Today’s NHL Trade Deadline didn’t sell us short on drama and action. Lets hand out grades for each of the three local teams:
New York Rangers- D
The only reason that the Rangers do not get an F here is because they got rid of pitiful Marcel Hossa. Hossa was in and out of the lineup this season, battling injuries and trying to figure out his game. But did they really need to give up Al Montoya just to get rid of Hossa? Montoya was one of our top prospects in our system. Granted, he probably never would have seen the NHL due to King Henrik just signing a huge contract, but still, I really think we could have sold higher then this. I also know that Montoya lost his job in Hartford to newcomer Mikka Wikman, which could have lowered his stock, but once again, think of how many teams needed goaltending. I haven’t heard much about any of the four players that the Rangers brought in, aside what I have read online, but it sounds like all they did was pick up a few able bodies, and a 6th or 7th defensemen for depth. Terrible day for the Blueshirts. Hopefully this was done because the Rangers have been jelling as of late.
New York Islanders-A-
The Islanders picked up some defensive depth which will help them with what is left of their playoff push, but I like what Garth Snow did at the deadline. He didn’t sacrifice the future for what looks to be a long shot playoff birth like he did last year with Ryan Smyth. He probably should have unloaded Miroslav Satan when he had the chance, but that would have completely put them out of the playoff race. And honestly, how in God’s name did he find someone to take the most vilified player in the NHL in Chris Simon. Nice job Garth! I guess Charles Wang might kind of know what he is doing.
New Jersey Devils- B+
The Devils didn’t do anything too dramatic today, sending away tough guy Cam Janssen to the Blues for defensive depth. Bryce Salvador is a stay at home defenseman who will fit right into the tight ways of the Devils. I would have liked to see them roll the dice a little more with their offense, but I am guessing that the price was too high for Lou. I never question what that man does, because he has made the Devils a perennial powerhouse for the past thirteen years.
It will be interesting to see how the rest of the season goes, but two out of the three local teams did a fantastic job today. Hopefully Glen Sather and Tom Renney know more then I do.
Filed under: NHL - Devils, NHL - Islanders, NHL - Rangers, Writer - Christian Chiavetta
