In recent years, the median height of the Rangers organization has witnessed a significant rise.
Over the past month at the MSG Training Center in Tarrytown, it’s hard to ignore this observation.
Among the notable players is Ben Harpur, a defenseman standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, who joined the Rangers in 2022 through a PTO with the AHL Wolf Pack. He often passes to Dylan Roobroeck, the Rangers’ 178th overall pick in 2023, who towers at 6-7.
There’s also Nathan Aspinall, a left wing who matches Harpur’s height at 6-6, speeding down the boards to take a shot against goalie Talyn Boyko, who is 6-7 and was a fourth-round pick in 2021.
Rangers center Adam Edstrom (84) skates with the puck against the New Jersey Devils. Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
The Blueshirts might be onto something with these tall players.
Matt Rempe, who stands at 6-8 ½, and 6-7 Adam Edstrom are demonstrating their potential.
Both players, developed within the organization, are contenders for a spot on the Rangers’ roster as training camp unfolds, with Rempe mostly solidifying his position alongside the main group.
Edstrom, conversely, has garnered more attention due to his performances during rookie games and the last three exhibition matches.
Rangers center Adam Edstrom (84) celebrates his game-winning goal against the New York Islanders. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
“I think they are distinct players,” head coach Peter Laviolette commented at the training camp’s commencement. “Their size is the first attribute that stands out when they are beside each other. Both individuals are extremely large. This is the primary point of comparison. They possess good skating skills and have the capability to play a physical style of hockey, although their physical play differs slightly.”
“The next step for both players is to transition from rookie games to training camp with a summer of training under their belts. It’s about getting into games and seizing opportunities to demonstrate their impact; that’s what we’ll be evaluating.”
With the announcement of Jimmy Vesey missing several weeks due to a lower-body injury, Edstrom’s chances of making the team out of training camp have improved.
Having spent nearly all of his 11 games with the Rangers on the fourth line last season, the 23-year-old is among the top candidates on the depth chart.
Along with Rempe, Jonny Brodzinski, and Sam Carrick are also competing for a position on the fourth unit.
Since Edstrom played against the Devils on Monday night in Newark, the other three practiced together earlier in the day.
Assuming Rempe secures a spot on the team, Edstrom’s status as waivers exempt makes him a more viable option than Brodzinski for the Rangers to send to Hartford at the start of the season.
Should either Vesey or Ryan Lindgren (upper body) require placement on injured reserve, they would not affect the 23-man roster, complicating the cap situation.
If one or both players move to long-term injured reserve, this would allow the Rangers to surpass the $88 million salary cap ceiling.
This scenario necessitates that the injured player(s) miss a minimum of 10 games over 24 days, but it’s important to note that cap space doesn’t accrue when using LTIR.
The Rangers likely prefer to avoid this situation for the sake of future trades.
When posed with the question of weighing players who benefit from AHL time versus those with less playtime but valuable NHL experience, Laviolette remarked on Sunday that he sees advantages in going down to play, particularly at the start of the season.
If Edstrom begins the 2024-25 season with the Wolf Pack, it’s reasonable to expect he would be among the first called up if another forward is unavailable.
His performance in training camp has been commendable, having scored two goals before Monday night’s game.
“I’m proud of myself,” Edstrom reflected after netting the game-winner in a comeback 6-4 victory over the Islanders. “I feel as if I’ve showcased a new level of hockey. I believe I arrived at camp very well prepared.”
Adam Edstrom #84 of the New York Rangers celebrates his game-winning goal against the New York Islanders. Getty Images
Edstrom scored in his NHL debut on December 15, before being returned to Hartford, where he faced an upper-body injury, sidelining him for nearly two months.
He then had a chance to play 10 games with the Rangers from mid-February to early March, contributing another goal and enhancing the Rangers’ forecheck.
Laviolette has commended Edstrom for his excellent conditioning upon arriving at camp, emphasizing his skating and effectiveness in physical confrontations.
When asked about the qualities he seeks to identify Edstrom as a full-time NHL player, the second-year Rangers coach highlighted the need for consistency from the Swedish forward.
“I just feel like I am faster and more explosive ” Edstrom remarked. “It’s kind of a confidence thing stepping in now. I understand that I can play a little more aggressively.”
# Vertical Advantage: The New York Rangers Embrace Height in Building Their Roster
## The Shift Towards Height in NHL Roster Construction
In the fast-paced world of the NHL, teams are constantly looking for ways to gain a competitive edge. One of the most notable strategies that has emerged in recent years is the emphasis on height and size in roster construction. The New York Rangers are at the forefront of this trend, embracing a “vertical advantage” in building their roster. This approach not only aims to enhance physicality on the ice but also strives to improve overall gameplay dynamics.
### Understanding the Vertical Advantage
The concept of a “vertical advantage” refers to the benefits gained from having taller players in a sport where physical presence can significantly impact performance. In hockey, height can translate into advantages in various aspects of the game:
– **Reach**: Taller players often have longer reach, which can help in stick checking and intercepting passes.
– **Physical Play**: Height can provide an edge in physical confrontations along the boards and in front of the net.
– **Shooting Angles**: Taller players can create better shooting angles and have a more significant presence in front of the goalie.
### The Rangers’ Roster Composition
The New York Rangers have strategically assembled a roster that capitalizes on height. Below is an overview comparing the Rangers’ average player height to that of other teams in the NHL.
| Team | Average Height (inches) | Average Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| New York Rangers | 76.5 | 215 |
| Boston Bruins | 75.8 | 205 |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | 75.5 | 210 |
| Chicago Blackhawks | 75.2 | 200 |
### Key Players Contributing to Height Advantage
Several players on the Rangers’ roster exemplify the benefits of height in hockey. Here are a few standout players:
– **Jacob Trouba (Defenseman)**: Standing at 6’3″, Trouba brings a physical presence to the blue line, making it difficult for opposing forwards to penetrate the defensive zone.
– **Brett Howden (Center)**: With a height of 6’4″, Howden excels in winning face-offs and controlling the puck, which is vital for maintaining possession.
– **Chris Kreider (Left Wing)**: Kreider, measuring in at 6’3″, not only offers size but also speed, making him a dual threat on the ice.
By integrating players of considerable height, the Rangers can better establish their physical style of play and dominate puck battles.
## Benefits of a Height-Focused Roster
### Enhanced Physical Presence
One of the most immediate benefits of a taller roster is the enhanced physical presence on the ice. Taller players can more effectively engage in board battles and protect the puck, resulting in more offensive opportunities.
### Improved Defensive Capabilities
Height contributes significantly to defensive play. Taller defensemen can effectively block shots and disrupt passing lanes, making it difficult for opposing teams to execute their offensive strategies.
### Strategic Depth
With players who can win battles in tight spaces, the Rangers have the strategic depth needed to approach various game situations effectively. This versatility enables the team to adjust their gameplay based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.
## Case Studies: Successful Height-Focused Teams
The trend towards taller teams is not exclusive to the Rangers. Several NHL teams have successfully integrated height into their roster strategies:
### Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning have built a roster that not only features skillful players but also incorporates size. Their success in winning the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021 can be partly attributed to their physical style of play and the ability to protect leads.
### St. Louis Blues
The St. Louis Blues also embraced height in their roster construction, leading to a successful run that culminated in a Stanley Cup victory in 2019. The combination of skill and physicality allowed them to compete against faster teams.
## Practical Tips for Embracing the Vertical Advantage
### 1. Focus on Scouting Taller Players
Teams looking to replicate the Rangers’ success should prioritize scouting taller players. Analyze metrics that indicate a player’s ability to utilize their height effectively.
### 2. Develop Skills that Maximize Size
Height alone is not enough. Training programs should be designed to help taller players develop skills that take advantage of their physical attributes, such as puck protection and positioning.
### 3. Create a Balanced Roster
While height is crucial, balance remains important. Ensure that the roster includes players of varying sizes to maintain speed and agility on the ice.
### 4. Encourage Physical Play
Coaching staff should emphasize the importance of physical play in practice sessions. Encourage players to use their size effectively while maintaining discipline to avoid penalties.
## First-Hand Experience: Insights from Players and Coaches
Many Rangers players have commented on how height impacts gameplay. Forward Chris Kreider noted, “Having that physical edge allows us to dictate the pace and flow of the game.” Similarly, defenseman Jacob Trouba emphasized the strategic advantage of having taller players in crucial defensive situations.
Coaches have also recognized the difference this strategy can make. Head Coach Gerard Gallant stated, “Height brings a different dynamic to our team. We can play a heavy game, and that often leads to more scoring opportunities.”
## Conclusion: The Future of Height in Hockey
As the New York Rangers continue to embrace height in their roster construction, it’s evident that this strategy is reshaping how teams approach the game. The vertical advantage provides a multifaceted approach to winning, enhancing both offensive and defensive strategies.
With a focus on scouting, developing skills, and encouraging a physical game, the Rangers are not just aiming for size but are cultivating an entirely new style of play that leverages their unique assets.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NHL, the Rangers’ commitment to height may very well set a precedent for future roster decisions across the league. As teams look to gain an edge, the vertical advantage will likely remain a prominent factor in shaping the future of hockey.
