The Rangers have reportedly traded 2003 1st round pick Hugh Jessiman to the Nashville Predators in exchange for future considerations. The trade closes the book on what looks in hindsight, to be one of the worst first round picks in the Sather era. Don’t expect the Rangers to get anything of consequence back…if they ever do get something.
The Rangers also sent Lauri Korpikoski down to the Wolf Pack yesterday. Korpikoski had been a healthy scratch in recent games, and the move allows him to get some ice time with Hartford. Korpikoski did not play in last night’s 3-2 win over the Pirates.
Despite the Rangers record, coach Tom Renney is still looking for ways to improve. One of those areas is the power play, and in particular the play of Michal Rozsival.
Brendan Shanahan is finally moving on, telling his agent to hear offers from other teams.
One of the reasons Shanahan is not needed is the play of right wing Nikolai Zherdev. The 23 year old Russian has been a key contributor in recent games including the game tying goal against the Penguins that sent the game into overtime.
Down in the minors, 2008 fifth round pick Mitch Gaulton has a chance to play this year after all. Gaulton missed much of last year and the beginning of this season with an elbow injury, but has a shot at returning after Christmas.
The Rangers have reassigned 20 year old defenseman Tysen Dowzak to the Kelowna Rockets. Dowzak had played one game with the Wolf Pack, but had been reassigned to the Checkers.