Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Forward Danny Kristo and defenseman Dylan McIlrath are considered two of the top prospects for New York Rangers, but management seems to think that the two young players are not quite ready to crack the NHL roster.
Along with Kristo and McIlrath, the Rangers cut forwards Michael Haley, Andrew Yogan, Michael Kantor. Also cut were defensemen Aaron Johnson, Danny Syvret, Tommy Hughes and goaltender Cam Talbot. The nine players were assigned to the Rangers’ AHL affiliate Hartford Wolfpack on Wednesday afternoon.
Kristo, who the Rangers acquired via trade with Montreal Canadiens this offseason, had hoped to be one of the replacements for either Carl Hagelin or Ryan Callahan as they continue to rehab from their offseason surgeries. It is a bit of a disappointment to see Kristo get cut earlier than others, but the young forward showed promise in his preseason appearances. Don’t be surprised if Kristo is called up at some point this season.
McIlrath, the Rangers’ top draft pick in 2010, had a disappointing preseason and seems to be a year away from potentially taking a starting role on the Blueshirts’ blueline. Both he and Kristo have bright futures and should benefit from more time in the AHL, where they can continue to improve their game.
The Rangers still have work to be done before they can finalize their NHL roster for the start of the season on October 3 in Phoenix. Expect to hear more cuts from the team over the next week.
Martin Burns covers the New York Rangers for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter!
