Rangers vs. Islanders: Preseason Stock Report

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The Idea That All the Kids Are Making the Team out of Camp

I'm being serious here. I haven't seen a reason why, from a hockey competency perspective, any or all of Noah Laba, Gabe Perreault, Scott Morrow, Brett Berard, and even Brennan Othmann (last night edition) could make this team and I wouldn't blink an eye.

In fact, I am at the point—seriously—where I sort of don't care if the Rangers have to waive guys like Juuso Parssinen and/or Jonny Brodzinski to make this happen. I would absolutely have internal meetings about seeing what a Perreault on the top six, Will Cuylle and Laba on the third line with Othmann, and Taylor Raddysh rotating in and out as the 13th forward situation (this one gets sticky for Berard's chances, because he needs to actually play) where it's good for the Rangers both today and tomorrow. I know the Rangers won't do this to that degree, but I do think Parssinen should be very, very worried about his future here.

Noah Laba

I'm not kidding when I tell you—despite knowing everything about the New York Rangers that I know, including the history of their decisions in these situations—I think he's making the team out of camp. Out of everyone that is fighting for a spot, none of them look at comfortable and competent on both sides of the puck. I do think Perreault has been the next best guy (and we'll talk about him in a minute) and has also been wildly impressive, but Laba can fill that 3C need that's currently open without having to shift anything else.

And, my word, does he deserve it.

He had another assist Thursday night, did fantastic work along the boards, fought (and won) puck battles regularly, and always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. More importantly, when the puck is on his stick he is making things happen. He crashes the net, he drives with the puck, and he isn't afraid of contract.