Would Signing Ryan Malone Make Sense for the New York Rangers?

Larry Brooks of the New York Post was the first to report that former Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning forward Ryan Malone would be joining the New York Rangers during their informal skating sessions, but there's a chance that it could become more than a one-time thing.

Brooks went on to mention that Malone was invited to do so by a group of Rangers including Derek Stepan, Ryan McDonagh, Dominic Moore and Martin St. Louis.

Malone is still an unrestricted free agent, and according to the report he is currently free to sign a contract despite being placed in Stage Two of the NHL/NHLPA’s Substance Abuse/Behavioral Health Program as a result of DUI and possession of cocaine.

When you look at Malone's age, his past and the Rangers' current roster situation, would it make sense for general manager Glen Sather to continue in his efforts to sign the maligned winger?

Despite the fact that Malone has been welcomed in despite his off-ice issues, and he is getting in better shape, it doesn't make sense for the Rangers to sign him to a contract even though it could be a two-way deal worth minimal money.

While there is always the chance that he could embrace his new lease on life, there just isn't a strong enough reason to sign him to a deal.

Malone is 34, has had a few down years as of late and doesn't really add much to the roster. He once was a solid top-six forward that played with grit and used his size on the power play, but he is just slow and inconsistent at this point.

The Hockey News really hits it on the head when they point out his flaws, and that alone is enough reason for the Blueshirts to steer clear of Malone.

The Hockey News wrote, "Over time, injuries have started to pile up. Therefore, he's not the point producer he used to be. Anyway, he tends to run hot and cold in the scoring department. Ditto with his game-to-game intensity, which wanes at times."

While signing Malone would not break the bank, it still doesn't make enough sense to entertain him as an option, but keeping him around until training camp is over would be a smart tactic on the Rangers' end.

It is fine for him to skate in informal skates and training camp, because his presence will force players like Kevin Hayes to work harder to earn a roster spot. Competition is never a bad thing, and adding Malone to try-out roster can only help and not hurt.

While Malone's off-ice issues are a big talking point, they shouldn't play a role in why he shouldn't be signed. In addition to Malone not being that good of a player anymore, the Rangers do not have room for him.

This summer the Rangers made a glut of signings, and they already have a number of NHL-ready bodies in the event that there are injuries that force the team to pull from its surplus.

Then there is the signing of college standout Hayes, and if push came to shove, it would be better to give him a shot to see what happens and then replace him with someone like Matthew Lombardi.

After Lombardi, there is a list of prospects such as Jesper Fast, Oscar Lindberg, Danny Kristo and assorted others, and that doesn't even include seasoned AHL veterans and NHL tweeners such as Chris Bourque and Chris Mueller.

These players all have youth on their side, and if they don't make it in an NHL role, they can always go back to Hartford. While there is a chance Malone could sign a two-way deal out of gratitude, it is hard to believe the 10-year veteran will go back to the grind of multiple hour-long bus rides in the American Hockey League.

Sather has a big heart, and he is a sucker for second chances. He is a grandfatherly figure in the NHL, and he has always looked out for his players. He gave players such as Anton Stralman and Benoit Pouliot another chance, and both flourished in New York before signing mega deals during free agency.

It is in his nature to make these kinds of signings, and although he's had his eye on Malone since July 1, he needs to show restraint and let Malone go.

Season	Goals	Assists	Points	P/GP
2009-10	21	26	47	0.68
2010-11	14	24	38	0.70
2011-12	20	28	48	0.71
2012-13	6	2	8	0.33
2013-14	5	10	15	0.26

Could Malone have a bounce-back season now that he is refocused and has a clear head? Of course, but the Rangers need to focus on continuing their youth movement and developing as a team.

Hopefully Malone lands on his feet, because we all make mistakes, but him joining the Rangers would only impede the progress the Rangers have made with their youth movement.