When the Rangers acquired Bryan McCabe from the Florida Panthers yesterday, they didn't just acquire any old trade deadline rental. They acquired a veteran defenseman who is a proven leader and is tough nails. Case in point; McCabe caught a face full of puck during a game in January and broke his jaw, but he only missed one shift after a trainer put a protective cage on his helment. That's old school.
Next to his boys in the locker room, a players former team's fans have know a player best. Here's John Beatty's take from Litter Box Cats on McCabe:
Forget what Leafs fans say, McCabe is a solid veteran offensive defenseman who is a natural leader, very loyal and will play through almost anything. Case in point: While already playing with a broken finger, he took a puck to the face and had his jaw busted. He went to the locker room where the trainer got him set in a helmet with full coverage that would hold his jaw in place. He went back out, missing only one shift, and finished the game. And then he got back as fast as he could. We weren’t even sure he’d be back by the deadline and he’s been playing for almost two weeks now.
Besides that, he’s good with young defensemen. Every young guy that got sent out with him last year looked leagues better within a couple of games. He’s very vocal on and off the bench. He’s usually good on the power play. Not sure what the deal is with this year’s Panthers power play, but don’t look at those numbers as anything other than bad coaching. Don’t worry too much about his age. The guy’s a warrior.What's not to like about this trade? The Rangers filled a need at minimal cost and best of all, McCabe wanted to be a Ranger. He used his no-movement clause to get himself to New York. McCabe will be motivated and will add some needed grit and nastiness to the Rangers blue-line.
Glen Sather did a wonderful job making the team better now without sacrificing anything in the future. And for all we know, McCabe may re-up with the Rangers next season if he's willing to take a pay cut and a one year deal.
I said it once and I'll say it again, Bryan McCabe was (is) the Rangers best option at this years deadline.
Agree? Disagree? Feel free to email me canyonofblueshirts (at) gmail.com.
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