Pucks on Broadway: Analysis, Discussion, and Musings on the New York Rangers

While there is a bit of a lull in the action before tonight's contest against Minnesota (8 p.m.), there are a few house keeping items for the Rangers to address, as well as here at Pucks on Broadway moving into the next year.

First, the important issues the Rangers will address. Consider this a combination of a holiday wish list and grocery list of what the Rangers need:

• The defense: The rumors are rampant about it. The Rangers have addressed it as their biggest concern. Will they have to wait until the deadline in order to make their move? In the past two seasons, Paul Mara and Sandis Ozolinsh have been their real deadline deals. Don't expect quite the same this year. I think there is some merit to the John-Michael Liles talk, and even perhaps Derek Morris. One way or another, it will be the one thing, if not the only thing, the Rangers tinker with before the playoffs.
• Heart: See what losing Jed Ortmeyer does? The Rangers have some heart and soul guys, but nobody is stepping up to fill the role that Ortmeyer played last year. Who will be vocal enough and make a meaningful impact on the ice moving forward? My bet is Chris Drury.
• Jagr: Is he finally happy with Scott Gomez as his center? They played well last night and going into the 3 games in 4 nights this weekend, we will get a better sense of what's to come. The Rangers need him in order to be successful in the playoffs.
• Contracts: Henrik Lundqvist and Sean Avery are both UFA's (unrestricted free agents) this summer if GM Glen Sather can't sign them. You know people will be offering, if not just to get them off the Rangers.
  

And finally, what's going on here at Pucks.

With the new year moving forward, there are some exciting new features coming.

• First and foremost, you will see at the left our READER COMMUNITY. If you're a visitor, drop your name and even a photo and begin to interact with other readers. In the future, Pucks will hold special events as well as contests for readers! So get involved!
• A photographer - - we are trying hard to try and find one. Being that we can't provide press credentials YET, we are still looking for a fan or current photographer with a few pictures. Email any inquiries.
• Weekly Guests - - we had Jeremy Kenter of Devil's Daily and after the New Year it will be a weekly feature.
• Are you a writer or Ranger blogger? Pucks is always looking to expand and will be having guest columns as well. Email us at the left and we'll be happy to start publishing YOUR materials!

More after the game...