Thursday, January 29, 2009

Weitz Seventh Defenseman

Katie Strang at Blue Notes says that newly acquired defenseman Erik Reitz won't be heading to Hartford and instead will join the Rangers for their game in Boston. Renney said having Reitz around as a seventh d-man will allow the team more flexibility and that Reitz can bring an element of toughness to the club.

Strang also reports that both Dan Girardi and Aaron Voros have played with Reitz previously and characterized him as a solid, tough defenseman who plays physical, is willing to fight, and has a hard shot.

Finally Strang noted that Wade Redden didn't skate at practice today because of "maintenance issues" but will be able to skate tomorrow.

...did someone say toughness and Rangers defenseman? Nah, couldn't have.

...Reitz might only be with the team as insurance in case Redden's "maintenance issue" is worse than anticipated.

1 comment:

Evan S said...

I think this is a good trade for the rangers, they may have just found a diamond in the rough for the defense. Fritsche is a good solid young guy and has a long career ahead of him, but frankly, its not with this team. This removes a glut at the forward and especially 3rd/4th line position for the team and Reitz could be great, he is minus 2 in 31 games which is very impressive considering he only has 2 points. He should prove worthy flanking Paul Mara in the coming weeks.