Regarding Parsons I have a bit of a concern here.
Beginning with a question. Do fans see Rangers as taking a step forward or step back next season ? The automatic reply is likely forward. However I see Parsons as a guy who is literally stealing "W's" this season. I know he is not the only reason that Rangers are having success this year, but to me he's the the team MVP and is having a huge impact on their record.
It's a bit of a mixed blessing. The plus - his performance has helped elevate this team in the standings. What's the cost? He's not here next season, so that means the next goalie in line takes the crease. Taking nothing away from Schaubel, but there's a big gap between him and Parsons - age, maturity, experience, and even size.....which can be argued on how much it matters for a goaltender.
I get it, the team chose to go with an '08 for the back-up, so he obviously doesn't get to play as much. In my opinion, I just don't see him having any chance at playing at any elite level in such a short period of time come next year.
If the plan is to have a top-end team in two years from now, then I am wondering if it is worth sacrificing sufficient development (i.e. more reps for Schaubel) for a better placement in the standings (i.e. playing Parsons almost exclusively) this season.
There may be an answer to all this that I'm not seeing. Perhaps Edwards finally gets his shot as an 18 year-old, and between he and Schaubel they some how adequately get the job done. Or, maybe MM is forced to acquire an older goaltender with experience.....at a cost of course. Even with both the forward and defensive groups coming back a year older, will it be enough to take that next step forward ? Having Andonovski come back as an OA could defensively help stabilize the back end, but as has been pointed out, there are no guarantees that will happen.
To me, good goaltending is huge for overall team success. I guess this is another "in MM we trust" situation.