Game On!

Chris, Miranda: Hi ... true Rangers fans from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Just wondering why the Rangers are not playing an up-and-coming star in Petr Prucha? He is very effective when he plays. Aaron Voros has been average, as well as [Scott] Gomez and [Chris] Drury. Big expectations from the two signed last year. [Brandon] Dubinsky has also been average. Sophomore jinx?? Has Tom Renney lost the troops? Team is not really responding to him. Rangers need some boost!! Let's Go Rangers!!

The Maven Responds: Dear Chris and Miranda – First, let me say that I'm a big fan of Winnipeg, covering the Whalers on TV when they played the Jets in the WHA at the old arena. The Petr Prucha issue is ongoing; as long as he is benched. While Tom Renney commends his attitude, the coach believes that Petr is not strong enough for regular play. I disagree with him, but I'm not the coach.

I disagree with you about Gomez. I believe that Scott tries hard, but can't seem to find wingers who can deposit his passes. Drury has disappointed in spots. Dubinsky is like Travis Zajac (from Winnipeg) was last year in New Jersey. Sophomore jinx. Based on the game in Florida, I would say that the troops played hard for the coach. Sean Avery may have to be the savior.

AP: Staniel, obviously Renney's defensive system hasn't worked out for the Rangers in a while. Hank was strong in the loss against the Panthers, but the fact of the matter is they still lost. Do you think Renney should try out an offensive system in practice? Do you think he will at some point make the switch to see if it works?

The Maven Responds: Dear AP, The defensive system HAS worked defenisvely. It's the front liners who have not delivered. You may have the right idea about Renney trying an offensive system. It's sure working for the Devils. A loss to Philly on Sunday might compel him to change things around. Wait and see.

ak27: Stan, the Panthers new offensive system is paying dividends especially with the younger players. Formerly, a defensive style hockey club under the previous head coach, the Panthers are now winning and playing with confidence. Don't you think a new "offensive-minded" system like this would also benefit the Rangers? ......especially for the younger players needing confidence like Duby, Dawes, Korpi, Calli – all who seem to NOT be progressing under Renney's current passive-defensive system. I think a new offensive-minded system might give this team new life, new life they desperately need.

The Maven Responds: Dear ak27, I talked directly to Peter DeBoer, the Florida coach. He emphasizes a strong forecheck, backcheck, CHECK CHECK everywhere. As AP notes, a change to a Florida style might do the trick. However, I'm not so sure that the Rangers have the horses for that. Certainly the players you mention; plus Gomez, Nik Zherdev would like it. Come to think of it, you are right. Question is whether it's too late to change. Let's see what happens with the Flyers on Sunday.

Sincerely,
The Maven

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MORE:

• Maven's Answers from Feb. 14
• Maven's Answers from Feb. 13
• Maven's Answers from Feb. 12