Rangers-Columbus Recap This is purely personal; I hate trade rumors that never stop being churned out 24/7, 12 months of the year. Most of the reports are as authentic as a three-dollar bill. However, I make one exception when it comes to rumor-dispensers. That happens to be a special friend who takes the Rangers as seriously as Chris Drury, Peter Laviolette, and Benny Allaire put together. Just for the fun of it -- and since I had nothing to do the other day -- I asked my Blueshirt Braintruster what kind of deal he'd make if he was Drury, Lavvy, and Benny combined. He shot back that it would be a three-for-one rental with a team open to trade. The team is Anaheim, managed by my old Devils pal Pat Verbeek. Frank Vatrano (77) celebrates with center Adam Henrique (14), defenseman Cam Fowler (4) and center Mason McTavish (23) [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA0NjUwMjU3ODEwNzI4NTQ5/usatsi_21703474.jpg] Frank Vatrano (77) celebrates with center Adam Henrique (14), defenseman Cam Fowler (4) and center Mason McTavish (23) And since the Ducks are a non-playoff team, building for the future, Verbeek would want a young forward who has yet to reach his full potential. And since Drury has lost Filip Chytil and Blake Wheeler, it stands to reason that Chris might want to fill the gaps with more seasoned skaters than Matt Rempe and Adam Edstrom. So, how about this, my fine, feathered friend proposes that the Rangers get forwards Adam Henrique and Frank Vatrano, as well as very tough, seasoned defenseman Radko Gudas. In return, Drury ships Kaapo Kakko (plus) to the Left Coast. The assumption with the Blueshirts high command has to be that Double K never will develop into the star New York thought it was getting and that the peak he's hit thisseason is as far as Kaapo will go. In return, the Blueshirts will cover gaps caused by the Wheeler and Chytil sabbaticals with three proven, experienced performers who also will cover for the inevitable injuries. Since I don't make deals and am on record that Drury should do nothing but stick with the talented, good chemistry group he now has, I merely submit this as a public service to Rangerville's citizens in dire need of a trading fix. I have Ranger fan friends who have to read of a proposed trade every morning with their oatmeal and toast. Otherwise, a day cannot begin for them. That is my public service. If, however, Drury does complete such a deal, I modestly request that you give The Maven all the credit in the world!
