Rangers Musings.

I want to take a page out Jeremy’s book and throw some ‘musings’ at you, so here goes.

• Why does everyone compare the Frolov and Zherdev situations?  Zherdev was also brought in to help a team devoid of genuine top 6 skill but was expected to significantly contribute offense. He was a focal point on the 08/09 squad. This was a team with an aging Naslund, a declining Drury and very inexperienced kids in Dubinsky and Callahan not to mention a team led by a defensive coach. Fast forward to Alex Frolov.  He arrives as a compliment (the key word here) to a legitimate star in Gaborik, solid veteran support in Prospal and the same kids but with a lot more experience. He arrives to a coach that has an offensive mindset unlike Renney. It’s a situation that allows for success. It’s not a square peg in a round hole.
• Why don’t people think Frolov will be considered for an extension already? If he’s a success he replaces Prospal on the roster and the kids slide in behind him. Even when Grachev, Kreider are ready for the NHL, giving them 1^st line minutes/responsibility may be rushing them. Frolov is a genuine top 6 presence and if he does well re-signing him IS an option.
• Barring an outstanding job at camp Grachev is a Wolf Pack come October. If he is a Ranger someone’s job is under threat (and it won’t be Frolov’s).
• When Sather spoke of trying to sign Kreider this summer I wonder if Kreider was aware of any intentions to bring another forward in, making him less inclined to sign this year. Kreider absolutely should not rush himself.
• Things seem very quiet on the Carl Hagelin front. Wonder if there was an attempt to bring him in on an NHL contract or if it was always the intention to let him play out his NCAA eligibility.
• This powerplay can’t get worse can it? Adding Frolov and getting development from the kids surely will see a spike in its performance. Hopefully. Will Drury see alot of PP time? Personally I think he does.
• Artem Anisimov. 50 points. Those words and numbers go together this season. If he has either Prospal or Frolov on his wing the lanky pivot will put up bigger numbers. I see a good season for Artie – and let’s be honest – we need it out of him. Center Production!
• The pressure on Brandon Dubinsky is pretty damn big this coming season. Time to fulfil that promise. With Frolov likely 1^st choice LW if he doesn’t take the top center spot the kids will be in his rear view mirror very quickly.
• Staal’s contract aside, I would be pretty shocked if there was another significant roster move prior to camp.
• A few stat predictions for you: Gaborik 43 goals, Prospal 17, Frolov 27, Dubinsky 21, Anisimov 16. Lundqvist 37 wins, Del Zotto 41 points, Wade Redden: 9 press box visits in the XL Centre (aka Hartford).