Why The Rangers Did Well Without A First Round Draft Pick

I'm not going to sit here and tell you that it's a good idea NOT to have a first-round pick in the Entry Draft but – on the other hand – it's not the worst thing in the world either.

Here's why: The Rangers choice of  left wing Malcolm Spence was chosen in the second round on the 43d pick. And that means a bunch of clubs passed on a good one.

"Both The Hockey News Draft Preview and Central Scouting had listed Spence as a first-rounder," says The Old Scout, "and they are as reliable as any analyses you'll find."

The Hockey News listed Spence at 19th overall while Central Scouting put him in the 17th spot for North American players.

"He's got speed and a great shot," a scout noted for the Hockey News, "but he still has to gain a level of consistency."

Another THN scout put it this way: "He's a really talented kid and a real good athlete. He's a good skater with good size. He gets to the net, and has some skills to make plays but also to shoot it. 

"Also, he's good on the penalty kill." Then, a pause: "And he's a really good kid."

My astute-thinking-Ranger-Fan-Grandson Ariel Fischler, offers his input: 

"Spence is very energetic, as well as a natural leader – assistant captain – on the Otters and his stats are good. The most important thing for him is his decision to play for Michigan next season. That's excellent basic training for the NHL."