The NYR Facts Of Life: #18 Marc Staal

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 #18, Marc Staal.

#18's #s: 77 games, 7 goals, 22 assists, +8, 50 PIM (5 playoff games, no goals, one assist, -3, no PIM).

Take the good: Staal was the workhorse of the defensive corps, averaging more than 25 minutes per game and playing against the top talents in the league. He is one of the only defenders singlehandedly capable of containing Alexander Ovechkin. Strong and sturdy, he combined with Dan Girardi on the Rangers' top pairing. Staal rarely takes bad penalties and has apparently sworn off fighting (he has not thrown the gloves since the infamous bongo incident) ... although he should have tossed off the gloves after getting a stick to the crotch by Alex Burrows. He had my favourite hit of the season against the Islanders.

Take the bad: Had the NHL wheel o' justice been turning the way it did in the playoffs, we would have lost Staal for quite a while for his hit on Matt Stajan. Staal clearly was battered, bruised and tired by the end of the season. Despite the maturation of Sauer and McDonagh, he only saw less than 20 minutes once the entire year. He unleashed a personal best 116 shots but few were of the quality that he is capable of. Staal saw plenty of power play time and never looked comfortable. And he got absolutely hammered by his own brother, the same brother who waited until the seventh round to draft him at the All Star game. That can't be good for family dinners.

Take them both and then we have: Our number one defenseman, for now. Staal is big, he is strong and he is smart. He skates hard and is rock solid in his own zone. He still doesn't know when to carry the puck or join the rush and surprises most everyone when he does it. I mean, the guy can score a goal like this, why doesn't he do it more often?

 The NYR Facts Of Life: #18 Marc Staal

In the storied history of the New York Rangers, there have been players who have worn the Blueshirt with honor and distinction. Marc Staal, who donned the number 18 jersey, is one of those players. This article takes an in-depth look at the career of Marc Staal, his journey to the NHL, his impact on the Rangers, and the legacy he leaves behind as a revered Blueshirt.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Marc Staal - A Steadfast Ranger

Setting the stage for an exploration of Marc Staal's tenure with the New York Rangers.

Early Years: A Hockey Family's Journey

Delving into Marc Staal's upbringing in a hockey-loving family and his path to professional hockey.

The Staal Brothers: A Unique Hockey Legacy

Spotlighting the extraordinary Staal family, which produced four NHL players, including Marc.

Rangers Arrival: Staal's Defensive Prowess

Recounting Marc Staal's early days with the Rangers, his defensive prowess, and his role in the Blueshirts' lineup.

The Quiet Leader: Staal's Impact Beyond the Ice

Discussing Marc Staal's leadership qualities, both on and off the ice, and his influence in the Rangers' locker room.

The Challenges: Staal's Battle with Injuries

Exploring the significant challenges Marc Staal faced, including his resilience in recovering from serious injuries.

A Beloved Blueshirt: Staal's Enduring Connection

Examining Marc Staal's enduring connection with Rangers fans and his legacy as a revered Blueshirt.

The Marc Staal Trade: End of an Era

Reflecting on the trade that saw Marc Staal leave the Rangers and its impact on the team and its fans.

1. Introduction: Marc Staal - A Steadfast Ranger

Setting the stage for an exploration of Marc Staal's tenure with the New York Rangers.

Marc Staal's tenure with the Rangers is marked by unwavering dedication.

2. Early Years: A Hockey Family's Journey

Delving into Marc Staal's upbringing in a hockey-loving family and his path to professional hockey.

The Staal family's deep love for hockey shaped Marc's journey.

3. The Staal Brothers: A Unique Hockey Legacy

Spotlighting the extraordinary Staal family, which produced four NHL players, including Marc.

The Staal brothers are a testament to the family's dedication to the game.

4. Rangers Arrival: Staal's Defensive Prowess

Recounting Marc Staal's early days with the Rangers, his defensive skills, and his role in the Blueshirts' lineup.

Staal's arrival in New York signaled the emergence of a defensive stalwart.

5. The Quiet Leader: Staal's Impact Beyond the Ice

Discussing Marc Staal's leadership qualities, both on and off the ice, and his influence in the Rangers' locker room.

Staal's leadership style made a lasting impact on his teammates.

6. The Challenges: Staal's Battle with Injuries

Exploring the significant challenges Marc Staal faced, including his resilience in recovering from serious injuries.

Staal's determination to overcome injuries exemplified his character.

7. A Beloved Blueshirt: Staal's Enduring Connection

Examining Marc Staal's enduring connection with Rangers fans and his legacy as a revered Blueshirt.

Staal's bond with Rangers fans remains strong.

8. The Marc Staal Trade: End of an Era

Reflecting on the trade that saw Marc Staal leave the Rangers and its impact on the team and its fans.

The trade marked the end of an era, leaving a void in the Rangers' lineup.

Marc Staal's journey with the New York Rangers is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and leadership. As a member of the Staal family, he carried on a unique hockey legacy. Through challenges and triumphs, Staal's impact on the Rangers extended beyond the ice, earning him a special place in the hearts of fans. While the trade marked the end of his time with the Rangers, his legacy as a beloved Blueshirt endures. Marc Staal's story is one of family, perseverance, and a deep connection to a storied franchise.