New York Rangers Let The Cuts Begin

Its being reported that Petr Nedved has been released by the Rangers. Although I hoped he would make the team, the logistics of the situation not his play was the reason for his release.

There simply was not a spot available at center for him to take. The only possible spot would have been on the fourth line, a role his game is not at all suited for. The team is also pressed against the cap and it would have been difficult to make a fair offer. Maybe Nedved will catch on elsewhere with another NHL team.

Its also being reported that Artem Anisimov, Greg Moore, Dale Weise, Andreas Jamtin, Hugh Jessimen, Bobby Sanguinetti, Mike Sauer, Vladimir Denisov, Maxim Kondratiev, Thomas Zaborsky, Matt Zaba, Tom Pyatt, P.A. Parenteau, Justin Soryal and Thomas Pock were re-assigned to Hartford.

Michael Del Zotto was very impressive during his stay with the Rangers but along with Tomas Kundratek, he was destined to return to Juniors. I’m looking forward to seeing his performance this year in the OHL, I fully expect him to tear the league up.

Evgeny Grachev whose going to play for Brampton this year was re-assigned to Hartford. This leaves a handful of forwards still vying for a job. Dan Fritsche, Patrick Rissmiller, Freddy Sjostrom, Aaron Voros and Lauri Korpikoski. I think that Korpikoski, thus far has earned himself a spot and will make the team.

Aaron Voros also looks like he may be a lock. I like Sjostrom's playing style but I think he may be the odd man out. Patrick Rissmiller and his $1 million cap hit, along with his invisible play, could become a casualty.