There’s actual value in playing Zibanejad at RW. It simplifies his game. He can concentrate on creating offense only and the team can use him in the PK rotation as a center which will be a big plus. If he could get back to a 70-80 point pace he’s worth his contract.
In saying that, LW is still beyond crowded. Panarin, Cuylle, Lafreniere(who is still playing out of position), Othmann, Berard, Kreider. If Zibenajad slides to RW than the RW depth could be, Zibanejad, Lafreniere, Perrault.
The guy to trade is Kreider. And the return should be either a young defenseman and a pick or a high end defensive prospect and a pick.
I’m really curious how the Rangers view Laba. Could he be ready for NHL minutes next year? He’s a big kid with strong skating skills.
Drury owes it to the organization to get a long look this season at Berard and Othmann. The group below them, Sykora, Chmelar, BMB, Roobreck and Laba, while not ‘sexy’ are all progressing nicely. If they don’t start providing opportunities they’re going to end up with 5-6 guys all ready for NHL minutes and some excuse about not wanting that many rookies on the team.
Smith and Vesey should be on the block and traded soon. Kreider, to me, is the guy who could be on the way out depending on the return.
For those people sleeping on Othmann, I’d just like to say that the kid has a serious nose for the net and is willing to battle to score. Put him with Miller, who likes to have the puck and make plays, and I think he does really well
