NYR TBL The fuss over who the New York Rangers [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers/new-york-rangers/rangers-extend-win-streak-to-three-with-3-1-victory-over-lightning] should trade for before the deadline and who not is vastly amusing to The Maven, but I wonder how amused The Boss, Chris Drury, is at the moment. Drury is under double pressure, coming from two sides. On the one hand, there's the competing media pressing for scoops, angles, and assorted other desserts gobbled up by ever-anxious fans. On the other hand, there's pressure from the fellow who pays Drury's salary, James Dolan. A rumor making the rounds is that Jimmy D absolutely does not want Chris to deal his 2024 first Draft choice in any pre-deadline exchange. Since the Draft will be held at Dolan's "Sphere" in Vegas, how nice it would be for Drury to make the splash in Dolan's newest -- and very expensive -- toy. Actually, I agree with Dolan but for a somewhat different reason. The reason is that Drury does not -- repeat does NOT -- have to make any meaningful change in the current lineup. In terms of preparing for the playoffs, the balance is there -- even and especially in goal -- and kids like Big Al Lafreniere are coming on strong. (Check wins over Colorado & Tampa.) Last year Drury succumbed to the pressure and imported Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko. It got him a ton of good publicity until the playoffs, and then, over and out! Dolan is right. Don't touch the Draft pick. The demands for a trade -- just for the sake of it -- have been proven wrong. Don't mess with the current chemistry. Improve on what you have. Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA0MjAyMDIxODcwMzgwNjg0/usatsi_8556879.jpg] Remember, this is not 1994 when Neil Smith could import half the Edmonton Oilers. It may not look like it from early February, but with the proper coach and proper coaching this Rangers club can ease its way into the postseason and go on to a Cup win. It's been done by other teams before and can be done again. TOP STORIES
