The New York Rangers had high expectations for Vladislav Namestnikov when they acquired him as part of last February’s blockbuster trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Unfortunately his first 19 games as a Ranger after the trade were rather forgettable with just two goals and four points compared to the 20 goals and 44 points he had in Tampa. To be fair, few players would have trouble scoring points playing on a line with Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov every night.
Last year’s incomplete grade provided a clean slate and the challenge to prove his value to Coach David Quinn after the 26-year old signed a two year $8 million contract extension last summer.