What's next for Rangers?
A fan of the New Jersey Devils holds up a sign reading "It's Not 1994" during a game against the Rangers. (May 25, 2012) Credit: Getty Images
What's next for the Rangers, who have the core of a Stanley Cup contender? Based on playoff performances, youngsters Chris Kreider and Ryan McDonagh should only get better. But the Blueshirts have some avenues to pursue in order to improve next season.
Decisions are needed on eight unrestricted and three restricted free agents. Management will certainly test the free-agent waters. On the trade front, is another run at Columbus power forward Rick Nash in the offing? What about fishing for Anaheim's Bobby Ryan, a New Jersey native? The Rangers have the 28th pick in the draft on June 22-23 in Pittsburgh. Or perhaps that pick could be packaged in a swap.
A quick overview:
Justin Schultz. The Wisconsin junior defenseman, who apparently filed paperwork to officially withdraw from school, was a 2008 second-round draft pick of the Anaheim Ducks, but without signing is free to negotiate a deal. The two-time All-American is projected as a top four blueliner with offensive skills. Note: Derek Stepan and Ryan McDonagh are ex-Badgers.
Stu Bickel. Rookie defenseman has promise, but how much upside?
Defensemen Tim Erixon, who played 18 games for the Blueshirts and the remainder in the AHL, should get a long look in training camp. So will J.T. Miller, last year's No. 1 draft pick; Christian Thomas, 34 goals, 67 points in 55 games with Oshawa, and Michael St. Croix, 45-60-105 in the regular season, a 7-12-19 playoff and a WHL championship with the Edmonton Oil Kings.
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