Here's some more Rangers history from The Maven.
One of the Rangers finest "finds" at the conclusion of World War II was center Edgar Laprade.
A native of Port Arthur, Ontario – now Thunder Bay – Laprade had starred in Allan Cup (Senior Championship of Canada) competition and rebuffed Rangers manager Frank Boucher who wanted him to play for New York.
Laprade finally agreed and became an instant favorite at old Madison Square Garden and winner of the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year at the conclusion of the 1945-46 season.
Edgar had one of the most unusual nicknames of any Ranger – "The Bearcat On The Prowl."
The monicker had a double-meaning! Laprade had starred in Canadian Senior Hockey with the Port Arthur Bearcats -- hence, The Bearcat part. 2. Edgar happened to be a fantastic forechecker, "always on the prowl."
Unfortunately, Laprade had one shortcoming that drove fans nuts. He hated to shoot the puck; always favored a pass; and he was a terrific passer.
Even in excellent shooting position, Laprade unselfishly would look for a buddy to receive the disk.
That led to a famous theory of the balcony fans. "If Edgar Laprade was awarded a penalty shot, he'd PASS!"