So far, coach Tom Renney has kept the training camp practices intense and high tempo. With all of the young players competing for spots, it would make sense that they push it to the limit to try and impress the staff.
The guys over at Blueshirt Bulletin continue to have some of the best training camp coverage. So far it seems that many of the younger players look like they have a chance, at least, to play at the NHL level.
Larry Brooks writes that Renney promised that the team would not make the "Manny Malholtra" mistake with this crop of youngsters. Larry also reports that Blair Betts is getting the first crack as the starting fourth line center.
One disturbing thing Larry reports is that the referees at camp are letting everything go in scrimmages. Renney said that they would crack down today, and in my opinion it couldn't happen fast enough. The very last thing the Rangers need is a parade to the penalty box when the season starts. The new head of officiating, Stephen Walkom, promised that the rules would be strictly enforced.
John Dellapina writes about Martin Straka and the new Czechmates.
Steve Zipay from Newsday talks about goalie Henrik Lunqvist.
Colin Stephenson of the Star-Ledger covers Hugh Jessiman and his experience at camp.
Andrew Gross from The Journal News - Coach Tom Renney further defines what "rebuild" means in New York:
"A young team? I'm not sure . . . But a younger team? Yeah, no question."
"I don't know if we ever went into next season, regardless of the lockout, saying we're going to have 10 spots for young people . . . (But) we will dedicate spots and time and effort to young people. We have to show that evolution. Not because we promised it, but because it's required here."
In other NHL news:
Veteran center Ron Francis decided to end his playing career after 23 seasons. Francis will most likely join Mark Messier, Al MacInnis, and Scott Stevens in the 2007 Hall of Fame induction class.
Five days until the Islanders.
HDH
Posted by Jim at September 15, 2005 10:23 AMeMail this entry!
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