Should Offensively-Challenged Rangers Make Run For Parise, Nash?
NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) -- Much was expected from John Tortorella's top-seeded Rangers. In the end, the eliminated Blueshirts just didn't get enough offense.
Days after their Game 6 ouster at the hands of New Jersey, Tortorella admitted his team was lacking in goals to pair with its trademark grit.
"Listen," Tortorella said Monday. "We have to work extremely hard to score goals."
The Rangers finished the regular season ranked 11th in the NHL in goals scored with an average of 2.71 goals per game. That number dropped during the playoffs to 2.15 goals per game. The Rangers scored more than three goals in a playoff game only once, and that was in the first round against Ottawa.
"I think we have made improvements but I don't think any organization in the league wants to sit still," Tortorella said. "We have to continue to improve as an organization, not just skill but all throughout."
The Rangers have $49.1 million in player salaries earmarked for next season. With the salary cap expected to max out around $76 million and the organization's usual willingness to spend, it would be no surprise if New York made a run at unrestricted free agent stars Zach Parise of New Jersey and Ryan Suter of Nashville.
And don't count out Nash-sanity. The Rick Nash trade sweepstakes are expected to heat up again in Columbus.
"Sometimes when you think it's a really good piece but he doesn't exactly fit in all the little things you do, you can teach him those things if he really brings you something else," Tortorella said.
Tortorella said no matter who lands on Broadway, the Rangers will continue to be a physical, defensive-oriented team.
"People have to join in," Tortorella said.
The Rangers have 11 free agents, including backup goaltender Martin Biron, right wing Brandon Prust and defenseman Michael Del Zotto.
Who do you want the Rangers to pursue? Sound off in the comments below...
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