Survivor: NYR Third Line Edition

As I am still coming to grips with the mighty Mirtle's selling out move to SB Nation, I figured I would turn my attention to the Rangers even though the boys in blue don't play again until Friday. If reports are to be believed, Patrick Rissmiller was placed on waivers Tuesday. The Rangers haven't put out a release and the young German is still on their roster but I will take it on face value and take a look at the third line logjam.

There are five guys attempting to get on that line and, being as Chris Drury is the captain and all, there are two roster spots for four players. I know, I know; the lines have been all jumbled up of late and I would move Cally alongside Gomez so 'third line' is an arbitrary designation but the key numbers remain: two roster spots, four players. Sounds like the makings of a reality show ... sooooooo come on down and let's meet the contestants on

Survivor: NYR Third Line Edition

Nigel Dawes
5'9" 193 lbs, 23 years old
Nigel is the only one of the four to have scored a point this season. Including playoffs, Dawes has played in 85 NHL games and put up just 35 points. He is also the smallest in stature on a team that made a conscious decision to get bigger. He is pretty hard to knock off of the puck but has yet to show much skill without it. Doesn't seem to have been able to create chemistry with anyone in particular and yet has still played in six of the eight games. Are the Rangers showing patience or showing him off as trade bait?

Dan Fritsche
6'1" 204 lbs, 23 years old
Dan has played in just two games, took four shots and has no points or PIM. Fritsche has good size and has shown some flashes of skill but it is still hard to judge him. His prior experience in Columbus frankly shouldn't count because they were just a terrible excuse for a hockey team and he is a complimentary player, not a star. After dealing away the ill-fated (incompetent) Christian Backman for him, you have to imagine the Rangers will give him more time and more opportunities.

Lauri Korpikoski
6'1" 195 lbs, 22 years old
The Ranger first round pick in 2003, Lauri made a splash in his first game by scoring a playoff goal against the Penguins. Korpikoski spent two full seasons in Hartford but seems to still be learning how to play with the big boys. In seven games so far this season, he has taken just one official shot on goal and has been caught out of position on several occasions, which is odd considering he has shown versatility in playing both wing and center. Maybe some stability could help? He is almost certain to keep one of the two spots unless the Rangers make a move to bring someone else in - they have invested too much in his development.

Petr Prucha
6'0" 175 lbs, 26 years old
Petr is the lightest Ranger but he doesn't let that stop him from throwing his weight around. Timex has considered sponsoring Prucha because he embodies their old catch phrase - takes a licking, keeps on ticking. But for all of the abuse he has absorbed, Pru has seen things go considerably downhill since his rookie season. He has trouble getting into good scoring positions and when he does, grips his stick too tight and blows it. He has added some defensive responsibility to his repertoire but there are many better on the Blueshirts than he in their own zone. At 26 years old, you have to wonder when he stops being a prospect.

I am sure you can tell who I am endorsing from my scoring reports but I wouldn't be unhappy if Sather and Renney go off this board to fill the slots - especially if their mediocre play continues. Artem Anisimov, PA Paranteau (if he can pass waivers), Dane Byers or Greg Moore are all down on the farm and capable of seeing some NHL shifts. And I honestly wouldn't mind seeing them give Petr Nedved a call in the Czech Republic. Yes he is much older than these four candidates, and is under contract back home, but he would add some credibility and accountability to the locker room.

What do you think?

 "Survivor: NYR Third Line Edition - The Battle for Ice Time and Impact on the New York Rangers"

Hockey is a sport where line combinations often play a pivotal role in a team's success. For the New York Rangers, a franchise with a rich history and passionate fan base, the battle for spots on the third line is an ongoing saga. In this article, we will explore the significance of the third line in hockey, the competition among players for a spot on the New York Rangers' third line, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding this intriguing aspect of the game.

The Importance of the Third Line

The Role of the Third Line

In hockey, teams generally have four forward lines, with the third line occupying a critical position. The third line is expected to provide secondary scoring, energy, and defensive responsibility. It often faces the opponent's top lines, allowing the first and second lines to capitalize on offensive opportunities.

Balancing Offensive and Defensive Responsibilities

The third line must strike a delicate balance between offense and defense. While it's crucial to contribute offensively, players on this line are also expected to excel in their defensive assignments, including penalty-killing duties.

The Unsung Heroes

Players on the third line are often considered the unsung heroes of a team. They may not receive the same recognition as the top stars, but their contributions are essential to a team's overall success.

The New York Rangers and the Third Line Battle

Depth and Competition

The New York Rangers, like many NHL teams, have faced challenges in forming a consistent third line due to the depth of their roster. The competition for spots on the third line is fierce, with several talented players vying for ice time.

Development and Youth

The Rangers have invested heavily in player development and have a promising pool of young talent. This youth movement has added to the competition for third-line roles, as emerging players seek to establish themselves in the NHL.

Coaching Decisions

The final composition of the third line often comes down to coaching decisions. Coaches must consider a player's skills, chemistry with linemates, and the team's overall strategy when making these critical choices.

The Impact of the Third Line Battle

Elevating the Team

A strong and well-balanced third line can elevate a team's performance. It provides depth, creates matchup advantages, and relieves pressure on the top lines.

Player Development

Competition for spots on the third line can drive player development. Young players must prove themselves, which often results in improved skills and consistency.

Fan Engagement

The ongoing battle for spots on the third line adds excitement and intrigue for fans. It sparks discussions, debates, and anticipation regarding which players will ultimately earn a spot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who are some notable players who have contributed on third lines in NHL history?

Numerous NHL stars began their careers on third lines, including Pavel Datsyuk, Patrice Bergeron, and Jordan Staal. These players developed into elite talents while initially occupying roles on the third line.

2. How do coaches decide on third line combinations?

Coaches consider various factors when determining third line combinations, including player skills, defensive abilities, chemistry with linemates, and the team's overall strategy. They aim to create a line that complements the strengths of the other lines.

3. What happens to players who don't make the third line?

Players who don't make the third line may be assigned to lower lines or become healthy scratches. They continue to practice and work on their skills, waiting for opportunities to prove themselves and earn a spot.

4. How does the third line impact special teams, such as the power play and penalty kill?

Players on the third line are often key contributors to special teams. They frequently take on penalty-killing roles due to their defensive prowess. Some third-line players may also be selected for power play duties based on their offensive abilities.

5. Can the composition of the third line change during the season?

Yes, the composition of the third line can change throughout the season due to injuries, performance fluctuations, or strategic adjustments by the coaching staff. Flexibility is crucial in adapting to changing circumstances.

The battle for spots on the New York Rangers' third line is emblematic of the fierce competition and high stakes that characterize the NHL. Players vying for these roles understand the importance of their contributions to the team's overall success, and their dedication is evident in their commitment to excellence.

While the third line may not always receive the spotlight, it remains an integral part of a winning formula in hockey. The Rangers and other NHL teams continue to grapple with the challenge of balancing offensive and defensive responsibilities on this line, ultimately striving for a combination that can propel them to victory. As fans eagerly watch the ongoing saga of the third line battle, they can appreciate the dedication and passion that players bring to the ice, knowing that their contributions are essential to the team's quest for greatness.