After it was rumored yesterday that Vinni Lettieri was being pursued by both the Chicago Blackhawks and New York Rangers, he has signed a two-year deal with the Rangers and will join Hartford for the rest of the season on an amateur tryout.
The University of Minnesota forward had a breakout season this year with 37 points in 38 games but saw his squad eliminated by Notre Dame in the NCAA tournament. He’ll now head to professional hockey at 22-years old and try to continue his big year. Finally putting his exceptional offensive skill to work, Lettieri’s skating took a step forward this year.
Lettieri always looked like he should be putting up more points than he was, but could never quite dominate like his skill level showed. Now moving to a bigger, faster league it could take him a while to adjust again. If he can though, he has a high offensive ceiling and the drive to compete at the next level.
Michael Russo of the Star Tribune was the first to report that Lettieri had come to an agreement.
Chose Rangers over Hawks? Hope it was more money because it definitely wasn’t about wanting to win.
You say that like the Rangers are a 75 point team.
I say that like the Rangers haven’t won a Cup since 94
Just because they haven’t won a cup, doesn’t mean a player shouldn’t want to go there. Being in the conference finals 3 of the last 6 years and at the top of their division every year it a reason to join an organization.
That’s what players play for…second place
I can’t stand the Rangers but they may end up with 100 points in the toughest division in hockey