When considering the makeup of the New York Rangers defense corps this coming season, Urho Vaakanainen is not the first name that comes to mind. Yet there’s a very good chance that Vaakanainen could fly under the radar and land a regular role in the top six.
Adam Fox and Vladislav Gavrikov will soak up most of the attention — and minutes — on the blue line once training camp begins. Braden Schneider, coming off labrum surgery, and rookie newcomer Scott Morrow will also be watched closely. And Will Borgen has a lineup spot secured, even if he doesn’t know who his partner is just yet.