Ryan McDonagh has been a stalwart shutdown defender for the New York Rangers since entering the league, but this year under Alain Vigneault he is showcasing his offensive potential. In the past, the former Wisconsin Badger blueliner has displayed glimpses of offensive brilliance, but no one expected this type of offensive production out of McDonagh.
According to TheHockeyNews.com, McDonagh isn’t a ”high-octane offensive defenseman, so he shouldn't be counted on as a first offensive option from the back end at the National Hockey League level.”
This year McDonagh has disproved that statement, as he has already tallied 11 points in 18 games. He is on pace for 50 points in 82 games, and that would be a career high for the St. Paul, Minn., native.
To put McDonagh’s offensive surge in perspective, in 47 games last year, the 6’1”, 213-pound rearguard registered four goals and 15 assists for 19 points. This year McDonagh has already notched four goals, and he is on pace for a career high of 18 goals.
Earlier in the year, McDonagh said that he was looking forward to playing in Alain ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Tom Urtz Jr.
Ryan McDonagh’s Offensive Promise Evident Early in 2013-14 Season
November 15th, 2013 by Tom Urtz Jr. Leave a reply »
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