Although it was originally speculated that the Blueshirts would be making the trip to Russia, Stockholm, Sweden seems like the more likely destination for them to play their season opener according to Steve Zipay of Blue Notes. Nothing has been made official just yet, but here is Steve's report....
With Garden renovations underway, there is increasing chatter that the Rangers will open next season, not in Russia, but with two games in Stockholm against either the Los Angeles Kings or Calgary Flames. Those games would be preceded by exhibition games in Prague and Budapest and three road exhibition games in the U.S. After Europe, the Rangers would play a number of games on the West Coast of either the U.S. or Canada before returning for the home opener around Oct. 30. A NHL spokesman last night said that no contracts have been signed and declined further comment.In other news, Larry Brooks wrote in the New York Post today that the Rangers are preparing to sign prospect forward Carl Hagelin to a contract. Hagelin, a sixth-round pick of the Rangers back in 2007, is currently playing for the Michigan Wolverines of the NCAA. If the Wolverines' season concludes before the Connecticut Whale are eliminated from the playoffs, the plan is to have him join the AHL club this season.
The 22-year-old left wing has 17 goals and 30 assists this season, and has quickly grown into one of the more hopeful Ranger prospects up front. He will most certainly be contending for a roster spot in next September's training camp.
========================================================================
Follow me on Twitter or e-mail me at [email protected]