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10 best free agent signings in New York Rangers history

By Steve Paulus

Canadian ice hockey player Adam Graves of the New York Rangers holds the Stanley Cup as he celebrates after the team's Stanley Cup victory, New York, New York, June 14, 1994. (Photo by Bruce Bennett Studios/Getty Images)
Canadian ice hockey player Adam Graves of the New York Rangers holds the Stanley Cup as he celebrates after the team's Stanley Cup victory, New York, New York, June 14, 1994. (Photo by Bruce Bennett Studios/Getty Images) /
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28 Nov 1997: Adam Graves #9 of the New York Rangers in action during the Rangers 3-3 tie with the Buffalo Sabres at Marine Midland Arena in Buffalo, New York. Mandatory Credit: Rick Stewart /Allsport
28 Nov 1997: Adam Graves #9 of the New York Rangers in action during the Rangers 3-3 tie with the Buffalo Sabres at Marine Midland Arena in Buffalo, New York. Mandatory Credit: Rick Stewart /Allsport /

#1: Adam Graves (1991)

In the history of the NHL, only 35 players have signed offer sheets as Group 1 free agents (requiring compensation). That includes four signed by the Rangers.

Their first attempt was Edmonton winger Geoff Courtnall in 1988. The Oilers traded him to the Capitals who matched the offer.

In 1995, the Rangers signed enforcer Stu Grimson to a five-year, $2.5 million contract only to see Detroit match it.

The last Rangers offer sheet was in 1997 when the Blueshirts signed Colorado star center Joe Sakic to a three-year, $21 million contract only to see the Avalanche match.

Their one successful foray into offer sheets was when they signed 23-year old Adam Graves to a five-year, $2.44 million contract. This is the one free agent signing that shines head and shoulders above all others and ranks as the best in Ranger history.

While Graves was an attractive prospect, he had only played four seasons in the NHL, never topping nine goals and 25 assists in a season. Edmonton chose to not match the offer and instead were content to take former Rangers second round draft pick Troy Mallette, as compensation.

The decision to sign Graves was not well received at the time. Although the Oilers had asked for Steve Rice and Louie Debrusk, the Rangers resisted. The case went to arbitration and to the chagrin of many Rangers fans, Troy Mallette was Edmonton bound.

Mallette had scored more goals than Graves and had been one of the tougher players on team with 305 and 252 PIM’s his first two seasons. It’s a credit to GM Neil Smith that he knew what he was getting, having scouted and drafted him while with the Detroit Red Wings.

Adam Graves will go down in history as one of the greatest New York Rangers. He was the second player in team history to top the 50 goal mark. He ranks in the top 10 in practically every offensive category and is third overall in career goals behind Rod Gilbert and Jean Ratelle.

Next. 10 worst free agent signings in Rangers history. dark

As skillful as he was on the ice, Graves also epitomized good sportsmanship, winning both the King Clancy and the Masterton Trophies, the only Ranger to do so.  For his on ice achievements and his length of service as a New York Ranger, Adam Graves remains the best free agent signing of all time.

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