Lineup Stability

The Rangers have spent the first 51 games of the season moving guys in and out of the lineup on a nightly basis. As we enter what will hopefully be the stretch run into the playoffs, I think it is very important for this lineup to remain consistent from game to game. This will allow regulars to better establish their presence in the lineup and to develop a sense of familiarity with teammates they will share the ice with every night. We’ll take a look at the Offense, Defense, and Goaltending (this based on no pending deadline deals):

Forwards

Behind Jagr, Straka, Avery, Gomez, Drury, and Shanny:

Betts: While no one has ever questioned his spot in the lineup, he has and will always remain underappreciated. The absolute best 4th line center in the league. He brings superior defensive accountability to the lineup every night and, with the proper line mates, may show slight offensive improvement. (IN)

Dubinsky: The only reason this guy isn’t listed with the guys on top is because of his age and relatively slow start. Young Stars game MVP. This kid is for real. (IN)

Dawes: I’ve spoken in detail before about Nigel. The guy puts up points consistently and always seems to come through in low scoring games. Works really well with Dubie. (IN)

Prucha: Petr Prucha hasn't done much this season to warrant praise but the recent success of his linemates has earned him a spot in the lineup. (IN)

Orr: In my opinion, Colton Orr fights enough, but not at the right times. Wether this is his fault or Renney's fault I do not know. The fact remains, however, that an NHL team needs this type of player in its lineup. (IN)

Hollweg: Does he bring energy? Yes. Is he one of Renney's guys? Yes. Unfortunately, we already have two guys who can't score (Betts, Orr), can't afford a third. (OUT)

Hossa: Marcel Hossa is one of the only guys on this team save Jagr that can create and score himself. He doesn't do it often but he can do it. I think this player can single handedly turn our 4th line into somewhat of a threat. With Betts banging in rebounds I think a 4th line of Orr-Betts-Hossa can contribute a big goal down the stretch. (IN)

Defense

Behind Rozsival, Girardi, Tyutin, and Staal:

Malik: Marek Malik is a good player and I’ve always though the Malik-Rozsival pair was the backbone of our defense in seasons past. However, with the amount of disrespect this guy has for his coach, he may be better suited to be 6th man on the Knicks than 6th D-Man on the Rangers. (OUT)

Mara: As questionable as Paul Mara’s play has been during his tenure as a Ranger, his Paul Bunyan like playoff beard, his experience, and his slap shot earn him a spot in the lineup. The nature of his game suits him to play with Drury and Shanny, guys who crash the net and put in rebounds. (IN)

Strudwick: Nope, sorry. If his leadership qualities are so important put him in a suit and tie on the bench. (OUT)

You may notice that leaves only 5 players on D. Time for Glen to make a move. Struds can hold the 6th spot down in the meantime.

Goaltending

Our goaltending question simply concerns how much Stephen Valiquette should play. With 31 games left, I imagine Valiquette should get 4 or 5 starts. One possibly in the upcoming game against LA, a couple on a road trip, and maybe 1 or 2 in our almost daily divisional play to rap up the season.