Monday, April 25, 2011

Highlights From Break-Up Day: Dubi Talks Contract, Avery Takes Responsibility, Gaborik Expects No. 1 Center

Andrew Gross is doing a great job covering Rangers break-up day on his blog, Ranger Rants, and brings us some of the highlights so far after talking to the coach and the players.
Brandon Dubinsky on negotiating another contract with Rangers: “I want them, they want me. Let’s not waste each other’s time.” Also said he’s more comfortable as a left wing and adjustment back to center in the playoffs was harder than he expected.
I couldn't agree with Dubinsky more. It's obvious the Rangers and Dubi need each other, so the contract negotiations should not be ongoing as they were two years ago. He needs to be signed, he wants to be signed. Get it done, Slats.
Sean Avery called it a disappointing season and said he just needs to play the way he knows he can play without worrying about turnovers or penalties. Said he knows his game is risk-reward but said when he’s playing the way he can, he knows he can help the Rangers.
See that, Avery haters? Sean is taking full responsibility for his disappointing season. He is not placing the blame on anyone but himself, which is good to see. It also should be noted that coach Tortorella said Avery will get an opportunity to make the team out of camp in September.
Gaborik: “I’m going to train hard, come back in great shape and bring it to another level.” Also expects the Rangers to go after a No. 1 center. “We’ll see what happens, there are a few free agents that are top guys. They have always tried everything to get guys.”
That's great and I hope that the Rangers bring in a top center as well. However, Gaborik needs to focus on improving his game on his own, and cannot become dependent on bringing in a center to play with. He needs to become the Gaborik of 2009-10 again.

Also, Gaborik said he will be participating in the World Championships representing Slovakia. Lundqvist (Sweden) is still undecided and Stepan/McDonagh (USA) are hopeful that they will play. Vinny Prospal (Czech Reublic) will not play and instead will be working on strengthening his quads.

That's all for now, but I'm sure there will be many more notes and quotes later. In the meantime, be sure to go to Ranger Rants for the latest.

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