New York Rangers: Five players who overcame the odds

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 11: Members of the New York Rangers celebrate after a goal by Rick Nash
NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 11: Members of the New York Rangers celebrate after a goal by Rick Nash
3 of 6
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 19: Marc Staal
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 19: Marc Staal

Marc Staal

The New York Rangers’ alternate captain had a very different path to the NHL from Fast. Marc Staal was a heralded prospect, picked 12th overall in the 2005 draft. His family is now famous, with brothers Jordan and Eric winning a Stanley Cups.

Staal’s arrival with the Rangers was part of a major turn for the team, and he quickly established himself as one of the best young defensemen in the NHL.

But his career trajectory was tragically altered by injuries.

The fact that Staal is playing at all is incredible. Between concussions and the scary incident with his eye, he’s certainly not the same player he was. However, his play has remained steady (for the most part) for the Rangers, and he’s enjoying a healthy and solid 2017-18 season so far.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations