The NYR Facts Of Life: #20 Vinny Prospal

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 #20, Vaclav Prospal.

#20's #s: 29 games, 9 goals, 14 assists, +4, 8 PIM (5 playoff games, one goal, no assists, +1, no PIM).

Take the good: Prospal was the only player to maintain some chemistry with Marian Gaborik. He scored in his first game back from injury on February 3rd and then put up 13 of his points in an 11 game span a few weeks later. Had 58 hits in his 34 games, 14 of which came in the five playoff games. Ten of his 23 points came on the power play. Not a single player - not even any of the rookies - was as happy as he was when he scored.

Take the bad: Prospal is old, he has slowed and he missed more than half of the season thanks to his bad knee. He didn't get a single shot on goal in two playoff games, one being the double OT disaster - for someone in a top-six spot, seeing serious ice time and with a 14.8 shooting percentage, that is just ridiculous.

Take them both and then we have: There were stretches of last season where Prospal disappeared but he didn't play enough this time to run into the doldrums - unless you count the playoffs. As we saw at the fan forum, the players love him and respect him so having the old man around isn't a detriment. But he is just keeping Chris Kreider's spot warm until the kid grows a pair and jumps to the NHL.

 The NYR Facts Of Life: #20 Vinny Prospal

In the storied history of the New York Rangers, few players have embodied the essence of perseverance and dedication quite like Vinny Prospal, who donned the iconic number 20 jersey. This article delves into the remarkable journey of Vinny Prospal, tracing his path to the NHL, his time with the Rangers, and the indelible mark he left on the franchise and its fans.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Vinny Prospal - The Eternal Optimist

Setting the stage for an exploration of Vinny Prospal's tenure with the New York Rangers.

The Road to Broadway: Vinny Prospal's Hockey Odyssey

Uncovering Vinny Prospal's early life and his journey through various NHL teams before landing on Broadway.

Blue Jackets and Broadway: Prospal's Return to the Rangers

Discussing Vinny Prospal's triumphant return to the Rangers and his impact on the team.

Versatility Personified: Prospal's Role on the Ice

Highlighting Prospal's versatility and his ability to contribute in various roles on the ice.

A Beloved Blueshirt: Prospal's Connection with Rangers Fans

Exploring the special bond between Vinny Prospal and Rangers fans, who adored his never-say-die attitude.

The Departure: Vinny Prospal Bids Farewell to Broadway

Reflecting on Vinny Prospal's departure from the Rangers and the emotional farewell to the Blueshirt faithful.

The Legacy: Vinny Prospal's Enduring Impact

Examining the lasting impact Vinny Prospal had on the New York Rangers and his place in Rangers lore.

1. Introduction: Vinny Prospal - The Eternal Optimist

Setting the stage for an exploration of Vinny Prospal's tenure with the New York Rangers.

Vinny Prospal: An eternal optimist on and off the ice.

2. The Road to Broadway: Vinny Prospal's Hockey Odyssey

Uncovering Vinny Prospal's early life and his journey through various NHL teams before landing on Broadway.

The journey that led Vinny Prospal to the bright lights of Broadway.

3. Blue Jackets and Broadway: Prospal's Return to the Rangers

Discussing Vinny Prospal's triumphant return to the Rangers and his impact on the team.

Vinny Prospal's return to the Rangers marked a turning point in his career.

4. Versatility Personified: Prospal's Role on the Ice

Highlighting Prospal's versatility and his ability to contribute in various roles on the ice.

Prospal's versatility made him a valuable asset for the Rangers.

5. A Beloved Blueshirt: Prospal's Connection with Rangers Fans

Exploring the special bond between Vinny Prospal and Rangers fans, who adored his never-say-die attitude.

Vinny Prospal's connection with Rangers fans was something truly special.

6. The Departure: Vinny Prospal Bids Farewell to Broadway

Reflecting on Vinny Prospal's departure from the Rangers and the emotional farewell to the Blueshirt faithful.

Vinny Prospal's emotional farewell to the Rangers.

7. The Legacy: Vinny Prospal's Enduring Impact

Examining the lasting impact Vinny Prospal had on the New York Rangers and his place in Rangers lore.

Vinny Prospal's legacy as a Blueshirt continues to endure.

Vinny Prospal's remarkable journey to the NHL, his resilience on the ice, and his deep connection with Rangers fans make for a captivating story. His return to Broadway and his never-say-die attitude endeared him to the Blueshirt faithful, and his legacy lives on as a symbol of perseverance and dedication. Vinny Prospal's chapter in the New York Rangers' history is one of inspiration and unwavering optimism, reminding us all that with hard work and determination, anything is possible in the world of hockey.