mike reilly
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - OCTOBER 26: Mike Reilly #5 of the University of Minnesota warms up before a game with the United States U-18 team October 26, 2012 at Mariucci Arena in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Scott A. Schneider/Getty Images)

Per Elliotte Friedman, the Rangers are one of at least five teams NCAA free agent defenseman Mike Reilly will meet with today. Other teams Reilly will be meeting with are Chicago, Minnesota, LA, and possibly Pittsburgh.

Reilly, originally a 4th round pick in 2011 by Columbus, elected not to sign with the Blue Jackets, likely due to their crowded blue line. It’s believed that Minnesota has the inside track because of Reilly’s connections to the team (his dad is a minority investor with the group that owns the Wild), but the Rangers have Brady Skjei, Reilly’s teammate throughout college.

Reilly put up big numbers with Minnesota the last two years, with 15 goals and 75 points in 80 games over the last two years. He’s being described as a potential top-four defenseman with a big shot from the point, something the Rangers sorely need.

I find it to be amazing that the Rangers are even on his interview list. They have three guys signed long term (Staal, Girardi, McDonagh). They have a big prospect on the way (Skjei). They have Yandle and Boyle for at least this year. They also have Klein. The blue line is just as crowded as Columbus’. Perhaps Slats will be working magic to convince him to sign. After all, few thought Kevin Hayes would land in New York.

Share: 

Mentioned in this article:

More About: