#44's #s: 3 games, 0 goals, 0 assists, even, 2 PIM.
Take the good: Potter has been there when the Rangers called, jumped in the lineup and provided solid, if unspectacular defense. He makes smart, short plays to get the puck out of danger, he maintains good positioning and he isn't afraid to throw his body around when need be. After being a bit shakey in his debut this season against Nashville (playing less than eight minutes, taking a penalty and having a pair of giveaways), Potter bounced back and played nearly double the time next game against Tampa and got into the flow with a few hits. Then came the Olympic break and he lasted one quiet game after that before being bounced back to Hartford.Take the bad: John Tortorella's warped sense of accountability allowed Rozy, Hobey, MDZ and Redden in the lineup for long stretches (if not the entire season) despite a multitude of defensive gaffes; the bad thing here is that Potter never truly got a chance despite that.
Take them both and then we have: A poised defender capable of playing 15-17 minutes a night on a third pairing. Of course that pairing is not likely to be in New York as - depending on which salary cap site you look at - Potter will be a RFA, a UFA or a Group VI UFA (I think it is Group VI as he is older than 25 and has played three AHL seasons) on July 1st and surely will look for opportunity elsewhere.
"The NYR Facts Of Life: #44 Corey Potter - The Unsung Hero of the Blue Line"
In the world of professional ice hockey, the spotlight often shines on the star players and goal scorers. However, every successful team needs unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Corey Potter, the defenseman who proudly wore the #44 for the New York Rangers, epitomized the essence of an unheralded but essential player. In this article, we'll delve into the life and career of Corey Potter, a defenseman whose journey was marked by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to his team. We'll also address frequently asked questions about his career and his time with the Rangers.
Chapter 1: Early Life and Hockey Beginnings
Corey Potter was born on January 5, 1984, in Lansing, Michigan. His love for hockey was nurtured in the heart of the Midwest, where he began playing the sport at a young age. Potter's journey to the NHL started in local rinks and progressed through junior and college hockey.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What were some of Corey Potter's early experiences in hockey, and how did they shape his development as a player?
A1: Potter's early years in youth and junior hockey provided him with a strong foundation in skill development and a dedication to his craft.
Chapter 2: College Hockey and the AHL Grind
Potter's path to professional hockey led him through the collegiate ranks, where he played for Michigan State University. His college experience laid the groundwork for his transition to the American Hockey League (AHL), where he honed his skills and adapted to the professional game.
Chapter 3: The NHL Debut
Corey Potter made his NHL debut with the New York Rangers during the 2008-2009 season. His arrival in the NHL was a testament to his perseverance and work ethic, earning him the privilege of wearing the #44 for the Blueshirts.
Chapter 4: The Unsung Hero on the Blue Line
Throughout his tenure with the Rangers, Corey Potter embraced the role of an unsung hero on the blue line. While not a flashy scorer, his defensive reliability and versatility made him a valuable asset to the team. He consistently displayed the ability to adapt to different situations and roles.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What were some of Corey Potter's key strengths as a defenseman that made him an unsung hero for the Rangers?
A1: Potter was known for his defensive consistency, ability to block shots, and versatility in playing various roles on the blue line.
Chapter 5: Challenges and Triumphs
Corey Potter's journey in the NHL featured its share of challenges, including injuries and roster fluctuations. Despite these obstacles, he maintained a strong work ethic and continued to contribute whenever called upon.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: How did Corey Potter handle the challenges of injuries and roster changes during his time with the Rangers?
A1: Potter's resilience and commitment to his team allowed him to bounce back from setbacks and make meaningful contributions when needed.
Chapter 6: Life Beyond the Rangers
After his time with the Rangers, Corey Potter continued his professional hockey career, playing for several other NHL teams and in international leagues. His dedication to the game remained evident as he embraced new opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What has Corey Potter been doing since his professional hockey career concluded?
A1: Potter has remained involved in hockey and continues to share his insights and experiences with young players through coaching and development programs.
Corey Potter's career as an unsung hero on the blue line for the New York Rangers reminds us that success in hockey is not always measured in goals and assists. His dedication, adaptability, and commitment to his team made him an invaluable contributor to the sport he loved. Potter's journey serves as a testament to the importance of players who embrace their roles and make selfless contributions to the success of their teams. While he may not have captured the headlines, his impact on the Rangers and the hockey community at large is a testament to the unsung heroes who play an essential role in the sport's rich tapestry.
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