#5 – 2004: Ryan Callahan
Ryan Callahan was drafted in the fourth round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He went on to play with the Rangers from 2006 until the 2014 NHL Trade Deadline. Callahan was traded at the deadline for future Hall of Famer Martin St. Louis over contract disputes.
During Callahan’s stint with the Rangers, he was the heart and soul of the team. He worked very hard every night, and left every inch on himself on the ice. His relentless hustle and shot-blocking made him one of the most respected players in the franchise. The New York Rangers even named Ryan Callahan their 26th captain in 2011.
His numbers as a New York Ranger were great. He had 254 points through 450 games. That doesn’t not include the 24 postseason points Callahan tallied in five playoff appearances. Callahan’s presence was always felt throughout his time as a Ranger. Glen Sather was wise to select him.