DAN GIRARDI Defenseman
Another Rangers defenseman worn down by too many games played over the past few seasons, Girardi looked over matched many times during the 2015-2016 season. In 74 games Girardi tallied 2 goals, 15 assists, was a plus 18 and averaged 20+ minutes of ice time per game. Undergoing ankle surgery in the off season it seemed as though the lately oft injured Girardi couldn't get back on track and find a consistency to his game. Another D man who was thought to be suffering through injuries all season Girardi fessed up on "breakup" day and let it be known he was diagnosed with a concussion late in the season after a hit by former NY Rangers teammate Brian Boyle. Missing the final 2 games of the regular season, Girardi played in game 1 of the first round playoffs and wasn't able to return again until game 5 collecting an assist in those 2 games while being a minus 2 it was obvious he wasn't in shape to return to the lineup. The usual "Iroman" of the Rangers D is one of the players that should benefit from the extra 2 months rest to heal from the toll of injuries and extended ice time. With 5 years left on a 5.5 million per year contract along with young upcoming defenseman in the Rangers system there are rumors of the Rangers using their buyout on his contract. It should be interesting to see if the career Ranger remains on Broadway come July 1st.
GRADE C-
NYR Alumni Birthdays 5/18
Jari Kurri RW (1995-1996) Manny Malhotra C (1998-2000) Marty McSorley D (1995-1996) Darren VanImpe D (2001-2002) Jay Wells D (1991-1995)
Today in NYR History May 18
1965: The Rangers acquire goaltender Ed Giacomin from Providence (AHL).
1997: Wayne Gretzky gets his 10th and final playoff hat trick by scoring three times in the New York Rangers' 5-4 victory against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Spectrum in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final. Gretzky scores twice in less than two minutes in the first period and completes his hat trick midway through the second.
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