Rangers NCAA October Review & TV Update

November 5, 2009 | Posted by Leslie Treff

The Rangers have six prospects currently playing NCAA hockey, including two in the WCHA, two playing in Hockey East, and two in the CCHA.

Ryan McDonagh, D, University of Wisconsin, Rating: B–A lot has been expected of McDonagh coming into his junior season, and for the most part, he is off to a good start. He is a team tri-captain, and a first pairing blueliner with fellow top prospect, Jake Gardiner. Not as much of an offensive defenseman as was expected when he was drafted in the first round by the Montreal Canadiens in 2007, McDonagh is a good two-way blueliner, who is strong, for the most part reliable in his own zone, and plays with an edge.

Derek Stepan, C, University of Wisconsin, Rating: A–Sometimes its hard to remember that Stepan is only a sophomore, as he is already a top offensive forward on the Badgers team. Currently the leading forward in points, and second on the team overall, Stepan is speedy, with great hands, and excellent instincts. He plays in all situations for Wisconsin, and looks better and better as each week passes.

Chris Kreider, LW, Boston College, Rating: B+–Collegiate hockey was expected to be a big adjustment for the Rangers first round selection in the 2009 entry draft, and it has been. Coming from prep hockey into Hockey East would not be easy for anyone, and Kreider is not an exception. However, from the first game, Kreider’s speed and presence on the ice have stood out. Although he has played on the third and fourth lines, it is clear that every time he is on a shift that he is something special. It will take time, and he has a lot to learn, but Kreider’s potential is extremely high.

Carl Hagelin, LW, University of Michigan, Rating: A–Currently in the top 20 in CCHA scoring, Hagelin is now one of the leaders of Wolverines hockey. Developing much better than expected when he was drafted by the Rangers in the sixth round of the 2007 entry draft, Hagelin is strong on the puck, with good speed, and finishes well. It does look like he will complete his degree before playing professional hockey, but Hagelin has developed into an excellent prospect, who will fit well into the new Rangers system.

Max Campbell, C, Western Michigan University, Rating: B-–Campbell has continued to improve his game this season, but just has never made the breakout conversion that was hoped for from junior B to collegiate hockey. Campbell does have offensive skills,  but nothing has really stood out, and play in his own end is not his strong point. Although its certainly not too late, the junior needs to break out to be a legitimate candidate for an NHL contract after his four years of eligibility have expired.

Danny Hobbs, C, University of Massachusetts, Rating: C–Hobbs did not get a lot of ice time last season, so his development was hindered. Expected to get more this year, on a competitive team, was promising. However, Hobbs has not been a factor in any of the recent games, despite getting quite a bit of time of the ice. Not looking exceptional in any category, its questionable whether the UMass sophomore will be in the Rangers plans anytime in the near future.

This weekend’s TV Schedule only includes Wisconsin, which plays Minnesota twice this weekend. Both games will be on Fox College Sports Central at 8 pm.

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