#16's #s: 76 games, 3 goals, 21 assists, -4, 174 PIM (4 playoff games, no goals, one assist, -1, 12 PIM).
Take the good: When Sean Avery was being Sean Avery, well, he was Sean Avery. He was a prime pest, a hustling dervish who drove his opponents to distraction. On multiple nights when the Rangers played flat, uninspired puck, Avery was one of - if not the only - Rangers to bring his game, in fact he seemed to step it up when his teammates stepped down. He forechecks well, he is one of the best skaters on the team and he was one of the few Blueshirts to actually get Gabby to wake up. Despite putting up a team-high 174 PIM, he showed remarkable patience as he was often a prime target for opposing checkers and rabble rousers. For all of the talk about what a dirty player he is, Avery had just two unsportsmanlike conducts and no diving calls the entire season. The Rangers were 12-4-1 when he registered a point.Take the bad: That means he made it onto the scoresheet in just 17 of his 76 games. Not enough. Avery scored just three goals - his lowest total since his rookie season in Detroit - and his .022 shooting percent was the lowest of his career. His penalty minutes were the highest they've been since he was a King, thanks to six 10 minute misconducts. Avery had 12 fights, his highest season total since before the lockout, and he won just four - going 4-5-3. Fighting minor league nobody Mike Haley on the Islanders may be one of the dumbest things he has ever done.
Take them both and then we have: One confused hockey player with a dubious future with the franchise. Avery averaged 11:14 minutes per game but played far less than that in 15 of the last 16 games he played during the regular season. That was before the playoffs where he played four of the five games and averaged 12:22. Torts never gave him the chance to gain any chemistry with his teammates, bouncing him around the lineup. And the super pest was stupefyingly scratched for several games down the stretch and once during the playoffs (Torts clearly not learning his lesson from 2009). The unadulterated adoration of the Garden faithful wore down as his effectiveness diminished this season but the class he has shown in his public backing of gay marriage has gone a long way to restoring support throughout New York and the rest of the NHL.
The NYR Facts Of Life: #16 Sean Avery
In the storied history of the New York Rangers, certain players have captured the hearts of fans and defined an era. Sean Avery, known for his controversial antics on and off the ice, was undeniably one of those players. In this article, we'll delve into the rollercoaster career of Sean Avery, exploring his journey to the NHL, his tenure with the Rangers, and the indelible mark he left on the team, the city, and the sport of hockey.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Sean Avery - A Polarizing Figure
Setting the stage for an in-depth look at Sean Avery's time with the New York Rangers.
The Early Years: A Nontraditional Path to the NHL
Sean Avery's unconventional path to the NHL, marked by determination and unique character.
Rangers Arrival: Avery's Impact on Broadway
Recounting Sean Avery's arrival in New York, his initial impact, and the buzz he generated.
The Superpest: Avery's Playing Style
Analyzing Sean Avery's agitating playing style and his role as a "superpest" in the NHL.
Controversy and Redemption: Avery's Rangers Journey
Exploring the highs and lows of Avery's time with the Rangers, from suspensions to clutch performances.
A New York Icon: Avery's Influence Beyond Hockey
Discussing Sean Avery's impact on the city of New York and his ventures beyond the rink.
The Legacy of Sean Avery: Love Him or Hate Him
Reflecting on Sean Avery's polarizing legacy and his place in Rangers history.
1. Introduction: Sean Avery - A Polarizing Figure
Setting the stage for an in-depth look at Sean Avery's time with the New York Rangers.
Sean Avery's tenure with the Rangers was marked by controversy and charisma.
2. The Early Years: A Nontraditional Path to the NHL
Detailing Sean Avery's early years in hockey, his unique character, and the determination that propelled him to the NHL.
Avery's unconventional journey to the NHL hinted at the unconventional player he would become.
3. Rangers Arrival: Avery's Impact on Broadway
Recalling Sean Avery's arrival in New York, the excitement he generated, and the immediate impact he had on the team.
When Sean Avery joined the Rangers, the team gained a player who could both energize and agitate.
4. The Superpest: Avery's Playing Style
Analyzing Sean Avery's agitating playing style and his role as one of the NHL's most effective "superpests."
Avery's ability to get under opponents' skin was his trademark.
5. Controversy and Redemption: Avery's Rangers Journey
Exploring the rollercoaster ride of Sean Avery's time with the Rangers, from suspensions to clutch performances.
Avery's time with the Rangers was marked by both unforgettable moments and controversies.
6. A New York Icon: Avery's Influence Beyond Hockey
Discussing Sean Avery's impact on the city of New York and his ventures beyond the hockey rink.
Avery's larger-than-life personality extended beyond the ice, making him a true New York icon.
7. The Legacy of Sean Avery: Love Him or Hate Him
Reflecting on Sean Avery's polarizing legacy and his place in Rangers history.
Avery's legacy is one that continues to evoke strong emotions from fans and players alike.
Sean Avery's time with the New York Rangers was nothing short of remarkable. Whether he was getting under the skin of opponents, contributing in clutch moments, or making headlines off the ice, Avery left an indelible mark on the franchise and the city of New York. Love him or hate him, there's no denying that Sean Avery was a player who brought a unique brand of intensity, charisma, and controversy to the Rangers, ensuring that his place in team history would never be forgotten.
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