Dan Carrozzi- Chris Neil
One free agent that the New York Rangers should not sign is Chris Neil.
The longtime Ottawa Senator represents everything that the Rangers should not desire in a free agent. Neil is a well-seasoned veteran at 38, and best known for his gritty, rough-and-tumble style of play.
Unlike Jaromir Jagr who can still put up points, he is coming off a season where he scored a mere four points in 53 games. He saw even less action in the playoffs, dressing for just two games where he played a grand total of 4:15.
The only role that Neil would serve would be to replace Tanner Glass as an enforcer and “defensive specialist.” Signing him would signal that the Rangers still stubbornly adhere to the old-school mentality that a team needs a tough guy.
His inclusion in the lineup, even if it isn’t for an entire season, would come at the expense of a younger and more talented player.
As we saw at times during last season, the Rangers were the most lethal when they were rolling four scoring lines. A relentless offense that attacks in waves without giving the opponent a moment’s respite is truly dangerous.
The Rangers still have some work to do this off-season. However, signing Chris Neil would be a confusing step backwards for an organization that has made many encouraging strides.