Jesper Fast
This was Fast’s first full season in the NHL and he showed some attributes that point towards a promising future.
His points total doubled this season, but he also played 20 more games than he did during the 2014-2015 season.
Fast’s best attribute was his ability to set-up his line mates in the offensive zone. His game reminds me a lot of Derek Stepan‘s style of play.
On the flip side of the coin, Alain Vigneault would often keep Fast on the first or second line long after he had worn out his welcome.
This year was a good stepping stone, but Fast rarely scored a timely goal that would help his team.
Grade: B
Kevin Hayes
Expectations were high for Mr. Hayes entering this season.
The success he enjoyed during his rookie season (17 goals/28 assists) gave Jeff Gorton and company reason to believe that Hayes would be a big-time contributor.
In fact, they were banking on it.
Instead, Hayes proved that the sophomore slump is a real thing with decline in virtually every stat column.
His play often looked lackadaisical and lazy, and his tough play from the year prior was non-existent this season.
Young players with Hayes’ talent are fragile projects and it’s apparent that while he didn’t live up to expectations this year, AV certainly didn’t help his case.
While a trip down to Hartford may have helped spark to spark Hayes’ game, AV would opt to scratch the second year player and publicly criticize his game.
High expectations in addition to wish-washy and often non-existent performances hurt Hayes this season.
Grade: D
Eric Staal
Not much to say here.
Similar to Martin St. Louis, the Rangers gave up more draft picks from an already dry pipeline for this trade deadline acquisition.
But St. Louis produced in the playoffs. Staal?
Nothing.
Only six points in 20 games (3 goals/3 assists) and zero points in the playoffs.
Staal is another has-been that went to New York to die.
Enjoy retirement Eric and good riddance.
