Alexander Frolov, Welcome to NY
The New York Rangers made their biggest off-season splash this year to date signing Left Wing Alexander Frolov to a 1-year deal estimated at 3 million. The cap conscious figure is truly a testament to the city of New York, a long time desired destination for Frolov, who left a reported 20 million on the table in an offer to return to his native country of Russia and star in its top level league, the KHL. Playing with LA his entire 7-year NHL career, Frolov felt it was time for a change, opting to head east for the chance to live in New York, his alleged favorite city. Perhaps a future in Russia is not entirely out of the question, however, as Frolov was signed to just a 1-year deal, with reports of longer offers out there. It seems at least for the time being the 28-year old winger wants to keep his options open, but for now he is ready to continue his career in the NHL with the Rangers.How the Rangers will use Frolov remains to be seen, though one would certainly think he will see his fair share of ice time. To maximize firepower, the Rangers may consider pairing Frolov on the same line as Right Wing Marian Gaborik, the club’s top scorer just a year ago. The Blueshirts currently feature only one other Russian on their roster, Center Artem Anisimov. It’s likely Frolov will see himself skating with Ansimov as well, as countrymen are often featured alongside each other in an effort to ease a new player’s transition and maximize natural playing styles. The combined line of Frolov, Gaborik and Ansimov would be the Rangers’ best.Last year, Frolov lit the lamp 19 times, down from 32 the year before (his career high is 35 goals), and saw his point total drop to 51, his lowest mark since the 2003-2004 season. Still, Frolov is far from over the hill. With a fresh start in New York, let’s hope this past season is remembered as an aberration rather than the beginning of a declining trend.