Terrence Lee-Imagn Images [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/0f318662-df32-423b-8f99-bb90a32591d9.jpeg] Terrence Lee-Imagn Images There are studious, serious – and downright strong-willed – hockey people out there in Downtown Rangerville who worry about the franchise as a whole, MORE than winning now. To them – superscout Jess Rubenstein being one – beating Minnesota is less important than positioning for a top Draft pick. And, of course, "positioning" means that losing, in this case, is best. The Maven vehemently disagrees with Jeff but I am obliged to look at both sides of the issue so here goes: FOUR REASONS WHY THE RANGERS DESPERATELY MUST BECOME STRONGER AS A FRANCHISE: (Courtesy Jess) 1. HARTFORD: The AHL farm club is a mess. 2. PROSPECT: North Dakota product EJ Emery projects as no better than a sixth defenseman – if he makes the NHL. 3. THE DEARTH: "Not a single prospect will come to the Rangers and be a first line player – Not One!" insists Jeff. 4. ANSWERS THE MAVEN: As for my personal optimism over the three straight Rangers wins, Pal Jess goes poetic: "What a fool believes, he sees!"
