Discover how forward Will Cuylle is making his mark with the New York Rangers in training camp through skill and determination.
Will Cuylle is making quite the impression, not just because he’s a towering 6-foot-3 and 240 lbs. He’s determined to catch the New York Rangers’ attention and do it with his skills, not just his size.
In Tuesday’s practice session, Cuylle was asked about playing alongside some NHL all-stars, and he shrugged it off. He said, “I don’t read too much into the groups and all that. I’m just here to play my game every day. I’ve got to shine in the exhibition games and show them what I’ve got.”
New Rangers bench boss Peter Laviolette likes what he’s seeing. Laviolette even compared Cuylle and Washington Capitals enforcer Tom Wilson, whom he coached previously. He said, “I see a little bit of it. He can skate, he can hit, he can fight when needed, and he’s got good hands for scoring goals.”
From AHL All-Star to Rangers Hopeful: Cuylle’s Path to the NHL:
Cuylle might not have the same high ceiling as recent first-round picks, but he’s a solid 212-pound player who can handle the NHL grind. Plus, he’s fearless in using his size and strength.
Last season, he tasted the NHL, even dropping the gloves against Vegas’ Keegan Kolesar. Most of his time was with AHL Hartford, where he made quite an impact. Cuylle was the leading goal scorer for the Wolf Pack with 25 goals in 69 games and was named an AHL all-star. His improvement didn’t go unnoticed, with his coach calling him one of the most improved players.
Cuylle also worked on his versatility, becoming an all-situations player. He knows being well-rounded increases his chances of securing a bottom-six role with the Blueshirts.
However, making the team won’t be a walk in the park due to the depth Drury added in the offseason. Cuylle understands the competition but remains focused on showing his skills and determination at camp.
In his own words, “I’m ready to play. I’ve just got to keep showing that every day. When I’m at the top of my game, I can be really good and really effective. I’ve just got to be consistent and make sure I try to do that every single day.”
If he keeps up this impressive performance, it won’t be long before we see him in the Rangers’ lineup. Go big or go home, right?