The Battle Over Brendan

Now Sam over at Rangers Report has been staying on top of the Brendan Shanahan situation and giving update after update but the bottom line is that a day before the season starts, we still don't know what the future holds for a certain Brendan Shanahan. When I was a kid, for big decisions my mom always said that I should write down the two options, and then scribble the pros and cons of each one. It was an easy device to analytically choose which way to go. So which way should the Rangers go with Shanny? Let's take a look at the pros and cons of each situation:

Brendan Shanahan Is Re-Signed

Pros:
*Adds 20 years of experience and three Stanley Cups to the locker room.
*Capable of playing in all situations.
*Will give everything he has every shift he takes.
*Almost certain to score 20 goals through his wicked shot on the power play.
*Handles media pressure well and will take some of the 'bullets' headed towards Drury.
*Even though the results of the Trial were inconclusive, the Garden faithful will certainly give Shanny a warm reception (and keep buying Shanahan merchandise).

Cons:
*Has slowed down in his advanced age.
*Getting more susceptible to injury.
*Will likely take a while to get into game shape after missing preseason.
*Missed Europe, which the team has already said was a tremendous bonding experience.
*Takes a roster spot from a player with potential.
*Could limit the development of the current younger leaders by taking the media pressure unto himself.

Brendan Shanahan Is NOT Re-Signed

Pros:
*Less jockeying to be done to get the team under the salary cap.
*Captain Drury is forced to speak up to the media, something Jagr didn't have to do with Shanny around, leading to more accountability.
*More movement on the power play as Shanny won't be there just sitting in the circle waiting to unleash his predictable one-timer.
*Don't have to worry about changing team chemistry at this point.
*Younger players have less competition for ice time - is Petr Prucha a NHL-level player?

Cons:
*Is Petr Prucha a NHL-level player? I'm not so sure.
*Fan backlash after Sather led Shanny on for so long.
*After seeing them during the preseason, who will score for the Rangers?
*If Drury doesn't step up and take responsibility in the media, the papers will likely hammer the team hard the first instant things go south.
*Shanahan signs somewhere else (Jersey) where he can come back and make the Rangers regret not signing him.

Final Answer?:
To be honest? I just don't know. Going over this list, I think that the right decision is to not re-sign Shanny. Frankly, I think that call sucks but the home opener is on Friday and you should dance with the date you brought, you know? The NHL doesn't have player/coaches anymore and that would be a perfect role for him to step into, especially on a team in transition like the Rangers. I am a big fan of his and would hate, hate to see him become a Devil or - even worse - outright retire. The man has done so much in his career and has done so much for the sport of hockey that he deserves a farewell tour. Let's hope he gets one ...

 "The Battle Over Brendan: A Hockey Legend's Legacy"

The Battle Over Brendan is a captivating story that revolves around one of the most revered and contentious figures in the world of hockey, Brendan Shanahan. His journey from a young, promising player to a revered Hall of Famer is one marked by talent, determination, and controversy. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Brendan Shanahan, the controversies that have surrounded him, and the enduring legacy of this hockey legend. Additionally, we will answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the battle over Brendan.

Brendan Shanahan: A Hockey Icon

Early Beginnings

Brendan Shanahan was born on January 23, 1969, in Mimico, Ontario, Canada. From an early age, it was evident that he possessed a rare combination of skill, physicality, and hockey IQ that would set him on the path to stardom.

NHL Debut

Shanahan was drafted by the New Jersey Devils as the second overall pick in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 1987-88 season and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the ice.

A Prolific Scorer

Throughout his career, Brendan Shanahan was known for his scoring ability. He consistently put up impressive numbers, surpassing the 50-goal mark twice and tallying over 600 goals in his career.

The Controversies

The "Shanahan Summit"

One of the most significant controversies in Shanahan's career was the "Shanahan Summit" in 1992. At a league-wide meeting, Shanahan was one of the players who openly criticized the NHL's then-president, John Ziegler, for the league's lack of discipline regarding on-ice violence.

Elbowing Incident

Shanahan's on-ice aggression occasionally led to controversial incidents, including a notorious elbowing incident involving Brian Moore in 1993. The incident resulted in a lengthy suspension and further fueled debates about his playing style.

High-Sticking Controversy

In the 1997-98 season, Shanahan was suspended for high-sticking Bob Boughner. While some believed the suspension was justified, others saw it as an example of the league being overly punitive.

The Legacy of Brendan Shanahan

Leadership and Character

Despite the controversies that surrounded him, Shanahan was widely respected for his leadership qualities and character. He served as captain for multiple teams during his career and was known for his ability to motivate and inspire teammates.

Hall of Fame Induction

Brendan Shanahan's impressive career was recognized when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013. His induction acknowledged his contributions to the sport and his place among the all-time greats.

Off the Ice

Shanahan's impact extended beyond the rink. After retiring as a player, he took on roles in the NHL's Department of Player Safety and later as the president of the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he played a crucial role in shaping the franchise's future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What made Brendan Shanahan such a prolific goal scorer?

Brendan Shanahan's goal-scoring prowess was a result of his combination of size, skill, and a powerful shot. He had an excellent ability to find open spaces in the offensive zone and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

2. How did Shanahan's leadership style impact his teams?

Shanahan was known for his lead-by-example approach. His work ethic, determination, and willingness to do whatever it took to win were contagious, inspiring his teammates to elevate their performance.

3. What is the Department of Player Safety, and what role did Shanahan play in it?

The Department of Player Safety is responsible for reviewing on-ice incidents and administering disciplinary actions, such as suspensions or fines. Brendan Shanahan served as the head of this department, where he played a pivotal role in maintaining player safety and ensuring fair play.

4. What is Brendan Shanahan's legacy in the NHL?

Brendan Shanahan's legacy in the NHL is multifaceted. He is remembered as a prolific goal scorer, a respected leader, and a key figure in shaping the league's approach to player safety and discipline.

5. What lessons can be learned from Brendan Shanahan's career and controversies?

Brendan Shanahan's career teaches us that even the most talented individuals can face controversies and challenges. It also highlights the importance of leadership, resilience, and the ability to make positive contributions to the sport both on and off the ice.

The Battle Over Brendan encapsulates the complexity of Brendan Shanahan's life and career in the world of hockey. While he faced controversies and debates, his legacy remains one of excellence, leadership, and dedication to the sport. As a Hall of Famer, he continues to inspire the next generation of hockey players and enthusiasts, leaving an indelible mark on the game he loves. Brendan Shanahan's story serves as a reminder that the world of sports is not just about wins and losses but also about character, leadership, and the enduring impact of individuals who shape the sport's history.