 2010 Hurricanes Rangers 1:00 PM
Mon Jan 4, 2010 Bruins Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Jan 6, 2010 Stars Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Jan 7, 2010 Rangers Thrashers 7:00 PM
Sat Jan 9, 2010 Rangers Bruins 1:00 PM
Tue Jan 12, 2010 Devils Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Jan 14, 2010 Senators Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Jan 16, 2010 Rangers Blues 8:00 PM
Sun Jan 17, 2010 Canadiens Rangers 7:00 PM
Tue Jan 19, 2010 Lightning Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Jan 21, 2010 Rangers Flyers 7:00 PM
Sat Jan 23, 2010 Rangers Canadiens 7:00 PM
Mon Jan 25, 2010 Penguins Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Jan 27, 2010 Hurricanes Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Jan 30, 2010 Rangers Coyotes 8:00 PM
Sun Jan 31, 2010 Rangers Avalanche 8:00 PM

February 2010
Tue Feb 2, 2010 Rangers Kings 10:30 PM
Thu Feb 4, 2010 Capitals Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Feb 6, 2010 Devils Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Feb 10, 2010 Predators Rangers 7:00 PM
Fri Feb 12, 2010 Rangers Penguins 7:30 PM
Sun Feb 14, 2010 Lightning Rangers 1:00 PM

March 2010
Tue Mar 2, 2010 Rangers Senators 7:30 PM
Thu Mar 4, 2010 Penguins Rangers 7:00 PM
Sat Mar 6, 2010 Rangers Capitals 7:00 PM
Sun Mar 7, 2010 Sabres Rangers 7:00 PM
Wed Mar 10, 2010 Rangers Devils 7:00 PM
Fri Mar 12, 2010 Rangers Thrashers 7:30 PM
Sun Mar 14, 2010 Flyers Rangers 3:00 PM
Tue Mar 16, 2010 Canadiens Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Mar 18, 2010 Blues Rangers 7:00 PM
Sun Mar 21, 2010 Rangers Bruins 3:00 PM
Wed Mar 24, 2010 Islanders Rangers 7:00 PM
Thu Mar 25, 2010 Rangers Devils 7:00 PM
Sat Mar 27, 2010 Rangers Maple Leafs 7:00 PM
Tue Mar 30, 2010 Rangers Islanders 7:00 PM

April 2010
Fri Apr 2, 2010 Rangers Lightning 7:30 PM
Sat Apr 3, 2010 Rangers Panthers 7:00 PM
Tue Apr 6, 2010 Rangers Sabres 7:00 PM
Wed Apr 7, 2010 Maple Leafs Rangers 7:00 PM
Fri Apr 9, 2010 Flyers Rangers 7:00 PM
Sun Apr 11, 2010 Rangers Flyers

Hawks Make Sharp Available, Rangers Interested?

Being that the Chicago Blackhawks are over the 2009-10 Salary Cap as of now, they have made a list of players available for trade, and among those is right winger, Patrick Sharp. Sharp, 27, recorded 26 goals and 18 assists for 44 points in 61 games with the Hawks last season. The 6-1, 197 pound winger was spectacular while playing on a line with young-star Patrick Kane in last season's playoffs. Sharp had his best season in 2007-08, while scoring 36 goals and 26 assists for 62 points. In that season, Patrick played 80 of 82 regular season games, while only playing 61 of 82 last season, which leaves me to believe that there is no doubt he can net 30 again if he plays a full season.

In my opinion, Sharp would be an ideal first line right wing to play along with Gaborik. Sharp, as of now, is a better player than Nik Zherdev, and would fill his spot very well. Also, with the fact that the Hawks are making these players available because of cap dilemmas, they will not be able to take much money back. That means that we could get Sharp at a bit of a discount, and not have to give too much up to acquire him.

Hopefully Glen Sather is considering it, because it would be a very smart move, and make the 2009-10 Blueshirts that much better. A line with Gaborik and Sharp on it would account for 60 goals in itself, if both are healthy that is. Also, if you have both Sharp and Gabs on the first line, the Rangers will not be as needy of a first line center anymore, as you could put Dubinsky on the line just to get those two the puck.

*Also, the regular season schedule will be released at 3pm today, and I will have it posted up ASAP.*

(Photo courtesy of chicagonow.com)

Pre-Season Schedule Released

Here is this year's pre-season schedule. All games will be televised by MSG.

Sept. 15 Bruins at MSG, 7 p.m.
Sept. 16 Devils in Newark, 7
Sept. 18 Red Wings in Detroit, 7:30
Sept. 19 Bruins in Boston, 4 p.m.
Sept. 21 Red Wings at MSG, 7
Sept. 24 Capitals at MSG, 7
Sept. 27 Caps in D.C., noon

Regular Season schedule will be announced tomorrow.

Rangers Re-Sign Corey Potter

The New York Rangers have re-signed defenseman Corey Potter. Potter, 25, recorded 10 goals and 22 assists for 32 points in 67 games with the Wolf Pack last season. The 6-3 defenseman played 5 games with the Blueshirts in 08-09, and registered 2 points (goal and an assist) in that time.

I feel that Potter will be a contender for a roster spot with the Rangers in the upcoming season, but he has some tough competition in Gilroy, Del Zotto, Sanguinetti, and Sauer. It all depends on his performance in training camp, and in the pre-season.

Rangers Showing Interest in Babchuk

The Carolina Hurricanes are putting RFA defenseman Anton Babchuk on the block, as it seems as if the 25 year old is asking too much money for The 'Canes liking. When asked about the situation, Babchuk mentioned that his agent told him 7 or 8 teams are showing interest, and the Rangers are one of them.

Anton scored 16 goals and 19 assists for 35 points with Carolina last season. The 6-5, 212 pound blueliner would undoubtedly improve the Ranger powerplay with his slick offensive game, but there is still a lot of work that remains to be done on his defensive game. Could this be the puck moving defenseman the Blueshirts are seeking? Could be, but nothing is for sure.

More later....
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

More on Enver Lisin

As I posted earlier, Glen Sather traded forward Lauri Korpikoski to the Phoenix Coyotes for forward Enver Lisin, who is 23 years of age. Looking deeper into this trade, I am beginning to like this move more and more by the minute. Lisin seems to have some real talent that is ready to be advertised. Here are his stats with Phoenix last season courtesy of the Rangers Official Website:

Lisin, 23, skated in 48 games with Phoenix last season, registering 13 goals and eight assists for 21 points, along with 24 penalty minutes. He established career-highs in games played, goals, assists, points, penalty minutes, game-winning goals (two), and shots (105).

So Lisin had 13 goals in 48 games played last season with the Coyotes, as opposed to Korpedo's 6 goals in 68 games played. That is a major improvement, and this should not be a trade that is overlooked by fans. It would not surprise me to see Lisin get a spot on the 2009-10 Ranger roster. I believe Lisin is an RFA, so the Rangers brass will need to get this kid locked up before he actually plays for the Rangers.

One thing I think Sather has done well in the last years, especially this summer, is build depth from a youth standpoint. These little acquisitions like Lisin, Boyle, Gilroy, and others will add up as these players have a lot of potential. Some more than others, but I have liked what Sather has done with the building up of youth as a whole.

(Photo courtesy of THN)

Rangers Re-Sign Ryan Callahan

The New York Rangers have re-signed forward Ryan Callahan to a two-year/$4.6 million deal. I constantly stressed here on the blog that I just knew that Ryan would be re-signed before his arbitration hearing. The Rochester native had his breakout season last year, scoring 22 goals and 18 assists for 40 points with the Rangers.

Cally's game really picked up under Tortorella, and that is a big reason why he was re-signed. Tortorella feels that he can get that 22 goals to 30 with some work, and I have no doubt that it is possible. Callahan was one of the best players for the Rangers last season, along with Staal and Lundqvist. Ryan never gave up on the forecheck and was the most energentic player for the Blueshirts last season.

Re-signing Callahan and Dubinsky was the main priority for Sather going into the off-season, besides signing a scorer. So one down, one to go, as we are still waiting on the re-signing of Brandon Dubinsky, which I feel will come very soon now that Callahan has inked a deal.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Callahan Re-Signed/ Korpikoski Traded

Sorry this is coming a little late, but Zipay is writing that Ryan Callahan has re-signed with the New York Rangers for two years, but no detail on the money just yet. This was expected, and a move that needed to be made.

Also, Rangers traded forward Lauri Korpikoski to PHX for Enver Lisin, who I am hearing is a very fast. This is a good trade as we swap players that are about equal, but Korpedo has been rumored to go to Russia this season, so we might have lost him anyway.

More in a bit...
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Henrik Lundqvist's Website

Well apparently Hank has his own website that everyone seems to be stumbling upon, so he must have just made it. Many players in the NHL have them, and now one of our own joined the crew. There are videos, stats, and pictures on the site, as well as a video of him talking about the site.

Check it out at: http://henrik-lundqvist.com/

A Portion of the Pre-Season Schedule Announced

Not announced by the Rangers, though. The Detroit Red Wings already released their pre-season schedule today, and the Blueshirts were on there twice.

-Sept. 18 Detroit Red Wings vs. New York Rangers at Joe Louis Arena, 7:30 p.m.
-Sept. 21 Detroit Red Wings at New York Rangers, 7 p.m.

Not to sure when the Rangers plan on announcing their full pre-season schedule, but the complete 82-game regular season schedule is going to be released sometime this Wednesday.

Quiet Sunday....

Very quiet Sunday in the hockey world, as there is not much to talk about besides the whole Phoenix mess, which Gretzky is getting in on now. Read the TSN article HERE.

As I reported yesterday, the Arbitration hearing dates were released; Thursday, July 23rd for Callahan and Friday, July 31st for Zherdev. So those are dates to look forward to, but I still think that Cally will be signed before the actual hearing. We are also waiting on the re-signing of Brandon Dubinsky, who also received a qualifying offer several weeks ago.

July Polling So Far

Last month I was proud to say that 62 votes was a record high for the Rangers Tribune on a poll. Well, here we are, not even halfway through the month and we have 61 votes already. I thanks all of the voters for taking part, and if you have not done so yet, just enter your vote in the sidebar to the right, as all fans deserve to be heard. (Fans are aloud to vote for more than one prospect) Here are the polling results for this month so far...

Which Blueshirt prospect most deserves to be included in the 2009-10 Ranger roster?

Evgeny Grachev 29votes
Artem Anisimov 31votes
Bobby Sanguinetti 8votes
Mike Del Zotto 7votes
Matt Gilroy 28votes

So as of now Artem Anisimov, Evgeny Grachev, and Matt Gilroy are three most favored prospects to make the team by the fans. I will say that I agree, as all three are ready for the NHL.

More Later, on this slow Sunday....

Arbitration Dates Released

The Arbitration hearing dates have been released today for both Ryan Callahan and Nikolai Zherdev. Callahan's will be held on Thursday, July 23rd, while Zherdev's is on Friday, July 31st. I still believe that Callahan will ink a deal with the Blueshirts before that date, but only time will tell the fate of these two forwards.

Will check in later....

Looks of the Lineup as of Now

So here is a look the the possible Ranger lineup if no other moves were to be made by Glen Sather this off-season.

Marian Gaborik - Brandon Dubinsky - Ryan Callahan
Christopher Higgins - Chris Drury - Ales Kotalik
Sean Avery - Artem Anisimov - Evgeny Grachev
Donald Brashear - Brian Boyle - Dane Byers

Marc Staal - Dan Girardi
Wade Redden - Michal Rozsival
Matt Gilroy - Bobby Sanguinetti/ Mike Del Zotto

Put it in any order you want, but I feel that this is how the lineup would fall as of now. Also, take notice of the option you have for the sixth defenseman. I feel that Gilroy will most likely be put right into the NHL roster because of age, skill, and the one-way contract. As for the sixth man, it is up in the air, but training camp will fill that spot.

The offense, in my opinion, has a bit more depth than last year. You obviously have Gaborik as your "top" scorer, who we can count on to accumulate between 35-45 goals (maybe more) if healthy. And then we have our 20 goal scorers. I will make a bit of a prediction here, but I believe that all of the following either are, can, or will be 20 goal scorers in the 2009-10 season; Brandon Dubinsky, Ales Kotalik, Chris Higgins, Chris Drury, Ryan Callahan, Artem Anisimov, Evgeny Grachev. So those seven players are the ones that I know can net 20+ goals this season, but I can't predict whether or not they will execute and accomplish that feat. If all of those players find the net like they should, we have seven players that can compliment Gaborik's scoring. That would provide supreme depth for this Blueshirt team.

This is all possible, and the fact that we have offensive-minded Tortorella as our coach only helps the matter. In a Tortorella system, he tries to get every ounce of production out of his players. Whether that happens or not, I can not control, but I still believe it is possible.

I know I am being very optimistic here, but with the young prospects coming up, and players looking to prove themselves in New York so they can stay, it gives fans like me much hope.

Torts on MSG/ Byers Re-Signs

MSG Network will have a "Fans Most Wanted" special tonight on John Tortorella. It will consist of an interview with Torts, as John will talk about his first year of coaching the Rangers and his plans for the team in 2009-10. The show starts at 8:30pm Eastern time.

In other news, the Blueshirts re-signed RFA forward Dane Byers. I am expecting Dane to compete for a fourth line roster spot this season. Having Byers and Brashear on the same line would be frightening for opponents.

Mara Signs with Habs

TSN is reporting that former Ranger defenseman Paul Mara has signed a 1 year deal with the Montreal Canadians. Mara was a cheap, but solid player on the Ranger blueline while he played here, and was a great leader on the team. Good luck to Paulie, and the fans of Montreal must learn to respect the beard.

2009-10 Schedules

Just a quick note on this friday morning. The 2009-10 NHL Schedule is set to be released on Wednesday, July 15th. I will post a link to the schedule here as soon as I get word.

More later...

More on Kotalik and the Signing

Ales Kotalik, 30, has proved himself as a consistent 20 goal scorer throughout his career. After seven seasons of playing with the Buffalo Sabres, Ales called Edmonton home for a portion of last season, when he was traded to the Oilers around the deadline. In the 2008-09 season, Kotalik notched 20 goals and 23 assists for a total of 43 points.

The 6-1, 227 pound right wing was born Jindr Hradec, Czech Republic and was drafted by the Sabres in 1998 NHL Entry Draft. Kotalik's best season was in 2005-06 when he scored 25 goals and 37 assists for 62 points. Since then Ales has been a somewhat consistent 20 goal scorer and 40 point producer.

A big reason that I feel Ales signed with Rangers was the fact that the hard-shooting forward played so many of his years with current Rangers forward, Chris Drury. I know that Drury had made a phone call to Kotalik last week, and I am sure it was to try and convince him to join the Blueshirts. Here is Sather's thoughts on the signing:

“Ales is a strong, hardworking player with good skating ability and a heavy shot,” stated Sather. “We think he will fit well into our system and will provide additional offense and scoring from the wing position.”

All things considered, Kotalik is a good addition to the Rangers at a decent price(3 years,$9million). He will definitely add to the Blueshirts goal production, and will probably play with Chris Drury, as they had great chemistry in Buffalo. Kotalik plays the right wing position, so maybe he will be playing on a line with Drury and Higgins. Also, this is a "tell tale" sign that Nikolai Zherdev will most likely NOT be a Ranger next season.

(Photo courtesy of Reuters Pictures)

Rangers Sign Kotalik

The New York Rangers have reportedly signed free agent left wing Ales Kotalik. Chris Drury definitely had a say in this as he played with Kotalik back in Buffalo. Ales could be a great addition to the Rangers as a secondary scorer if he can net around 20 goals a season like he has for a majority of his career.

I am hearing that the terms of the contract are 3 years at $3 million per. Decent signing by Slats. Kotalik will add to the team's scoring for sure.

More in a bit.....

Top 40 Remaining Free Agents

Here is a look at the top 40 free agents in the league that are still available per NHL.com. Some of them could be steals at cheap prices, like whoever gets Paul Mara. Of this list, there are talks that the Rangers have been looking at Tanguay and, hold your breath.......Zubov?

Forwards
Miroslav Satan
Robert Lang
Brendan Morrison
Jason Williams
Tom Kostopoulos
Maxin Afinogenov
Ales Kotalik
Petr Sykora
Todd Bertuzzi
Mike Grier
Rob Niedermayer
Alex Tanguay
Brendan Shanahan
P.J. Axelsson
Taylor Pyatt
Travis Moen
Andy Hilbert
Mike Comrie
Mats Sundin
Manny Malhotra

Defensemen
Martin Skoula
Mathieu Schneider
Sergei Zubov
Jay McKee
Derek Morris
Paul Mara
Nick Boynton
Darryl Sydor
Dennis Seidenberg
Marc-Andre Bergeron

Goaltenders
Martin Biron
Manny Fernandez
Martin Gerber
Olaf Kolzig
Yann Danis
Brent Johnson
Manny Legace
Antero Niitymaki
Joey MacDonald
Kevin Weekes

Boyle Signs with Rangers (UPDATE)

Brian Boyle, acquired in a trade that sent a third round pick to the L.A. Kings, has signed a contract with the New York Rangers today. Boyle, 6ft-7in 252 pounds, could possibly be a 4th liner for the Blueshirts this season, as he would be a tremendous physical presence. No word on the terms of the contract just yet.

UPDATE: Boyle's contract is 2 years at $525,000 per. A paycut from his salary with the Kings.

Morris to Make a Return?

Several beat writers are now reporting that Derek Morris, acquired from Phoenix at the trade deadline, and his agent, Brad Devine, have been talking with Glen Sather and the Rangers. Morris's agent mentioned that they have several teams in the loop, and have considered several deals, and the Rangers are definitely one of those teams.

Devine also went on to say that Morris is looking to play somewhere he and his family are comfortable. So contract term is not too much of a matter, as one year is not a problem for him. Morris made $3.95 million last season, but if Derek wants to play for the Rangers in the coming season, he has to be willing to take a pay cut. The Blueshirts simply don't have enough room for another $4 million d-man without getting rid of Rozsival or Redden. That money should be going to a forward, but if we can squeeze Morris in for under $3 million and still bring in another top six forward, it is fine by me.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

The Interview File: Andrew Gross on 2009-10 Rangers

As promised, here is Interview number 1, featuring Andrew Gross. Andrew Gross, Blueshirt beat writer, is the author of Ranger Rants and covers the Rangers for The Record. I decided to go with Andrew to introduce this new interview feature, mainly because I feel that he is one of the more knowledgeable beat writers for the Rangers. In this interview, Andrew discusses his thoughts on the Rangers of 2009-10. Also, a special thanks to Andrew for agreeing to take part in the first Rangers Tribune Interview.

Q: Before we get started, I would just like you to tell us a little bit about yourself, and how you became a beat writer for the New York Rangers.

A: I was first offered the beat in 2003 while working for Gannett Newspapers. At the time, I was covering St. John’s basketball and other college sports, in addition to plenty of Mets and Yankees games. To be honest, I had to be convinced to make the switch because my two daughters were very young. Turned out to be the best career move I’d ever made. Unfortunately, I decided to leave the beat in 2006 when an opening covering the Jets and the NFL became available since the flagging newspaper economy had sidelined me from traveling with the Rangers and it was driving me crazy missing half the games. I wound up leaving Gannett Newspapers in 2007 for The Bergen Record, though not specifically to cover the Rangers. Needless to say, I’m thrilled and grateful my new employers decided to put me back doing what I enjoy the most and in the manner that I prefer.

Q: What is your take on the Gomez trade, and was it a move, in your opinion, that needed to be made?

A: Taken on its own, I thought being able to trade Scott Gomez’s contract was a brilliant move by the Rangers’ brass. Gomez is a talented player but he’s not a true No. 1 center and the Rangers were financially hamstrung by paying two second-line centers - Chris Drury included - as if they were top-line talent. Without moving Gomez - or Drury, or Michal Rozsival, or Wade Redden - the Rangers would not have been able to start re-shaping their roster. Honestly, I’m still amazed Montreal GM Bob Gainey was willing to not only take on Gomez’s salary but actually give the Rangers back some useful parts in Christopher Higgins and a potential top four or even a top two defenseman in Ryan McDonagh.

Q: Do you feel that Gaborik was the best fit free agent out there for the Rangers, or was there a specific player that you would have liked Sather to sign, instead of Marian?

A: In terms of playing style, and assuming his health for now, Gaborik is a very good fit for what John Tortorella wants to do with the team. Because Gaborik is able to create space and, thus, his own plays often, it’s a very good fit considering the Rangers currently don’t have a No. 1 center. The trick will be getting Gaborik linemates who can skate with him.

Q: If you were Sather, would you have given Gaborik the contract that he did, considering Marian’s injury prone past?

A: Free agency, as we see each season, is all about overpaying to attract talent. Obviously, Sather overpaid for what could be seen as damaged goods. No doubt, though, Sather and company felt an absolute need to bring in an All-Star type scorer. They failed to convince the Senators to send Dany Heatley on the cheap so they were left to go shopping. There’s a very good chance the Gaborik contract becomes the same burden to the Rangers as was the Gomez one that Sather dealt in order to get Gaborik.

Q: Considering Marian Gaborik’s skill and what he has accomplished, do you believe that he can become the first Ranger to score 50+ goals in a single season since Jaromir Jagr?

A: Only if he has the right players around him. Unless you’re Wayne Gretzky or Mario Lemieux, you need considerable help from your teammates to achieve such lofty goals. Jagr surpassed 50 because he went on the ice, for the most part, with the same four teammates (including defensemen) each shift and everything was geared toward him. You saw Jagr’s production dip as soon as his support system eroded (and he hurt his shoulder). No doubt, Gaborik has the skill to score 50 again. But if you look at the history of the Rangers, that just seems to be a Herculean task to accomplish on Broadway.

Q: In your opinion, which current Ranger is most suited to center a line with Gaborik’s in the 2009-10 season?

A: If the Rangers don’t make any other moves this offseason, my opinion is he’ll start out with Chris Drury and wind up with Brandon Dubinsky. Eventually, though, I’d like to see what Artem Anisimov could do with Gaborik but it’s way too early to put Anisimov in that spot.

Q: Do you think that Donald Brashear is an upgrade, or a downgrade from former enforcer, Colton Orr? How so?

A: Based solely on fighting skills, Brashear is better than Orr. Brashear is also a better skater. Orr, though, didn’t have a knack for getting suspended and, for an enforcer, was a clean player. Brashear’s past argues otherwise. Most likely, Brashear will spend two seasons in New York as a marginalized player under Tortorella. I’m not saying I would have paid Colton Orr $4 million over four years to keep him (besides the fact it seemed Orr had his heart set on playing in Canada) but $1.4 million for Brashear is not likely to be money well spent.

Q: Which Blueshirt prospects do you think will make the team out of camp, and become a part of the 2009-10 Ranger roster?

A: In addition to Anisimov, mentioned above, I definitely look to Evgeny Grachev making the team out of training camp. His conditioning was a little off during the development camp but he hadn’t skated in over two months. As long as he shows he’s in proper NHL shape, he should be a very good addition to the roster. He’s a very fluid skater with a quick shot, plus he adds size. At least one of the Rangers’ defensemen prospects should make it, as well. Probably Bobby Sanguinetti, possibly Corey Potter, possibly Mike Sauer. I really like Michael Del Zotto and what he’s going to bring in terms of moving the puck but I suspect he’ll get one more season in juniors.

Q: Out of the current Rangers, who do you believe will be the “out of nowhere” producer for the Blueshirts this season?

A: I think either Grachev or Anisimov can be a solid NHL scorer. Also, I know he’s more of a veteran, but the Rangers obviously see something in Christopher Higgins in terms of his goal-scoring ability that he might not believe in yet. Plus, he’ll be in a contract year (again).

Q: Based on what you saw last season and what you expect from Tortorella’s training camp, do you believe that we will see great improvements in the games of Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan in the coming season.

A: Probably more so from Dubinsky and I mean that with all respect to Callahan. I believe Callahan is approaching the ceiling of what he’s going to be as an NHL player, and I’ll admit Callahan and Marc Staal are probably my two favorite Rangers’ skaters to watch. I love the energy Callahan brings to the forecheck. Dubinsky still seems to be finding his way and I think a season under Tortorella will help guide him.

Q: Do you think that with the addition of Gaborik, some pressure will be relieved from Henrik Lundqvist, knowing that there is a goal scorer on this team now, and he may not have to stand on his head to win the team so many 2-1 games anymore?

A: That’s the plan, and not just from Gaborik. Actually, there’s probably more pressure on Lundqvist under Tortorella’s system than there was under Renney. The Rangers were built to play 2-1 games under Renney and they evolved into a very cautious team. Under Tortorella, they’re going to be built to play a lot of 5-3 games and Lundqvist will wind up seeing more shots and, most likely, more breakaways and odd-man rushes.

Q: If things go as planned with the RFA situation, and Nik Zherdev returns to the team, do you expect a more consistent year from the young winger? And will he be a decent pairing with Marian Gaborik, being that Gaborik can play either LW or RW?

A: I’m convinced the odds of Nikolai Zherdev returning to the Rangers are very slim. He has no use for John Tortorella and I don’t think Tortorella has much use for him. The Rangers don’t want to pay him the $3.25 million they qualified him at, let alone any more. In arbitration, if the Rangers’ number is accepted, I’d expect Zherdev to return to Russia. If Zherdev’s number is accepted, I’d expect the Rangers to decline signing him, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Now I know it is still early in the off-season, and we haven’t gone through training camp or anything just yet, but I would like you to make some predictions for us as far as stats go.

Q: Who do you predict will lead the team in goals? Assists? Points?

A: If healthy, you have to pick Gaborik to lead the team in at least goals and points. Chris Drury will likely lead in assists.

Q: Will Henrik Lundqvist have a better or worse year stat wise, when comparing the upcoming season to the 08-09 season?

A: Lundqvist will probably have a worse year stat-wise just because the Rangers’ games will be more high-scoring. At the same time, Lundqvist will probably have a better season.

Q: While looking at the team on paper, are the Rangers of 2009-10, better or worse than the Rangers of 08-09?

A: Cop out answer but I really believe it’s too early to tell until Sather makes a few other moves, if he can. The myth would be just a season under Tortorella will make them better but that’s downplaying what Renney felt he had to accomplish with the team. He saw the roster (even if he had a large hand in shaping it) and saw it was not a goal-scoring machine so he played the defensive system he thought necessary. Tortorella is going to press the attack but his goal-scoring talent is only marginally better at this point.

Q: And finally, which current Rangers will be wearing the available A’s (Alternate Captain) on their jerseys come October?

A: I believe Ryan Callahan should get one A. Tortorella is likely going to want a veteran to also wear an A, though my personal second choice would be Marc Staal or Brandon Dubinsky. If you go the veteran route, Gaborik is probably in line given his importance to the team. I could also see Wade Redden getting an A, perhaps as a means to engaging him more emotionally.

Zherdev a Goner?

As we know, Nikolai Zherdev received a qualifying offer of $3.25 million just a little over a week ago. We were then notified on Sunday night that the 24 year-old winger elected to take the Rangers to salary arbitration. Well, it came out today in the New York Post that Zherdev and his agent Roland Hedges, have raised their contract demands to about $4.5 million a year.

This leads me to believe that if arbitration awards Zherdev anything close to $4 million, the Rangers will be walking away from Zherdev, leaving him as an un-restricted free agent. Zherdev was potentially setting himself up for a big raise with the way he was playing early on the year, but then he faded in the second half of the season, and was MIA in the playoffs. Taking that into consideration, Nik does not deserve anything near $4.5 million, and if a team pays that for him, that is a major overpayment.

The dismissal of Zherdev, who came over in a trade sending Fedor Tyutin to Columbus, would free up $3.25 million in cap space, leaving the Rangers with money to replace Zherdev with a valued free agent, or possibly acquire one via trade. Could this possibly convince Sather to make another move toward Dany Heatley? I doubt it, but it is possible.

Brooks also reported that the Rangers have showed interest in Patrick Marleau of the Sharks, Brad Richards of the Stars, and free agents Saku Koivu and Sergei Zubov. Whoever it may be, we need to replace the roster spots of Antropov and Zherdev with top six forwards by October.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Rangers Sign RFA Chris Higgins (UPDATE)

Chris Higgins, acquired from Montreal in the Gomez trade, came to the Rangers as a restricted free-agent. Well, the Rangers and Higgins have come to terms and the 26 year old winger has signed a contract with the Blueshirts. This is a great acquisition depth-wise for the Rangers, and Chris feels he has a lot to prove here in New York. No word on the exact details of the contract just yet.

UPDATE: Contract is for one year at $2.25 million.

Gaborik's Center of Attention

After acquiring star winger Marian Gaborik, many fans have been debating over which current Ranger should center the line with Gaborik on it. As of now, you have two main options in Brandon Dubinsky and Chris Drury. Some have suggested bringing up Anisimov and having him center the first line, but I am not a fan of starting a rookie on a first line to begin his career. The situation with Dubinsky centering Jagr was a bit different because he had played half the year on the third line and proved himself. Jagr showed no chemistry with Gomez or Drury, so Dubi was the only option, and it worked.

Starting with Dubinsky. Brandon has the potential to be a top six forward, and placing him on the first line with a skilled player like Marian Gaborik would only help the developmental process. With Dubinsky being so young, it would be somewhat easy for him to adjust to Gaborik's game, and quickly find chemistry with him, much like he did with Jagr. Dubinsky would play the role of completing the dirty work, like working the corners, planting his body in front of the net, and back-checking. That would leave Gaborik to get open and put himself in position for Dubi to get him the puck. So basically Brandon's niche would be the blue collar center getting the fancy goal-scorer the puck, as he did with Jagr.

Moving on to Drury. Much like Dubinsky, Drury would be the dirty worker on a line with Gaborik. Drury is a veteran player that has centered many skilled wingers throughout his career, and would be able to center Gaborik, but Dru is an older player and doesn't really have the room that is available to Dubi for major improvement. That is a big factor when you think long-term.

So my choice for Gaborik's center as of now is Brandon Dubinsky. Only because Brandon has all that room to improve and could become Gaborik's center for many years to come. I also think Drury would fit well with Callahan and Avery on his wings. Now this could easily change if Sather makes a move to acquire another top center via free agency or trade. It also rests on how things appear to John Tortorella in training camp, and who he thinks plays best with Gabs.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Callahan and Zherdev File for Arbitration

Blueshirts' Restricted free agents, Ryan Callahan and Nikolai Zherdev have both filed for salary arbitration. Hearings will be held between July 20th and August 4th in Toronto.

Salary Arbitration Explained: When a player elects to file for arbitration, they feel that they deserve more money than what was listed in their Qualifying Offer. The team and the player continue to negotiate a salary by the arbitration date(July 20), but if they cannot come to terms, both the team and the player go to a hearing each with a suggested salary. The Arbitrator at the hearing then takes into consideration both offers and anything about the player from stats to injuries. Based on that information, the arbitrator determines a salary/contract for that player. The team then has the option to accept and sign the player, continue to negotiate, or to walk away and decline the contract. If the team walks, then the player becomes an unrestricted free-agent.

Should Another Move Be Made?

After the signing of Marain Gaborik, many fans have been talking about a possible next move that should be made by General Manager Glen Sather. Whether it be a trade, or another free-agent signing, fans still believe that we should gain another top six forward with the available cap room. I will say that I agree.

All this talk about the Rangers of 2009-10 being a fast, up-tempo, and offensive team, and all Sather has been acquiring is fourth liners in Arnason and Brashear. Gaborik has been the only real top six forward that we have acquired thus far. When you want to apply an up-tempo offensive system to a team, your top six group of forwards are extremely important.

Some names that have been thrown out there are Saku Koivu, Alex Tanguay, and possibly Phil Kessel. Fans are also looking for a way to rid themselves of either Redden's or Rozsival's contracts. Rozsival is the more likely one that Sather would be able to trade. Now, I just want to go back to Saku Koivu for a moment. Koivu has supposedly talked to 15 teams or more so far. Many of those probably made offers to him, so he is going to tell other teams to match the highest offer or he will go to the team willing to pay the most money for the longest term. As much as I would like Koivu to be a Ranger, I think he will end up being over-payed.

Phil Kessel makes sense to make a run in acquiring to me as well. Kessel, center, scored 36 goals with the Boston Bruins last season, and is a great player up the middle. The only problem is, Phil is a Restricted Free-Agent as of now, and the Bruins own his rights. That means that Sather would have to trade for his rights, so could this be our way to get rid of Rozsival? It is possible and can be done, but I am not sure if Boston is willing to trade the star center.

Overall, one more move would improve this team drastically depending on the player being brought in. Many say that Sather is not done, and Slats himself said if there is a player available to him, he will jump all over it. For now, we have to wait and see.
(Photos courtesy of habsinsideout.com and The Boston Herald)

Interview Update

Happy Fourth of July!

Just to keep you up to date, the progress of my interview with Andrew Gross is going as planned, I expect to have it posted up to the blog in the coming days. In the interview, I asked Andrew a lot about the 2009-10 Rangers, and what to expect. I also asked his opinion of Sather's recent moves in the 2009 off-season. Andrew is a great start to the interviewing feature on the Rangers Tribune, and we are thrilled to bring the opinion of "Ranger Insiders" to our readers here on the blog.

Rangers Sign Tyler Arnason/ Corey Locke

The Rangers have signed free agent center, Tyler Arnason to a two way contract. Arnason registered 5 goals and 22 assists with the Colorado Avalanche last season. I am guessing this signing is for the fourth line, or possibly Hartford. Arnason is not the most hard-working player and is criticized for his work effort. Tyler will most likely end up being buried in Hartford, in my opinion.

The Rangers have also signed Cory Locke, 25, who notched 25 goals and 54 assists with the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League last season. My guess is that he will be used as depth for the Hartford Wolfpack. I don't see him as an NHL player.

New Monthly Poll

As the readers know, every month a new poll is added to the blog. Well I am proud to announce that June's Poll had the largest turnout of voters out of any poll here on the Rangers Tribune. I greatly appreciate all of the votes, and ask that you keep up the great work. Here are the results for June:

Is Sather capable of building this team into a true contender in 2009-10?

Yes- 18 votes(29%)
No- 29 votes(47%)
Not Sure- 15 votes(24%)

Total: 62 votes

So the majority of voters do not think that Sather is capable of turning this team into a contender next season. We will see, as Slats has already added a scorer in Gaborik, and is supposedly not done.

The July poll asks which Ranger prospects should be present in the 2009-10 roster. I will post it up to the site ASAP. Thanks again for voting in the June Poll, and lets try to break the record of 60 in the July Poll. Thanks again!

Gaborik/Higgins Reactions on Coming to New York

Here are the reactions of newly acquired Marian Gaborik and Christopher Higgins on coming to the New York Rangers this summer.

Gaborik: "When I hit free agency it was 6 p.m. my time and I got a presentation video sent by (the Rangers) scouts and I watched it and it was unbelievable," Gaborik said. "I felt right away that they were very interested and to me it was very important that they came after me this way. There were a few other teams interested, but it was always coming down to the Rangers in every aspect. When somebody is very interested in you, it feels great and certainly the Rangers were most interested and I felt the most comfortable and confident in. I'm happy I became a Ranger."

So Slats sent a scout to Gaborik's house to show a video presentation. That is very interesting, and it means that Sather had planned to go after the star winger prior to July 1st.

You can find Chris Higgins discussing thoughts on coming to New York with the media in total here: http://rangers.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=765&id=44632. But Chris seemed thrilled to be here in New York, and is anxious to meet the team. He is happy Gaborik was signed, and said that Marian is top talent in the league. Chis went on to say that he feels like he has a lot to prove going into this next season, and he is fully prepared physically for camp after being injured last season with Montreal. I, personally, feel that Higgins will be great here, especially under Torts's system.

Staal Invited to Team Canada Camp

The invitees to the Canadian Hockey Men's team Camp for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics were announced today. There was only one Ranger on the list, and that was Marc Staal. The team is made up of a mixture of veterans and up-and-comers, Staal obviously fits into the category of up-and-coming. Well deserved, as Staal was the best Canadian Ranger on the team last season. The camp will run from August 24-27 at the Pengrowth Saddledome (Calgary Flames Home Arena)

So that is three Rangers that we can potentially see in the Olympics next year so far, and those are Callahan, Drury, and Staal. Congrats to all.

Antropov to Atlanta

Another former Ranger that became a free agent yesterday has signed elsewhere. This time, it is Nik Antropov, who was acquired by the Rangers at the trade deadline last season. Antro inked a 4 year, $16 million contract with the Atlanta Thrashers.

Antro was great here in New York, and played a big part in the Ranger's playoff push. I wish him well playing in Atlanta, he will be great while playing with Kovalchuk.