The Great Gretzky Quits

WAHHHHhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"This was a difficult decision that I've thought long and hard about," Gretzky said in a statement. "We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected.  Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don't fit into their future plans, I approached General Manger Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach.  Don has worked hard and explored many options.  I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it's time for me to step aside.

The Coyotes never made the playoffs during their four seasons with Gretzky behind the bench. From 2005-06 to 2008-09, he had a 143-161-24 record for a .473 winning percentage.

"The Coyotes scouting staff has put together a great group of young and talented players who are going to improve tremendously over the next few years," the statement read.  "I'm proud of the team we've assembled, the organization with which I've been associated and the thousands of dedicated fans who have never wavered in their support of this young team. I'm confident that the best is yet to come for hockey in Phoenix."

TDR says:  The irony of it all -- 'The Great One' is resigning as a loser coach -- perhaps one of the greatest hockey players of our day, Grets has only found failure in his attempt at coaching an expansion team, has had troubles in gambling and (albeit 'hot') wife that keeps him in the trashy headlines, and leaves a shaky organization that appears to be sitting in Glendale, AZ for one more year before Ba-gillionaire Blackberry-founder Jim Balsillie buys and moves the Phoenix Coyotes to Hamilton, Ontario at the beginning of next season.  Not what Sports Illustrated had in mind when they declared "Understanding His Genius" & "The Master of Modesty", is it?

Listen, I understand the franchise is in a horrific state of affairs currently and he may be sick-to-death of coaching a losing team, but regardless of how ailing your franchise is, there are still players showing up to training camp in the hope that your hockey family is still unified -- and get this...the Coach NEVER SHOWED UP.  It is horrible enough when a player, such as Brandon Dubinsky misses the majority of camp and throws the locker room into chaos because of contract negotiations, but the 'Great One' (a.k.a. Coach of the Phoenix Coyotes) cited ownership reasons as an excuse for NOT SHOWING UP TO CAMP.  This is bullshit.  The team comes first, above everything else (except actual family) and he never demonstrated leadership this entire off-season to the franchise. It is only recently that one of the two bids has stated that Grets wasn't guaranteed a coaching position, well after the beginning of training camp - and this is just an excuse to duck out of further embarrassment.  Truth is, he just couldn't be bothered any further.  Shame, shame, shame on you Great One.


The Dark Ranger wants to nominate  Wayne Gretzky to our first TDR award.  In fact, I'd like to formally declare 'The Great One" the first recipient of the..

'GO PUCK YOURSELF' AWARD

...for taking the low-road and displaying no sense of shared hockey integrity when the 'goings get tough'!  Well done, Grets....this is how you leave the NHL!!?


tdr

Finally A Win, before the next round of cuts.

Everyone’s dander definitely seemed to be up after the last meeting and with a new round of cuts promised for the blueshirts the following day; players were sure to elevate their game for what could conceivably be their last chance to make the team. It could be seen in the games of:
- Artem Anisimov, who made a fantastic outside inside move to embarrass Penner of Boston with and outside inside move, and then go around the sprawled Tim Thomas to score a shorty with a diving Bobby Orr-esque Shot.
- Marc Staal as threw some big hits and played some shut down D.
- Michael Del Zotto as he really made some good plays at both ends of the ice.
- and unfortunately in the over effort of Aaron Voros who persistent stupidity saw him leave his feet on a check, paid for it with his usual punching bag performance courtesy of his co-star(Fata of Boston) and being relegated to his office in the penalty box for much of the period. Overall, it was a pretty offensive period for the Rangers as Ales Kotalik showed why he was viewed as a possible asset on the power play when he was signed this summer- Scoring on a hard one timer shot from the left circle off the feed from Prospal after some good puck movement on the PP. Even Sean Avery got into the act, burying a shot past Tim Thomas off a good effort by Youngster Jordan Owens, who seemed to be developing a bit of chemistry with Avery.
Boston Started the second period Strong with the man advantage. There was a scare midway through the second as Artem Anisimov was boarded by Lucic and was hurting on the bench. Soon after Valiquette would sprawl and find it not enough as Boston picked up the pace on its offensive game and scored again. It was at this point that i was begging for Chad Johnson to get some ice time. IT would appear Valiquette was also as he returned his water bottle back to its perch on top of the goal with a bit of disgust. Then he did. Dane Byers, a player I was hoping to get a look this preseason then challenged the Aforementioned Fata, Fata would decline but Byers soon found himself a willing dance partner. The fight was brief after the Boston player went for the take down midway through. Byers would earn the instigator for his trouble... unfortunately this only came moments before Semenov would get 2 minutes for a mystery penalty. Things we looking bleak for the Blueshirts, but due to the great effort by Marc Staal and Chad Johnson, Boston would be unable to capitalize on their man advantage. Later Ales Kotalik would score another goal on a shot from the point as the entire team seemed to be staring at each other till Matt Gilroy took the puck deep and spaced out the defense. There's a bit of mystery concerning what happened in the neutral zone, after Ranger antagonist, Milan Lucic turned up with a sore jaw and went to the locker room after an attempt to intimidate Michael Del Zotto. The last clue that was recorded was that new enforcer and Bruiser, Donald Brashear and Serial hugger Voros, had an impromptu meeting with Lucic in the neutral Zone. It's still unclear what happened.


As for the third period, it was fairly uneventful period with a lot of line changes as the coach tried to compress one extra evaluation into the final twenty before making his cuts. One of the line changes saw Anisimov and Avery Together. The bright spot of this period was Chad Johnson who made several sharp glove saves. Dane Byers would have some late reprieve as he received a chipped pass off the boards from Del Zotto in the neutral zone and cut across the neutral zone with a bruin on his tail before making a no look pass to Parentau, who scored from between the hash marks to make it 5-2 rangers.

So far, I'm rather impressed with Chad Johnson, Michael Del Zotto, Brashear and of course Matt Gilroy. I'm still a little puzzled by the efforts of some of our high priced D (who isn't?) and big bodies that play like they're made of glass. Also needless to say, I am a little annoyed at some of the rookies who felt that camp tryouts and bigger money was a mere formality... and look forward to pictures of Dubi sucking wind after cranking out those laps at what's left of camp.

-J_Undisputed

Baby Rangers Stuff It In Lucic's Face, NYR 5, Bruins 2

Ripped off-straight from The Associated Press:

BOSTON -- Prospect Artem Anisimov had a short-handed goal and an assist Saturday, leading the New York Rangers to their first preseason win, 5-2 over the Boston Bruins.

Ales Kotalik, who signed a three-year, $9 million free agent contract during the offseason, and AHL All-Star P.A. Parenteau also had a goal and an assist for the Rangers, who got two assists from veteran Vinny Prospal, another free agent signee.

The 21-year-old Anisimov's second two-point game in as many days featured a highlight one-man effort that capped a three-goal first period against Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas, who was making his preseason debut.

Anisimov's second two-point game in as many days featured a highlight one-man effort that capped a three-goal first period against Tim Thomas. The Vezina Trophy winner gave up the five goals on 19 shots in his preseason debut.

Kotalik opened the scoring with a power-play goal and assisted on Enver Lisin's second-period goal, while Parenteau assisted on Anisimov's goal and then closed the scoring with a late goal. Sean Avery also scored for the Rangers while Marc Savard and Zach Hamill scored for the Bruins. Thomas went all the way, yielding five goals on 19 shots.

Stephen Valiquette and Chad Johnson split time in the Rangers' goal, with Valiquette giving up the two goals on 14 shots. Johnson stopped 12 shots.

Boston's Milan Lucic was ejected for spearing New York's Michael Del Zotto at 16:06 of the second period.

The game was played the day after the Bruins shipped restricted free agent Phil Kessel to Toronto for three high draft picks.

Welcome Back My Boy......Dubie Signs

Brandon Dubinsky finally signed today.  The 2-year for $3.7 mill deal is done -- now we can get back to work and you can make that break-out season we've all been looking forward to.  Maybe your agent was right.....(or maybe Kessel wasn't signed by The Rangers)....ha!  Slats isn't stupid all the time, ya know

Go here, here or here for more on this.

tdr

MSG Math: 8 + 7.5 + 6 = A Big Fat Zero

Last night at Joe Louis Arena, the 3rd period began with the Rangers leading 2-0. A well-deserved lead, I might add. Henrik looked sharp again in the 1st and Matt Zaba -- with his lightning quick glove saves that he ends with flourishes -- took care of the 2nd period.

The Rangers had so little offense in the 3rd period,
that the Red Wings were able to really rest their defenders.

But a disturbing deja vu eerieness blurred my vision when I saw Michal Roszival take a humping, I mean holding, penalty in the last minute of the 2nd period. What was that feeling??? It felt so familiar. Why was my stomach turning?? Oh, that's right -- flashbacks to last season where Valiquette and company surrendered 4 goals to Toronto in the 3rd, 6 in Dallas and 4 more against Atlanta in the last 21 minutes of game -- each time blowing leads on the road. Put Matt Zaba between the pipes and Zaba Bing! it's 2008-09 all over again as the Red Wings potted 4. Someone tell Matt it was not all his fault. 2 of those goals were beautful top-shelf shots including the game-winner -- a still rising laser beam from the right circle by Jason Williams.

Whatever positives we saw in the first 2 periods evaporated faster than the Mets' bank account after Bernie Madoff was arrested when the Red Wings came out quickly and buzzed Zaba for 4 goals in stealing a 4-3 victory. Yes, it's preseason, but except for some spurts, the game made me keep looking for my remote to watch the Mets last night. Against the Nationals, in a battle to avoid last place.

The efforts of the Russians -- Artem Anisimov, Evegeny Grachev and Evner Lissin -- were laudable. Anisimov had a beautiful goal that was on YouTube before the 2nd period ended and assisted on Lissin's gaol in the 2nd period. He showed some Antropov skills as he used his lankiness and size to good advantage. His end-to-end rush that led to his goal had my mouth watering. Something that Gomez failed to do. His later move to the net showed some skill in getting himself into scoring position.
Nice elusiveness for a big guy.

Hockey is real easy when there is no one stopping your rushes.

As for the column's title -- perhaps only Bernie Madoff's client understands about getting so little out of so much. $20 million worth of contracts stinking up the place. The "D-" men of the blue line -- Roszival and Redden -- were simply awful out there. Read the official game recap here and notice that R&R are conspicuously absent from the game's description. R&R were on the ice for all 4 goals, sometimes literally -- the two of them floundering on their bellies like beached seals after a terrible defensive stretch in the 3rd period. That's $14 million on the ice. And yes, class, that only accounts for $14MM of my equation abouve. Let's not forget the other non-contributor -- Marian Gaborik and his $7.5 million -- he of the sore groin and out for the 1st 3 (preseason) games so far this season. Sounds like the Mets and Oliver Perez.

No doubt Charles Ponzi chuckles to himself in his grave everyday when he watches Cablevision dollars flow out the door to overpaid Ranger (and Knick) players. The fireworks and breast-beating over last night's 3rd period on other boards made my terminal glow last night from the heated anger over those two.

Near the end of the game, Joe Michelletti tried to put a gloss on the defeat noting that this is what preseason is good for -- seeing what the youngsters can do. He ominously mentioned (unintentionally for sure) that the Rangers already know what the veterans can do. I am afraid that Joe has more common sense than he gets credit for. We Rangers fans certainly know. Yet, for now, I will comfort myself with the thought that it's only preseason.

This afternoon, the Rangers get to see the Bruins who finalized their trade of Phil Kessel to Toronto last night.

No more chowdah, no more bisque. Phil Kessel
being helped out of TD Pavilion last night
after his trade to Toronto was finalized.

---Graying Mantis

First Cuts Announced

From Rangers Rants, Andrew Gross covers the Rangers for The Record:

After this weekend, coach John Tortorella said the team will go down to two goalies. Tortorella, while addressing the media, also said he was happy with the way his young defensemen were playing but had not been happy with his veterans' performance. As for the young defensemen: Bobby Sanguinetti may play both games this weekend and Michael Del Zotto and Matt Gilroy would each play at least one. Ilkka Heikkinen was kept over second-round pick Mike Sauer and Tortorella said Heikkinen would probably play one game this weekend.

Tortorella also ruled out Marian Gaborik for tomorrow night's game but did not rule him out for Saturday at Boston. Earlier in the day, Gaborik said he hoped to play in Monday's home game against the Red Wings.

CLICK HERE for a list of those moving to Hartford

tdr

'Old Time Hockey' Promised Tonight!

Two teams I despise are playing tonight - The Toronto Maple Leafs and The Philadelphia Flyers, but if you are a fan of 'old-time hockey' (think Broad Street Bullies, 70's and bench clearings), if you watch tonight's game you are GUARANTEED a pre-season brawl like no other.  7pm EST.

With the publicly lauded Brian-Burke-Brawler-Bully-Leaf-Machine revamping now in place in Toronto and Philadelphia's rebuilding of it's blue(collar)line with the addition of 'The Wall' Chris Pronger, sparks will fly when the first puck drops.  Last night against the Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Leafs there were four fights and plenty to prove by the recently acquired veterans and the newbie prospects attempting to impress the Burke-ism Philosophy.  Old-time hockey still remains a vital part of what the fans want in the NHL -- and both teams tonight will not disappoint.

Pension Plan Puppets in response to Toronto's new appetite to fight, states it nicely:

And if you think there's a chance this is going unnoticed by the Flyers, think again. Is there a reason Matt Clackson made this trip? Are you naive enough to think that it was just a coincidence last night when Riley Cote, Dan Carcillo, and Arron Asham all sat out last nights game in Detroit?

There are going to be fights tonight, and there are going to be lots of them. Get ready.

So New York Rangers fans....watch this game tonight, because it will certainly demonstrate how our Blueshirts need a little more than just a veteran defenceman and someone to center Gaborik on the first line.  Colton.....Colton......Where Art Thou, Colton?

Some fun facts about The Philadelphia Flyers that the Toronto Maple Leafs need to keep in mind:

Philadelphia was the NHL's most penalized team last season, averaging 17.5 minutes per game in the box, but it didn't really hurt the Flyers because they had the sixth-best penalty-killing unit in the league. They were so good that the Flyers managed to score a league-high 16 short-handed goals. And Philadelphia's other special team wasn't too shabby either, with the power-play unit ranking sixth in the league as well.

No one calls the Flyers the "Broad Street Bullies" anymore, but some of the numbers suggest it might still be appropriate. And that's even without cheap shots from Pronger. Philadelphia's lineup will include Daniel Carcillo, who led the NHL with 254 penalty minutes last season; Arron Asham, who had 155 minutes; and Ian Laperriere, who led the Colorado Avalanche with 163 minutes. Don't forget Riley Cote, either. He averaged less than five minutes of ice time but led the Flyers in fighting majors with 22, the fourth-highest total in the league.

May the best fighters win tonight!

tdr 

Matt Gilroy Impresses All, NYR 2, NJ Devils 3, SO (pre-season)

There's nothing like a good 'ole fashioned rivalry between the New York Rangers playing the NJ Devils of Newark....regardless of when or how they are playing (pre-season tonight) you generally get an emotional game and a competitive match.

Official recap here.   

Both teams went at it and showed up -- both displaying a good mix of veterans and prospects playing professional hockey, or at least for a night or two before some will officially receive the team cut and trek north to Hartford (NYR-AHL affilliate) and some to Lowell, MA (NJ-AHL affiliate, a random little bankrupt town where they spawn little-fire-eaters).

One current Blueshirt who is certain to stay in New York City through the season is defenceman Matt Gilroy, who scored multiple goals, one in regulation and the only NYR goal in the shootout.  Gilroy drove to the net, shifting from backhand to forehand to backhand, before lifting a shot over NJ Goalkeeper Danis in the third period to make it 2-1.   Gilroy signed with the Rangers in April after winning the Hobey Baker Award as the top collegiate player and helping Boston University to the NCAA title.  Dare I say we might have an All-Star in the kid, say two, three years down the road?  Seasons ago, we saw early glimpses of what was to become of both Marc Staal and Dan Girardi -- and this 25-year old rookie looks greater, more confident and a perfect fit with the Torts system.  Am I wrong, people???  

I know, I know -- it's only pre-season and the 'big leagues' answers all the unknowns, but there is 'foreshadowing of greatness' for Mr. Gilroy and his future with The Rangers.  Two pre-season games into this season, the young'ens in Blue are impressing me and I hope...John Tortorella.   Perhaps it's just me -- desperate for hockey after a long, long four month hiatus, but tonight's game and the last half of yesterday's pre-season match against Boston (both losses) showcased an energy that we had only seen toward the end of last year's regular season.

It's refreshing to see kids wanting to be on the ice and wanting to make the squad.  Dubie.....Dubie....is that you?

tdr

Tonight New York Rangers vs. NJ Devils (Pre-Season)

via The New York Rangers Insider:

Tonight's Game
The Rangers face-off against the New Jersey Devils tonight at the Prudential Center (7:00 p.m.), in the second of four games in five nights. New York is currently 0-1-0 in pre-season play following a 2-1 loss to the Boston Bruins yesterday at Madison Square Garden. Following tonight’s contest, the Rangers will travel to Detroit to face-off against the Red Wings on Friday, September 18 (7:30 p.m.) at Joe Louis Arena, before taking on the Boston Bruins on Saturday, September 19 (4:00 p.m.) at TD Garden. The Blueshirts will begin the 2009-2010 regular season against the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the Pittsburgh Penguins, on Friday, October 2 (7:30 p.m.), at Mellon Arena.
TV: MSG, MSG Plus.

Blueshirts Impress With a Loss, NYR 1, Bruins 2

The 'new' New York Rangers opened the pre-season last night against the Boston Bruins and certainly held their own.  Our Blueshirt squad consisted mostly of prospects vying to impress coach John Tortorella in making the starting team, with only three or four slots that may be in question.  Visibly absent was our center Brandon "Dumb-ie" Dubinsky, but they counted on Ryan Callahan to pick up the tempo when necessary.  Most of our starters were a scratch with the exception of our dear Captain Drury, newbie Kotalik (who demonstrated what might become of the power play), Christopher Higgins and the 'much-booed' Donald Brashear.

Official recap here.

Though a loss (that doesn't count), there were impressive performances by both Matt Gilroy and Michael Del Zotto, who if they continue to play throughout the pre-season as they did last night, will certainly find themselves professional Rangers come opening day.  Both were impressive, confident and strong --- and most important to Torts - forward moving blueliners. For anyone not watching the pre-season games, I would highly recommend you watch these two rookies, Michael Del Zotto at 19 years of age plays an aggressive game and wasn't backing down from Boston's Lucic -- "please the coach, please the coach..." - a very different style than former coach Tom Renney.  Matt Gilroy at 25 years of age, looks as solid as Blueshirts Dan Girardi and Marc Staal.  Missing, though, is our "stay at home" defensive stud.  Chris Pronger would have been nice.  Higgins and Kotalik were extremely impressive on the point, and will certainly make a difference in the power play.

As to be expected, the first period was sloppy and dribble - in other words, a pre-season debut - but the Blueshirts picked up the tempo in the second and third periods, controlling the last half of the game. 

I actually enjoyed last night and look forward to tonight against the NJ Devils -- as we've all read that NJ's Jamie Langenbrunner has been scratched in place of Brendan Shanahan tonight (look out for that upcoming trade, folks...ha ah ah aha h ).   MSG at 7pm.

tdr

Dubinsky Is A Schmuck!

So it's official.  (Questionable) New York Ranger, Brandon Dubinsky, is a schmuck.

For months now, Rangers fans have anticipated a multi-year deal to be locked and loaded with our home-grown Brandon Dubinsky -- though despite his PIMs of last year, he could be one of the most awkward fighters in the league -- but most important, this guy wears his heart on his sleeve and we have watched it dangling for two seasons now.  I remember the young kid under former NYR coach Tom Renney centering Jaromir Jagr adding points to every game, Jagr the proud Papa and his newly found hockey pup.  Brandon represents to us what we expect of all our Rangers:  Aggressive.  Caring.  Loyal.

But hang on folks...

As a restricted free agent this season, we have waited for the contract that never came, even after Brandon's reassurances to the media and fans two weeks ago that the deal would be made and things would be worked out.  Being given another shot at centering a world-class sharp-shooter, this time under the tutelage of the Torts system and our newly minted Blueshirt star-power Marian Gaborik, we had expectations of a much larger Brandon Dubinsky - and even a product of the new New York Rangers youth movement.   And so....the promises....the doubt....the reassurances.....belief again..on again....off again.....but still no contract.

If you are a stranger to the off-season, we are now back in-season as today was the first day of training camp for the Blueshirts, where young'ens got to challenge the veterans for the limited number of spots on the third and fourth lines for opening night - Oct. 1 against the Penguins and the first home game Oct. 2 against the Senators (without the Heat).  And guess who didn't show up?   Our very own 1. Aggressive 2. Caring and 3. Loyal, Brandon Dubinsky.

After two days of last minute sitdowns with NYR General Manager, Glen Sather and Brandon Dubinsky & 'His Agent', things went sour and no contract or agreement came to pass.  Where he has the option to take a minimal salary, prove himself for one more season, and go to town with a multi-year and 'hog-money' contract, he (and his agent) are choosing to bend the Blueshirt organization back 'n forth.  Perhaps Henrik Lundqvist's one-year contract with the Rangers, followed by his six-year re-signing would be good precedent in the Sather Caves.....obviously, Agent Dubie has something else in mind and now it's affecting the team.

This is what our coach John Tortorella, who has been quiet about these affairs until now, had to say about this situation:

“It’s stupid, “ the Rangers head coach said after 50-plus players went through a series of medical tests and wind sprints. “He’s a young man that needs to be here. I think a player needs to be with his teammates. I’m hoping he realizes that. I think his agent’s stupid….I think Dubi understands my feelings. I thought Glen (Sather) was very honest with Dubi a couple days ago---I was privy to that conversation---as a general manager and man-to-man as a friend.”

So now the Coach feels like the fans.  He may be signed one minute after this posting, but I wanted to get the message out there that we all feel Brandon's agent is misguiding him and setting a very bad precedent for his future career as a professional hockey player. And ultimately, this is Dubinsky letting this happen.

...and all of this makes him look like a sore loser.  Not quite Dany Heatley, but something related.   Not what we had in mind from our young hopefuls, 'Dubie'.

tdr

Armageddon In The Desert

All hockey fans are watching closely as to whether or not NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman will lose the fight to keep the Phoenix Coyotes in Phoenix, AZ and in/out of the hands of Blackberry-creator Jim Basillie.  The result will mark Bettman's greatest victory or greatest failure in his tenure running the league.  No middle ground here, folks.  This is serious stuff because it essentially vaporizes Bettman's expansion plans for the NHL and questions how the league has essentially controlled their own legal system.

Greg Esposito of Ultimate Faceoff did a nice recap:

And then there were two.
According to court filings by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, the third bidder in the Coyotes saga, IceEdge LLC, has in formed the NHL that they do not intend on taking part in the auction for the team scheduled for Thursday. That means the bankruptcy auction is down to a Rocky Balboa versus Apollo Creed-type showdown between the NHL and Canadian Superhero billionaire Jim Balsillie (not quite sure who is Balboa and who is Creed, but $140 million is certainly the underdog to $212 million).
With both Jerry Reinsdorf and IceEdge out, bidders are officially dropping faster than pants in Paris Hilton’s house. Or for you die hard hockey fans, they are dropping faster than personal references in a Jeremy Roenick press conference.   More here.

Slightly larger than MSG suing the NHL for a website, more interesting than wherever the hell Dany Heatley will play, and, most importantly, this entire Phoenix to Hamilton debacle has nothing to do with the New York Rangers and Glen Sather.  Whew.  Truth be told, if you like him or not, Gary Bettman is one mean son-of-a-beech when he needs to be, but can money ultimately beat the small-man's iron fists!!?

Enjoy the grudge match from a distance.

TDR

Betts Your Bottom Dollar

So I'll make this a double-Flyers posting day, as everyone is now reporting that Brashear-bashed Blair Betts will be joining the Philadelphia Bullies in training camp next week.  This obviously frees up more cap space for The 2009/10 New York Rangers and our 'alleged acquiring of every important free agent left' mantra (see Dany Heatley, Phil Kessel, Mats Sundin, etc.) as we approach our own training camp.

Gee speaking of which, we sure will miss Tom Renney and the West Point cadets tackling the New York Rangers during pre-season training camp, which always seemed strangely related to the premise in the movie Mystery, Alaska (without the skates and pond hockey) -- big bad professional team comes to local institution and challenges the locals.  Maybe it's just me.   But so I digress...

Wishing Betts the best of luck, as some say Philly has a chance at the Golden Cup this year.  It is not a terrible idea to play for the City of Brotherly Love --- someone named 'The Donald' will be ready for your return to the Garden.  When that moment happens, there will be at least one Rangers fan at The Garden cheering for you Blair Betts....and cursing his own NYR enforcer to hell and back (his name rhymes with Motty Trockey)!!!

tdr

Some 2009-10 Hockey Predictions

What???  A NY Rangers site not predicting them to win The Cup???  Heresy...I know.

As summer feels gone and we are 22 days, three hours and 19 minutes away from the debut of our new and improved 'Tort-shirts', one of our part-time contributing bloggers - BlueNationLeafs - wants to share his predictions for both conferences and who will eventually win the 'Bacterial Lord Cup of Post-Sid'.   Scream at us, comment at will, and if you feel you have any questions on his hypothesis -- send them my way and I'll be sure they are answered.    I will agree that he is putting great stock and prestige in our Atlantic Division rival - the Philadelphia Flyers -- something The Dark Ranger is not happy about in any form.  Chris Pronger is the missing piece in probably the strongest blueline in the East, a team with great depth, but that doesn't mean we need to like them.  In fact, I think they stink.  (but it is inevitable that Chris Pronger will lay out the welcome wagon for an overconfident Pittsburgh Penguin Sidney Crosby...hence this picture), but I digress....

So I introduce to you --- another list by another expert.   TDR

Eastern Conference 2009/2010 Predictions                        

1. Philadelphia Flyers 
2. Boston Bruins 
3. Washington Capitals
4. Pittsburgh Penguins 
5. New Jersey Devils 
6. Carolina Hurricanes 
7. New York Rangers 
8. Tampa Bay Lightning 
9. Ottawa Senators 
10. Buffalo Sabres 
11. Atlanta Thrashers 
12. Toronto Maple Leafs 
13. Montreal Canadians 
14. Florida Panthers 
15. New York Islanders

Western Conference 2009/2010 Predictions

1. Detroit Red Wings 
2. Vancouver Canucks 
3. Anaheim Ducks 
4. San Jose Sharks 
5. Chicago Blackhawks 
6. Calgary Flames 
7. Dallas Stars 
8. Columbus Blue Jackets 
9. St Louis Blues 
10. Edmonton Oilers 
11. Los Angeles Kings 
12. Nashville Predators 
13. Minnesota Wild 
14. Colorado Avalanche 
15. Phoenix Coyotes

The Final Four 2009/2010

Philadelphia Flyers vs.  Boston Bruins  (Flyers in 7)        

Detroit  Red Wings vs. Calgary Flames (Flames in 6)

The Stanley Cup

Philadelphia Flyers vs. Calgary Flames (Flyers win Stanley Cup in 6)

Give Them Free Food, They Will Come

So The Dark Ranger and his Dark Juniors spent the day at the Rangers Fanfest in Tarrytown, NY at the New York Rangers training facility, a free to Season Ticket Holders (that use their Amex cards) event designed to get us excited for the upcoming season.

Prior to our leaving, my 4-year old Dark Junior (pictured below) and I reviewed last year's team program to decide who'd we like to see at the FanFest.  Ironically, most of those players he wanted to see were no longer on the team.  In fact, there were only four or five players listed in the souvenir program that still remain on the team (with the exception of the unconfirmed 'Dubie Bran-Bran').  I know, I know...he'll be signed.  I subsequently attempted to explain that he'd need a PhD to know, let alone pronounce, all the new players on our newly assembled Blueshirt squad, but perhaps his blank look was the result of being only four years old.

Once we arrived, I realized this was an event built around NYR fans with KIDS ONLY - basketball hoops (great for a hockey event), a merchandise shack, liability waiver forms, pickup street hockey rink with plastic hockey sticks, oversized number 9 for obvious Adam Graves pictures later in the day, and plenty of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches and free sponsored drinks galore!  So with kids, I was in luck.  Arriving sharply at 10am, we slowly worked our way into the event and took advantage of everything they had to offer. 

What was a bit surprising were the number of grown-ups without kids, die-hard fans getting face painted!!?  Most of them wearing jerseys, many fans wearing jerseys with their own names on the back (bad, bad form and just not right - though, I could be wrong if anyone's ever heard of 'Rubenstein' as a Ranger).   It was an expected party-planner party with mounds of food, prizes for all and a fan-forum tent where you were treated to Sam Rosen from MSG interviewing the regulars:  Adam Graves, Ron Duguay, and a very different looking Nick Fotiu (than the much younger headshot he was signing for fans).  It was full of the usual questions (SAM:  "So what we're missing is a big Center this season....how do you think the Rangers will compensate for this missing piece.  Is Dubi ready for the job?"  This question was answered by all alumni at the forum with the expected answers on believing in the new Coach Torts system and believing in our youth, yada, yada, yada).   I am one jaded Rangers fan, obviously, as most in the tent seemed to be hearing this garbage for the first time.  Apparently, Mark Messier later showed up for Sam's avant-garde questioning and quickly disappeared before he was savagely assaulted by overstuffed, face-painted jersey wearing adults without kids.

And then there was free food...tons of it -- the least MSG could do for those of us loyal enough to stick around during the 21st Century Depression.  My family ate the equivalent of $455 worth of food at The Garden.  So thank you Mr. Dolan.  We appreciate the give-back.

The training facility opened late at the event - around 3pm - so five hours worth of attendees were disappointed -- and we were all sad not to hit the ice as expected, but....

In my book and overall, the event was pretty awesome if you were one of three things:

1. A huge Rangers Fan (and you stayed past 3pm for the pickup games with Cally and Girardi)
2.  A Kid
3.  Or Father of a Kid.  

As a season ticket holder for almost ten years, I thought the timing was right for this to happen pre-season and I actually commend all of the Garden employees that worked a Saturday to be interested in 'the everyday season ticket holder' - to ask what section I sit in, and how long I've been there...and mostly to thank me for continuing to support the franchise.  I was proud as Father DARK and I was proud of the organization (for once).  Mostly, this event with my kids reminded me how proud I am to be a Rangers Fan.  Thanks guys!

(indulge me with some pictures with my very own Dark Junior at the Ranger FanFest):

 Dark Junior & Ron Duguay doing an impression of Michal Rozsival & Wade Redden. 

Dark Junior & Tyler Arnason in a Death Match playing NHL10

Tyler actually programmed himself on the Rangers' first line.  Dark Junior stole the puck from him a number of times, which in itself, is not a good sign of Tyler actually making the cut this season.  Hello Hartford!

Dark Junior actually said, "Take That Marty! on this shot"

Confused, I told Dark Junior that this is what was left of the NY Knicks...

TDR

Eastern Muscle and More Heatley Thoughts

from Shawn P. Roarke of NHL.com,

Toronto, once the epicenter of hockey, has missed the playoffs the past four seasons, including last season’s 81-point debacle. Nobody knows if the near-term future holds a playoff berth for the Leafs, but Burke promises that his team will give its all to return the Original Six franchise to its former glory.
“Our goal is to make the playoffs next year; we’re going to have to make some changes to do it. We’re going to be a different team,” Burke said this summer. “I like a lot of hitting. I like a lot of fighting. We have a passive group. All year long, when a trainer was on the ice—it was always our trainer—that really bothered me.
“It will be a more hostile group in the fall.”

With New York Rangers John Tortorella's speed skating system in place, certain members of the Blueshirts (Gaborik, Avery, dare I say Brashear) will be competing against a much tougher class of competition this season -- the most obvious being Brian Bionic Burke's Leaf Muscle Machine he has assembled this off-season, including our once very-own-enforcer Colton Orr (who will be looking to accumulate more PIMs than Avery has words).   The Philadelphia Flyers with the addition of Chris Pronger has added some fire and brute on the blueline, making them one of the biggest contenders in the Atlantic Division (still looking forward to that Chris Pronger slamming Sidney Crosby into the boards highlight reel).  Our Blueshirts need to 'look out' and hit back and defend their own. 

As to the rumors of Dany Heatley going to the Los Angeles Kings -- talk has been muted and no one appears to be spilling anything further. We seem to have caused enough panic on both coasts and up north as our post Dany Heatley To The Kings? drummed up more hits and page loads than ever before on this site.  It goes to show you that people do care where Heatley lands.  I think this Heatley-trade-me-because-I-am-Not-Appreciated off-season debacle is something comparable to watching Britney Spears.   We are sick to death of her and her antics, but as the hockey equivalent we cannot get enough --- all waiting for the next misstep, to find out who is stupid enough to engage in Murray's trading tactics, bow our heads as Edmonton continues to display inferiority in their own roster, etc...  More, more, more....   If you are sick to death of hearing about it and it is getting all blown out of proportion, then stop reading about it you sycophants!!!  (and also, The Dark Ranger welcomes sycophants)

tdr

Dany Heatley To The Kings?

This was sent to us last night from a Toronto source --- this by no way is the guess-work or insider-work of THE DARK RANGER or anyone affiliated. What do you think?

*******************************************

KINGS TO ACQUIRE HEATLEY IN BLOCKBUSTER DEAL
I am going out on a limb and declaring the Los Angeles Kings the winner of the Dany Heatley sweepstakes. The Kings has the cap room and more than enough young talent to satisfy the Ottawa Senators.

The deal will go down as follows –

To the Senators
Alexander Frolov (32 goals last season) - 2.9 million cap hit
Oscar Moller (2nd round pick in 07 draft – 19 years of age 7 goals 8 assists in 40 GP)
Thomas Hickey (1’st round pick 07 draft – 4th overall)
A conditional pick based on Frolov resigning or not resigning with the Senators

This deal opens the door and cap room to sign Sykora for 1.5 million on a 2 year deal. (similar money as Bertuzzi)

To the Kings
Danny Heatley – a top player in the NHL who brings baggage but scores 40-50 every year.

So here is how both teams will look at the beginning of the season:

Senators Lineup 2009-2010
Frolov Spezza Alfredsson
Foligno Fisher Kovalev
Sykora Kelly Neil
Ruutu Moller Shannon

Phillips Volchenkov
Campoli Kuba
Lee Smith

# Erik Karlson (1’st rounder 15th overall 2008) and Thomas Hickey (acquired through the LA deal) have an outside chance of making the team out of training camp. Along with Jared Cowen (9th overall 2009 draft) the Senators are deep on defense paving the way for their future. Look for Brian Lee (1’st rounder 2005 – 9th overall ) to make a huge step forward this season. Nick Foligno and his 17 goals last season is a sure bet to hit 20-25 goals playing on the second line with more ice time and better offensive players. Frolov will score 35 goals and help make fans slowly forget Heatley. Sykora adds playoffs experience, secondary goal scoring, winning attitude and multiple Stanley cup rings. He is good for 10-15 goals this season. This team makes the playoffs and could be a dark horse in the East.

LA Kings Lineup 2009-2010

Heatley Kopitar Brown
Smyth Stoll Williams
Simmonds Handzus Purcell
Ivanans Lewis Richardson

Doughty Greene
Johnson Scuderi
Harrold O’Donnell

# The Kings are a team that is young, fast and talented. They are ready to take the next step and join the upper echelon in the NHL. The emergence of Jonathan Bernier between the pipes is vital for the future of this franchise. Taken in the first rounds 11th overall in 2006 he must take the next steps. Brayden Schenn 5th overall this year could play next season on the third line and is captain material in the NHL. Heatley, Kopitar, Brown, Smyth, Doughty, Johnson and Bernier clearly establish the Kings as perhaps the best team this season out of California! Welcome back to the playoffs Los Angeles.

BlueNationLeafs

Tortorella Speaks

If you missed it and you're reading this post, go here for mandatory reading. Jeff Klein of the New York Times interviewed 'Coach Torts' and we get honesty like we haven't heard since the days of Mike Keenan (the similarities are uncanny).

I do think Tortorella is a 'tone-setter' for training camp, someone who cares about the team as much as we do as die-hard fans. Even during the playoffs, it felt that Jaromir Jagr and Tom Renney left their marks on the franchise -- inconsistent style of play, tired, lazy, 'looking for the perfect shot', horrible power play, etc.

A month from now, these things will be addressed and we can thank the new coach for the attitude change.

Though, we can only hope this season he'll resist throwing chairs at fans that have a quicker wit than he does...

tdr

If Burkie Were In Charge Of The Rangers

The Dark Ranger and clan arrived back from Paris and London, ready for hockey and for training camp to begin 'Amen to that'. Much has happened in the last couple of days and I suspect more is to come in terms of the NYR roster shakedown that is consistently happening on Broadway this off-season; no one can say it has been a boring summer in the hockey world across the NHL. Just ask Patrick Kane!! (what is THAT about?). I know the economy is tanking, but from 'Dollar Bill' to "Twenty Cent Kane", I'd say that is a horrible return.

Anyhoo...One of our regular readers - BlueNationLeafs - is sharing his own version of what the Blueshirts lines will look like after Jedi Glen Sather finally makes some additional changes (for the good or bad) this off season, much like Brian Burke is re-shaping the Toronto Maple Leafs this summer and as we read this post. I titled this in the spirit of 'Burkie' because if you believe the Toronto hockey trades, you'll know that Burke is attempting every and any trade angle to rid the overburdening salary cap of the Leaf's Tomas Kaberle (sound familiar?) -- and my Toronto buddy BlueNationLeafs conveniently dumps Kaberle into our roster as a good thing for NYC (see below).

So hang in there with this post...it may get you thinking. What do you think?

tdr

Scenario #1: The Rangers lineup for 2009-2010

Prospal - Higgins - Gaborik
Avery - Drury - Kotalik
Lisin - Betts - Callahan
Brashear - Anismov - Voros
* Bertuzzi (25 goals – 20 assists and strong on the PP)

Kaberle - Redden
Staal - Girardi
Rozsival - Gilroy

This lineup is conditional on the NYR being able to resign Betts (required for the PK) and trading Dubinsky and Bobby Sagnuinetti for Kaberle. This will open the door allowing the NYR to trade Rozsival for a 2nd line forward (Hecht?) who can score 20-25 goals and with the cap room now available sign *Bertuzzi (1.5 million on a one year term) who would provide additional secondary scoring. Buffalo could use a puck moving defenseman - this deal would benefit both teams. Hecht and Kotalik also know each other well from their playing days with the Sabres.

Lashoff unsigned in Tampa should also be acquired for a draft pick to offset the loss of Sagnuinetti. Lashoff is a former first rounder of the Bruins with a bright future and would be affordable. He was brought in for Mark Recchi at the deadline last season.

This following Scenario #2 lineup would be affordable and provides youth, skill, grit, veteran presence and scoring depth to challenge for the cup.

Scenario #2: The Rangers lineup for 2009-2010

Prospal - Higgins - Gaborik
Avery - Drury - Callahan
Bertuzzi - Hecht - Kotalik
Brashear - Betts - Voros

Kaberle - Redden
Staal - Girardi
Lashoff - Gilroy

Slats wake up and make my vision and reality!

- BlueNationLeafs

Prospal And Torts Back Together Again? and Sather Says To His New Apprentice "You're Hired"

Some interesting New York Rangers news today:

TSN: It appears as though Vaclav Prospal's time on the unemployment line was a brief one as the New York Post is reporting the veteran forward has signed with the New York Rangers.

According to the Post, the deal is for one-season and is worth $1.1 million.

The 34-year old Czech Republic native became a free agent earlier in the summer when the Tampa Bay Lightning bought out the final three years of a four-year, $14 million contract. He had 19 goals and 26 assists in 82 games for the Bolts last season.

The move will reunite Prospal with John Tortorella who Prospal coached Prospal in two separate stints with Tampa Bay.

THE DARK RANGER SAYS: This is a great signing for one year and just over one million bucks - please tell me why half of our signings are not this reasonable and fair?, not to mention this is a guy that can (will) deliver 50-55 points a year -- there is chemistry with the up-tempo-coaching methods of Coach Tortorella and they have history and trust together. Works for me --- plus I cannot help that some major trade will be happening with all these signings....Dubi is in limbo with this team as Slats is shopping his ass and looking for one of the big rumored trades out there. Richards later in the season, Heatly, Bertuzzi -- who the hell knows, but this we do know.....DUBINSKY IS NOT SIGNED (something is happening here in Rangerland, folks) AND ONE WOULD THINK THAT DUBI'S AGENT IS IN TANDEM WITH SLATS TO GIVE HIS CLIENT THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A LARGER AND MORE LUCRATIVE CONTRACT, WHILE SATISFYING THE RANGERS NEED TO SEEK A MORE EXPERIENCED GABORIK PLAYMAKING CENTER.

Mark Messier is returning to the New York Rangers and will serve as special assistant to president Glen Sather, the team announced on Sunday.

"I couldn't be more thrilled with the opportunity to move back to New York with my family, to learn from Glen and to work for the Rangers," Messier told the New York Post during a phone interview. "I'm going to come in and get my feet wet and get an overview of how the business runs and how the team runs and take it from there."

According to the Post, former Rangers head coach Tom Renney asked Messier about working with the team's coaching staff last season. The newspaper went on to say Messier interviewed for the Edmonton Oilers head coaching position earlier this summer. The Post was the first media outlet to report Messier was taking the position with the Rangers.

The 48-year-old is hoping to learn more about the front office side of hockey with his new position.

"I think I have a pretty good eye for talent, but really, there are so many things about the management and business side of the game that I've never been exposed to. So I'm going to soak it all in and learn as much as I can about what it takes on that end to build a champion."

For his part, Messier believes his playing career will provide valuable experience in his new position.

"I think I bring a little different perspective to the organization after and playing in the NHL for 25 years and playing in New York for 10 years," Messier told the Post. "I understand what a player needs to succeed in this environment that's riddled with pressure to win."

THE DARK RANGER SAYS: It's about time. Though, I hate being second fiddle to Edmonton as that job was already filled.