"I’m confident, I’m happy and I’m excited to be here.” – Nicklas Jensen talks about getting called up by #NYR. pic.twitter.com/uiEMgJrjTV
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) December 7, 2016
With injuries to many usual suspects, the New York Rangers have called up forward Nicklas Jensen prior to the Winnipeg Jets game.
Earlier on Thursday, the New York Rangers called up 23-year-old forward Nicklas Jensen.
OFFICIAL: #NYR have recalled forward Nicklas Jensen from @WolfPackAHL.
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) December 7, 2016
In January of 2016, the New York Rangers acquired the young forward in exchange for Emerson Etem. Formerly drafted in the first round of 2011 entry draft by the Vancouver Canucks, he is the only remaining part the Rangers have in the “Hagelin Cycle.”
Jensen, who nearly had himself a roster spot on opening night, has been playing in Hartford after he was placed on waivers after a struggle in training camp. The 23-year-old has shined in Hartford, as he is tied for the team lead in goals with eight, and is second in points with 15.
“I haven’t played in the NHL in a long time and it’s my first game with the Rangers, and i don’t know what the plan is,” Jensen said in an interview with nyrangers.com.
He only piled up 24 appearances with the Canucks and lacked consistency. His development in Hartford has improved that weakness significantly.
PROS
- Jensen is a player who is offensive minded. His passing IQ is terrific as he always seems to know where and when to pass the puck.
- His puck-handling is unique. He makes fantastic deke moves and is special on breakaways or shootouts.
CONS
- An issue with Jensen is that he has never been a consistent player, which is why he has struggled with staying on an NHL roster.
- His lack of NHL experience could definitely hurt his playing style. With just 24 NHL games under his belt, it may take time for him to adjust in this league.
With injuries to forwards Rick Nash and Matt Puempel, it is possible we see Jensen a lot in the next few games.
GM Jeff Gorton chose Jensen over players like Justin Fontaine, Tanner Glass, and Cristoval (Boo) Nieves, which shows the organization’s confidence in Jensen.
It’s possible we see Jensen appear in Thursday night’s game against the Winnipeg Jets.