Landing a Job: McIlrath Joins the New York Rangers, FINALLY

It’s been five years in the making, but the New York Rangers finally have their man with the big club.

Dylan McIlrath, the embattled defenseman who has been under a microscope from his day being selected, has been given the opportunity to play in the NHL.

Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

The 23-year-old defenseman, who has often drawn comparisons to previous Rangers first-round selections like Hugh Jessiman as a bust, has separated himself a bit more from that infamous title.

On his way to Friday morning’s practice at the Rangers practice facility in Greensburgh, NY, the young defenseman knew it was a big day for him.

Questions must have swirled in his mind, anxiety overtaking much-needed sleep, appetite lost.

Did he do enough? Or, was there more he could have done? We all ask these questions when waiting on news about a potential job opportunity.

In the case of McIlrath, his anxious feelings were put to rest when he received a smile and handshake from assistant coach Scott Arniel.

Here’s the newest Rangers defenseman in his own words when he sat down with

Jim Cerny of Blueshirtsunited.com

:

It’s a bit lengthy, but well worth the watch. It makes you feel good for the young man, understanding what he has been through and the criticisms he has received with in previous seasons.

Struggles with his skating abilities and decision-making cost McIlrath to be called up soon. That, and the lack of availability on the roster.

New York Rangers

However, all that changed when a former Rangers defenseman got his hands on the 6’5 prospect with the Hartford Wolf Pack.

Assistant coach Jeff Beukeboom, who was no slouch in his time with the team, somehow worked his magic and made McIlrath the best defenseman for the Wolf Pack in the second-half of the season and into the Calder Cup playoffs.

Perhaps, he saw a mirror reflection of himself in McIlrath. Both stood the same height and were high draft picks (Beukeboom was selected 13th overall in 1983 by the Edmonton Oilers).

He may have understood the plight McIlrath was under, and was determined to see him succeed.

Well, it worked.

Now, the real work begins: staying at the NHL-level with the Rangers, and continuing to progress.

The difficult task of making the team was only the beginning. It will just keep getting harder, but what a run it will be for McIlrath to experience.

Sep 22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Rangers center

(24) attempts to keep his balance and control a loose puck in front of Philadelphia Flyers goalie

(35) during the first period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

He will be joined by his fellow Wolf Pack teammate, Oscar Lindberg, who also realized a dream of playing in the NHL.

For Lindberg, it was expected for him to make the team. Whereas Mcilrath, it was really a do or die” situation on making the roster.

Both players signed one-way extensions this offseason. It must have been general manager Jeff Gorton’s ultimatum. And he, and the Rangers, got their desired result.

This makes Opening Night next Wednesday, all the more special to watch.

For Lindberg, we should see him on the ice at the United Center. McIlrath will most likely be a healthy scratch and be perched high above watching down on the action. Rest assured, he will be taking notes from his elders.

When the time comes, McIlrath will need to deliver.

Next: Has Jamaal Charles Lost a Step?

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