Chris Drury May Disappoint Fans With His Trade Deadline Strategy

Every week, The Maven opens his column for questions about the Blueshirts. The following gem comes via Bryce Lamar of Staten Island.

It's Friday, Pals, and that means that it's time for ASK THE MAVEN. Today's question comes from Bryce Lamar of Staten Island. Take it away, Bryce::

AT THIS POINT IN TIME, SHOULD THE RANGERS DECIDE THAT THE TEAM WANTS TO BE 'SELLERS' GOING INTO THE TRADE DEADLINE?

The Maven Replies: First and foremost, the Blueshirts should play to WIN every game. Period!

They owe that to their fans who pay good money to cheer them at The Garden and to those who watch from home and assorted other viewing coves.

Their primary goal – with half a season left to play – must be to gain a playoff berth. It would be devastating to the franchise for the team to win The Presidents' Trophy one year and then to miss the postseason the next. (I can't emphasize that enough.)

Humiliation is the most accurate word to describe such a negative scenario. However, that does not mean that the club should retain dead wood. Right now Chris Drury has plenty of time to study his roster with change in mind.

While most everyone wants to unload Mika Zibanejad, his "no move" clause already negated what was a potential deal with Vancouver.

Bottom Line: The next six games will be pivotal. If the Blueshirts can retain their momentum, a playoff berth will be within reach. If they fail – as they did in late November and December –

then they shall have to be sellers!