October 14, 2006 in League news

20 yrs ago · 1 min read

Langenbrunner Walks, Smolinski Stays

Ray Nuvolone

GM, New York Rangers

With the offseason in full swing the New York Rangers continue to shape thier roster for the 06-07 season. Lastnight GM Ray Nuvolone announced the resigning of left winger Bryan Smolinski to a four year deal. Details of the deal were not released, but it is believed the cap hit will be around 3 mill per season. The Rangers GM has made no secret his intention of trying to retain Smolinski since he took over the Rangers helm last fall. The veteran winger had a good season and was a good locker room presence through a very long and difficult season.

Even with the signing of Smolinski, the Rangers roster still remains very thin. Add another name to the long list of Rangers leaving for free agency. Jamie Langenbrunner has informed the Rangers he intends to test the market, but leaves a door open to still return to Broadway. Langenbrunner was also a good soldier for the Rangers last season and was the teams best penalty killer. The Rangers are going to have to be big players in the free agency. The team is very thin at almost every position and there seems to be very little help coming from within the system.