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Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
The status of Blake Wheeler’s future with the New York Rangers has remained uncertain since the team’s exit from the Eastern Conference Final last season. General Manager Chris Drury has not yet re-signed the 37-year-old forward, leading to speculation regarding his potential retirement following a severe leg injury sustained last season.
Recent reports suggest that the Boston Bruins are contemplating offering Wheeler a professional tryout (PTO), potentially marking a return to the franchise where he first launched his NHL career.
A source close to the situation has told me the #NHLBruins are considering extending PTO (Professional Tryout) offers to forwards Blake Wheeler and Kailer Yamamoto.
— Shawn Hutcheon (@ShawnHutcheon) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShawnHutcheon/status/1825678062941339753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" target="
“`At the beginning of his career, Wheeler spent nearly three seasons with the Bruins, during which he scored 50 goals and accumulated 100 points.
If Wheeler plans to return for another season, it would have been beneficial for him to remain with the Rangers. The seasoned forward tallied 21 points across 54 regular season games before a leg injury cut his season short, impacting both the remainder of the season and most of the playoffs. He made a valiant comeback for a single playoff game, logging 9:18 on the ice.
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Veteran Blake Wheeler may find a spot in Boston this season
Wheeler was starting to establish some chemistry on the top line alongside Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider. He served as a reliable support player for them, and at times, it seemed as though the trio was finally hitting its stride. Although Reilly Smith has taken over that role, having Wheeler available as a third or fourth line option would have been advantageous, particularly in the event of injuries.
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Wheeler played a pivotal role in the veteran leadership within the locker room, mentoring many of the younger Rangers. His bond with the team became evident while he was sidelined; he actively supported his teammates from the stands during their remarkable playoff journey.
This doesn’t imply that a return to New York is out of the question. However, if Boston is contemplating offering a PTO, it likely signifies that Wheeler’s tenure with the Rangers has come to an end.
If he joins the Bruins, Wheeler would be an excellent addition to a team that consistently remains competitive for top standings.
After acquiring players such as Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov, Boston is keen to bolster its depth, potentially adding players like Wheeler and Kailer Yamamoto, who is also rumored to be in line for a PTO from the Bruins.
While many expected retirement to be the next step for Wheeler, he might actually find himself donning the jersey of an Eastern Conference rival this autumn.
More About:New York Rangers Analysis
Blake Wheeler’s Future: Possible PTO with Boston Bruins Signals End of Rangers Era
Overview of Blake Wheeler’s Career
Blake Wheeler has been a prominent figure in the NHL, known for his exceptional skills as a winger. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 225 lbs, Wheeler combines size with agility, making him a formidable presence on the ice. Recognized for his passing ability and powerful shot, he garnered attention early in his career, winning MVP at the 2009 YoungStars game. Following a successful stint with the Atlanta Thrashers (now the Winnipeg Jets), he was named captain of the Jets in 2016, further solidifying his leadership role in the league.
The Transition to the New York Rangers
In 2022, Wheeler signed with the New York Rangers after a long tenure with the Jets. His experience and on-ice intelligence were seen as key assets for a Rangers team looking to make a deeper playoff run. However, the past season has been a mixed bag for Wheeler, as he faced challenges adjusting to the Rangers’ style of play, which contributed to fluctuating performance levels.
Possible PTO with Boston Bruins
As rumors swirl about a potential Professional Tryout (PTO) with the Boston Bruins, speculation about Wheeler’s future in the NHL intensifies. A PTO would be an opportunity for Wheeler to prove himself and potentially secure a contract with the Bruins. This move could signify a pivotal shift in Wheeler’s career, marking the end of his time with the Rangers and the beginning of a new chapter in Boston.
Implications of Joining the Bruins
Should Wheeler join the Bruins, several factors come into play:
- Team Dynamics: The Bruins have a strong core of experienced players, which could complement Wheeler’s style of play.
- Potential for a Fresh Start: Moving to a new team could rejuvenate Wheeler’s career and allow him to showcase his skills in a different system.
- Veteran Leadership: The Bruins would benefit from Wheeler’s leadership experience, especially in a locker room filled with young talent.
Statistics Overview
To understand Wheeler’s potential contributions to the Bruins, let’s examine his recent performance statistics:
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 78 | 15 | 30 | 45 |
| 2021-2022 | 78 | 17 | 25 | 42 |
| 2020-2021 | 56 | 10 | 21 | 31 |
Analyzing Wheeler’s Performance Trends
While Wheeler’s point production has seen a decline compared to his peak seasons, several elements contribute to this trend:
- Injuries: Injuries have plagued Wheeler in recent seasons, affecting his game time and performance.
- Team Fit: Adjusting to the Rangers’ system may have hindered his ability to produce at previous levels.
- Age and Experience: As an older player, adapting to the faster pace of the NHL can be challenging.
Benefits of a PTO for Wheeler
A PTO could provide Wheeler with multiple benefits, including:
- Opportunity to Impress: A PTO allows Wheeler to showcase his abilities in training camp and pre-season games.
- Potential for a Contract: If he performs well, he could secure a contract that extends his playing career.
- Networking: Joining the Bruins gives Wheeler the chance to work with veteran players and coaching staff, enhancing his game.
Case Studies of PTO Success Stories
Several players have revitalized their careers through Professional Tryouts:
- James Neal: After a couple of inconsistent seasons, Neal signed a PTO with the Edmonton Oilers and eventually earned a contract, leading to a productive comeback season.
- Michael Frolik: Frolik secured a PTO with the Calgary Flames, where he played a key role in the team’s success, earning a contract and contributing significantly to their playoff run.
First-Hand Experiences
Many players have shared their experiences transitioning through PTOs:
- Confidence Boost: Players often note that the chance to compete in a familiar setting helps regain confidence.
- Building Relationships: Developing rapport with teammates during training camps can lead to better on-ice chemistry.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Blake Wheeler?
Blake Wheeler’s potential PTO with the Boston Bruins could symbolize a significant shift in his career. As he seeks to return to form, the Bruins might offer the ideal environment for him to flourish once again. For fans and analysts alike, watching how this situation unfolds will be critical in determining the next chapter of Wheeler’s storied NHL journey.
