Lesser Known Rangers – 1993-94 Edition
For many, 25 years seems like a long time ago, but the feeling of euphoria by many Rangers fans after the team won their first Stanley Cup in 54 years will always last a lifetime. Tonight, as the team celebrates their past, notable players like Mark Messier, Mike Richter, Brian Leetch, and Adam Graves will be in the spotlight. In this piece, we’ll take a look at a few names that you may have forgotten, in this edition of Lesser Known Rangers, 1993-94 edition!
Phil Bourque, Left Wing
Time with Rangers: 16 games in ’93-’94
A holdover from the previous season, Phil Boruque played the better part of two seasons with the Rangers. Before his time in New York, Boruque was a depth player for the Pittsburgh Penguins during their two Stanley Cup winning teams in ’90-’91 and ’91-’92.
After his time in Pittsburgh, Boruque played 55 games with New York during the ’92-’93 season. Once the following season ensued, his playing time diminished as the team loaded up on talent, essentially gluing Boruque to the press box. In March of 94, he was dealt to the Ottawa Senators for future considerations.
Boruque was nearly killed when he took a 40-foot fall down a cliff near Arizona’s Lake Powell. He suffered three broken vertebrae in his neck, a broken skull, a shattered sinus cavity, a broken cheekbone and a broken nose. Afterwards, Boruque played a season with the then IHL’s Chicago Wolves before playing three seasons in Germany.
Bourque retired following the 1999-2000 season
Peter Andersson, Defenseman
Time with Rangers: 8 games in ’93-’94
Another holdover from the previous season, Peter Andersson was another depth player for the ’93-’94 team that couldn’t find a spot on the roster. As one of the “Black Aces”, Andersson was called to fill in when needed. He only appeared in eight games for the Rangers that season before being dealt
Andersson played with the Panthers, then finished his career overseas in Europe before retiring in 2005. Andersson has two sons, Calle, who plays for SC Bern in the Swiss league and Rasmus, who is currently a member of the Calgary Flames.
Mike Hartman, Left Wing
Time with Rangers: 35 games in ’93-’94
Affectionately known as one of the “Black Aces,” Hartman spent the better part of three seasons with New York. Traded by the Lightning for Randy Gilhen, Hartman served to be a depth forward for the Rangers. Although his time with the Blueshirts was plagued with injuries, Hartman was able to scratch out 35 games with the ’93-’94 roster, putting up a goal and an assist.
After his time in New York, Hartman bounced around the IHL, ECHL and a stint in Germany before retiring in ’03-’04. He is currently a motivational speaker.
HEAVE HO!! PULL TOGETHER!!
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