The Las Vegas Golden Knights submitted their roster this morning and the leaks indicate the New York Rangers have lost Oscar Lindberg.
It was clear that with the Las Vegas Golden Knights submitting their roster at 10 a.m. ET and the team not being announced until 8 p.m. ET that there would be plenty of rumors and leaks. What wasn’t expected was full out reports that players have been selected.
It’s official. Oscar Lindberg will skate for Las Vegas and not the New York Rangers next season.
Can confirm that Oscar Lindberg will be going to Vegas in the expansion draft.
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) June 21, 2017
The big debate for GM George McPhee was to select Oscar Lindberg or Antti Raanta. The other goaltenders left unprotected by other teams and the youth, skill and potential upside that Lindberg possesses is what lead Las Vegas to his selection.
Oscar Lindberg will be a tough loss for the New York Rangers. The 25-year-old natural two way center was a critical piece to the Blueshirts organization for the last two seasons. His skill, work ethic and impressive offensive and defensive IQ were noticeable every shift.
As mentioned on ESNY’s Real Talk Rangers Podcast, Oscar Lindberg is a more skilled, younger version of former New York Rangers workhorse Dominic Moore. To be successful in the NHL, a team must have reliable fourth line players who can face the oppositions top guys. Oscar Lindberg fits this bill and will be a great addition for the Las Vegas fourth line.
We wish Oscar all the success in Vegas and will be excited to watch him continue his career in the NHL. Your warrior mentality on the ice will be missed! Good Luck!