Jordan Martinook – Forever Blueshirts https://www.foreverblueshirts.com New York Rangers news, rumors, analysis, stats, and more Tue, 08 Apr 2025 11:52:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=32,height=32,fit=crop,quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/cropped-FBS-favicon.png Jordan Martinook – Forever Blueshirts https://www.foreverblueshirts.com 32 32 Updated New York Rangers free agency shopping list https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/updated-new-york-rangers-free-agency-shopping-list Tue, 27 Jul 2021 14:32:33 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=404583 NHL Free Agency is less than a day away. Teams can officially start signing free agents at 12 PM ET. It is expected that Chris Drury will announce that they have inked veteran defenseman Patrik Nemeth to a 3-year deal in the neighborhood of $2.5M AAV per Larry Brooks. He was one of several defensemen we had targeted on our initial list here.

The Rangers currently have plenty of cap space to play with, but must also sign RFA’s Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Libor Hajek. There’s also the possibility of trades which will impact what the Blueshirts will do.

Here’s our updated Rangers shopping list detailed by position, age, and last contract.

New York Rangers likely UFA targets

RANGERS FREE AGENCY
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

When the Rangers traded for the rights to Barclay Goodrow then signed him to a six year deal with an AAV of $3.6 million, they gave you a clear indication of the type of players they are looking for. I expect, even if they make a trade for a center that these names are still a consideration.

Jordan Martinook (Forward – 29 y/o – $2M AAV): Martinook is ferocious forechecker and physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too. If the Rangers could get him at just a small increase to his last deal, he’s be a great fourth liner.

Nick Ritchie (Forward – 25 y/o – $1.5M AAV): This past season was a good one for the now 25 year-old UFA as he notched 26 points in 56 games for Boston. He is considered a quality 3rd line guy that should be snatched up pretty quickly.

Ryan Getzlaf (Center – 36 y/o – $8.25M AAV): He is getting up there in age but is a proven winner. Getzlaf will also be coming off the last year of a big contract that paid $8.25 million. The 6’4″ pivot notched just 18 points in 48 games. He could be a cheap add for the Rangers as a fourth line center, that could move up in case of injury.

Luke Glendening (Center – 32 y/o – $1.8M AAV): Offensively, the 32 year-old Glendening is not going to bring much to the table, but that’s not why you would sign him. For his career, he has a winning FO% of 54.8 and is without a doubt a specialist.

Rangers could aim higher with these players

new york rangers free agent targets
Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

Should the Rangers not land a center like Jack Eichel or to a lesser extent, Evgeny Kuznetsov they could spend some money on bigger named free agents.

Phillip Danault (Center – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): Would you spend $6 million plus on a third line center? What if Chris Drury sees him as a 2nd line pivot? During the regular season, he put up a respectable 24 points in 53 games. His face-off percentage of 52.5 shows his consistency and effectiveness in the dots. For his career, he wins 53.8% of the draws he takes. He is a shutdown center who is respectable offensively.

Casey Cizikas (Center – 30 y/o – $3.35M AAV): The Islanders “Identity Line” center will be a free agent many teams will target; unless Lou Lamoriello already has him inked to a deal. He wins draws, and scores clutch goals in the postseason. Cizikas isn’t physically imposing at 5-11 and 195 lbs but he plays so much bigger than his size.

Blake Coleman (Center – 29 y/o – $1.8M AAV): The center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more. Here’s the rub, he’s looking for a massive new deal in the 6 year range at around $5M AAV.

Latest NHL Rumors

Ryan Suter in Dallas? Bruins after Dvorak? Read the latest rumors here.

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Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:52:15 +0000 New York Rangers News
Updated tier rankings for New York Rangers free agent targets https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/updated-tier-rankings-for-new-york-rangers-free-agent-targets Thu, 08 Jul 2021 23:44:29 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=404108 Now that the Stanley Cup has been awarded, we move quickly into offseason mode. The NHL free agent market will open on July 28, which for a number of general managers around the league it presents an opportunity to reshape their rosters.

“It’s hard not to watch these playoffs and notice the physicality, the energy, the effort and the intensity it takes to win and to succeed and we’re certainly going to need to play that way to have success in the regular season and in the playoffs,” Chris Drury said heading into the summer. “We’re always looking at ways to improve the lineup, to add different pieces, just like every team in the league, and every team in the league is watching these playoffs – you know we all want harder players to play against and we’re no different.”

Below is an updated list of UFA targets for the Rangers this summer including their position, age, and last contract AAV. The tiers and players are also ranked from highest to lowest.

New York Rangers UFA Targets: Top Priority

When we look at the Rangers, there’s no doubt that reshaping their third and fourth line is now a top priority. The following five players are exactly what Gerard Gallant will need on his roster to not only play the way he wants, but to compete in the postseason when the games become harder.

Casey Cizikas (Center – 30 y/o – $3.35M AAV): The Islanders “Identity Line” center should be the top free agent the Rangers should target. He wins draws, and scores clutch goals in the postseason. Cizikas isn’t physically imposing at 5-11 and 195 lbs but he plays so much bigger than his size. It’s unlikely that Lou Lamoriello will be able to keep him.

casey cizikas
Bruce Bennett/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

Blake Coleman (Center – 29 y/o – $1.8M AAV): The center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more.

Barclay Goodrow (Center – 28 y/o – $925K AAV): Another member of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Goodrow is a big man at 6-2 and 215 lbs. This season he scored 20 points in 55 games. For his career, he wins 52% of the draws he takes and would be a nice 4th line pivot if Cizikas can’t be signed.

Jordan Martinook (Forward – 29 y/o – $2M AAV): Martinook is ferocious forechecker and physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too. If the Rangers could get him at just a small increase to his last deal, he’s be a great fourth liner.

Luke Glendening (Center – 32 y/o – $1.8M AAV): Offensively, Glendening is not going to bring much to the table, but that’s not why you would sign him. For his career, he has a winning FO% of 54.8 and is without a doubt a specialist.

Brandon Sutter (Center – 32 y/o – $4.35M AAV): The Huntington, NY native is a big man at 6-3 and 190 lbs. He scored 12 points in 43 games for Vancouver last season and won 55.5% of his draws. He’s no longer worth the money he used to make, and could be a nice cheap option in what will be a competitive UFA market.

Secondary Targets

The Rangers are said to be in the market for a veteran defenseman, preferably someone with big game experience. This falls under a nice-to-have bucket, but I would not overpay to add to a position of strength, albeit a very young position.

Jamie Oleksiak (Left Defense – 28 y/o – $2.1M AAV): Dallas is rumored to do whatever it takes to sign him before free agency begins. So it is very possible he won’t be there when the bell rings to open up the buying. However, if he is the Rangers should look to add him. Should they go this route, that likely means K’Andre Miller will be slotted for less minutes on the third pair.

Patrik Nemeth (Left Defense – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): The Avalanche picked up the rugged defenseman from the Detroit Red Wings and he played very well. At 6-3 and 228 lbs, he is a physical presence that could certainly play quality third pair minutes.

Niklas Hjalmarsson (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $5M AAV): If the Rangers are looking for someone with Stanley Cup experience on a short term deal to shore up their third pair, Hjalmarsson would be a smart move. During his heyday with the Blackhawks, he helped drive puck possession and won Cups. The question is what does he think he’s worth after picking up just 5 points in 41 games for the Coyotes this past season.

Zdeno Chara (Left Defense – 44 y/o – $795K AAV): This elder statesman and future Hall of Famer actually considered the Rangers before signing with the Capitals. He has yet to decide if he will continue his career, but a one year deal at under a million would make sense for Drury.

Big Fish: Proceed with caution

There’s plenty of big free agents out there. Some, like Alex Ovechkin and Gabriel Landeskog will remain there until the expansion draft passes and then sign with their current teams. However, there are other names that would be serious upgrades for the Rangers but have major risks.

Age is one factor because these UFA’s will get multi-year deals on the open market. They will also command salaries north of $5 million which could have cap implications for years to come.

Phillip Danault (Center – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): Would you spend $6 million plus on a third line center? During the regular season, he put up a respectable 24 points in 53 games. His face-off percentage of 52.5 shows his consistency and effectiveness in the dots. For his career, he wins 53.8% of the draws he takes. He is a shutdown center who is respectable offensively. This is the one player on this list I would certainly take the risk with. The Rangers should only consider Danault at $5 million or less.

Zach Hyman (Left Wing 29 y/o – $2.25M AAV): If the Rangers want to be harder to play against, Zach Hyman is that type of player. Problem is he is looking for over $6 million per season on a 6-7 year deal. That’s a big risk at his age. Plus he’s a left wing and the Rangers are overloaded there. Still, he does fit the bill for what Gallant and Drury want to do.

Alec Martinez (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $4M AAV): He is a proven winner, and Rangers fans are painfully aware of it after he scored the Cup winning goal against Henrik Lundqvist in 2014. Martinez would automatically jump into the top four, which would push Miller to a third pair role. There’s mutual interest in staying with Vegas so he may not be around come July 28 anyway.

NHL News

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Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:52:19 +0000 New York Rangers News
New York Rangers target Jordan Martinook heading for free agency; is Casey Cizikas next? https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-analysis/new-york-rangers-target-jordan-martinook-heading-for-free-agency-is-casey-cizikas-next Tue, 29 Jun 2021 15:42:34 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=403882 The Rangers lost Jesper Fast to the Carolina Hurricanes thanks to cap concerns and a youth movement. Just one full season later, it looks like the roles may reverse and a key member of their team is headed to free agency.

Jordan Martinook headed to Free Agency

It looks like Jordan Martinook will become an unrestricted free agent on July 28th.

Looks like there will be some churn among Carolina’s depth forwards. Jordan Martinook wants to see if he can beat the Hurricanes’ offer on the open market, and there are Warren Foegele trade talks. Both player and team appear to want a change.

31 Thoughts

The Carolina Hurricanes forward was identified early on as a perfect UFA target for the Rangers to revamp their bottom six. “We’ve got to get to a place where when you jump over the boards you know what your role is,” Chris Drury said about his vision for the team next season. If he wants a role player, Martinook is a good candidate.

new york rangers free agency
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Martinook turns 29 in July so term is a concern, but not a deal breaker if he wants something along the lines of five years. His style of play is perfect for third or fourth line duties, and would be the start of the Rangers very own identity line. At 6-1 and 204 lbs, he’s an irritating in-your-face style of player that can chip in some occasional offense.

This past season, he had 13 points in 43 games and is coming off a deal paying $2 million. If the Rangers can get him at under $3 million AAV, it would be a great get for Drury.

Casey Cizikas likely headed to free agency

The Islanders will be an interesting team this offseason with only around $5 million in cap space. This summer they must re-sign RFA’s Ilya Sorokin, Anthony Beauvillier and Adam Pelech above all UFAs. Lou Lamoriello stated this morning that he is going to get them all done. The back-to-back GM of the Year winner also noted that he expects it will be difficult to bring all his players back next season.

Unrestricted free agents Kyle Palmieri and Casey Cizikas being at the top of that list for the Islanders. Both want to stay, and Lamoriello would like to bring both back, but that’s going to be difficult.

Cizikas is similar to Martinook in age at 30 years-old. So a five year deal shouldn’t scare the Rangers away. He’s coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million and in line for a raise. The question is simple, is a fourth line center worth that much money? Traditionally, I would say no. However, being strong down the middle is one reason why the Lightning and Canadiens are in the Stanley Cup Final.

His ability to win draws and score clutch goals makes him a more valuable piece than your average fourth liner.

NHL Rumors

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is not hitting free agency and the Rangers back in on Eichel? Read more here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-ryan-nugent-hopkins-staying-put-rangers-inquiring-on-jack-eichel-and-free-agent-news/
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Tue, 29 Jun 2021 11:42:43 +0000 New York Rangers Analysis
Top candidates to reshape New York Rangers bottom six https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/top-candidates-to-reshape-new-york-rangers-bottom-six Sun, 06 Jun 2021 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=403342 The New York Rangers are heading into a summer of change. Ever since The Letter went out in 2018, this team has in essence entered a chrysalis. The debate as to whether or not they were ready to break out of it yet will depend on what happens next season. For now, Chris Drury must guide the transformation after James Dolan expedited the transition.

Hiring the right coach will be key, but creating a balanced multidimensional lineup is just as important. “We need to take a deep look at what everyone’s roles are,” Drury hinted to his offseason approach. “We’ve got to get to a place where when you jump over the boards you know what your role is.” It sounded almost like indictment to how the third and fourth lines were handled this past season. A mistake Drury and whomever the new coach will be cannot repeat.

Here are several candidates that Drury should consider this offseason.

New York Rangers bottom six candidate: Zach Hyman

New York Rangers offseason
Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Zach Hyman is a 28 year-old pending UFA whom the Maple Leafs want desperately to retain. His next contract is likely to come in at the $5.5-$6 million range which could be more than Toronto can handle. This past season he scored 33 points in 43 games, primarily as a winger. The 6-1 Hyman has some experience playing center and has taken over 650 face-offs in his career which spans 345 games.

The gritty forward remains an unlikely candidate based on the cap hit his next deal will bring. However, if the Blueshirts are unable to bring in a top center he could move up on their list.

Blake Coleman would be a great fit

blake coleman
Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

The 29 year-old center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. Coleman averaged 15:11 during the year and would be a nice fit to the Blueshirts third line.

At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more. Prior to the 2020-21 campaign, starting in 2017 he had 216, 225, and 191 his respectively. The guy is a wrecking ball and is the type of player that makes the opposition defense look over their shoulder before playing the puck.

He will be an unrestricted free agent this season and the Rangers should give him a look. Coleman is coming off a deal that pays him $1.8 million AAV on the cap, and an increase is coming. The cap-strapped Lightning will likely let him walk, which will make him a very attractive player on the market come July 28th.

With his 20 goal potential, he will be commanding a nice contract. I would expect something in the $3-4 million range for about five seasons. It’s something Drury should consider. If he’s serious about making the playoffs and having effective players that can play a third line role, Coleman is a good place to start.

Jordan Martinook would add grit and leadership

new york rangers rumors
James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Jordan Martinook with the Carolina Hurricanes is someone that fits the bill for me. He willl turn 29 in July but can play a high intensity style with an in-your-face attitude at 6-1 and 204 lbs. Martinook won’t come cheap as he’s coming off a deal paying $2 million, and looking for an increase. Another plus, Martinook can also take some draws.

This season, he has 13 points in 43 games. If that gives you pause, then you are also under the same illusion that some other fans have that every player on the roster should be a skill guy. Martinook does have skills however, they just better fit a third or fourth line role.

Martinook is ferocious forechecker. A physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too.

Casey Cizikas should be Rangers top target

casey cizikas
Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

Here’s my advice for Drury, go out and kill two birds with one stone. Sign Islanders center Casey Cizikas and add a piece the Rangers need while hurting your divisional rival.

The Rangers were bulldozed by the Islanders this season. James Dolan basically got tired of watching Matt Martin, Cal Clutterbuck, and Casey Cizikas run all over his skilled collection of players. The owner basically pointed to the losses to the Isles and the Tom Wilson incident as part of his reasoning for the management changes.

Cizikas is not a large player at 5-11 and 195 lbs, but he can still be the lynchpin to a stellar fourth line and win key face-offs. Losing draws is something the Rangers desperately need to address this offseason as well.

At 30 years-old he isn’t a kid and the Rangers need to balance that their neophyte lineup better. He’s coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million so he’s not cheap. While that seems expensive for a fourth line player, the Islanders are pretty thrilled with him. Cizikas finished the season with 14 points in 56 games and face-off win percentage of 53.2.

Big Sunday NHL Rumors Update

NHL Rumors Roundup is a new feature at The Daily Goal Horn. Every Sunday they bring you the latest rumors and update some of the bigger stories from the week before. In this edition, we kick off with the latest on Jack Eichel and the Sabres disconnect. Read it all here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-roundup-sabres-moving-on-from-jack-eichel-maple-leafs-penguins-kings-and-oilers/
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Sun, 06 Jun 2021 09:05:47 +0000 New York Rangers News
New York Rangers NHL Free Agency preview https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/new-york-rangers-nhl-free-agency-preview Mon, 24 May 2021 23:26:23 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=403023 The New York Rangers will be active in free agency, even if it’s just to do some housekeeping. They have six restricted free agents to sign and decisions on three unrestricted players. When it comes to signing some players to fill out needs on the roster, July 28th will signal the dinner bell for Free Agent Frenzy.

New York Rangers Free Agency (UFA/RFA)

While there is no firm date on when qualifying offers have to be in or when players can file for arbitration, it is usually after the draft which takes place on July 23rd and 24th. This summer the Rangers have six RFAs to sign, but only two have arbitration rights.

I fully expect for expansion draft purposes all will receive their qualifying offers as soon as possible. With that being said, I believe Pavel Buchnevich, Igor Shesterkin, and Filip Chytil will receive multi-year deals.

In the case of Buchnevich, he could be looking at a substantial raise in the neighborhood of $6 million per season. Igor Shesterkin is a player the Rangers should lock up for at least five years. That means buying some UFA years at an increased price. It would be wise to sign the 25 year-old goalie until he’s 30, even if they have spend a few extra million in AAV to do so. It would still be cheaper than a bridge deal of 2 years. I’m thinking $3.5 million to $5 million depending on the number of years.

rangers free agency
POOL PHOTOS-USA TODAY Sports

As for Filip Chytil, they need to sign him up for sure. I’m believe a 2-3 year deal in the range of $2 million makes the most sense. That will keep him an RFA until about 24 years of age and give him arbitration rights when the deal is complete. The remaining RFA’s will simply have to sign their qualifying offers which would in essence be a between a 5 to 10% increase.

Rangers UFA’s are Phil Di Giuseppe, Brendan Smith, and Jack Johnson. Chris Drury could opt to sign Smith to a 1 or 2 year deal as the 7th defenseman. The deal would have to be in the $1-1.5 million range for it to make sense. Both Di Giuseppe and Johnson are unlikely to be re-signed.

New York Rangers UFA shopping list

The Rangers need to go out and get some skilled sandpaper in this lineup. Two players I believe they should target are the Islanders, Casey Cizikas and the Hurricanes, Jordan Martinook.

Cizikas is not a large player at 5-11 and 195 lbs, but he can still be the lynchpin to a stellar fourth line and win key face-offs. Losing draws is something the Rangers desperately need to address this offseason as well. At 30 years-old he isn’t a kid and the Rangers need to balance that their neophyte lineup better. He’s coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million so he’s not cheap. While that seems expensive for a fourth line player, the Islanders are pretty thrilled with him. Cizikas finished the season with 14 points in 56 games and face-off win percentage of 53.2.

Jordan Martinook with the Carolina Hurricanes is someone that fits the bill for me. He willl turn 29 in July but can play a high intensity style with an in-your-face attitude at 6-1 and 204 lbs. Martinook won’t come cheap as he’s coming off a deal paying $2 million, and looking for an increase. Another plus, Martinook can also take some draws.

This season, he had 13 points in 43 games. If that gives you pause, then you are also under the same illusion that some other fans have that every player on the roster should be a skill guy. Martinook does have skills however, they just better fit a third or fourth line role. He is ferocious forechecker and a physical player that refuses to back down. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too.

For the defense, Alec Martinez would be a perfect addition to this young Rangers blue-line. He is a proven winner. A fact the Blueshirts fanbase knows all too well after he ended the team’s Stanley Cup dreams in 2014. The left defender will be 34 years-old when free agency opens on July 28. This season he racked up 32 points in 53 games with a solid +26 rating in Vegas. He did so by averaging 22:34 minutes a game, that would be second to only Adam Fox’s 24:42 this past season.

Another key UFA that the Blueshirts are rumored to be targeting is Toronto’s Zach Hyman. He’s 28 years-old and the Maple Leafs want desperately to retain him. His next contract is likely to come in at the $5.5-$6 million range which could be more than Toronto can handle. Prior to the dismissal of John Davidson and Jeff Gorton there wasn’t much chatter about the Rangers going after a player like Hyman in free agency. That was due more to the fact his next deal was closer to top six money and not something they were looking to do.

The bottom line is the Rangers have changed management, and Chris Drury is likely viewing the bottom six a little different from his predecessors.

NHL Rumors

With playoff eliminations comes fallout. What will the Capitals and Blues face? Read more here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-fallout-ovechkins-next-deal-trading-kuznetsov-and-could-the-blues-trade-tarasenko-or-oreilly/
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Mon, 24 May 2021 19:26:35 +0000 New York Rangers News
Rangers offseason target Jordan Martinook would be a start to fix bottom six in free agency https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/rangers-offseason-target-jordan-martinook-would-be-a-start-to-fix-bottom-six-in-free-agency Sun, 09 May 2021 14:40:32 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=402577 The Rangers were bulldozed by the Islanders this season. James Dolan must’ve got tired watching Matt Martin, Cal Clutterbuck, and Casey Cizikas run all over his skilled collection of players. It can be said that losses to the Isles and the Tom Wilson incident was the final straw that broke Dolan’s back.

Rangers need to address grit issues on bottom six

Heading into next season, the Blueshirts must finally take the painful lessons they learned this year and fix the lineup. It’s time to get big, mean, and strong on the bottom six. Something that Chris Drury eluded to before yesterday’s game.

“We need to take a deep look at what everyone’s roles are,” Drury responded to a question of what his roster would look like next season. “We’ve got to get to a place where when you jump over the boards you know what your role is.”

The new President and GM clearly recognizes his current roster is one dimensional. A third line full of kids, loaded with skill, but lacking any grit. The fourth line was even worse, and it became a glaring issue when a frustrated Brendan Lemieux wanted out of town.

This off season it’s time to correct that.

Rangers offseason target: Jordan Martinook

new york rangers targets
James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Jordan Martinook with the Carolina Hurricanes is someone that fits the bill for me. He willl turn 29 in July but can play a high intensity style with an in-your-face attitude at 6-1 and 204 lbs. Martinook won’t come cheap as he’s coming off a deal paying $2 million, and looking for an increase. Another plus, Martinook can also take some draws.

This season, he has 13 points in 43 games. If that gives you pause, then you are also under the same illusion that some other fans have that every player on the roster should be a skill guy. Martinook does have skills however, they just better fit a third or fourth line role.

Martinook is ferocious forechecker. A physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too.

These are the type of players the Blueshirts need to add to the lineup to help compete in tough divisional action. Martinook should be on the Rangers radar this summer and over the course of the next few months I will present some more.

Where will John Tortorella Land Next?

John Tortorella will not be returning to coach the Columbus Blue Jackets next season. Sources confirmed to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic that last night was indeed his final game as the bench boss. Torts knew it too and so did the fans. READ MORE!

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/john-tortorella-will-not-returning-to-the-blue-jackets-where-does-he-land-next/
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Sun, 09 May 2021 10:40:40 +0000 New York Rangers News
Rangers can’t ignore need for size and grit any longer; it’s time to go get some this summer https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/rangers-cant-ignore-need-for-size-and-grit-any-longer-its-time-to-go-get-some-this-summer Sun, 02 May 2021 14:57:20 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=402326 The Rangers were bulldozed again by the Islanders. With their playoff lives at stake and a chance to cut their crosstown rivals lead in the standing to just one point, they fell flat. That was due in large part to heavy hitting by players like Matt Martin, Cal Clutterbuck, and Casey Cizikas.

Heading into next season, the Blueshirts must finally take the painful lessons they learned in their qualifying round sweep to the Hurricanes, and manhandling by the Isles this year. It’s time to get big, mean, and strong on the bottom six.

Rangers may have a future grind line in the making

This is not a call to abandon the plan to continue to inject skilled players into the lineup. However; there are some skills that are better suited for those who can grind it out on the fourth line. Some of those tools include the ability to forecheck, hit with consequence, and own the boards every time you are out there.

The Rangers don’t have any of that right now. Morgan Barron who made his debut could be the center of that kind of line. On his wings are two prospect power forwards that I believe aren’t ready to make the jump to the NHL just yet, but will compete in camp next season.

Will Cuylle whom the Rangers recently signed to his ELC is 6-3 and weighs 212 lbs. He would be the most skilled forward on that unit, but can also play it big and mean. Another is a Swedish monster by the name of Adam Edstrom who is 6-6 and almost 220 lbs. He was suspended earlier in the season for absolutely crushing a player with an open ice hit.

This could very well be the future of the Rangers 4th line bangers, but Jeff Gorton can’t hope it pans out. He needs to address it this summer for next year while those kids develop.

Scouring the UFA market for the right players

Here’s my first piece of advice for the Rangers, go out and kill two birds with one stone. Sign Islanders center Casey Cizikas. Not a large player at 5-11 and 195 lbs, Cizikas can still be the lynchpin to a stellar fourth line and win key face-offs. Losing draws is something the Rangers desperately need to address this offseason as well.

new york rangers
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Cizikas is 30 years-old and is coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million. That seems expensive for a fourth line player, but maybe the Rangers should invest in shoring up that hole. The beauty about signing him away from the Isles is that it means creating a hole they need to fill and breaks up the best 4th line in the NHL of a division foe.

That being said, it isn’t enough. While Morgan Barron can easily play the wing on that line, Jeff Gorton needs to look at another veteran winger. Jordan Martinook with the Carolina Hurricanes is someone that fits the bill for me. He willl turn 29 in July but can play a high intensity style with an in-your-face attitude at 6-1 and 204 lbs. Martinook won’t come cheap as he’s coming off a deal paying $2 million, and looking for an increase. Another plus, Martinook can also take some draws.

Another option is 29 year-old center Riley Sheahan in Buffalo. The 6-3, 214 lbs pivot can win draws and help in a 4th line capacity. He’s coming off a deal worth only $700,000 and could be a more economical option.

All I know is that the Blueshirts can’t ignore this problem any longer. Aside from trying to land another star center and a veteran defenseman, they need to bulk up the fourth line. It’s great to have tons of skill, but you need to survive in the East Conference if you ever hope to compete for the Stanley Cup again.

NHL Rumors

Is AV on the hot seat to be fired in Philly? Read more.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-alain-vigneault-done-in-philadelphia-devils-looking-for-a-younger-coach-and-cost-to-re-sign-brady-tkachuk/
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Sun, 02 May 2021 21:28:25 +0000 New York Rangers News
Rangers Roundup: Messier’s Guarantee and more about why Carolina voted “No” https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/rangers-roundup-messiers-guarantee-and-more-about-why-carolina-voted-no Mon, 25 May 2020 20:12:21 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=392538 On this Memorial Day we want to remember the Fallen of this great Nation. Thank you for your sacrifice. Freedom is not free.Now to a few updates and a blast from the past.

Hurricanes Explain Why they Voted No

On a recent Zoom with NHL media, Carolina’s player rep Jordan Martinook explained why the team voted against the 24 team format. “For where we were and where our team thought we could get to, it hurts our odds.” Martinook explained. Fair enough.

For all intents and purposes the Canes had a good shot to make with 14 games remaining. They only had a one point edge on the Islanders and were tied with the Blue Jackets with a 2 game edge on Columbus. Furthermore, they were only up two points on the Rangers albeit with a 2 game advantage and 3 points up on Florida with same amount of games played. So excuse me, if I laugh at Carolina as if they locked up a playoff spot.

Can you imagine how Jacob Trouba was reacting in his house listening to Martinook whine about fairness.

The Guarantee

On this day in 1994, Mark Messier guaranteed victory in game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final. The rest is history….amazing Rangers Stanley Cup glory History.

Celebrate the Guarantee with great Messier collectibles at Fanatics

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Wed, 19 Oct 2022 07:49:27 +0000 New York Rangers News
Hurricanes player rep Jordan Martinook felt format unfair before voting NO to playing the Rangers https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/hurricanes-player-rep-jordan-martinook-felt-format-unfair-before-voting-no-to-playing-the-rangers Sun, 24 May 2020 23:42:22 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=392506 Carolina Hurricanes player representative Jordan Martinook felt the 24 team format was unfair. Just days prior to the vote approving the 24 team playoffs he told the press, “I feel like if you’re doing the 24-team thing, it basically gives a team a chance that had no chance of making it, which if you play 82 there’s maybe 6, 8% chance that the team in 12th place (in the conference) makes it,”

I can only imagine the smile on the faces of Jacob Trouba and Ryan Strome who represent the Rangers while Martinook voiced his displeasure on the call. Let’s face it, Martinook’s Hurricanes weren’t going to face the 12th place Canadiens. The format would have them facing a team they could not beat for the life of them this season. “Nobody’s ever seen this before,” Martinook continued, “but at the end of the day, the Stanley Cup Playoffs are 16 teams, seven games a series.” Well, now it’s 5 games against the Rangers.

Singing A Different Tune

Martinook crunched (Getty Images)

After the vote, and prior to information coming out that his Canes were one of only two teams to vote no, Martinook was singing a different tune.

Carolina Hurricanes player representative Jordan Martinook said finishing the season and awarding the Stanley Cup would be a considerable feat. “In a year of such negativity and uncertainty, for you to have that kind of celebration, I feel like it would be a big positive for you, your family, your team, your city,” Martinook said.

Charlotte Observer

For all Martinook’s complaints, the Rangers were only 2 points behind Carolina and Columbus with 12 games to play. While the Canes held 2 games in hand, there’s nothing to indicate THEY would even make the playoffs themselves with the Islanders only a point behind them and Florida trailing by three.

FOCO Memorial Weekend Sale

At the end of the day Carolina voted against it. The fact that the Rangers went 4-0 and scored 17 goals to the Canes 9 played a role no doubt. Simply put that’s not who they wanted to open up against. Artemi Panarin lit them up for 3 goals and 9 points with Mika Zibanejad scoring 4 times in just 3 games. The Rangers top center also added three helpers. Game on. Psychological edge: Rangers.

Check Out Fanatics Massive Memorial Day Sale!

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Sat, 29 Jan 2022 14:03:48 +0000 New York Rangers News