The Plan for Kreider, Miller & Sauer
Back in December I posted that if Chris Kreider's play didn't improve with the CT Whale the Rangers would keep him with their AHL affiliate until he did. Well Kreider's play hasn't improved (just five goals on the season), but Larry Brooks at the New York Post reports that the Rangers 2009 first round draft pick is not in the Whale line-up today and will be in training camp when it opens later this week.
...you really didn't think the Rangers would actually start the season with their #1 prospect and playoff hero with the Whale, did you?
Meanwhile, the Rangers other top prospect and World Juniors Gold medalist JT Miller won't be so lucky as Brooks adds that the plan as of now is for the 2011 first round pick to rejoin the Whale and be available for promotion if merited or needed.
...if the Rangers had a complete training camp, Miller would have been given a legit chance to earn a roster spot, but with the need to start the season asap the opportunity for young players will be far and few in between as camp will be 100% about having the team ready to play on opening night.
Having said that, Brooks notes that Marek Hrivik might get an invite to camp. The 6' 1" free agent signee has 22 points (4g, 18a) in 32 games this season.
...Hrivik started the season very slow after being injured in training camp, but has come on the last month.
And finally, as I posted last week, Michael Sauer will not be playing this season.
...really sad. Hope his career isn't over.
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@AnnoyingJoe I agree. I doubt anyone around the league knows or cares to know his story. I hate Phaneuf.
@GLENsatherVSglennDANZIG @AnnoyingJoe sad indeed, but it was a clean hit. sauer didnt have his helmet on.
I think the team needs to be ready to leave Krieder in CT if he doesn't earn a top-6 spot in camp. I'd like to see Kolarik get an invite to the big camp, I like his energy and he can make plays with the puck too.
YES HE WILL.the coach was watching him play down there all year and he didnt like what he saw so yes he will start the season in hartford he might stay there for the season
I'm giddy! I can't wait to see this all shake out. It sucks that Asham has to carry over a one game suspension. I want to know what the opening night line up will be. Lets hope for a healthy season!!!
Oh no.... :( Would be great to see him play in the NHL even for a few games, we need that fire!!!
Thetis, I think they want to give Jean a full season with the Whale. Unless situation dictates a recall.
Greg, no official word on Gabby, but he is healthy, so I think he'll be ready for camp later this week.
