New York Rangers: Oscar Lindberg Making His Case Early

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Before the preseason starts up next week, hockey fans have been somewhat entertained by the prospect tournament in Traverse City, Michigan, especially if your team is actually in the tournament since only eight teams compete per year. This was the first time I have ever heard of a tournament like this but since it is only prospects and eight teams, I can see why there isn’t a bigger buzz for this event.

The New York Rangers were one of these teams participating this year so, as a Rangers fan, I decided to have a listen to a game and read up on them, as none of the games were on TV.

What I have found out over these past few days when listening to and reading recaps of the games is that the Rangers’ prospects at defense and goaltending are very weak, which should be even more of a reason for the Rangers to extend Henrik Lundqvist as soon as possible.

However, since the Rangers have the defensemen and goaltender (for now at least), the team needs some young offensive forward prospects to shine — and shine they have, especially center Oscar Lindberg.

Lindberg has been a star for the Rangers’ prospects in Traverse City and has scored five goals in three games, including a hat trick. Lindberg has created some whispers, and depending on what he shows the Rangers’ coaching staff in the preseason starting next week, he could very well open some eyes and make the Rangers’ starting roster this season.

Will Lindberg make the team on opening night or will he have to wait a while?

He will most likely have to wait a while since the Rangers are currently filled at the center position. That is, unless a guy like Brian Boyle is dealt within the next few weeks, as he has been rumored in trades for months now. But whether Boyle or someone else is traded or not, there is no doubt in my mind that Lindberg will be with the Rangers at some point in the 2013-14 season.

I believe the Rangers think highly of this young man and from what I am listen to and reading about him, he is a great two-way center who is good at faceoffs, passing, and scoring. What else could anyone ask for?

Lindberg will be in the big leagues sometime this season. Agree or disagree?

Steven Carollo is a New York Rangers’ and sports writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter, add him on Facebook, connect with him on LinkedIn, and join his Google network.