The NYR Facts Of Life: #97 Matt Gilroy

For each player who suited up in a Blueshirt this season we will take the good, we will take the bad and take them both and see what we have. And this time around we start with the high numbers and work our way down so we begin with #97, Matt Gilroy.

#97's #s: 58 games, 3 goals, 8 assists, +5, 14 PIM (5 playoff games, one goal, -1, 2 PIM).

Take the good: Hobey stepped up his game in the playoffs and was pretty solid. Well, at least solid enough to keep veteran Steve Eminger in the press box. The Rangers scored just eight goals in the five games of the playoffs and he had one of them. Either Gilroy's confidence grew or he was just desperate to make an impression but he was more willing to jump into the attack later in the season. At the start he was more physical than he was in '09-10 but the offense was absent. His plus/minute went from even in that rookie season to a +5 this time around.

Take the bad: That was the only statistical category to improve. Gilroy had his points per game, hits per game, blocks per game, ice time per game and, hell, even the actual number of games decline. The ice time dropped by over two minutes as he was leapfrogged by a pair of rookies on the depth chart. His skill set seemed to lend well to the Tortorella offensive experiment but Gilroy didn't do enough up front that he was sent back to the blueline before the game was over.

Take them both and then we have: A guy turning 27 this summer who showed little ability to justify his $1.75 million two-year contract for either of the years. He was let off the hook for his struggles in the opening season because of the transition from college to pros but the sophomore slump did little to indicate that there is a future for him in the NHL, much less in New York.

 The NYR Facts Of Life: #97 Matt Gilroy - A Blue Line Odyssey

In the world of professional hockey, the journey to the NHL is often paved with dedication, hard work, and determination. Matt Gilroy, who donned the number 97 for the New York Rangers, embarked on a remarkable odyssey from being an undrafted free agent to earning his spot on one of the most iconic franchises in the league. In this article, we'll delve into the life and career of Matt Gilroy, celebrating his accomplishments, perseverance, and the lasting impact he had on the New York Rangers.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Matt Gilroy - A Blue Line Odyssey

Setting the stage for an exploration of Matt Gilroy's unique journey to the NHL and his impact on the Rangers.

Early Years: From Massachusetts to Broadway

Examining Gilroy's early life, his introduction to hockey, and his collegiate career at Boston University.

Breaking Barriers: The Undrafted Ranger

Detailing Matt Gilroy's remarkable path to the NHL, including his signing as an undrafted free agent with the New York Rangers.

Ranger on the Rise: Gilroy's Rookie Season

Analyzing Gilroy's debut season with the Rangers, his adjustment to the NHL, and his contributions on the ice.

Blue Line Versatility: Gilroy's Playing Style

Exploring Matt Gilroy's versatility as a defenseman and his ability to contribute offensively.

The Ranger Legacy: Gilroy's Impact on the Team

Highlighting the role Matt Gilroy played in the Rangers' lineup and his influence on the team's defensive corps.

Beyond Broadway: Gilroy's Post-Ranger Career

Discussing Gilroy's career trajectory after his time with the Rangers and his contributions to other NHL teams.

A Journey to Remember: Matt Gilroy's Enduring Legacy

Reflecting on Matt Gilroy's unique NHL journey and the lessons it offers to aspiring hockey players.

1. Introduction: Matt Gilroy - A Blue Line Odyssey

Introducing Matt Gilroy and his extraordinary journey from a small-town Massachusetts kid to an NHL defenseman with the New York Rangers.

2. Early Years: From Massachusetts to Broadway

Exploring Matt Gilroy's formative years, his early involvement in hockey, and his collegiate career at Boston University.

3. Breaking Barriers: The Undrafted Ranger

Detailing Gilroy's unconventional route to the NHL, including his signing as an undrafted free agent with the New York Rangers.

4. Ranger on the Rise: Gilroy's Rookie Season

Analyzing Gilroy's debut season with the Rangers, his transition to the NHL, and his on-ice contributions.

5. Blue Line Versatility: Gilroy's Playing Style

Examining Matt Gilroy's playing style as a defenseman, emphasizing his offensive contributions and adaptability.

6. The Ranger Legacy: Gilroy's Impact on the Team

Highlighting the role Matt Gilroy played in the Rangers' defensive lineup and his influence on the team's performance.

7. Beyond Broadway: Gilroy's Post-Ranger Career

Discussing Gilroy's journey after departing from the Rangers, including his contributions to other NHL teams.

8. A Journey to Remember: Matt Gilroy's Enduring Legacy

Reflecting on the remarkable journey of Matt Gilroy to the NHL and the enduring lessons it offers to aspiring hockey players.

Matt Gilroy's journey serves as a testament to the resilience and determination required to succeed in professional hockey. His story resonates with the dreamers and the undrafted, showing that with hard work and belief in oneself, the road to the NHL is full of possibilities and opportunities.