New York Rangers: Top Five Moves of 2017

Buying out Dan Girardi

Dan Girardi was another player holding the Rangers back. This was one of the first decisions that the Rangers made and it was a sign of things to come.

The contract that Girardi signed in the latter half of the 2013-14 season, just months before a Stanley Cup Final appearance. The six-year $5.5 million contract became a burden for the Rangers as Girardi’s effectiveness diminished in his final few seasons on the roster.

Paired on the top line with Ryan McDonagh last season, Girardi managed to drag down the play of his partner. The 33-year-old defensemen finished with shot suppression numbers at zero over the last two seasons.

With numbers like this, it would obviously put more pressure on McDonagh to step up and take away chances.

This decision cleared cap space and provided McDonagh with an upgrade that the captain sorely needed. The Rangers signed Kevin Shattenkirk to serve as Dan Girardi’s replacement and make the team’s defense more well rounded.

The buyout was one of the best decisions the Rangers could have made and made the future for the team more secure.