Though the Stanley Cup finals are in full swing, it’s felt like ages since we have had some hockey in New York. Naturally, as the withdrawal sets in, fans cling to pieces of news frequently to play psychic about the future of the team.

This is what Rangers fans have been guilty of for the past 1-2 weeks, particularly with the Brooks article. The following tweet has ruffled a lot of Rangers Twitter feathers as well late last week:

In a word: duh. Gorton is the GM of the Rangers; a major part of his job description is player trades and acquisitions, and to assume that after a disappointing season he wouldn’t be pursuing change would be naive. We’re better than this.

One very real situation that Gorton will have to address this summer is what to do with Dominic Moore. The 35-year-old center (who will turn 36 this August) has been an integral part of the Rangers fourth line the past three seasons, anchoring ever-changing wings as a consistent center. This past season was his lowest production, though I wouldn’t necessarily blame him as the only common factor he ever had to play with was Tanner Glass, but I digress.

Moore’s production has been important to Rangers’ success, with 8 points in 25 games of the 2014 playoffs which donated to a magical ride for fans to be on. His story arc, too, for those romantic fans, has been fun to enjoy. Moore was drafted by the Rangers, went on to play for eight other teams throughout his journeyman career, and for him to “come home” after all those seasons is sweet.

The business part, however, says there really is no space for Moore on the team anymore. Oscar Lindberg (who so many fans would remember as “healthy scratch”) is only 24 years old and has not had much of a chance to build a case for himself on a center-heavy Rangers squad last season. It would be irresponsible to give Lindberg the press box treatment next season as often as he received it this past season, as he should have a consistent spot to grow as a player. Even if he didn’t work out on the Rangers squad, it would at least garner some attention as trade bait. Devaluing him on the bench won’t help Gorton on calls.

One other aspect to consider is what trades will take place. We don’t have a crystal ball, and don’t know what will happen. Should a center be traded for a defensive piece (please, God), Moore is a reliable player who can play the fourth line with ease. At only $1M this past season, he is a cheap sure thing.

So I flip this to you: what do you think will happen with Moore this offseason?  

Share: 

More About: