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New York Rangers 16-17 Report Cards: The Extra Skaters

By John Williams

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 16, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Kevin Klein (8) controls the puck in front of Montreal Canadiens center Tomas Plekanec (14) during the first period in game three of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 16, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Kevin Klein (8) controls the puck in front of Montreal Canadiens center Tomas Plekanec (14) during the first period in game three of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Kevin Klein

After a few years of being a very solid defender for the Rangers, Kevin Klein met his match this season as Father Time and the Injury bug ganged up on him. Klein only played 60 games and notched the worst goals (3) assists (11) and points (14) totals he registered in his three full seasons with the Rangers.

Even worse than his play fading on the offensive side of the puck was his play fading on defense. Klein just looked different this season. He was never the fastest skater on the ice, but Klein looked flat out slow this past year. Because of this, the Rangers went out and acquired Brendan Smith at the trade deadline. Klein would more or less remain in the press box from that point on. He only appeared in one playoff game, where he looked very shaky.

There is a strong possibility that Klein retires from the NHL this summer in hopes to play hockey overseas, according to Larry Brooks. At this point in his career, I think it would be a great move for all parties involved.

Grade: C-

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