NHL Rumors: Shane Doan Would Give Rangers Much-Needed Scoring Depth

If Shane Doan decides to end his extended stay with the Phoenix Coyotes, the New York Rangers should be relentless in their pursuit of the veteran winger. He would be a big piece in the puzzle as the team continues to chase its first championship in nearly two decades.

Doan still hasn't made up his mind about his future after spending his entire career with one franchise, but the Rangers have expressed interest should he make himself available, according to Larry Brooks of the New York Post.

The Rangers claimed the Eastern Conference crown during the regular season before losing in the playoffs to the New Jersey Devils. One of the main reasons they weren't able to run the table was a lack of depth up front.

New York has its fair share of star power in the likes of Marian Gaborik, Brad Richards and Ryan Callahan. Beyond that trio, however, the level of production wasn't enough to survive the postseason, when there is a much greater emphasis on defense.

That's why the Rangers need to add a player like Doan to the equation. He's no longer the elite scoring option he was during his prime, but he's still a perfect fit for New York's second line. The 35-year-old Canadian is coming off a campaign in which he scored 22 goals in 79 games.

He's also been remarkably consistent throughout his career. He hasn't scored less than 18 goals in a season since 1998-99 and that's exactly what the Rangers need to counteract some of their more streaky forwards like Derek Stepan and Brandon Dubinsky.

It would be interesting to see how Doan would handle a move to New York. He'd be going from a small-market team to the biggest market of them all, which means a lot more attention, but also a chance for him to finally get some praise for a terrific career.

Playing in the bright lights of New York in the famous Madison Square Garden seems like the perfect boost for Doan's career. Getting to play in front of fans who love a winner instead of a bunch of empty seats would be a nice change of pace for him.

It would also move him closer to winning a Stanley Cup. Although both the Rangers and Coyotes advanced to the Conference Finals, New York's roster is better suited for staying in contention, especially if Doan hops aboard.

The longtime Western Conference star is one of the best leaders in the sport. He is somebody his teammates can look to in big moments, which is a role the Rangers need to fill after watching too many golden opportunities slip away.

There are bigger names on the trade market like Rick Nash and Bobby Ryan, but those guys won't come cheap. Doan would be a far more cost-effective option if the Rangers can convince him to leave Phoenix for the Big Apple.

It's a waiting game for now, but the Rangers must be ready to pounce.