New York Rangers: Five bad moves that were avoided this offseason

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 22: The New York Rangers celebrate after defeating the Montreal Canadiens 3-1 in Game Six of the Eastern Conference First Round during the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on April 22, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Jared Silber/NHLI via Getty Images) /

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SAN JOSE, CA – APRIL 22: Patrick Marleau /

Going After Patrick Marleau

It was rumored for a solid period of time that the Rangers were interested in acquiring UFA Patrick Marleau from the San Jose Sharks. Until his latest contract expired, he had played all 19 of his NHL seasons with the same team.

Soon to be 38 (September 15th), Marleau has not played in less than 74 regular season games except in 2012-2013 since his rookie season in 1997.

His production, once at 60, 70, or 80 points, has decreased to the 50s and 40s. While those aren’t bad at all, it is reasonable to wonder if the amount of money he received, $6.25 a year for three years, is equivalent to his future production levels.

And his body hasn’t only been taxed by the regular season, but also by 177 career playoff games. That’s a grand total of 1,493 games played.

That’s why it’s a good thing that the Rangers didn’t pursue such an expensive option. They’d be getting someone older, which doesn’t fit in with their group. Also, it would be someone who’s body has been beaten down by many years of playing. They’ll be happy they decided to spend that money on the high-class defenseman that is Kevin Shattenkirk instead.

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