New York Rangers’ Core of Young Defensemen are Ready to Break Out

July 29th, 2010 by Sean Hartnett Leave a reply »
Once Rangers GM Glen Sather is able to lock up restricted free agent defenseman Marc Staal, the Blueshirts will have a strong group of talented blue-liners, all under the age of 26.

With exceptional goaltender Henrik Ludqvist behind them, New York should be one of the stingiest defenses in the NHL next season.

Staal experienced a slight increase in his point totals last season and should continue to develop his offensive game.

Mainly, Staal's chief asset is his calm attitude, despite being only 23. His positioning on the ice and responsible play is that of a 10-year veteran. 

Staal will never be a bruising hitter, but once he is able to add some more bulk to his 6'4" frame, he should become an even more effective overall defenseman.

The Rangers have already locked up Daniel Girardi this summer for the next four years at $3.325M per season. He is the typical, steady "stay at home" sort of blue-liner, but occasionally chips in offensively. 

Girardi likes to throw his body around and plays with reckless abandon, frequently blocking shots.

Michael Del Zotto might actually have greater futu ...

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