As per Larry Brooks, the Rangers are in the process of negotiating a two year deal with LW Ruslan Fedotenko. Fedotenko, brought on for a professional tryout last season, made the team, and presented the Rangers with one of the best bargains in the NHL. For just $1 million, the Rangers got themselves a reliable grinding winger that found chemistry with Brandon Prust and Brian Boyle. That trio turned into the best fourth line in hockey, and graduated themselves to third line duties halfway through the season.

On paper, Fedotenko’s numbers were not impressive. After all, he only finished with ten goals and 25 points. However, his value to the Rangers isn’t measured in points. Fedotenko was clearly one of coach John Tortorella’s workhorses and most reliable wingers. Tenk played some of the most important even strength minutes, and was a fixture on the Rangers penalty kill. Fedotenko missed time with a sprained shoulder and appendix surgery. In that time he was out, the Rangers went just 5-10-1.

Per Brooks, it looks like the two sides are working towards a good price for Fedotenko’s services. It is clear that Tenk will get a raise from his $1 million, but how much of a raise is the issue. Personally, I think a $1.5 million annual salary for Fedotenko would make him a good fit. In the end, he’s still a third line player for this team.

Share: 

Mentioned in this article:

More About: