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New York Rangers Report Cards Part 3: The Defense

By Garrett Gartino

Dec 8, 2016; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Rangers defenseman Brady Skjei (76) controls the puck past Winnipeg Jets center Bryan Little (18) during the third period at MTS Centre. Rangers win 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2016; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Rangers defenseman Brady Skjei (76) controls the puck past Winnipeg Jets center Bryan Little (18) during the third period at MTS Centre. Rangers win 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Adam Clendening (4) looks to pass the puck against the San Jose Sharks during the first period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Adam Clendening (4) looks to pass the puck against the San Jose Sharks during the first period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Adam Clendening

Grade: C

Clendening has become a spectacle of sorts for the New York Rangers this season. With defensive struggles continuing from their aging defenseman, the calling for Clendening has grown louder. He has taken on the role played by Dylan McIlrath last season.

However, much like McIlrath last year, Alain Vigneault has refused to make changes when necessary. Adam Clendening has appeared in 8 games this season, even after the Rangers’ head coach had proclaimed regular rest would be necessary for Dan Girardi throughout the year.

Although Clendening has done little to prove he will be an answer to the Rangers defensive woes, the potential for an improved group with his presence is ever looming. His advanced statistics suggest he has a positive impact on the team’s possession (59.8CF%). Clendening’s ability to move the puck efficiently needs to be seen more in the Rangers lineup.

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