Rangers should re-sign Wolf Pack Captain Steven Fogarty
Hartford’s captain has played just a little over four seasons since the 2015-16 season after completing his college career at Notre Dame. The almost 27 year old forward (his birthday is on April 19th) is becoming a unrestricted free agent this summer and the Rangers will need to decide to sign him. After watching Fogarty for multiple seasons growing in all aspects of the game, I would love to see him return for the upcoming 2020-21 season for Hartford wearing the C once again.
Pack Captain
Steven Fogarty is your all around player that is able to play on the penalty kill, power play, and rotating as a center or wing throughout his career. Off the ice, Fogarty has earned himself the C as he is a tremendous leader in the locker room. This was his first season with the captaincy. Fogarty continues to lead as an example player for the Rangers prospects. Wolf Pack Head Coach Kris Knoblauch has trusted Fogarty in all situations and rewarded the forward throughout the season with opportunities to help the team respond in situations. Fogarty has earned solid marks from his teammates and the coaching staff in Hartford.
Given the high roster turnover in the American Hockey League, players are often one and done with teams (excludes prospects). The older forwards tend to bounce from teams depending on their situation and how management wants to craft their farm teams. Steven Fogarty is a player that is hard to replace, and re-signing would provide a huge boost for next season’s roster in all aspects of the game. He has earned another contract through my eyes and I hope Chris Drury agrees.
Fogarty’s Game
On the offensive aspect of his game, Fogarty has blossomed to be a legitimate point producer in his career. He can create wonderful plays, he is able to capitalize on opportunities with his skill assets, and essentially become offensively reliable for Hartford. His 52 point season in the 2018-19 season was remarkable, considering the roster he was with. That was one of the weakest Pack rosters in recent memory and the forward found ways to lead offensively.
This season with a bolstered roster, Fogarty continued to be a consistent point producer for Hartford despite the ever changing roster from call ups and injuries. Fogarty ranked third for points on the team with a total of 38 (13 goals, 24 assists) in 54 games. He was a point behind Danny Regan for second, and ten points behind Vinni Lettieri for first.
Defensively Sound
On the defensive aspect, the forward is able to block shots, block passing lanes, and forecheck. He is able to play a bit physical if needed as well. He plays with his heart out for every shift and puts in at least a 100% effort. Fogarty is an AHL player that teams would love to have. As the Rangers continue with their youth movement, they will need a few aged and veteran players for the roster. Fogarty deserves a spot since he is able to step up to the plate frequently. As a result of his attitude and skill set, Fogarty was given spot call ups by New York in the last three seasons that were well deserved.
Hartford’s captain is my top choice for a player who should return next season. He continues to fit perfectly in the organization and improve his game despite being on the older side. He still has potential to be a Rangers forward if needed, especially in the bottom 6 area if they need to the penalty kill in a pinch . In Hartford, Fogarty can continue to be a solid veteran for the future Rangers as leadership is crucial for mentoring the young guys in the organization. You cannot go wrong re-signing the forward.
Heads Up Fans, Mail Bag Coming Next Week!!
Next week’s article will have a different twist. I will do a mailbag and answer questions from the readers. Have a question about a player, growth development, or anything Wolf Pack related? Let me know! You can write under the comments section here, or send me a tweet or message to my Twitter account here.
I look forward to your questions!
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