Rarely are posts written at Blue Seat Blogs aimed around line combinations. After all with Coach Tortorella they could be (likely will be) changed before the post is published and opinion differs so much that line discussions aren’t overly newsworthy.

However, this line is different and hopefully it will get some real time to gel. The line I’m on about is this: Ruslan Fedotenko-Derek Stepan-Mats Zuccarello. I love the potential of this line, I love what it brings and I could love its future for the season too.

Derek Stepan and Zuccarello are kids; in their NHL infancy, but they have a whole lot to give going forward. Ruslan Fedotenko has been a winner, he’s a veteran, he can play physically and is playing every game for his future in this league because with many team’s obsession with youth, a veteran has to remind his paymasters what he can offer.

All three players have genuine motivation to succeed. This has been one of the Rangers recent keys to success. There are no mercenaries on this team just collecting checks. Every play has an end-goal in sight. Hunger leads to success.

Stepan recently stated he felt like he had to ‘make the team’ despite his rookie success (a healthy mindset) while Zuccarello had a taste of the big league before being demoted and will want to stick long term this time around.

Then there are the different skill sets of the trio. Fedotenko will hustle; he’ll give up his body, he’ll do everything it takes to win. He leaves nothing on the ice and he’ll make space for the likes of Stepan to play their natural games.

Stepan of course is the play maker, the one blessed with vision who can bring those around him in to play. Finally you have Zuccarello. The little Norwegian is a puck magician who can set up plays like Stepan but who can finish as well – if his shootout skills are anything to go by.

I believe this trio can complement each other well. The second line, the Pack line, is established and only the left wing spot is up in the air on the top line. This trio however could become a very effective threesome and if too much attention is given to the top 6 this line has the potential to cause damage. They shouldn’t be liabilities in their own zone either which helps their cause for ice time.

Stepan and his two wingers highlight the depth the Rangers can offer this season. With pre-season game time behind them and more on the way they have a chance to really create chemistry. Hopefully the coaching staff – looking at you Torts – gives them the chance to shine in the regular season. They could be the Rangers unheralded and secret weapon.

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