Rangers Need Some Fine Tuning

Rangers fans, let's not get carried away with the current roster of the New York Rangers. I feel there is a good foundation of players already in place. All that I think is needed for more success this upcoming season is a little fine tuning, not a major overhaul. They have the goaltending in place with Henrik Lundqvist for at least 10 years. The youth and young legs are in place with Callahan, Staal, Dawes, Dubinsky, Girardi, Korpikoski, and maybe a few more prospects projected to make the roster next season.

However, the Rangers are not without a few flaws. They need to get tougher physically, especially on defense. They are not a physically intimidating team. Opposing teams are not afraid to go into the Rangers corner to get pucks. As a player you must have a little fear of going into the corners, opponents this year had ZERO fear and were free to do as they pleased. The Rangers also need a proven scorer (sniper type player). The reason for the rangers excellent defense this season is because of the lack of "O", it gave them no choice but to play a certain style (let's face it, they underachieved offensively)! Scott Gomez needs to have steady wingers to work with. The transition from New Jersey to New York is over, this is a must do. Lastly, the Rangers must find a quarterback-type defenseman to run the (rather LOUSY) powerplay. That's one area that cost the Rangers dearly this season.

I have a few other thoughts on Jagr, Avery, and Shanahan. First off - Jagr. Even though I have been critical of his play to my friends during the season (it was not his best, that's for sure), when you look at it... is he not the most dangerous offensive threat the Rangers have? If he isn't, then who is? I say bring him back for one more year. Next, Sean Avery; love him or hate him - you got to have him on your team. He's one of the few on the team that plays a nasty, physical-type game that this team sorely lacks (Oh, and by the way, he contributes offensively as well)!

Lastly, Brendan Shanahan. Maybe it's time, maybe it's not (I mean, I played against this guy...) I feel what he's done for hockey and the Rangers in particular is fantastic. However, there comes a time for everyone in sports to hang 'em up and this might be it for Shanny. He's a sure fire Hall of Famer, he should take his time and arrive at a decision at his own pace. He deserves at LEAST that!

Again, you can agree or disagree. But these are my ramblings. Over and out!