William Cuylle – Forever Blueshirts https://www.foreverblueshirts.com New York Rangers news, rumors, analysis, stats, and more Sat, 05 Mar 2022 17:10:27 +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 William Cuylle – Forever Blueshirts https://www.foreverblueshirts.com 32 32 Ranking the New York Rangers top prospects for the trade deadline https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/ranking-the-new-york-rangers-top-prospects-for-the-trade-deadline Sat, 05 Mar 2022 17:10:20 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=413009 [sendtonews key=”peKAXibZ” type=”player”]

The New York Rangers are one of the top top teams in the NHL and they are also one of the youngest. Unlike many of the seasoned contenders like the Tampa Bay Lightning, Colorado Avalanche, and Vegas Golden Knights, Chris Drury has a ton of assets in the form of prospects and picks to improve the team.

As the NHL Trade Deadline is a little over two weeks away, let’s rank the Rangers top future assets. The criteria will be any player with less than a year’s experience in the NHL coupled with the likelihood they will be traded.

Ranking the New York Rangers prospects for a trade

Below are my top 10 futures that Chris Drury can move at this year’s trade deadline on March 21st to bolster the lineup. They are ranked by their trade value and probability to be moved.

I included the Rangers first round pick for not only this upcoming draft but for the following one as well. This team’s window to win a Stanley Cup has opened and drafted players that are likely going to be late first round picks won’t be able to help for at least another five years.

RankPlayerPOSAGESTATUS/AAV
1Vitali KravtsovRW22RFA/$925K
22022 1st Rd PickN/AN/AN/A
3Nils LundkvistD212 YEARS/$925K
4Zac JonesD211 YEAR/$925K
5Matthew RobertsonD202 YEARS/$797K
6Will CuylleF202 YEARS/$850K
7Hunter SkinnerD202 YEARS/$850K
8Lauri PajuniemiF221 YEAR/$883K
92023 1st Rd PickN/AN/AN/A
10Morgan BarronF231 YEAR/$925K
NYR Trade Deadline prospects (3.5.2022)

Analyzing the list

Nils Lundkvist Zac Jones
Nils Lundkvist and Zac Jones (Photo: John Mrakovcich)

There should be no surprise that Kravtsov is at the top of the list. The Rangers are going to be buyers and the former first round selection, 9th overall, from 2018 has seen his value drop steadily year after year. While it’s nice that he’s playing well in the KHL, the red flags are out on his compete level. I almost feel like Drury would dump him for Phil Kessel instead of giving up a second round pick.

The rest of the top five is likely only going to see New York’s 2022 first round pick moved and one prospect defenseman. Chris Drury is not going to gut his farm system and prospect pipeline at this deadline. Nils Lundkvist will likely only be traded for a player like J.T. Miller (one with term left), but I could see Zac Jones or Matthew Robertson included in a deal for a top six rental forward. Keep an eye on either of them to be part of a deal to bring in Rickard Rakell from Anaheim. That will save the team’s first round pick for a run at Montreal’s Ben Chiarot.

As for the bottom five, Will Cuylle is the one I would try to keep if possible. However, with Brennan Othmann tearing it up in the OHL, and a long line of young forwards already in the Rangers lineup he could be expendable. If he stays, Cuylle could be part of the Rangers third line next season.

Finally, I added Morgan Barron at 10. While I doubt they will trade him, it isn’t an impossibility. Barron is projected to be no higher than a third line player, with the reality being more of a fourth liner. That can be easily replaced every year via free agency.

NHL Rumors

The Toronto Maple Leafs make their trade deadline priority clear. Plus Mark Giordano suitors and who is the New York Rangers top trade target? Read more.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-maple-leafs-giordano-rangers/
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Sat, 05 Mar 2022 12:10:27 +0000 New York Rangers News
Which New York Rangers prospects stood out at Development Camp; who didn’t? https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-analysis/which-new-york-rangers-prospects-stood-out-at-development-camp-who-didnt Mon, 20 Sep 2021 17:37:11 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=406072 The New York Rangers have wrapped up their Development Camp by splitting the home-and-home set with the Flyers rookies. In both contests, the Baby Blueshirts went down early in the first period, roared back to tie it in the second, and split the third.

Game one was a loss thanks to too many penalties and power play goals against. It almost looked like a repeat on Sunday after an early PP goal against. Down after the first period, this time the Rangers not only tied it but won it in the later stages of the third.

All and all 16 forwards, 8 defenseman, and 3 goalies were at camp with several standouts and a few misses.

New York Rangers stand outs

Morgan Barron: The 22 year-old was a stand out in camp and in both rookie games. He used all his 6-4, 220 frame to be strong on the puck, win draws, set up plays and get to the net. Barron was rewarded for his efforts with the first Rangers goal in Game 1. The 6th round pick in 2017 has come a long way and will compete for a spot on the roster.

morgan barron rangers
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Zac Jones: Of all the defenseman at camp, Jones was head and shoulders the best. Displaying an array of skills from skating, passing, shooting, and a high hockeyIQ, he will make it hard for the Rangers to send him down. A very mature 20 year-old, this 3rd round pick from 2019 looks like a gem.

Will Cuylle: “I want to make the team,” the 19 year-old said before the rookie games began. Yesterday, the 2nd pick in the 2020 draft scored twice using his size in front. The versatile winger believes he can be effective in any role with the team and was happy with what he was able to showcase so far. Expect him to make a big push in training camp.

Nils Lundkvist: The most prized prospect in camp struggled a little on Saturday, although he was overworked on defense. However, it was a script flip on Sunday where he used his speed and elite shot to give the Rangers a 3-2 lead that they would hold on to. Nils should continue this level of play in training camp and make the team to start the season.

Lauri Pajuniemi: I often refer to the 22 year-old 5th round pick from 2018 as the “Other Finn”. However, he proved why he’s been so highly praised in Liiga. Pajuniemi scored twice on Saturday, but had one disallowed. Of all the forwards at camp, he looked most like a natural goal scorer. Lauri will start on a top line with the Wolf Pack, but could be the first call up if there’s an injury to the top six.

Braden Schneider: The 19 year old first round selection in 2020 lived up to the hype. Although he doesn’t appear ready to make the team, he wasn’t shy about using his size to make plays. Schneider was hard on the puck, and aggressive with the body. He showed he can skate, make a pass, and control play. He will be the #1 right-defenseman in Hartford.

Prospects that need more seasoning

Matthew Robertson: The Rangers 2nd round pick in 2019 was solid. He seemed to do everything well. “I’m just being consistent everyday, just showing I’m ready to play,” Robertson said during camp. “Getting better each day. Play my game and not try and do anything out of my toolbox.” That was probably the biggest issue as he really didn’t stand out. The 6-4 defender should have a good training camp, but he looks like he could use some time in the AHL.

Brennan Othmann: Let’s be fair, the 2021 first round pick is just 18 years-old. There were some flashes on the PP where he showed why the Rangers opted to take another winger in the first round. He just needs more time to develop physically in order to compete.

Dylan Garand: No goalies really stood out to me, but Garand made an impression in game two yesterday. He held the fort and gave up no goals to secure the 3-2 win. The 4th round selection in 2020 will continue to develop and may push for the Wolf Pack starting role soon.

NHL Rumors Roundup

Get all the latest NHL rumors from Eichel, Tarasenko and Brady Tkachuk here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-roundup-latest-on-tarasenko-eichel-flames-senators-and-canucks/
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Mon, 20 Sep 2021 13:37:44 +0000 New York Rangers Analysis
Will Cuylle shows New York Rangers brass why he thinks he can make the team; Rookies beat Flyers 3-2 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-games/will-cuylle-shows-new-york-rangers-brass-why-he-thinks-he-can-make-the-team-rookies-beat-flyers-3-2 Sun, 19 Sep 2021 23:12:02 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=406058 Will Cuylle has had himself a wonderful Development Camp so far. Today, he decided to make sure to put a stamp on it with two goals.

Not bad for a young player that flat out said he wants to make the team this year.

“I want to make the team,” he stated last week. “I’m just taking it one day at a time and trying to do my best every day so the coaches know what I can bring.”

Will Cuylle wants to make the team this season

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. So far, the 6-3, 212 lbs winger has impressed with his size and aggressiveness in camp.

The 19 year-old played in 18 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL last year, his first season as a pro. He registered 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points in those contests and wanted to make sure the organization knew what he was about.

“Coming in and showing I can compete with older guys. I felt like I fit right in there in terms of strength and compete level,” Cuylle said. “That’s a big part of my game, I think I showed that well to the coaches.”

will cuylle goal
Will Cuylle scores (Flyers/YouTube)

Today, he used his size and aggressiveness to the tune of two goals.

Can he actually surprise everyone and earn a spot on the big club? If he continues this hot play in preseason, the Rangers will have to consider it. However, where would he line up?

“The way I play, fast and physical is important on any line to get in on the forecheck. Separate guys from the puck and make simple plays,” Cuylle told us back in 2020 about how he can fit. “Whether that’s me being on the 3rd of the 4th line as an energy guy or on the first or the second line scoring goals using my body strategically.”

Keep your eye on this kid.

Recap: Rangers 3 vs Flyers 2

The Flyers once again jumped out early thanks to the PP. It was 2-0 nothing and could’ve been more but goalie Talyn Boyko stood tall in net (pun intended). New York selected the 6-8″ netminder in the 4th round this past draft and he looked good.

In the second period, the Rangers PP went to work and was led by the brilliant play of Zac Jones. He looked excellent as the QB and picked up two primary assists as Will Cuylle scored twice.

The first Cuylle tally looked like a quick rebound in front.

Cuylle’s second was a PP tip in front.

The third period was knotted at 2 when prized prospect Nils Lundkvist finally broke through. Last year’s Salming Trophy winner for best Swedish born defenseman came streaking in from the right side to give the Blueshirts a 3-2 lead. It was a night and day difference from Nils compared to yesterday’s contest.

It ended up being the game-winner as 2020 draft pick, Dylan Garand was outstanding in relief of Boyko.

Catch up on all the latest NHL Rumors

Eichel is reporting to Sabres camp, but what about surgery? Latest on Tarasenko and so much more here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-roundup-latest-on-tarasenko-eichel-flames-senators-and-canucks/
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Sun, 19 Sep 2021 19:12:12 +0000 New York Rangers Games
New York Rangers top line of Barron, Cuylle, and Pajuniemi shine in 6-3 loss to Flyers rookies https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-games/new-york-rangers-top-line-of-barron-cuylle-and-pajuniemi-shine-in-5-3-loss-to-flyers-rookies Sat, 18 Sep 2021 21:26:47 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=406035 The Rangers first line of Morgan Barron, Will Cuylle, and Lauri Pajuniemi were a delight to watch. They played with energy and speed which resulted in three goals, although one was disallowed.

On defense, the top pairing of Zac Jones and Braden Schneider was rock solid. They did benefit by playing mostly with the top line. There is no doubt in my mind that they would likely make a solid third pairing in the NHL this season.

As for Nils Lundkvist, he was paired with Matthew Robertson and looked okay. Nothing to be concerned about, but it would be excellent to see him get even strength time with the top line.

New York Rangers fall to Philadelphia Flyers rookies 6-3

The Flyers rookies jumped out to a 3-0 lead after one period on the strength of two power play goals. Outside of the Blueshirts top line, they didn’t get much going and spent far too much time in their own zone.

In the second period it was Barron that got the Rangers rookies on the board first. That was followed by a Pajuniemi tip that was disallowed for offside. Patrick Khoderenko would get the second goal for the Rangers which was then followed by Pajuniemi’s game-tying snipe off a Cuylle feed.

Pajuniemi, 22, has his sights set on the NHL and the 5th round draft pick from 2018 explained his success in Finland before coming over to camp.

“Two years ago, when I was scoring like one goal in a game, I was really happy,” he explained. “But then the Rangers scout said to me that, ‘You need to have that confidence that you want more. Every night you score one goal, you need to get another,’ and I started to think like that and the goals were coming.”

The period ended with another Flyers PP goal which gave them the lead at 4-3 to close the second.

Philly would open the scoring in the third and Finnish it with an empty net goal for a 6-3 win.

In the end, there were just too many penalties by the Rangers rookies. The Flyers scored 3 PP goals in the contest which was too much to overcome.

This is something Kris Knoblauch who coached the game will try and correct before tomorrow’s rematch.

Correction: Updated to reflect fina; score of 6-3

Rangers notable rookies

rangers lose to flyers rookies
Elsa/POOL PHOTOS-USA TODAY Sports

Barron, 22, used all his 6-4, 220 frame to be a physical force and play a heavy game. Last season, he scored 21 points in 21 games for the Hartford Wolf Pack then added a his first NHL goal in 5 games with the Rangers. He was given an A on his sweater along with Cuylle and Schneider.

“My goal this year is to make it out of camp and stick the whole year round with the big club,” Barron said after day one of Development Camp. “With the new coaching staff the message has been clear this offseason, they want to be a team to be tougher to play against and those are things I feel I can add to this lineup.”

Schneider, 19, looked every bit the WHL Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy as Defenseman of the Year out there. His ability to skate with the puck and hard shot is what led to his 27 points in 22 games.

“I just want to show that I can play at the highest level,” Schneider said last week. “I want to show what I got and show that I can play with the big boys. Whatever happens I’m just looking to get better and progress my game everyday.”

His defense partner was excellent as well. Jones is going to make it hard on the Rangers in camp, you can just tell. He joined the Rangers late in the season and played in 10 games recording 4 assists.

“I’m coming in trying to make the team, I know it’s going to be difficult and I don’t have a spot,” Jones admitted. “If I get sent down to the AHL, it’s not going to be a big deal for me, I’m just going to work hard and get back to the NHL.”

NHL Rumors: Kings landing Jack Eichel?

Check out today’s NHL Rumors and so much more at The Daily Goal Horn.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-hertl-on-free-agency-hughes-and-pettersson-still-negotiating-and-sabres-talked-to-kings-about-eichel/
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Sat, 18 Sep 2021 19:47:21 +0000 New York Rangers Games
Rangers Roundup: Prospects get a day off; Will Cuylle impresses; and more https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-analysis/rangers-roundup-prospects-get-a-day-off-will-cuylle-impresses-and-more Tue, 14 Sep 2021 13:08:47 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=405907 The New York Rangers Development Camp gives the kids a day off and will reconvene tomorrow with a full practice. Aside from displaying their talents on the ice, this is also about getting to know your future teammates.

Yesterday, the prospects toured the City visiting with the local FDNY and were even at the Garden. The Rangers social media team released a brief video of the kids in the dressing room.

Will Cuylle, future power forward

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.

Last year, we spoke with Cuylle about where he saw his game.

“I can see myself anywhere with the way I play,” he began. “I’d be a good supporting role for a top center.”

wolf pack
Will Cuylle ready to compete (OHL/NHLI)

“The way I play, fast and physical is important on any line to get in on the forecheck,” Cuylle continued. “Separate guys from the puck and make simple plays…so whether that’s me being on the 3rd of the 4th line as an energy guy or on the first or the second line scoring goals using my body strategically.”

Not much has changed for the 6-3, 212 lbs winger as he has impressed with his size, aggressiveness and scoring touch so far in camp.

The 19 year-old played in 18 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL last season. He registered 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points in those contests.

“Coming in and showing I can compete with older guys. I felt like I fit right in there in terms of strength and compete level,” Cuylle said about playing pro. “That’s a big part of my game, I think I showed that well to the coaches.”

When asked about his goal for this camp, Cuylle was direct.

“I want to make the team,” he stated. “I’m just taking it one day at a time and trying to do my best every day so the coaches know what I can bring.”

NHL Rumors

Morgan Rielly and Jack Eichel in this latest edition. Read more.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-morgan-riellys-toronto-future-in-doubt-and-will-jack-eichel-report-to-sabres-camp/
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Tue, 14 Sep 2021 09:08:54 +0000 New York Rangers Analysis
Three New York Rangers rookies to watch at training camp this season https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-analysis/three-new-york-rangers-rookies-to-watch-at-training-camp-this-season Fri, 20 Aug 2021 21:19:37 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=405234 The New York Rangers have several rookies coming over to take part in training camp in September. Before we get started, excluded are rookies Vitali Kravtsov, Zac Jones, and Morgan Barron as they are expected to either make the team or the final cuts.

Let’s dive into three new rookies to keep an eye on when camp begins.

Rangers rookie camp watch: Nils Lundkvist

The New York Rangers announced the long awaited signing of Nils Lundkvist in June. The 21 year-old defenseman had an amazing SHL career and is ready to make the transition to the NHL.

This past season, Lundkvist was recognized as the Salming Trophy winner as the SHL’s best Swedish born defenseman. In 52 games, he notched 32 points which included 14 goals. That the most goals from a defenseman as a 21 year-old player or younger in the league’s history.

It’s numbers like that which have many believing he will be a lock to make the lineup as a third pairing right defenseman and get some PP time. The Blueshirts also signed Swedish veteran Patrik Nemeth to partner up with him and ease the transition.

“The plan is to be ready for training camp when it starts. I am going to stay home and train and do my best to be as ready as I can be,” Lundkvist said this summer. “It’s a bright future in New York and hopefully I can be a part of that too.”

Braden Schneider

Braden Schneider Rangers rookie
Braden Schneider signs ELC (Vaughn Ridley -Getty Images)

At 6-2 and 210 pounds, Braden Schneider plays a physical brand of hockey. He was highly regarded by Jeff Gorton who admitted he tried to trade up several times to draft him and was ultimately successful. After making a deal with the Calgary Flames, the Blueshirts chose him 19th overall in 2020.

The 19 year-old had an amazing 2021 as he won Gold with Team Canada at the World Championships with head coach Gerard Gallant. He was also the WHL’s top defender after scoring 27 points in 22 games.

Lundkvist appears to be already behind Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba on the team’s depth chart for right defensemen. Schneider is another top righty defenseman prospect and drawing a lot of attention as well. The two could very well battle it out for the spot in training camp.

Of course, don’t rule out a move to the left side if he impresses.

Will Cuylle

The New York Rangers signed Will Cuylle to an entry-level contract that begins this season. They drafted Cuylle in the second round of the 2020 draft 60th overall. The pick was acquired from the L.A. Kings in exchange for Lias Andersson.

Last season, the 19 year-old played in 18 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL. He registered 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points in those contests.

When he was drafted, the scouting reports pegged him as hard-nosed power forward who likes to stick up for his teammates. That was the case in Hartford where he racked up 26 penalty minutes in his brief stint.

With Chris Drury looking to keep a pipeline of hard-to-play against forwards stocked, seeing what Cuylle can do for the team in camp will be something to watch closely.

NHL Rumors

Is there a trade brewing between the Islanders and Blues? Read more.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-andrei-svechnikov-on-verge-of-8-year-deal-coyotes-vow-to-stay-in-arizona-and-blues-eyeing-isles-scott-mayfield/
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Thu, 09 Sep 2021 17:44:29 +0000 New York Rangers Analysis
Three young NY Rangers that may thrive under new direction https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-games/three-young-ny-rangers-that-may-thrive-under-new-direction Wed, 23 Jun 2021 17:15:02 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=403749 The New York Rangers are moving away from trying to figure out what they have, to want they want. That was the clear and distant message from the new leadership group led by Chris Drury and Gerard Gallant.

During their joint press conference each of them talked about defining roles and being harder to play against. As currently constituted, the Rangers have work to do in that area. In particular the bottom six and third pair defense.

Rangers need defined roles

“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,” Drury said. “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.”

The new head coach gave you a glimpse into how he will run his hockey team ad well. “I try to make every player important to our hockey team, everybody has a role to play and that’s what we expect,” he explained. “Do your role, play your role well and we’ll win hockey games.”

gerard gallant rangers
James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports

A look at the Rangers lineup from last season and all you see are similar players for the most part. On right wing, Pavel Buchnevich, Kaapo Kakko, Vitali Kravtsov, or Julien Gauthier are suited for third or fourth line duties. Colin Blackwell on the other hand could fill one of those roles with his relentless style and provide some offense.

Same on the left side with Artemi Panarin, Alexis Lafrenière, and Chris Kreider. All three are better suited for top two line roles. Maybe Kreider can transform his game to be on a third line. As for centers, well Filip Chytil as your third line pivot isn’t working. You can start to see where the Blueshirts simply have too much of the same thing.

Three young players that may thrive under new direction

The Rangers are likely to look at the trade and free agent market to fill some of these “role holes.” However, I see three young players that could have an immediate to near-future impact on Broadway.

Morgan Barron: The Blueshirts media guide lists him as a center, although he was recently converted from wing. At 6-4 and 220 lbs, Barron can play a physical and heavy game. He scored 21 points in 21 games in his first pro season with the Hartford Wolf Pack. In 5 games with the Rangers at the end of the year, he scored a goal in 13:41 of average ice time. The sixth round pick from 2017 is the player most likely to have an immediate role and impact on the team’s bottom six next season.

Braden Schneider: At 6-2 and 210 lbs, Schneider plays a physical brand of hockey. He was highly regarded by Jeff Gorton who admitted he tried to trade up several times to draft him and was ultimately successful. After making a deal with the Calgary Flames, the Blueshirts chose him 19th overall. Schneider had an amazing 2021 as he won Gold for Team Canada at the World Championships with Gerard Gallant as his coach. That familiarity might have Schneider jump up the depth chart even at just 19 years of age to contend for a spot.

Will Cuylle: The Rangers traded Lias Andersson to the Kings to make this selection in the second round of the 2020 Draft. At 6-23 and 212 lbs, the 19 year-old is a power forward by trade with scoring punch. He also has a willingness to get involved in scraps and could be a quintessential third liner in the near future. This season in the AHL he scored 5 points in 18 games and added 35 penalty minutes. His ELC kicks in next season.

NHL Rumors

The Rangers want to be harder to play against and about those Matthew Tkachuk rumors. Read more here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/nhl-rumors-rangers-want-to-be-harder-to-play-against-and-matthew-tkachuk-rumor-is-bull/
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Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:15:09 +0000 New York Rangers Games
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
New York Rangers agree to terms with prospect power forward Will Cuylle https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-analysis/new-york-rangers-agree-to-terms-with-prospect-power-forward-will-cuylle Mon, 19 Apr 2021 17:42:35 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=401982 The New York Rangers have signed Will Cuylle to an entry-level contract. 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.

Update: ELC begins next season.

Rangers sign Will Cuylle to ELC

Per the Rangers website:

NEW YORK, April 19, 2021 – The New York Rangers announced today that the team has agreed to terms with forward Will Cuylle on an entry-level contract.

Cuylle, 19, has skated in 13 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL) this season, registering two goals and three assists for five points, along with 26 penalty minutes. He tallied his first career AHL goal/point while making his AHL debut on Feb. 7 vs. Bridgeport, and he recorded his first career AHL assist while skating in his second career AHL game on Feb. 11 at Providence. Cuylle posted his first career multi-point game in the AHL by registering two points (one goal, one assist) on Apr. 10 vs. Providence.

The 6-3, 212-pounder skated in 62 games with the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) last season, registering 22 goals and 20 assists for 42 points, along with 37 penalty minutes. He established OHL career-highs in several categories in 2019-20, including assists, points, and shots on goal (200). Cuylle tied for third on Windsor in power play goals (seven), ranked fourth in shots on goal, and ranked fifth in goals last season.

Cuylle is a big Star Wars fan, but not of Baby Yoda

Will Cuylle Rangers
Will Cuylle Rangers (NHL)

Back in October, Cuylle spoke with Forever Blueshirts about his career and being drafted by the Rangers. “My billet parents from Windsor stopped by in Toronto to watch with us,” Cuylle told Steven Voogel about the pandemic draft. “That was a special moment, having both families in the room for this. It was pretty exciting to hear my name being called.”

On draft day, he impressed NHL Network with his knowledge of Star Wars so we asked him about it as well. He recollected watching the prequels when he was about 4 or 5 years old and he unequivocally says Revenge of the Sith is the best Star Wars movie. We also asked him who his favorite character was and he said, “Anakin Skywalker”.

Oddly enough, Will isn’t a fan of Disney+ hit show, The Mandolorian. “It’s a little to slow for me,” he said. Well there is nothing slow or boring about his game on the ice, that’s for sure. We look forward to watching his career progress in Hartford next.

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Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:20:33 +0000 New York Rangers Analysis
Morgan Barron shines for Wolf Pack as Nils Lundkvist sizzles in latest New York Rangers prospect report https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-analysis/morgan-barron-shines-for-wolf-pack-as-nils-lundkvist-sizzles-in-latest-new-york-rangers-prospect-report Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:59:34 +0000 https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/?p=400163 The New York Rangers have released their prospect report for February 8, 2021. In this edition, the Blueshirts top prospects in Hartford take center stage.

Below are excerpts from the official report provided to the media via the New York Rangers.

New York Rangers Prospect Report: Nils Lundkvist sizzling

NILS LUNDKVIST (D – 20 y/o, 1st Rd 28 overall 2018 Draft)

Season Stats – 37 GP, 9-14-23, E, 14 PIM

  • Registered a power play goal and recorded four shots on goal while skating in a single-game season-high 25:55 of ice time on Feb. 6 against Rogle.
  • Has tallied a point in nine of the last 16 games (5-5-10), in 12 of the last 20 games (5-8-13), in 14 of the last 23 games (5-10-15), and in 17 of the last 28 games (8-12-20).
  • Leads SHL defensemen in goals and power play goals (five), ranks second among SHL defensemen in shots on goal (116), and is tied for eighth among SHL defensemen in points this season.

VITALI KRAVTSOV (RW – 21 y/o, 1st Rd 9 overall 2018 Draft)

SeasSeason Stats – 46 GP, 15-8-23, +6, 12 PIM

  • Tallied an assist, recorded five shots on goal, registered a goal in the shootout, and logged a single-game KHL career-high 22:04 of ice time on Feb. 5 against Amur; recorded a goal in the shootout and led Traktor forwards with 20:39 of ice time on Feb. 7 against CSKA Moscow
  • Has recorded a point in three of his last five games (2-1-3), in five of his last eight games (2-3-5), in eight of his last 14 games (5-3-8), and in 10 of his last 17 contests (6-4-10)
  • Has been on the ice for eight of Traktor’s 15 goals over his last seven games (53.3%)
  • Has established KHL career-highs in several categories this season, including goals (15), points (23), and shots on goal (120)
  • Is tied for 15th in the KHL in even strength goals in 2020-21 (12)

Top prospects impress for Wolf Pack

new york rangers prospects
Morgan Barron (NYR)

MORGAN BARRON (C – 22 y/o, 6th Rd 174 overall 2017 NHL Draft)

Season Stats – 1 GP, 1-0-1, +2, 0 PIM

  • Recorded his first career AHL goal/point and posted a plus-two rating while making his AHL debut on Feb. 7 vs. Bridgeport.

TARMO REUNANEN (D – 22 y/o, 4th Rd 98 overall 2016 Draft)

Season Stats – 1 GP, 1-1-2, +1, 0 PIM

  • Recorded two points (one goal, one assist), including his first career AHL goal, assist, and point, while making his AHL debut on Feb. 7 vs. Bridgeport.

WILL CUYLLE (LW – 19 y/o, 2nd Rd 60 overall 2020 NHL Draft)

Season Stats – 1 GP, 1-0-1, +1, 0 PIM

  • Recorded his first career AHL goal/point while making his AHL debut on Feb. 7 vs. Bridgeport

Justin Richards picked up 2 assists and Austin Rueschhoff picked up 1 assist in the Pack’s opening season win. Both are undrafted free agent signings.

Rounding out the remaining prospects

LAURI PAJUNIEMI (RW – 21 y/o, 5th Rd 2018 Draft)

Season Stats – 22 GP, 10-7-17, +6, 8 PIM

  • Tallied three goals/points in two games during the past week; recorded two goals and 11 shot attempts on Feb. 2 against HPK and notched the game-winning goal on Feb. 5 against Assat
  • Has registered a point in 14 of the last 15 games (9-6-15)

BRETT BERARD (C – 18 y/o, 5th Rd 2020 Draft)

Season Stats – 12 GP, 3-3-6, -3, 12 PIM

  • Tallied a goal, led all skaters with six shots on goal, and posted a plus-two rating on Feb. 6 at Merrimack; notched an assist on Feb. 7 vs. Merrimack
  • Extended his point streak to three games (2-1-3); has registered a point in four of the last five games (2-2-4)

OLIVER TARNSTROM C – 18 y/o, 3rd Rd 2020 Draft)

Season Stats – 11 GP, 6-2-8, +3, 0 PIM

  • Tallied a goal and posted a plus-one rating on Feb. 4 against Forshaga IF
  • Has recorded three goals/points in his last four games

Editor’s Note: Thank you to the NYR for compiling this great info.

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Mon, 08 Feb 2021 10:59:34 +0000 New York Rangers Analysis