The Hockey News: 3 Must-Sign PTO Candidates for the New York Rangers

The Hockey News: 3 Must-Sign PTO Candidates for the New York Rangers

As the New York Rangers prepare for the upcoming season, one strategic move they could consider is extending Professional Tryout (PTO) offers to certain free agents. This allows teams to assess players in a low-risk environment before committing to a full contract.

The Rangers have successfully used this approach before, as seen with Jimmy Vesey two seasons ago, and they might benefit from exploring this route again. Among the available options, three names stand out as potentially valuable additions: James van Riemsdyk, Kevin Labanc, and Kevin Shattenkirk.

James van Riemsdyk:

James van Riemsdyk (JVR) brings a wealth of experience and proven scoring ability to the table, even if his best years are behind him. Last season, he contributed 11 goals and 38 points in 71 games for the Boston Bruins. While his production has declined from his peak, JVR still offers significant value, particularly in a third-line role or as a versatile forward who can step into a top-six position if injuries occur.

His proficiency in front of the net, akin to Chris Kreider, makes him a valuable asset on the power play, where his net-front presence could bolster the Rangers’ second unit. Critics might argue that signing JVR could limit opportunities for younger players, but the Rangers are in a win-now mode. His experience and scoring ability could provide the edge they need in a competitive Metropolitan Division.

Kevin Labanc:

Kevin Labanc presents a different case, one of untapped potential and the need for a fresh start. At 28, Labanc’s stock has fallen after a dismal season with the San Jose Sharks, where he managed just two goals and nine points in 46 games. However, his earlier career shows promise, including a 15-goal season in 2022-23. Labanc’s struggles can be partly attributed to the Sharks’ overall decline, making it possible that a change of scenery could reignite his career.

Labanc, who hails from Brooklyn, would be returning to his roots with the Rangers. Given the right environment and support, he could thrive in a bottom-six role, providing depth scoring and a spark off the bench. For the Rangers, Labanc represents a low-risk, high-reward proposition—a player who, with the right coaching and system, could rediscover his form.

Kevin Shattenkirk:

The idea of bringing back Kevin Shattenkirk might seem sentimental, but there’s a pragmatic angle to consider. Shattenkirk, who signed a discounted contract with the Rangers in 2017 only to be bought out two years later, has since revitalized his career, including winning a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Last season, he posted six goals and 24 points in 61 games with the Boston Bruins. Although the Rangers are already well-stocked with right-handed defensemen, including Adam Fox, Jacob Trouba, Braden Schneider, and Chad Ruhwedel, Shattenkirk could add depth and experience, pushing the younger players in training camp.

Moreover, bringing him back on a PTO would offer a feel-good story—a chance for him to don the Rangers jersey one last time and perhaps end his career with the team he once longed to play for.

In conclusion, inviting van Riemsdyk, Labanc, and Shattenkirk to training camp on PTOs would be a wise move for the Rangers. It would allow them to assess these players up close, adding competition and experience without any long-term commitment. Whether or not they earn a roster spot, their presence could elevate the performance of the entire team during the critical preseason period.

JMG