Rangers Roundup: Hajek’s big chance, Will Cuylle at WJC, and more
Libor Hajek is expected to get more ice time than he’s had in a long while this season as he will step in for Ryan Lindgren, who is on COVID-19 protocol.
“I feel more comfortable. I trust in myself more, I feel better with the puck. I just have to keep growing like that.” Hajek said after practice. “I’m ready for it.”
Hajek gets big opportunity
Hajek, 23, will finally get significant minutes after a recent conditioning stint in the AHL with the Wolf Pack. In five games with the Pack, he notched up two assists and had a rating of +3. He also registered 5 shots and picked up 6 minutes in penalties.
Selected in the 2nd round of the 2016 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning, he was part of the package Tampa sent to the Rangers in the Ryan McDonagh blockbuster at the 2018 Trade Deadline.
In his young career has recorded 10 points in 81 NHL games. The Rangers signed him to a one-year deal worth $874,125 over the summer and he’s looking for an opportunity to be an everyday defenseman.
Hajek has no points in 4 games this season but will partner with Adam Fox tonight against the Panthers.
Will Cuylle at WJC
Will Cuylle is having a spectacular season that began with being named the captain of the Windsor Spitfires. Now he’s representing Team Canada at the WJC.
Yesterday, in Canada’s 11-2 win over Austria, Cuylle picked up two assists.
It’s been a heck of season for Cuylle that started off with being named captain of his OHL team and then getting the call to represent his home country.
“The Spitfires are excited for Captain Will Cuylle to represent Team Canada on the world stage at this years World Junior Championship!,” the team posted. “Way to go, Will!”
The Blueshirts drafted Cuylle in the 2020 draft, in the second round (60th overall). The pick was acquired from the L.A. Kings in exchange for Lias Andersson. The 6-3, 212 lbs, 19 year-old winger had an impressive training camp before being sent back to the OHL.
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