OFFICIAL: #NYR have agreed to terms with forward Pavel Buchnevich on an entry-level contract. pic.twitter.com/gqFSv0YeZG
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) May 13, 2016
The New York Rangers took the first step towards rebuilding and locked up their ace prospect, Pavel Buchnevich, to an entry-level contract.
By Chris Wengert
The New York Rangers injected some much needed hope into their fan base today when they announced the signing of Pavel Buchnevich, their top prospect.
The Rangers have patiently waited for the Russian player to develop during his tenure in the KHL, and his arrival coudln’t be coming at a better time.
While the addition of Buchnevich is certainly exciting, fans will need to temper their expectations for the Russian sniper.
While the KHL is nothing to scoff at, Buchnevich will need some time to adjust to the speed, physicality, and overall skill of the NHL.
Buchnevich will most likely jump right into the Rangers lineup and it will be interesting to see what his realistic role will be next season.
The key word there is realistic.
The New York Rangers haven’t had a ton of luck when it comes to Russian players, and there will most likely be bumps in the road for the developing Buchnevich.
Having said that, the Rangers haven’t seen a prospect of Buchnevich’s skill flow through the pipeline is quite some time.
Buchnevich is expected to arrive in NYC this summer, train here in North America and get acclimated for his 1st NHL season in the fall.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) May 13, 2016
