New York Rangers Daily Dose: Concussions, Team USA, And More

Welcome back to this edition of the New York Rangers Daily Dose.

Here are a few happenings in the world of the NHL:

NHL and concussions- CHICAGOTRIBUNE.COM

Concussions are being brought to the forefront, more and more now. The safety of hockey players, these warriors we cheer for on the ice, is often taken for granted. What is even more alarming are the protocols a player must go through, in the event they exhibit concussion-like symptoms.

It is not the process that is concerning, it is who does the evaluating.

As of now, a NHL team’s own medical staff overlooks a player’s health, when suspected of incurring a concussion in a game. Right there is the first red flag. These medically-licensed or qualified individuals incur a conflict of interest. They may feel pressured into putting a player back on the ice due to their value to the team. It is this feeling or thinking that needs to be addressed and stopped.

In the article by Chris Hine, he places the spotlight on this issue that the NHL needs to contend with.

Team USA prepares for 2016 World Cup- CBSSPORTS.COM

Even though the World Championships are a ways away, it’s never too early to get prepared. According to CBSPORTS.COM, that is exactly what Team USA might be doing right at this moment.

“The 2016 World Cup of Hockey is still over a year away, but Hockey Canada has already named the management team for its entry and USA Hockey will be unveiling its own at the beginning of August…”

With that, conversations about the projected roster of players for Team USA have commenced. According to Chris Peters, there are two things to keep in mind:

"…“it is not known when the age cutoff will be…(and)…it is unclear how many roster spots each team will have to fill”"

Players from the Rangers he projects to make the team would be Derek Stepan and Ryan McDonagh, with Chris Kreider a possible addition.

Winnipeg Jets, 2019 Stanley Cup Champions- THEHOCKEYNEWS.COM

In an article written by Ken Campbell, the Jets are projected to win the cup in the next four years.
Apr 22, 2015; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets center Bryan Little (18) celebrates his gaol with teammates during the first period against the Anaheim Ducks in game four of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at MTS Centre. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports

This bold prediction was based on several factors they feel the organization has in its favor: treatment of their players, young talent, and a combination of speed and skill. Of course, you have to attract star players to your city. Winnipeg is not a metropolis of entertainment, as say New York or Boston.

However, the article contends that they will overcome this, and can create atmosphere players will want to come to.

The prediction has yet to be seen, even though the Jets proved to be a up and coming last season. There are no doubts, this team has the potential to be the next big Western Conference power.

But, going all the way to name them a future Stanley Cup champion, that’s a bit of a stretch.

That’s the news for today. Catch you all next time!

Next: Stuck at the Crossroads

More from Blue Line Station

Home/Rangers News