1. Connor McDavid still hasn't re-signed with Edmonton and that means there's still a chance he could wind up playing for another team; that's a simple fact of NHL life.
2. One of those "Other teams" could be the Los Angeles Kings or the Toronto Maple Leafs since King Connor is from Toronto. (Longshot of longshots would be the Rangers.)
3. There are no definitive signs as to who will be the Rangers' next captain because no smoke has emanated from the offices overlooking Seventh Avenue and West 33 Street.
4. The Maven's choice for captain means going young as the Detroit Red Wings once did with Steve Yzerman, the Blackhawks with Jonathan Toews and Pittsburgh with Sid Crosby. It worked for them and it could work with Will Cuylle.
5. The Vincent Trocheck Marching and Chowder Society points out that Vinnie has been acting more like a captain than any other Ranger.
6. Translated, that means Trocheck hosts young players at his home and tosses team
dinners as well. He's been a frequent and authentic postgame interview for the media and is the most overtly captain guy in the public eye. (Fine, fine – nothing against Vin but I'd rather see a younger guy.)
7. When you think about it, Quinn Hughes would look good – make that VERY good – in a Devils uniform. But when you think deeper, New Jersey would have to give up half the team to get him. (Not worth it. Period!)
8. Most of the Rangers fans I know also love baseball. With that in mind, there's a terrific new baseball book on the market. It's called "BALLPARK THERAPY – Why We Go, Why It Matters." I highly recommend it and I'll tell you why:
Is There A Brad Marchand Type Of Player On The Rangers?
You and I know that it's Friday and we know that it's "Ask The Maven" time. Today's question is from Peter Prokop of Staten Island. Take it away, Peter:
9. "BALLPARK THERAPY" is about the many reasons we seek out the ballpark from everyday life. Author George Falkowski includes personal stories from five former big leaguers, including the very revered Wade Boggs, Sparky Lyle and Rick Cerone.
10. Now that his baseball book is fresh and on sale, I hope Gorgeous George will soon begin his next work: Suggested title: "HOCKEY THERAPY – Why We Go, And Why It Matters That We Yell At The Referees."