After the official appointment of Peter Laviolette as the new head coach of the Rangers, president and general manager Chris Drury signed restricted free agent Zac Jones to a two-year deal worth $1.625 million. This solidifies one of the more obvious training camp battles for the sixth defenseman role. In the upcoming 2023-24 season, Jones will likely be competing with Ben Harpur for ice time next to Braden Schneider on the third pair.
Unlike the previous season where Jones was up against Libor Hajek, a slim chance remains for Hajek to return to the Rangers as he has seen little playing time in recent seasons. Jones and Harpur’s numbers cannot be accurately compared due to the disparity in their NHL ice time. However, it will be up to Laviolette to determine the defensive identity he wants for the team and how Jones and Harpur fit into it.
Jones is known for his ability to move the puck, while Harpur brings a physically imposing presence. It’s possible that there may be moves made to free up cap space or introduce another contender for the third-pair defenseman role, although it is unlikely that the Rangers will find a clear-cut upgrade over Harpur or Jones. Matthew Robertson has been mentioned as a potential candidate, but he has not yet proven himself as NHL-ready.
The Rangers utilized six different bottom pair combinations last season, and the hope is always for someone to seize the opportunity. While Jones has a good chance of securing the role, maintaining it will be the challenge.
In other news, there was a brief moment of trade speculation involving Tom Wilson, but it has since quieted down. The Capitals see Wilson as a key part of their future and want to keep him. Rangers fans can rest easy knowing they won’t have to root for Wilson, especially after his altercation with Artemi Panarin during the 2020-21 season.
Jacob Trouba, the Rangers captain, has been fulfilling his duties during the offseason. He attended the premiere of Henrik Lundqvist’s documentary at the Tribeca Film Festival, which explores the end of Lundqvist’s NHL career and his heart condition. Trouba was also spotted at a New York Liberty WNBA game.
Lastly, the Rangers may have won the “Ultimate Stanley Cup Losers” title last season, but they look forward to improving in the upcoming season.
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