Rangers Want Compensation For Alexei Cherapanov

Another chapter is beginning to unfold in the tragic story of forward Alexei Cherapanov.

The Rangers are reportedly seeking the 17th selection in the 2009 Entry Draft in compensation for 2006 first-round pick Cherapanov.

The 19-year-old Russian collapsed and passed away during an October 13 game while playing in the Continental Hockey League.

The debate begins on whether or not this is an ethical move by the Rangers. However, according to the rules of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, GM Glen Sather and the New York Rangers are fully within their rights to exercise this request.

Article 8.3 (b) in the NHLCBA states: Any team unable to come to terms with a first-round selection, be awarded a compensatory pick.

"We are not attempting to capitalize on a tragedy," said Rangers assistant GM Cam Hope. "If an unsigned player sustained a massive injury on or off the ice, the drafting team would get a compensatory pick."

He continued to say, "We understand this a sensitive issue, but with all due respect to Alexei's family and his memory, he is technically eligible to be drafted again next year."

The subject will be discussed at the next GM meetings in March. For the decision to go in favor of the Rangers, it is likely that part of the CBA would be amended.

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