Cristoval Nieves Should Earn Shot With Rangers
Cristoval “Boo” Nieves re-signed with the Rangers in the summer to a one year, two-way deal. Entering this season, Boo Nieves will be beneficial to Hartford or New York. The 24-year-old forward is more mature than some of the other young prospects in Hartford. He is also a center that can be impactful if New York needs a depth center for the third or fourth lines.
However, no spot is given to a player in sports. Cristoval Nieves must prove that he is ready for a spot with the Rangers. Now is his best time as the club is rebuilding from the ground up. For a mature, but still young forward, Nieves can provide a two-way game that helps the Rangers offensively and defensively. His developmental growth is slower since he is older as opposed to a younger prospect. That should not discount him as a potential forward beginning on the Rangers roster. He would be an attractive option as opposed to a forward such as Matt Beleskey, who was brought into the organization and played in Hartford. He is an older veteran that will go on a decline down the road. For growing purposes, Nieves could enhance his game better with the young guys in New York.
If Nieves starts the season in Hartford, he will be a good addition to the younger forwards. He would play well in the American Hockey League and help Hartford throughout the season on the score sheet. Nieves has a well rounded playing style that would be ideal for certain situations on the ice. The only issue I have with him in Hartford is that he would take a spot from a younger prospect in the organization. I feel that he can make the jump to the National Hockey League.
A one year deal will fly. Cristoval Nieves has to make noise and get attention from the Rangers brass. He should since he could benefit New York next season. The forward needs to have additional experience in a tougher league.
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