2009-2010 record: 38-33-11 (87 points)
Did not qualify for the playoffs
Captain: Chris Drury
Alternate captains: Vinny Prospal, Ryan Callahan
3 players to watch: Any hopes for the Rangers to even think about the playoffs begin and end with Henrik Lundqvist. Without him, the Rangers are contending for the first overall pick in the NHL Draft. He was overworked last year, but should be fresher with a more capable backup and the Olympic Games not being an issue. After what was arguably his worst season as an NHL pro, Alexander Frolov was signed to a one year deal by the Rangers in the offseason. When he wants to, he can be a 30-40 goal scorer. However, those moments weren't in abundance for the Los Angeles Kings, who just let him walk after last season. He will have the motivation in the next contract and perhaps, proving others wrong. Michael Del Zotto was solid as a rookie last year. Unfortunately, he didn't have much help on the blue line. This year, he is expected to shoulder more of the load and with Marc Staal around, the two should be giving the Rangers peace of mind knowing that the blue line doesn't look like a total disaster.
Things to look for: If there ever was an award for the most idiotic signing in the offseason, it would go to the Rangers for signing Derek Boogaard to a 4 year (!) deal. Most enforcers rarely get a 2 year deal, let alone four. And as the Donald Brashear signing proved, the Rangers just waste money most of the time. As for Boogaard, his only role will be to protect Marian Gaborik. Anything else is gravy (as evidenced by his zero in the goals department). Lundqvist played 73 games last year, a fact reflected in the Rangers' lack of confidence in the backups. Martin Biron figures to see 20 games or so, which should help Lundqvist considerably. Gaborik was a revelation in that he managed to stay healthy for the entire season. That led to his top ten finish in points scored, but now can he remain healthy for the season again? If he isn't then there is a considerable drop off in offense after him. The Rangers did not address their offensive issues in free agency, and will look to its underachievers such as Wade Redden (if he isn't buried in Hartford), Chris Drury, and sophmore Artem Anisimov to chip in with some offense.
Prediction: 12th in the East
Song: Edguy-King of Fools
This song is dedicated to one Glen Sather, who keeps signing guys like Wade Redden, Derek Boogaard, and Donald Brashear, among others, to ridiculous deals. The fact that few, if any, produce anywhere near their potential makes him the court jester.
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