Danny Kristo Re-Signs, But Is Time Running Out?
Danny Kristo must make his move this season. (NHL)
The New York Rangers and Wolf Pack forward Danny Kristo have agreed to terms on a new contract. Per CapGeek it is a one year deal at over $825K.
That’s the good news for Danny, the bad news is – at 24 years of age and an NHL roster stacked at RW, is time running out?
Recently, NYR Director of Player Personnel, Gordie Clark told NHL.com:
So what does that mean? Is it that they will try him out at center this upcoming season or will he help develop the games of other centers like Oscar Lindbergh and JT Miller.
The pair of Lindbergh and Kristo played well when placed together on the same line down in Hartford. However, at this late stage in his development any shift in position could be a tell-tale sign that the Rangers don’t foresee Danny Kristo on their NHL roster.
Kristo was a star at the University of North Dakota and was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens. The Habs were not pleased with some of Kristo’s off ice issues and sent him to the Rangers for prospect Christian Thomas.
In his first full season for the Pack he netted 25 goals and 43 points in 65 games. Not bad, but certainly not overly impressive enough for the Rangers to call him up. Considering injuries to wingers such as Rick Nash, Ryan Callahan and Mats Zuccarello at various points in the season, Kristo was never given the chance.
So where does he go from here? We believe this is Kristo’s make or break season. If he can’t crack this Rangers roster in camp, he will start the season in Hartford. Considering the current cast of wingers with the Rangers, it’s unlikely he makes the cut. However, if players falter like JT Miller, Matthew Lombardi or there is an injury on wing, that will be the real indication of his future.
If the Rangers do not call him up, I highly doubt he will ever wear Rangers Blue.
For more on Danny Kristo read:
Is Danny Kristo Ready to Make the NHL Jump?
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