New York Rangers: What we’ve learned about Ryan Spooner

The New York Rangers have gotten quite a lot out of new acquisition Ryan Spooner. Let’s take a look at what he brings, and what the future may hold.

When the New York Rangers acquired Ryan Spooner, he was considered somewhat of a throw-in. In exchange for taking on Matt Beleskey’s contract, Spooner was included in the deal for Rick Nash. Since joining the Rangers, Spooner has been the most impactful player on the team.

So far, through nine games, Ryan Spooner has scored two goals and 11 assists. He has already had a couple of multi-point games and has developed some nice chemistry with a number of players. Clearly, he must be a keeper, right?

In some sense, sure, Spooner looks like a player the Rangers should re-sign. The pending RFA will probably be looking for an extension of decent length, and somewhere north of $4 million. In spite of the short sample size, his past play with Boston and now with the Rangers may justify a deal of that nature.

However, another option may be available. Let’s dive in:

About Spooner, and Where to Go

So, we’ve learned that Ryan Spooner is a great playmaker. He has quick hands and great escapability, a trait required for many smaller NHL players to succeed. His skill level is through the roof and, while not a Selke candidate by any means, isn’t detrimental defensively either.

The Rangers may need to choose between their other deadline acquisition, Vladislav Namestnikov, and Spooner this summer. Just looking at their stat lines so far may scream in favor of Spooner, as Namestnikov has just three points in eight games.

The Rangers, though, have a dearth of centers waiting to jump into the lineup. Filip Chytil and Lias Andersson will, more likely than not, both be in the NHL next season. Neither of them is suitable for roles outside of the top nine, and would both benefit more from playing their natural center position.

With that in mind, Spooner could be used as trade bait. At the draft, his RFA rights could fetch a pretty penny. Especially with his recent production, Spooner’s value may not ever be higher than it is right now. Perhaps Spooner could be packaged with a mid-round pick to acquire another first-round pick. This draft is very deep, and the Rangers want as many selections as they can get their hands on.

Next: Is Competing Next Year A Realistic Goal?

If the Rangers are looking to compete next year, and believe Spooner won the audition battle with Namestnikov, it may be Namestnikov taking off to another team. All about Gorton’s plan will be revealed in June. It is known, though, that just based on recent production, Spooner would naturally have the higher trade value of the two. Whatever the plan may be, we can only hope that Jeff Gorton makes the best move.