The Rangers need to focus their efforts on Bryan McCabe. In their hunt to acquire a veteran, power play oriented defenseman, the Rangers have seen Tomas Kaberle, Eric Brewer, and Ian White among others fly off the board. Sheldon Souray was placed on waivers this weekend, but hopefully the voice of reason will be loud enough to keep the Rangers from claiming him. If the reports that Souray's foot speed has declined are true, he isn't worth the risk.
At this point, the Rangers only and best option is Bryan McCabe. Even though the Rangers recent struggles are more mental than anything else, they still need help on their power play down the stretch. When entering into negotiations with Florida Panthers GM Dave Tallon, the Rangers need to have a ceiling in mind for how much they're willing to give up. In all likelihood, it's Washington's second round pick that they acquired from the Hurricanes in the Bobby Sanguinetti trade. But, it very may well be Matt Gilroy. Although Gilroy has improved over the stretch, he may very well become a free agent this summer. He's an RFA who likely will not receive a qualifying offer that will see him being paid near $2 million next season. Gilroy has potential, but he isn't worth that price.
McCabe is a leader and in addition to adding a bomb from the point, he adds a physical element. He can make this years team better, but will likely walk away this summer. So with that in mind, the Rangers need to be prudent and if the price is too high they need to walk away. First round picks and talented prospects have been involved in nearly every worthwhile trade in the past week and with every team looking for the same players, the price for McCabe is going to be inflated. If he can be had for that second round pick or even Matt Gilroy, the Rangers should pull the trigger. If not, the Rangers can't afford to mortgage the future at this point.
Agree? Disagree? Feel free to email me canyonofblueshirts (at) gmail.com.
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