New York Rangers’ captain Chris Drury gets contract bought-out, will become Free Agent –NHL Update
New York Rangers announced on Wednesday that it had agreed on buying out its captain, Chris Drury’s, contract in order to free up salary cap space and open up room for players who could lead Rangers in a better way.
Drury was set to begin his fifth and final year with New York which was part of a five-year, $35.25 million contract he had signed with the team back in 2007, after becoming a free agent serving his contract with Buffalo Sabres.
"Chris is a consummate professional, a tremendous competitor and an even better person", Rangers’ general manager, Glen Sather, said in a statement. "He gave his heart and soul to the Rangers organization in his time here and we wish him the best in his
future endeavours".
Drury was a 72nd overall pick in the 1994 National Hockey League (NHL) Entry Draft during round-three and continued to play with Colorado Avalanche and also moved on to teams like Calgary Flames, Buffalo Sabres, and finally, New York Rangers.
The move will clear up over $3 million in salary space for New York, allowing the franchise to eye another centre alternative player by the name of Brad Richards, who is a top prospect in the upcoming free agency.
Drury, on the other hand, was not startled by the decision, and also stood by the management.
"I would also like to thank Ranger fans. They always inspired me to do the best I could in whatever role I was asked to play. Playing before them in the Garden was a thrill of a lifetime. I wish all the fans and the entire Ranger organization the best of
luck in the future", Drury said.
The 34-year-old had one of his lowest performances in the past season as he was only able to play in 24 games due to recurring finger injures and knee related problems.
In those matchups that he played, he was only able to put up five points, 1 goal and 4 assists, which for a captain is not a big number at all.
The American native from Trumbull, Cincinnati, will certainly be a hot pick on Friday when the free agency kicks off.
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