As the lines start to pan out, Tanner Glass destined for platoon situation

At some point soon, Tanner Glass will be relegated to platoon duty (AP)

At some point soon, Tanner Glass will be relegated to platoon duty (AP)

The Rangers are starting to hum, at least that’s what we hope. As the lines start to take hold, Tanner Glass’ role on the 4th line will be relegated to nights against hard-nosed opponents like the Flyers and Bruins.

First off, loyal readers of the site will ask if I’m ok, since this is probably the only place not calling for his head or asking where are these nudes of AV he must have. In reality, we know that Glass is a marginal 4th line player whose real value is in the “hits and fists” department. Still no advanced stat developed for that yet.

As Lee Stempniak’s health improves, we can see a platoon situation unfolding between Glass and Fast or Stempniak. It’s a no brainer really, especially as we get deep into the season.

Jesper Fast

Jesper Fast

Jesper Fast recorded his first NHL point (regular season) on Dominic Moore’s 1st period goal last night. Funny, it was really made possible by Glass’ play in front that allowed Moore the prime scoring chance.

So why was Glass in against the high-flying Canadiens? See the collision between former Ranger, Brandon Prust and Henrik Lundqvist. It was Kevin Klein who responded with the “don’t touch my goalie fight” almost immediately. Had Glass been nearby he would’ve done it. No Glass isn’t going to deter Prust from being a putz, but it’s his job to throw the mitts instead of other more skilled players.

A 4th line of Stempniak – Moore – Fast is a better line in terms of speed, board work and the hockey buzz word of the decade; possession. Of course, the 3rd unit of Hayes flanked by Duclair and Hagelin must continue to produce.

Matter of fact, it is that line that would keep Glass out of the lineup against the more skilled teams in the league. Opponents like the Tampa Bay Lightning. If Lee Stempniak is good to go on Wednesday, it is possible we could see Tanner Glass’ first healthy scratch of the season.

If it happens, you can expect many in the social media world rejoicing and throwing a virtual parade. Just know that even if he is scratched, he’ll still be in the lineup at the expense of Jesper Fast against the Devils, Islanders, Flyers or any opponent with a threat of rough housing.

Now, all the Glass haters have to pray for is that the third line continues to get the job done. That, and Anthony Duclair continues to prove he belongs in the NHL.

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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