New York Rangers: Picking the Steven McDonald Award Winner

Brandon Cohen- Ryan McDonagh

Ryan McDonagh embodies everything the Steven McDonald Award is about. McDonagh must work the hardest on the Rangers to succeed considering his role.

McDonagh was one of only two talented defensemen on the Rangers’ roster before New York acquired Brendan Smith. With that in mind, he dealt with covering for his defensive partner in nearly every game this season. That means for over 70 games, McDonagh has essentially played two positions effectively.

In addition to playing on the power-play. And the penalty kill. And the most minutes of any Ranger overall. Oh, and he’s also the captain.

McDonagh’s hustle this season has been noticeable and outstanding. Without his leadership on the ice, the Rangers’ defense would have buried their postseason chances by now. Instead, the McDonagh-led Rangers are playoff bound.

The reward for McDonagh’s hustle and leadership must be the Steven McDonald Award. No one deals with a more difficult position, and no one is more effective in their respective role.