Rangers Pass On Lineage, Select Puck-Moving Defenseman Skjei

NEW YORK (AP) -- The New York Rangers could have dipped into their championship past in the first round of the NHL draft, but instead of reliving history they nabbed puck-moving defenseman Brady Skjei.

With the son of 1994 playoff hero Stephane Matteau available when the Rangers' turn came around at No. 28, New York decided instead to go with Skjei on Friday night in Pittsburgh.

Stefan Matteau was chosen one pick later by the New Jersey Devils, the team Stephane Matteau eliminated from the 1994 Eastern Conference finals with a double-overtime goal in Game 7 for the Rangers.

The 6-foot-3, 200-pound Skjei is a product of the U.S. Developmental Squad program who will be going to the University of Minnesota. In 56 games this past season, Skjei had four goals and 18 assists, along with 32 penalty minutes.

Skjei was one of 13 defensemen taken in the 30-pick first round, tying an NHL record. Rounds 2-7 will be held on Saturday.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)