The New York Rangers prospect development camp kicked off on Monday and scrimmages beginning today.
The New York Ranger prospects — which include all seven players that were selected in last week’s NHL Draft — have been skating drills and learning some of the Rangers systems from the coaches on hand. Today, they finally get to do the fun part of camp: scrimmaging at the Rangers training facility. The scrimmages will be on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Free Agency Rumors Heating Up
With free agency beginning on Saturday, July 1, talk of where players may sign with has begun. This year’s free agent pool is not as strong as years past which is why the general talk has been significantly slower. The first significant rumor involves Kevin Shattenkirk, which may surprise some. Jim Cerny of the Sporting News said:
I would not be surprised if they sign Shatty, but I just do not think that's going to happen… https://t.co/o5Qfc2L5yG
— Jim Cerny (@JimCerny) June 27, 2017
Craig Custance reported that San Jose Shark Patrick Marleau has lots of interest from Toronto, Anaheim, Carolina, Nashville, San Jose, Los Angeles and the Rangers. The 37-year-old Marleau is coming off a strong season where he scored 27 goals. He is a center, a position the Rangers need to fill, but his asking price may be too high for the team to commit to.
Lots of interest in Patrick Marleau coming off 27-goal season. Toronto, Anaheim, NYR, SJ, Carolina, Nashville, LA all in the mix.
— Craig Custance (@CraigCustance) June 27, 2017
Of course, the Rangers are in need of an NHL backup goalie since Antti Raata was traded last week. The Pool of available goalies is slim, so the Rangers will have to determine if they want to go through free agency, the trade market, or promote from within.
Anthony DeAngelo Makes a Call
Newly acquired defenseman Anthony DeAngelo may be maturing right in front of our eyes. DeAngelo wants to wear #77, a number not worn by a Rangers player since Phil Esposito.
Naturally, DeAngelo gave him a call and asked for permission, continuing the tradition of honoring the veterans who have come before. Of course, Esposito had no objections, and DeAngelo will wear #77 with the Blueshirts.
Great to speak with Phil Esposito today, called to ask if I can wear #77 in NY. Thanks for the Ok Phil. Honor to wear it after you! #NYR
— Tony DeAngelo (@TonyDee07) June 27, 2017
The Rangers have a lot to discuss regarding the future of the team and this week’s scrimmages will give General Manager Jeff Gorton an idea of what kind of team he will have in years to come. Free agent talks will definitely intensify with Saturday approaching quickly.
Other New York Ranger News
Jim Cerny discusses his top 20 NHL free agents.
ESNY’s Neil Purcell with an open letter to Anti Raanta.
New York Newsday’s Steve Zipay writes about the Rangers need for a backup goalie.