The Rangers got off to a solid start to their preseason, with a 4-3 OT win over the New Jersey Devils at MSG last night. Several players on the bubble made quick impressions, while several more will get their chance on Saturday over at the Prudential Center.

Count the subject of today’s Rangers Countdown profile – Kris Newbury – amongst the group looking to break through to the NHL.

Player Profile
Acquired in a late season trade last year with the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for Jordan Owens, Newbury quickly meshed with the Hartford Wolf Pack. An unrestricted free agent this Summer, he and the Rangers elected to continue the relationship going forward.

A rugged forward who can chip in some goals, the 28 year old has already had limited stints with the Maples Leafs and Red Wings, but has not been able to establish himself in the NHL to date.

Your classical energy forward, Newbury probably doesn’t have NHL quality skills from an offensive, or defensive perspective, but will provide some jump when he’s on the ice. Could potentially find himself in the Rangers line-up later in the year if there’s injuries, or the team is playing a little flat, but is unlikely to stay long.

In Hartford, he’ll be looked to provide the same sort of spark, as well as some experience to a relatively young side. Capable of playing all three positions, is utility is also an asset down in Hartford, where the line-up can be fluid through injuries and call-ups.

2009-10 Statistics
Team: Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
Stats: 1 goal, 0 assists and 4 penalty minutes in 4 games

Team: Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL)
Stats: 11 goals, 22 assists and 144 penalty minutes in 52 games

Team: Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)
Stats: 4 goals, 14 assists and 61 penalty minutes in 18 games

Prediction
Team: New York Rangers (NHL)
Stats: 0 goals, 0 assists and 2 penalty minutes in 3 games

Team: Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)
Stats: 12 goals, 25 assists and 85 penalty minutes in 62 games

Trivia
In 2001-02, Newbury was fourth in the OHL scoring with 104 points.