December is a significant time in the NHL season — just far enough in that front offices have seen enough from their squads to understand what they’re really about.
That’s not to say that there are normally many trades in December, especially since there’s a trade freeze for part of it (the holiday roster freeze goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. local time Dec. 19 and runs through 12:01 a.m. local time Dec. 28). But what you do normally see is that trade discussions ramp up and seeds are planted that result in deals consummated in January/February.
It’s also a month during which we often see coaching changes. A year ago, Alain Vigneault (Flyers) and Travis Green (Canucks) were fired in December, and Paul Maurice (Jets) stepped down the same month. Chicago fired Jeremy Colliton in November.
The point being: We are far enough along in the season that if a team isn’t performing, management will be getting a little antsy.
Let’s take a look at four teams looking for answers right now.
New York Rangers
I would imagine the Blueshirts’ inconsistent ways are beginning to test the patience of general manager Chris Drury — and in more ways than one.
Consider, for example, that the Rangers are accurately seen as one of the top potential landing spots for Blackhawks star Patrick Kane, a pending unrestricted free agent who could move ahead of the March 3 trade deadline. But remember that Kane and his agent, Pat Brisson, hold the keys to any in-season trade via a full no-movement clause. Kane and Brisson can pick their destination, just like Brisson did with Claude Giroux a year ago under similar circumstances.
The Rangers have to do their part if Kane is going to head to New York, and that’s to resemble the Stanley Cup contender they were projected to be before the season. Drury cleared up some cap space in the Ryan Reaves trade already. So the Rangers are well positioned to pounce ahead of March 3. But they have to start winning games more consistently. I can’t imagine Kane waving his no-move clause to join a bubble team.
I could be wrong, but I see the course correction coming organically here. I don’t think Drury has to do anything drastic at this time. This team will turn around. I know that’s a boring take, but this is an example of a team where patience will ultimately be the best course of action. Of course, I could be wrong. But there are times when GMs feel the pressure to do something drastic and end up doing something they absolutely regret.