Jan 25, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers defenseman Ben Harpur (5) warms up before playing the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
On Friday, the New York Rangers made the decision to place defenseman Ben Harpur, center Jake Leschyshyn, and forward Alex Belzile on waivers. If none of them are claimed, they will most likely be moving to Hartford of the American Hockey League.
Additionally, the Rangers have assigned goalie Talyn Boyko to Hartford.
Among those listed on waivers, Harpur is the most recognized name and potentially the biggest surprise. The 29-year-old defenseman has spent parts of seven seasons in the NHL, appearing in 42 games for New York during the 2022-23 season. He finished the season with six points, comprising one goal and five assists, while averaging 14:04 in ice time as part of a bottom-pair role after joining the team as a free agent in October 2022.
Harpur was sidelined for the majority of last season due to a pectoral muscle injury that required surgical intervention, allowing him to play only seven games with Hartford. During the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Rangers recalled him from Hartford, but he did not play in any games.
He participated in one of the Rangers’ three preseason games, logging 20:33 of ice time and finishing with a minus-1 rating in a 6-4 victory against the New York Islanders on Tuesday.
This decision comes as a surprise, given that the Rangers are currently evaluating how to fill the
The Rangers are now facing challenges within their defense due to a lower-body injury suffered by Ryan Lindgren during the game against the Islanders. Harpur, who possesses NHL experience and is a left-shot defenseman like Lindgren, is stepping in. This shift leaves Connor Mackey, who is a lefty, alongside right-hand shots Chad Ruhwedel and Victor Mancini as the primary candidates still competing in training camp.
Throughout his NHL career, Harpur has accumulated 21 points (two goals and 19 assists) over 198 games played with the Ottawa Senators, Nashville Predators, and the Rangers.
Related: 3 Rangers takeaways from 5-2 preseason win against Bruins
Rangers place Harpur, Leschyshyn, Belzile on waivers
Jake Leschyshyn — Danny Wild-Imagn Images
Jake Leschyshyn, the son of veteran NHL defenseman Curtis Leschyshyn, appeared in one game with the Rangers last season, during which he logged 6:28 of ice time against the St. Louis Blues on January 11, 2024. This date marked exactly one year since he was claimed off waivers by the Rangers from the Vegas Golden Knights, who drafted him in the second round (No. 62) of the 2017 NHL Draft. He played the remainder of the last season with Hartford, where he tallied 19 points (eight goals and 11 assists) in 47 games, leading the Wolf Pack with five goals in 10 Calder Cup Playoff encounters.
The 25-year-old finished the preseason with no points, averaging 10:55 of ice time and a -3 rating across two games for the Rangers; he was not in the lineup for their 5-2 victory over the Boston Bruins at Madison Square Garden on Thursday.
In total, Leschyshyn has recorded six points (two goals and four assists) in 77 NHL games with both Vegas and New York, with all points coming in his debut season (2021-22), where he appeared in 41 matches for the Golden Knights.
Belzile, an undrafted
A free agent who navigated three seasons between the Montreal Canadiens and their AHL affiliate in Laval, Quebec, signed with the Rangers on July 1, 2023. Last season, he led Hartford in scoring, amassing 50 points (19 goals, 31 assists) across 61 games, and contributed three points (one goal, two assists) in 10 playoff appearances.
The 33-year-old scored the game-winning goal during the Rangers’ preseason opener, securing a 3-2 road victory against the Bruins on Sunday.
Belzile exemplifies the spirit of perseverance; he devoted nine seasons to the minor leagues before making his NHL debut with the Canadiens in the 2020-21 season. His entire NHL scoring tally (14 points; six goals, eight assists) was achieved during the 2022-23 season, in which he participated in 31 of his 44 NHL games.
Boyko, selected by the Rangers in the fourth round (No. 112 overall) of the 2021 draft, turned professional last year. He spent the 2023-24 season with the Cincinnati team in the ECHL, posting a record of 13-9-1 with a goals-against average of 3.42 and a save percentage of .888.
More About: New York Rangers News
Rangers Put Ben Harpur, Jake Leschyshyn, and Alex Belzile on Waivers Amid Roster Decisions
The New York Rangers have made significant roster decisions recently, placing Ben Harpur, Jake Leschyshyn, and Alex Belzile on waivers. This move has raised questions among fans and analysts alike regarding the team’s strategy and future direction. In this article, we will delve into the implications of these waivers, analyze the players involved, and explore the broader impact on the Rangers’ roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Understanding Waivers in the NHL
Before we explore the specifics of the Rangers’ decisions, it’s essential to understand what waivers mean in the NHL context.
- Purpose of Waivers: Waivers allow NHL teams to expose players to other teams in the league. If a player is claimed, the claiming team assumes their contract.
- 24-Hour Claim Period: Once a player is placed on waivers, other teams have 24 hours to claim them. If unclaimed, the player can be assigned to the minors.
- Strategic Moves: Teams often place players on waivers to manage their roster, create cap space, or facilitate the acquisition of stronger talent.
Players Placed on Waivers
Ben Harpur
Ben Harpur, a defenseman known for his physical play, has had a varied career since being drafted. His recent performance has led the Rangers to reconsider his role on the team.
- Heightened Competition: With several solid defensemen vying for spots, Harpur’s playing time has diminished.
- Contract Considerations: Harpur’s contract complicates the salary cap situation, making him a candidate for waivers.
- Potential Upside: His physical style and experience could attract interest from other teams.
Jake Leschyshyn
Jake Leschyshyn is another player whose placement on waivers has sparked conversation among fans. The young forward has shown flashes of potential but has yet to establish himself as a regular NHL player.
- Development Path: Leschyshyn’s progression has been closely monitored, and the Rangers may be looking to give him more time to develop.
- Potential Claims: Teams looking for young, cost-effective talent could see value in claiming Leschyshyn.
- Role in the Future: Depending on how the waiver situation unfolds, he could still be a part of the Rangers’ future.
Alex Belzile
Alex Belzile, a veteran forward, adds depth to any team he joins but has also found himself in a tough spot amid roster competition.
- Versatile Player: Belzile is known for his versatility, playing multiple forward positions, which could be appealing to other teams.
- Experience Counts: His experience in the AHL and NHL makes him a valuable asset, albeit slightly less essential to the current Rangers lineup.
- Impact on Team Chemistry: Belzile’s waiver placement may affect team dynamics, depending on how the roster reshuffles.
Roster Decisions and Team Strategy
Analyzing the Rangers’ Roster Moves
The Rangers’ decision to place these players on waivers is indicative of a broader strategy aimed at optimizing the roster and preparing for the season ahead.
- Cap Management: With the salary cap constraints, the Rangers are keen to ensure they have the right mix of talent without exceeding their budget.
- Building for the Future: As a team with playoff aspirations, making room for younger talent and more impactful players is essential.
- Competition for Spots: The waivers highlight the intense competition within the team, emphasizing the need for players to perform consistently.
Potential Impact on the Rangers’ Season
Short-Term Effects
In the immediate term, placing Harpur, Leschyshyn, and Belzile on waivers could create openings for younger players or new acquisitions.
- Opportunity for Young Talent: This move opens up roster spots for prospects such as K’Andre Miller or Braden Schneider.
- Increased Competition: Healthy competition can drive performance among remaining players, pushing them to elevate their games.
- Focus on Team Cohesion: As the roster reshapes, building a cohesive team becomes increasingly crucial.
Long-Term Implications
Looking ahead, the long-term implications of these roster decisions could define the Rangers’ identity for seasons to come.
- Future Talent Pool: By keeping younger players in the fold, the Rangers can cultivate a future-ready core.
- Salary Cap Flexibility: This strategy allows for greater flexibility to pursue high-impact free agents or trade opportunities.
- Strategic Depth: Depth in the lineup will be essential for navigating the rigors of an 82-game season.
Benefits and Practical Tips for Fans
As the Rangers’ roster evolves, fans can take certain steps to stay engaged and informed:
- Follow Team News: Stay updated with the latest roster moves and player developments through official team channels.
- Engage with the Community: Join fan forums and social media groups to discuss the implications of roster changes and share insights.
- Attend Games: Support the team by attending games, which helps foster a strong home-ice advantage.
Case Studies of Successful Roster Moves
Historically, other NHL teams have made successful roster moves that resulted in positive outcomes. Here are a few notable examples:
| Team | Player | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Blackhawks | Dustin Byfuglien | From waiver pick-up to two-time Stanley Cup champion. |
| Pittsburgh Penguins | Conor Sheary | Claimed and played vital role in championship run. |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | Leo Komarov | Waivers led to increased depth and playoff success. |
First-Hand Experiences from Rangers Fans
Many fans have shared their thoughts and experiences related to roster decisions and the team’s future:
- Fan Opinion: “I believe these moves will open up opportunities for younger players, which is crucial for our long-term success.”
- Community Insights: “The Rangers have always thrived on youth, and I think waiving Harpur is a step in the right direction.”
- Excitement for New Talent: “I can’t wait to see who gets a chance next; this is an exciting time for the franchise!”
Conclusion
The New York Rangers’ decision to place Ben Harpur, Jake Leschyshyn, and Alex Belzile on waivers is a strategic move aimed at reshaping their roster for the upcoming season. By understanding the implications of these waivers and the potential impact on the team, fans can stay engaged and excited for what lies ahead. The combination of cap management, developing talent, and building a competitive roster positions the Rangers well as they pursue their championship aspirations.
