oscar lindberg
Lindberg is almost a non factor for the Rangers (Photo by Jared Silber/NHLI via Getty Images)

As the New York Rangers continue to struggle for offense and as Martin St Louis remains sidelined, prospect Oscar Lindberg has continued to play well for the Hartford WolfPack at both ends of the rink. Lindberg scored another two points Friday night, including his twentieth goal of the season as the ‘Pack won their Friday night game against Leigh Valley, 3-2.

Lindberg did all his damage on the powerplay last night (take note Rangers special teamers…) and has really developed his offense at the AHL level. He has reached the 20 goal plateau for the first time, scoring two more goals than last year but in 13 games less, while he should pass his career high of 44 points imminently. Like JT Miller, it appears Lindberg is outgrowing the AHL.

Lindberg has played consistently well all season for the Pack. His style and skill set should fit seamlessly in to New York and with the Rangers relying on depth for offense Lindberg should be getting a look given that cap space is available and they have enough transactions available to make a move.

With a host of players on the ‘Pack likely no more than AHL and minor league lifers, Lindberg appears to be the one offensive prospect that is demanding NHL attention. While Lindberg wouldn’t be used in a purely offensive role in New York, no one expected Carl Hagelin to emerge as a potential twenty goal guy when he made New York yet Hagelin has developed into one of the best all round players on the Rangers. Given his development to date, Lindberg could have a similar impact even though he doesn’t have the blistering skating ability of Hagelin.

With a strong defensive game, good hockey IQ, face-off skills and some solid offense, Lindberg appears ready. If the Rangers continue to stumble offensively, surely the next Swede off the production line deserves some attention, even if it’s just to freshen things up. Whether Lindberg sees New York ice again this season  or not (after his brief cameo call up last a few weeks back) it’s still comforting for Rangers fans to know that the forward prospect pipeline still has a few solid options on the way.

 

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