2009-10 Rangers Preview: Revamped roster aims to silence doubters

September 28, 2009   ·   Derek Felix   ·   Jump to comments

The hard part is over. After a grueling training camp under fiery coach John Tortorella, the Rangers are ready for a brand new season that starts Friday at Mellon Arena against the defending champion Penguins. Following a busy 3-3-1 preseason, the Blueshirts finally turn their attention to the regular season. Indeed, it all begins for real versus Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Co. Right away, Tort’s revamped roster- which includes 10 new faces with the forwards getting a whole new look- will be tested.

There’s no better opposition to gauge if Glen Sather’s makeover that saw Scott Gomez moved to Montreal for Smithtown’s Chris Higgins will work. Also gone are Markus Naslund (retirement), Nikolay Zherdev (Atlant, KHL), Nik Antropov (signed w/Atl)  Lauri Korpikoski (traded to Phx for Enver Lisin), PK tandem Blair Betts (Flyers), and Freddy Sjostrom (Flames). There’s also a new enforcer with bad boy Donald Brashear replacing fan favorite Colton Orr, who landed in Toronto.

FORWARDS: Indeed, the Rangers are most different up front with Big Ticket Marian Gaborik the new star headlining Broadway along with newcomers Higgins, Brashear, Lisin, Vinny Prospal, Ales Kotalik, Brian Boyle and rookie Artem Anisimov, who impressed with a club best four preseason goals. Those eight have been added to five survivors Sean Avery, Ryan Callahan, Chris Drury, Brandon Dubinsky and Aaron Voros. Will it pay off? Tortorella, who plays a much more aggressive style than former coach Tom Renney, is hoping radical changes will result in a better offense than the 200 they got which ranked near the bottom.

That includes Gaborik who inked a five-year $37.5 million deal a day after Slats unloaded Gomez freeing up necessary space to land the former Wild Star. Only 27, the talented Slovak is one of the best scorers in the game, possessing great hands capable of 50 goals and 100 points. The big question is will a player who hasn’t proved durable stay healthy? In two of the past three seasons, he’s missed significant time including 65 games last season due to hip and groin problems. The good news is he was sharp following hip surgery finishing with a bang (10-8-18 last 11 GP) including a seven-game point streak in which he totaled seven goals and six helpers. That’s how explosive Gaborik is. But after a clean bill of health, he missed a few preseason contests due to a balky groin. The Rangers’ new No.10 looked good though scoring twice in a win over Washington that featured a highlight reel shorthanded breakaway goal.

The plus says Gaborik can light it up with 2007-08 accentuating that with a career best 42 goals and 41 assists for 83 points in 77 contests under defensive-minded Jacques Lemaire, who’s now devising strategies in New Jersey to silence his former star. Their first get together occurs early with the Rangers visiting The Rock Oct.5. The half dozen games versus their Hudson rival will add an intriguing storyline.

While much of the focus is around Gaborik, his teammates aren’t getting much play. That includes Callahan who achieved career highs in goals (22), points (40) and penalty minutes (45) while ranking fourth in the league with 265 hits. It’s that kind of gritty play from the emerging 24 year-old Rochester native that’s getting him noticed with Team USA inviting the former 2004 fourth round pick to Olympic training camp. A future captain, the Steven McDonald winner is a constant who can play any situation. Under Tortorella, he impressed. How much better can he get in a full season?

The same applies to Dubinsky, who after a holdout agreed on a new multi-year deal worth $2.7 million. Entering his third season, it’s time for the 23 year-old Alaskan to earn it by improving on the first two seasons which saw him average slightly under 14 goals and 40.5 points. He also benefited from Tortorella’s aggressive style impressing with a goal and three helpers in a first round loss to Washington. The demanding coach wants to see the two-way center, who also plays physical (251 hits-7th NHL) and wins faceoffs (53.6 percent-18th) take the next step. After experimenting with Prospal who he’s quite familiar with from their Tampa days, Tortorella has had Dubinsky center the top line with Prospal and Gaborik. We’ll see if the third-year player is up to the challenge.

As for Prospal, the 34 year-old Czech comes over after being bought out looking to prove the Lightning wrong. He took much less (1.1 M) to play for his former coach. Thus far, a streaky player who went from 33 goals and 71 points to just 19 and 45 with a minus-20 rating has looked good. He’s always been a solid interchangeable forward who can play center if needed. Look for Tort to deploy him similarly to how Renney used Martin Straka. He should be a sound addition to a team looking to improve offensively.

One player the Blueshirts need more from is Drury, who struggled in his second season but still scored 22 goals and added 34 helpers good for 56 points which somehow placed third in club scoring. The Ranger captain can be better and must perform more than what we’ve seen. He  has the kinda players that work well in former Sabre linemate Kotalik and hardworking speedster Higgins. Both former Northeast rivals are looking to bounce back from disappointing seasons.

The 26 year-old Higgins followed a career season (27-25-52, 12 PPG, 5 GW in 82 GP) by going through an injury riddled 2008-09 that saw him miss 25 games netting a career worst 23 points (12-11-23) on an underachieving Canadien squad. Now, the local kid is home looking to prove his former club wrong. He’s a superb skater who works hard and should be a PK fixture. Thus far, Tortorella has used him with Drury. They seem to have chemistry. If Ranger fans couldn’t put up with Gomez’ inconsistencies, they should take a liking to a player who doesn’t take shifts off. Prior to last season, Higgins averaged 24 goals. Look for him to get back to that level.

If there’s one player who might draw MSG’s ire, it’s Kotalik who somehow got three years, nine million from Slats. The 30 year-old Czech possesses a lethal shot which could make him a fixture on the left point. Truth be told, he has a dangerous one-timer that made him an effective player for Buffalo. Twice, Kotalik hit double digits in power play goals (10 in 2005-06 and 12 in 2007-08). Last year, he had eight of 13 on the PP before the Sabres dealt him to Edmonton. In 19 games, he tallied 11 points (7-4-11) adding one PPG for a combined nine along with 20 overall making it the fourth season he reached that mark. That’s what the Rangers are banking on. But what else can be expected from an inconsistent performer whose scoring has dropped? Since posting a career high 62 points (25-37-62) in 2005-06 on a Sabre club that nearly reached the Cup, he’s averaged only 41.33. This is a player who doesn’t always compete. Hopefully, being reunited with Drury will rejuvenate him.

Thanks to the new additions, Ranger pest Avery won’t be asked to play top minutes. The 29 year-old left wing certainly will take any role Tortorella gives him. After a forgettable Dallas stint, the cult hero returned posting 12 points (5-7-12) and 34 penalty minutes in 18 games, helping the club make the postseason a fourth consecutive year. However, undisciplined play saw him miss Game Six with the team never recovering. Avery was their best player in a 2-1 Game Seven loss setting up the lone tally. What he must get is that refs won’t do him any favors. As evidenced in New Jersey, the charasmatic North York, Ontario native must remain poised. He’s too vital a player to be in the box. He must pick his spots. Avery has come in great shape and very focused. If he plays hockey, it could result in a big season.

One bright new face the club likes is Anisimov. Only 21, the lanky 6-4, 190-pound Russian has earned a spot. The question is will Tort use him as the third line center? If Dubinsky’s on the top line, that’s likely which means the former 2006 second round pick will play a key role. With nothing left to prove after tearing up the ‘A’ with 37 goals, 81 points, 16 PPG, 2 SHG and 8 GW along with a plus-12, Anisimov’s time is now. Tortorella hasn’t been afraid to use him in different situations. Here’s why:

He should benefit from good linemates with Avery and Callahan likely which might take pressure off. That is the kinda balance the Rangers lacked last season. Something doubters are overlooking. A player to watch is Lisin, who was acquired for Korpikoski. The 23 year-old possesses great wheels and solid hands scoring three times in preseason. However, he still needs work defensively. If he plays, expect him to see time with Anisimov with the two looking cohesive.

Also different is the Ranger fourth line with more size and strength added in Brashear, Boyle and an improved Voros. If they are united, they’ll be asked to brutalize opponents. Early indications have been positive. While much of the attention is on Brashear for his cheapshot on Betts with fans unforgiving, Boyle must prove he’s worth the third round pick Sather gave up. The former 2003 first round pick felt he didn’t get a fair shake in LA. Here’s his chance to get them to take notice.

IN THE SYSTEM: If the organization needs to dip into Hartford, expect Dane Byers to be up. Pierre Parenteau, who looked decent also might get a look. However, we’re waiting on Evgeny Grachev, whose size and skill are apparent. The 19 year-old Russian who the club tabbed in the 2008 third round has solid potential. In his only junior season with Brampton, he set OHL rookie records with 40 goals and 40 assists. After tallying a goal and two helpers in exhibition, he’ll begin with Hartford and will be worth keeping track of.

DEFENSEMEN: The blueline also has a different look with rookies Matt Gilroy and Mike Del Zotto added to a corps that includes Marc Staal, Dan Girardi, Wade Redden and Michal Rozsival. Camp invite Alexei Semenov is also expected to be signed following a decent preseason.

If Redden and Rozsival- the latter looking worse than ever- are question marks, then the organization has to like what they’ve seen from Gilroy and Del Zotto with both impressing with superb skating and puck skills that’s seen each log big minutes while seeing PP duty. In particular, the 25 year-old Gilroy has demonstrated why the club gave him $1.75 million. The former Hobey Baker winner is signed for the next two seasons. The converted forward who wears No.97 in tribute to deceased brother Timmy, led Boston University to the NCAA title setting career bests with eight goals, 29 assists and 37 points. The Terriers’ captain had a hand in a remarkable comeback that saw BU rally from two down scoring twice in the final minute including Gilroy assisting on Nick Bonino’s game-tying marker with 17 ticks left. They defeated Miami (Ohio) in overtime making Gilroy just the fifth player ever to sweep the Hobey Baker and NCAA championship in a season. He’s also one of three All-Americans to earn that distinction with teammate Drury also accomplishing it with BU in 1998.

It looks like Gilroy will be paired with Redden who was an obvious disappointment last season. However, the much maligned vet has looked better teamed with the speedy Gilroy who seems to know when to jump into the rush and when to get back showing solid defensive skills. Perhaps Gilroy can relieve pressure from Redden who fared better under Tortorella. But he’ll need to do more than 26 points (3-23-26) and two PPG in Year One.

Also expected to be better is Rozsival who has been scary thus far. The 31 year-old Czech does have ability averaging double digits in goals and 39 points in 2006-07 and 2007-08 with him contributing to second round appearances. However, he struggled mightily in the first year of a new contract that has him earning $5 million over the next three seasons. He disappointed with eight goals and 30 points going minus-seven in 80 games. Under Tortorella, Rozy must get back to the level that saw him become a valuable top four D who can play any situation. If he can’t, it should be interesting to see how long the fiery coach waits.

One tandem that he’ll expect good things from is Staal and Girardi who at 22 and 25 respectively are part of one of the game’s youngest bluelines. Both will log a ton of minutes under Tortorella, who already called out Girardi for subpar play. Of the two, it’s the younger Staal who’s emerging as the team’s best. Already an effective defensive player who had 189 hits and 75 blocked shots last season, the smooth skater is capable of more offense. Look for him to improve a third year in a row and reach at least 20 points. His partner is also solid with Girardi ranking 15th in hits (207) and placing fifth on the club with 82 blocks. However, he struggled both offensively and defensively dropping from 10 goals to four and Even to minus-14. He must be more consistent.

One player who’s opened eyes is Del Zotto, who at just 19 has not looked out of place. The former 2008 No.1 pick has great skills. No question, he deserves a shot and should get it with the club having nine games before deciding if they want to option him back to London (OHL). Is another year of Junior best for his development?

Also in the mix is Semenov, who’s a vet that’s played with Edmonton, Florida and San Jose. The 28 year-old Russian has great size (6-6, 235) and isn’t afraid to use it but isn’t a fluid skater which could lead to penalties. The club should keep him as an extra in a Jason Strudwick role. That depends largely on Del Zotto.

HARTFORD: In case they need reinforcements, Tortorella has plenty to choose from in Mike Sauer, Corey Potter, Bobby Sanguinetti and Ilkka Heikkinen. Both Sauer and Potter had brief stints last year with the latter looking more polished. It’s baffling that the organization won’t give the 25 year-old Potter more leeway. He definitely could be a sixth but they prefer Del Zotto’s upside. If only they weren’t stuck with both Redden and Rozsival.

As for Sauer, time is ticking on the 22 year-old Minnesota native. Will he be another bust in the Brian Leetch deal or can he open eyes in the final year of his rookie deal? That remains to be seen. Also remaining to be seen is when the club will have enough confidence to give Sanguinetti NHL experience. He didn’t look bad in preseason but was outplayed by the younger Del Zotto. The 21 year-old from Trenton put up good numbers in Hartford going 6-36-42 in 78 games last season. What happens could depend on Del Zotto because the Rangers can’t afford to have both salaries on the cap.

If Ranger brass wants more experience, they could always try 24 year-old Heikkinen who came over from Finland where he averaged 35.5 points with HIFK Helsinki the past two years.

GOALTENDERS: As usual, the Rangers enter 2009-10 with one of the best in the game in Henrik Lundqvist. As the King goes, so does the club. Entering his fifth season, the 27 year-old Swede will be asked to make some big saves due to the more aggressive system. There might be long stretches where he doesn’t see work. So, he’ll have to stay mentally sharp.

The past three years, King Henrik’s won 37, 37 and a career high 38 averaging slightly over 70 games. However, his GAA slipped from 2.23 to 2.43 partially due to more shots. He still posted a .916 save percentage but went from a league best 10 shutouts to just three. Certainly, he can be better. Consistency still needs work as there are instances where he permits questionable goals. The book on him is go high. How he adjusts could determine if he’s ready to seriously challenge for a Vezina.

Tortorella has also hinted that Lundqvist won’t play as frequently due to the Olympic condensed schedule. That means backup Stephen Valiquette must be ready to go. He’s been a solid citizen. However, his play slipped a little. If it continues, don’t be surprised if Chad Johnson gets the call.

COACH: John Tortorella is a solid coach who’s the all-time American leader in wins (251) surpassing former Carolina head man Peter Laviolette on Mar.17. No stranger to success, the 58 year-old fiery Boston native has won a Stanley Cup guiding the Lightning to the championship in 2003-04. What we admire is his no-nonsense approach. As seen here during the Ranger season preview seen on MSG, his players know what to expect. Tortorella will have former Tampa assistant Mike Sullivan aboard helping with player/coach relationships. Hartford GM Jim Schoenfeld will double as a special assistant but won’t be behind the bench.

One thing Tortorella must stay away from is incidents such as the Game Five embarrassment which resulted in a one-game suspension. They didn’t recover making the wrong kind of history blowing a 3-1 series lead for the first time ever. Tortorella has expressed remorse for what happened. He preaches responsibility. Sometimes, the coach needs to follow those rules and act more his age. He’s been outspoken about the lack of support for Brashear even blaming the media. Wrong. The fans have a right to boo and will until the hated goon helps our team win. He can’t control that aspect but must focus on getting the job done. That’s all that matters.

PREDICTION: It’s hard to gauge what will happen with a completely overhauled roster. They had mixed results in exhibition but will be challenged out of the gate versus Pittsburgh with Ottawa the MSG opener the following night and the Devils two days later. Call it trial by fire. There are an awful lot of questions. Can Redden/Rozsival bounce back? How will the kids perform? Will Gaborik stay healthy? Will the PK feel the effects of no Betts/Sjostrom? Can Dubinsky improve? Can the PP show a pulse? Will Tort’s higher tempo work?

All these make it sketchy as to whether the club will see a fifth consecutive Spring. They’re likely to start slowly. So, patience must be exhibited. Expect the offense to be better and Gilroy to make an impact. Lundqvist should be good. In an improved East, they can finish anywhere between 6-10. We’ll go down the middle.

4th Atlantic, 8th East-95 Points