Read: Gaborik On The Hot Seat
Over at NHL.com John Kresier looks at one player on each of the NHL’s 30 teams that is on the hot seat for this coming season. And for the Rangers, that player would of course be, newly signed Marian Gaborik.
The Rangers freed up some salary-cap space by dealing center Scott Gomez to Montreal, then used it to sign Gaborik to a five-year contract. No one questions Gaborik’s skill — he’s among the best offensive players in the NHL — but his health is another issue. Gaborik missed all but 17 games with Minnesota last season due to leg and hip problems that required surgery. If he stays healthy and plays like the player who had 42 goals for the Wild in 2007-08, the Rangers could contend for the Atlantic Division title. If he has more health problems, they’ll be hard-pressed to make the playoffs.
….I guess Gaborik does seem like the player on the hot seat, but shouldn’t it really be Henrik Lundqvist or Chris Drury. Lundqvist is the only reason that the Rangers made the playoffs last season and, of course with Gaborik and maybe a better supporting cast around, will probably be the key for them again this season.
…As for Drury, he was my guess before the page loaded and showed Gabs. Its officially 100% his team now with Scott Gomez gone. Thought that might hold more weight then it seems to.
