One of the young Rangers that has drawn the ire of some of the fan base is Brett Howden. The 22 year-old 2nd year center scored 19 points in 70 games for the Blueshirts this season. Not bad for a young player primarily stationed on the fourth line averaging 13:09 per game.
Why are fans all over Brett Howden
From what I just laid out, it makes you wonder why some fans are so irate about him. To be fair, that anger goes more towards David Quinn then it does the kid.
As for those who are the most vocal, well they are usually the same ones who screamed that Lias Andersson wasn’t given a fair shot. They yelled as they clearly ignored his shortcomings without the puck, and skating speed not befitting a high first round draft pick.
They often yelled at Quinn for playing Lias with so called “anchors” like Brendan Smith or Micheal Haley. At the same time ignoring Howden played with some of those same guys and produced.
Tony DeAngelo takes exception
Tony DeAngelo, responding to a recent article and fan reactions on Twitter had enough. “He’s become the focus of criticism because people have zero idea what they are talking about,” Tony explained. “He’s a young, talented hardworking player that is liked by everyone in the organization. Plays hard, both ends of ice and is SO young still. Take Brett Howden everyday of the week!”
That’s high praise from a fellow teammate and someone who sees him at practice and in the locker room. Not to mention how the three most important people in the organization feel about the Howden.
We all know David Quinn loves his game and rewards him with ice time and penalty kill opportunities. As far a John Davidson and Jeff Gorton, they couldn’t heap enough praise on the youngster on break up day.
You often hear what an amazing job those men are doing. Yet when it comes to Howden, they must be wrong apparently. Well, you can’t have it both ways. Howden is developing into an excellent 4th line center and has the ability to play big minutes if needed on the 3rd line.
Tony is right, the critics are wrong.
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