#84's #s: 3 games, 0 goals, 0 assists, +1, 0 PIM.
Take the good: Locke showed a good hockey IQ while being handcuffed with linemates who couldn't score. He made a few smart, quick plays to get pucks out of the Ranger end and start a rush. The Rangers won all three of the games that he played in.Take the bad: Corey's lack of size (no way was he even his listed 5'9, 189) did hurt as was out-muscled a few times along the boards. Locke went 1-6 at the faceoff dot and never really showed off his talents. For a guy who had 85 points and averaged 2.6 shots per night in Hartford, Locke had all of two shots in his three appearances. That being said, he didn't get any power play time or a chance to skate with other skill players like Gabby.
Take them both and then we have: An AHL star who deserves at least a look in the NHL - one that he certainly did not get this season. With six seasons at the A, Locke has nothing left to prove in the bus league and you have to expect the UFA will go to the team that promises him a real shot at the big league this fall.
"The NYR Facts Of Life: #84 Corey Locke - A Journeyman's Tale"
In the world of professional hockey, few journeys are as captivating as that of Corey Locke. A player who donned the #84 for the New York Rangers, Locke's career was marked by determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of his dream to play in the NHL. In this article, we'll explore the life and career of Corey Locke, a journeyman forward whose story is an embodiment of resilience. We'll also address frequently asked questions about his career and his time with the Rangers.
Chapter 1: Early Life and Junior Hockey
Corey Locke was born on May 8, 1984, in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. He displayed exceptional hockey talent from a young age and played junior hockey for the Ottawa 67's in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Locke's junior career was highlighted by remarkable offensive production and awards.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What are some of Corey Locke's notable achievements in junior hockey?
A1: Corey Locke won several awards in junior hockey, including the CHL Player of the Year and the Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL's Most Outstanding Player.
Chapter 2: The AHL Success Story
After being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the fourth round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Corey Locke began his professional career in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Hamilton Bulldogs. He quickly established himself as one of the league's top playmakers and earned multiple AHL All-Star selections.
Chapter 3: The Pursuit of an NHL Dream
Despite his AHL success, Corey Locke faced challenges in breaking into the NHL. He made his NHL debut with the Montreal Canadiens during the 2007-2008 season but struggled to secure a permanent spot in the lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What were the challenges Corey Locke faced in his quest to establish himself in the NHL?
A1: Locke's smaller stature and the perception that he might not be suited for the NHL's physical style of play were among the challenges he faced.
Chapter 4: Stint with the New York Rangers
In the summer of 2011, Corey Locke signed with the New York Rangers. His signing brought depth and offensive potential to the organization. Locke wore the #84 for the Rangers, and although he spent the majority of the season with the AHL's Connecticut Whale, he made his presence felt during his time in the Rangers' system.
Chapter 5: A Journeyman's Odyssey
Corey Locke's journey took him through various AHL teams, European leagues, and even a brief return to the Montreal Canadiens. His willingness to adapt and his unwavering passion for the game allowed him to continue playing professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: In which European leagues did Corey Locke play during his career?
A1: Corey Locke played in European leagues such as the Swiss National League and the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), where he continued to showcase his offensive skills.
Chapter 6: Life After Hockey
Corey Locke eventually retired from professional hockey, but his love for the game remained strong. He transitioned into a coaching role, passing on his knowledge and experiences to the next generation of players.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What coaching roles has Corey Locke taken on after retiring as a player?
A1: Corey Locke has been involved in coaching youth and junior hockey teams, sharing his insights and expertise with young players.
Corey Locke's journey through the world of professional hockey is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of one's dreams. From his early days in junior hockey to his time with the New York Rangers and his subsequent adventures in the AHL and European leagues, Locke's career was marked by resilience and an unwavering passion for the game. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring hockey players who face challenges in their own paths to success. While Corey Locke's name may not be widely recognized, his legacy as a journeyman who never gave up on his NHL dream endures as a remarkable chapter in the annals of hockey history.
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