Good Job Glen

"We think that Brashear gives you a couple of other things. He is quicker (then Colton Orr), he can get under the puck a little faster and under the style of game we are going to play we think he will be more effective for us."--Glen Sather on a conference call on July 1st.

Colton Orr: 55 games, two goals, two assists, -3, 112 PIM, 12 fights

Donald Brashear: 36 games, 0 goals, one assist, -9, 73 PIM, nine fights

Good Job, Glen: Assessing Glen Sather's Impact on the New York Rangers

Glen Sather, a name synonymous with the New York Rangers, has left an indelible mark on the franchise and the NHL as a whole. Serving as the Rangers' President and General Manager for nearly two decades, Sather's tenure was marked by highs, lows, and an enduring legacy. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at Glen Sather's impact on the New York Rangers, his career highlights, and address some frequently asked questions about his time with the team.

The Arrival of Glen Sather

Glen Sather's association with the New York Rangers began in 2000 when he was appointed as the team's President and General Manager. This marked a significant moment in Rangers history, as the team had struggled to achieve sustained success for many years. Sather arrived with a reputation for success, having led the Edmonton Oilers to multiple Stanley Cup victories as both a coach and a general manager.

The Early Years

Sather's initial years with the Rangers were challenging, as he inherited a team with a bloated payroll and a lack of success on the ice. The team's performance did not match the expectations of its passionate fanbase, and Sather faced the formidable task of rebuilding the franchise.

The Road to the Stanley Cup Finals

One of Sather's most notable achievements came during the 2013-2014 NHL season when he masterminded a Rangers team that advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals. Under the leadership of Head Coach Alain Vigneault, the Rangers came within three wins of capturing their first Stanley Cup since 1994.

Sather's ability to assemble a competitive roster was on full display during this run. He acquired key players through trades and free-agent signings, such as Rick Nash, Ryan McDonagh, and Martin St. Louis, who played pivotal roles in the team's success.

The Lundqvist Era

Sather also presided over the tenure of one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history, Henrik Lundqvist. Lundqvist, affectionately known as "The King," became the face of the franchise during his time with the Rangers. Sather's management ensured that Lundqvist had a competitive team in front of him, and the Rangers consistently contended for playoff berths.

Sather's Legacy

Glen Sather's legacy with the Rangers extends beyond wins and losses. He is credited with instilling a winning culture within the organization, one that emphasized character, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. His leadership helped the Rangers become perennial playoff contenders, earning the team a reputation for tenacity and a never-say-die attitude.

Sather's tenure also included the development of young talent. He drafted or acquired several players who would become cornerstones of the Rangers' future, including Chris Kreider, Derek Stepan, and Ryan McDonagh.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was Glen Sather's background before joining the Rangers?

Before his time with the Rangers, Sather enjoyed a storied career with the Edmonton Oilers, where he served as both a coach and a general manager. He was responsible for building the Oilers dynasty of the 1980s, which won multiple Stanley Cups.

2. What was Sather's management style with the Rangers?

Sather was known for his hands-on approach and his willingness to make bold moves to improve the team. He was not afraid to pull the trigger on significant trades or free-agent signings when he believed they would benefit the Rangers.

3. What is Sather's lasting impact on the Rangers' organization?

Glen Sather's legacy with the Rangers is one of stability and competitiveness. He established a winning culture and helped bring the team back to relevance in the NHL. His influence on player development and team identity will be remembered for years to come.

4. When did Glen Sather step down from his role with the Rangers?

Sather transitioned to an advisory role with the Rangers in 2015, passing the reins to Jeff Gorton. However, he continued to be involved with the organization until his full retirement in 2020.

Glen Sather's tenure with the New York Rangers was defined by his commitment to excellence and his unwavering pursuit of a Stanley Cup. While the ultimate prize eluded him during his time as GM, his impact on the Rangers' organization and the lasting legacy he leaves behind are testaments to his successful tenure. In the heart of Broadway, Glen Sather's name will forever be intertwined with the New York Rangers.

Ho Ho Ho, Time For You To Go

So I've been watching the marathon of Rangers In 60 on MSG this Christmas evening and this last hour was last season's Game 4 against the Caps, the stellar 2-1 win in the Garden. This was the game where Tortorella sent Sean Avery out onto the ice at the end of the evening and Avery took a penalty - thus setting the snowball rolling that resulted in the loss of the series.

But I'm not addressing that now because Tortorella's egotistic, incompetent attempts at accountability have been well documented (both Redden and Kotalik deserve to go back on the shelf). Instead, I decided to post asking the question when will Sather do something to rectify his mistake of signing Donald Brashear.

Yes, I know that getting Blair Betts and Colton Orr back is an impossibility, but it is (well past) time that the team cuts ties with Brashear. The 37 year old goon has a $1.4 million cap hit for this season and next and can be replaced for half that. As the team deals with the cap crunch, dismissing Brashear goes from something we want to happen to something we need to happen.

Brashear has dealt with a variety of mystery injuries ever since he tussled with Orr earlier this season. He has still dressed for 27 of the Rangers' 37 games and has recorded one assist, 13 shots on goal, a -7 plus/minus, six fights and 58 PIM. Brashear is averaging around six and a half minutes of ice time with a low of 2:35 and a high of 11:37 (shudder).

For a point of comparison, Orr - at a $400k smaller cap hit - has played all 38 of Toronto's games. He has one goal (a game-winner), two assists, has 23 shots, is -3, has 10 fights and 82 PIM. Orr's lowest ice time is 1:28, his highest is 12:11 and averages 10 or so more seconds on the ice than Brash.

Now, that is an unfair comparison seeing as Orr is clearly entering the prime of his career and Brash is long past his. And, as I said before, there is no way to reacquire our former tough guy.

Devin DiDiomete, Hartford's resident goon, is not the answer but there are other solutions on the farm. Dane Byers proved he can keep up with the NHL pace in his five games earlier this season. He has 17 points in 26 games with five fights and 47 PIM. Brodie Dupont and Justin Soryal also have five fight majors a piece but don't have the NHL experience. All three would have less than a million dollar cap hit and have one thing that Brashear has proven he no longer has: hunger. They will do everything they can to prove they deserve a spot, checking everything that moves, standing up for their teammates and fighting when needed, not when the mood strikes them.

How much longer will Sather's stupid pride stop him from seeing the obvious? If Torts can shelve Redden - albeit temporarily - Sather should be able shelve Brashear ... permanently.

Ho Ho Ho, Time For You To Go

Good Luck Colt

Brian Burke and the Toronto Maple Leafs picked up Colton Orr.

It's a sad day on Broadway. New York loves their tough guys and we appear to be headed into an era without one on the roster. Colton Orr gave us three and a half seasons of good service and I sincerely wish him the best of luck. I dogged him almost as much as I did Poti and company because when he got here he was slow and he took bad penalties at bad times. Orr now leaves us a much more complete player, thanks to the motivation of Tom Renney and the tough guy's own hard work and dedication.

Last season Orr was called upon to be a valuable member of the roster and he was - until Tortorella came here. Early last season, Orr was a big part of a checking line that shut down the opposition quite soundly - taking on Crosby and company on several occasions and doing great work of it. When Renney came under fire because the stars weren't scoring, he cut the unit's ice time and Orr went back to his enforcer position. As is well documented here and everywhere else, when Torts finally got his way and pulled the puncher from the lineup, Blair Betts got his head knocked off the next game.

Orr played 236 games in a Blueshirt and racked up 552 PIM while protecting his teammates. Here is his complete fight card and it features many fantastic bouts but I will leave with three of my favourite tussles. Thank you for your service Colt, we will miss you here in New York.

 "Good Luck Colt: A Journey into the World of Horse Racing"

Horse racing is a sport that has captivated audiences for centuries with its blend of athleticism, tradition, and excitement. In the midst of this captivating world, there exists an untold story of a horse named Colt, whose journey from birth to the racecourse is filled with dedication, hard work, and dreams of glory. In this article, we will embark on a journey into the world of horse racing, following Colt's path from a promising foal to the starting gate of a prestigious race. We will also address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the world of horse racing.

Section 1: The Birth of a Hopeful Colt

1. The Magic of Thoroughbred Breeding

Explore the meticulous process of thoroughbred breeding, highlighting the care and consideration that goes into pairing sire and dam to produce a promising foal like Colt.

2. The Early Days

Discuss Colt's early days as a foal, his first steps, and the nurturing environment he received from dedicated breeders.

Section 2: Training and Development

1. The Role of Trainers

Examine the crucial role of trainers in shaping a young horse's future, from initial halter training to the first ride.

2. Milestones in Colt's Training

Detail the significant milestones in Colt's training journey, including his first gallop, learning to respond to commands, and building stamina.

Section 3: Racing Career

1. Colt's First Race

Take readers to Colt's debut on the racetrack, describing the anticipation and excitement of his first official race.

2. Challenges and Victories

Explore the highs and lows of Colt's racing career, from the thrill of victories to the setbacks that tested his resilience.

Section 4: The World of Horse Racing

1. The Prestige of Racing Events

Highlight the importance of prestigious horse racing events, such as the Kentucky Derby, the Belmont Stakes, and the Dubai World Cup, in shaping a horse's legacy.

2. The Impact of Jockeys

Discuss the pivotal role of jockeys in guiding horses like Colt to victory, emphasizing the synergy between horse and rider.

Section 5: The Fans' Perspective

1. Fandom and Traditions

Explore the passionate world of horse racing fandom, including the traditions, rituals, and excitement that draw fans to racetracks.

2. Betting and Wagering

Discuss the role of betting and wagering in horse racing, where fans test their knowledge and luck by placing bets on their favorite horses.

Section 6: FAQ About Horse Racing

1. What is the significance of the Triple Crown in horse racing?

Explain the historical importance of the Triple Crown and the challenges a horse must overcome to achieve it.

2. How do horses like Colt prepare for major races, and what is the training regimen like?

Detail the rigorous training regimens that horses undergo to prepare for major races, including conditioning, diet, and race-specific drills.

The world of horse racing is a captivating realm where dreams are born and legends are made. Colt's journey from a promising foal to a contender in prestigious races represents the dedication and passion that define this sport. As fans, we celebrate each horse's unique journey and the stories they bring to the track. Colt's tale is a testament to the enduring allure of horse racing and the extraordinary efforts of those who make this sport a thrilling and unforgettable experience for all. Whether under the bright lights of Churchill Downs or the scenic beauty of the Belmont Park, horse racing continues to capture our hearts and imaginations, reminding us of the magic that unfolds with every hoofbeat on the track.

Bring Back The Brawler!

Larry Brooks mentioned in his Sunday column that:

"The Rangers, by the way, have made no effort to re-sign Colton Orr, who will have no trouble at all scoring a multi-year deal within hours of the opening of the market. We're told Florida is keenly interested in the heavyweight."

Orr simply has to be re-signed by the Rangers. Sure John Tortorella doesn't care for fourth lines, doesn't care for fighters and wants to make the team faster. It doesn't matter: Tortorella and the Rangers need Colton Orr.

It is no coincidence that the first time that Colton Orr was scratched all season long was the only one where a Ranger was seriously injured. As I said back then, had Orr remained in the lineup Donald Brashear would have had someone to worry about on the ice. Instead he had free reign to hit whomever he liked and he did, costing the Rangers their top defensive forward and penalty killer Blair Betts.

Colt missed eight games in '07-08 and the enforcer role had to be passed around; the results weren't pretty. Remember Brandan Shanahan wrestling Steve Ott? Or Dubi holding on for dear life against Mike Komisarek? Horrifying.

Orr made $550k last season with a cap hit just under that. Aaron Voros made $1.2m with a cap hit of a cool mill - exactly what it will be the next two seasons. Waive him, send him to the minors and offer Orr that much money and the tough guy should stick around. Sather was willing to realize his mistake with Fritsche and Rissmiller, it is time he finished cutting ties with the triumverate of mediocrity.

Voros proved that not only can't he skate/stickhandle/score/pass/check but he can't fight either. Dane Byers and Justin Soryal both may be able to take care of themselves but they are both kids. Byers has the tools to be a power forward and shouldn't destroy his hands fighting every Flyer, Islander and Devil goon. Soryal might be able to turn into a major league tough guy but he has to get more experience and take his damned visor off first. No matter their youthful exuberance and willingness to throw down the mitts, neither one can step into the skates of a tough guy like Orr.

Orrsie is a top-five NHL heavyweight and in the seemingly never-ending grind of the regular season, having a player like that is invaluable in keeping the skill players safe and the fans interested. Sather shouldn't let him get away.

 "Bring Back The Brawler: The Role of Enforcers in Hockey"

Hockey is a sport known for its speed, skill, and physicality. While skillful plays and spectacular goals often take center stage, there has always been a place in the game for players who excel in a different aspect: the enforcers. These rugged and fearless individuals are known for their willingness to drop the gloves and protect their teammates, making them an integral part of hockey history. In this article, we'll explore the role of enforcers in hockey, the evolution of their role, and the debate surrounding whether it's time to bring back the brawler.

Section 1: The Enforcer's Historical Role

1.1. The Birth of Enforcers

Explain how the concept of enforcers emerged in hockey, dating back to the early days of the sport.

1.2. Intimidation and Deterrence

Discuss how enforcers have traditionally served as a deterrent to dirty plays and provided a sense of security for skill players.

Section 2: The Changing Landscape

2.1. Rule Changes

Explore how rule changes, such as stricter penalties for fighting, have affected the role of enforcers in the modern game.

2.2. Emphasis on Speed and Skill

Discuss the shift in focus towards speed and skill in the NHL and its impact on the demand for enforcers.

2.3. Safety Concerns

Acknowledge the increasing concern for player safety and the long-term consequences of fighting.

Section 3: Arguments for Bringing Back the Brawler

3.1. Protecting Skill Players

Argue that enforcers can still play a vital role in protecting skill players from dangerous hits and cheap shots.

3.2. Maintaining Accountability

Highlight the idea that having enforcers on the ice can hold players accountable for their actions.

3.3. Providing Entertainment

Acknowledge the entertainment value that fights bring to the game and how they can energize both players and fans.

Section 4: Arguments Against Bringing Back the Brawler

4.1. Declining Relevance

Discuss how enforcers have become less relevant in a game that prioritizes speed and skill.

4.2. Safety and Health Concerns

Address the growing concern about player safety and the potential risks associated with fighting.

4.3. Evolution of Hockey Culture

Explore how the culture of hockey has shifted towards a more inclusive and sportsmanlike approach.

FAQs

1. Can enforcers coexist with the modern style of play?

Explain that while enforcers can adapt to the modern game, their role may be limited compared to the past.

2. Are there any current players who embody the enforcer role?

Mention a few players who still embrace the enforcer role but emphasize their rarity.

3. How can the NHL balance player safety and the desire for physicality?

Suggest that the NHL can achieve a balance through stricter penalties for dangerous plays and a continued emphasis on player safety.

The debate over whether to bring back the brawler in hockey remains a contentious one. While some argue that enforcers play a crucial role in protecting skill players and maintaining accountability, others believe that the game has evolved beyond the need for fighting. As the NHL continues to adapt to changing dynamics and priorities, the role of enforcers may continue to evolve. Regardless of the outcome, one thing remains clear: the enforcer will always hold a special place in hockey history, reminding us of a time when toughness and fearlessness were celebrated on the ice.

Letter To The Editor

... it's not like Ottawa GM Bryan Murray is going to trade the highly skilled [Jason] Spezza for Colton Orr, the Rangers enforcer who might actually have been the worst full-time NHLer in the league this year. Orr managed just one goal and five points despite appearing in all 82 regular season games. And while he didn't see a lot of ice time (6:29 per game), he still had one of the worst plus-minus ratings in the league (minus-15). --Sam McCaig, "Anti-Awards Full Of Stars", page 14 of The Hockey News, May 11, 09/Vol. 62 No. 24.

That was actually published in the bible of hockey, which I was reading on the way home from work just now. It made me a bit ... frustrated so I decided to submit a letter to the editor in response when I got home and figured I would share in here as well:

I understand that The Hockey News doesn't hold much regard for fighting in hockey (in it's current state at least) but for the top hockey publication to summarily dismiss the contributions of one of the top pugilists - even in a column - is irresponsible.
In the Anti-Awards piece of the May 11th issue, Sam McCaig said that New York Ranger Colton Orr "might actually have been the worst full-time NHLer in the league this year." He followed up the claim with some statistics, all of the offensive variety (points, ice time and +/-).
Mr. McCaig neglected to point out that New York was among the league leaders in fewest games lost to injury, something that has a lot to do with luck and a lot to do with Colton Orr's presence. Having one of the top enforcers in the game helped dissuade opposing teams from borderline or outright illicit actions against its players. Case in point: Orr was taken out of the lineup for two playoff games and one of the opposition players felt he had the license to take out a Ranger. Would Orr's presence have stopped Donald Brashear from breaking Blair Betts' face? Not necessarily. But would Brashear have had other things to concern himself with while out on the ice had Orr been there? Certainly.
Just because a player couldn't positively contribute to Mr. McCaig's fantasy hockey team shouldn't give him the right to slur one of the unsung heroes of the game.
Thank you for your time.

So, what are your opinions? Was Colton Orr the worst player in hockey? As many of you are Ranger fans I can guess your answer so feel free to express who you think was the worst player in the game was. And no, you can't use DP as an answer as the Islander goalie really wasn't in the game at all. Five games, franchise goaltender, 12 more years to go. Ha ha!

Letter To The Editor