In the past 3 years the Rangers have had success in the first round. Only a fluke injury kept Cherneski from reaching the NHL as a second line power winger. While no longer seen as an offensive threat he still could be a solid banger on the third line. The Rangers have also found success from rounds 3 and up, but there second round record is less then stellar. Wes Jarvis couldn’t make the Wolfpack, Randy Copley was a bust, and David Inman has yet to reach his full potential. The possibilities the Rangers are eyeing this year however could be interesting. Assuming the Rangers draft from 38-42 here are some options they have to look at:
Ben Knopp: Big 6’2 winger played on the same team as Ranger blue chipper Jamie Lundmark. Has good reach and looks like a solid up and down winger. Not a superstar but could be an effective power forward in time. Rangers would be delighted if he is still around.
Carl Mallette: Not too big but puts up points and wasn’t afraid to mix it up. Though the Rangers are stacked at center it might come down to taking the best player available. Lacks an extra gear but that hasn’t stopped many a player from making it to the show.
David Morisset: Another big winger, with a scoring touch. Needs to be more physical but looks like an another up and down winger.
Scott Balan: A 6’3 defenseman who loves to mix it up. Rangers like a kid on the blue line who can move the puck and drop the gloves.
Agris Saviels: Not overly big but moves the puck well. Not overly physical. Looks a little smaller then his listed size but if he is the best man the Rangers should grab him.
Steve Crampton: A sleeper but another Moose Jaw product who was victim of a bad year for the team in general. Like Ben Knopp his stock could rise over the next year or so. Nice size and he uses it.
Editors Note: There are no Europeans on here because I don’t see the Rangers taking a gamble on one with their only top 100 pick. The Rangers will attempt to gain a first round pick, though I doubt it is possible. If I had my pick and he was still there I’d go with Ben Knopp, but it comes down to who is there at that time. I hope I’ve cleared up some of the clutter going into the Rangers 2000 draft.