The NYR Facts Of Life: #44 Steve Eminger

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 started with the high numbers and are up to #44, Steve Eminger.

#44's #s: 65 games, 2 goals, 4 assists, -5, 22 PIM. Benched for entire playoffs.

Take the good: When the Rangers first traded Voros for him I was less than pleased but Eminger did have his moments - primarily in that span when Rozsival was out with injury. He wasn't the decent puck mover that was hoped for but rather a capable, positional seventh defender. He blocked 103 shots, had at least one hit recorded in 60 of his 65 games and the Rangers posted a record of 4-1-1 when he tallied a point.

Take the bad: That shows that he only put up points in six games - his production dropped for the second straight season and it was his lowest total in the five seasons where he played at least 60 games. Eminger had several nights when he had clearly checked out and was caught flatfooted left and right. Despite being a veteran of more than 300 games when he got here, it did not appear (from outside of the locker room) that he added any kind of leadership. Eminger lost Tortorella's trust and played less than 13 minutes five of his last six games and didn't dress once in the playoffs. In the midFebruary come-from-behind win over Pittsburgh Eminger was responsible for one of the early goals against and Tortorella benched him. He ended up with just over four minutes of total ice time while Staal saw nine seconds shy of a half hour.

Take them both and then we have: Someone with no future with the franchise. Matt Gilroy was not a better player for playing alongside him. Eminger came in, worked pretty hard and did his job but that is simply not enough for a seventh defenseman - especially one making over a million bucks. There are surely better bargains out there as a Jason Strudwick-type guy (one who could actually skate though) is very necessary for the young corps of Blueshirt Blueliners.

 The NYR Facts Of Life: #44 Steve Eminger - The Steady Defenseman

Every NHL team needs a reliable defenseman who can step onto the ice night after night and play a steady, unflappable game. For the New York Rangers, that player was Steve Eminger. Though perhaps not as flashy or heralded as some of his teammates, Eminger's contributions to the Rangers were essential to the team's success during his tenure. This article delves into the career of Steve Eminger, highlighting his journey, role as a dependable blueliner, memorable moments, and the impact he had on the Rangers.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Steve Eminger - The Steady Defenseman

Setting the stage for an exploration of Steve Eminger's career with the New York Rangers.

From First-Round Pick to NHL Journeyman

Tracing Steve Eminger's path from being a first-round draft pick to becoming an experienced NHL defenseman.

Eminger's Role on the Rangers' Blue Line

Analyzing Eminger's importance as a steady presence on the Rangers' defense and his versatility in various roles.

Memorable Moments: Stepping Up When Needed

Highlighting key games and moments where Eminger showcased his reliability and value to the team.

Off the Ice: A Quiet Leader

Discussing Eminger's influence in the locker room and his role as a mentor to younger players.

Post-Rangers Career and Transition

Exploring Eminger's journey after leaving the Rangers, including his transition out of professional hockey.

Legacy and Appreciation

Summarizing Steve Eminger's legacy as a Ranger and the appreciation from fans for his contributions.

1. Introduction: Steve Eminger - The Steady Defenseman

In this introductory section, we introduce Steve Eminger and highlight his significance in the New York Rangers' defensive corps.

2. From First-Round Pick to NHL Journeyman

Exploring Eminger's early career, his path to the NHL, and his development as a defenseman.

3. Eminger's Role on the Rangers' Blue Line

Analyzing Eminger's importance as a consistent presence on the Rangers' defense and his ability to adapt to various roles.

4. Memorable Moments: Stepping Up When Needed

Highlighting some of the most memorable games and moments where Eminger showcased his reliability and value to the team.

5. Off the Ice: A Quiet Leader

Discussing Eminger's influence in the locker room, his leadership qualities, and his role as a mentor to younger players.

6. Post-Rangers Career and Transition

Exploring Eminger's journey after leaving the Rangers, including his transition out of professional hockey.

7. Legacy and Appreciation

Summarizing Steve Eminger's legacy as a New York Ranger and the enduring appreciation from fans for his contributions.

Final Thoughts

Steve Eminger's career with the New York Rangers serves as a reminder of the importance of steady, reliable players in the NHL. While not always in the spotlight, his contributions on and off the ice were invaluable to the team's success. Eminger's legacy is a testament to the unsung heroes who make a significant impact in professional hockey.