“he is technically eligible to be drafted again next year.”

Cam Hope must be a lawyer by trade.

Posted by Shane from Saskatoon, SK on 11/06/08 at 08:32 PM ET

So… shouldn’t Detroit ask for a pick for Jiri Fischer (sure, he didn’t die, but he can’t play anymore), or maybe a pick for Nashville because of Sergei Zholtok?

Kind of absurd, don’t you think?

Posted by Anthony from Brighton, MI on 11/07/08 at 12:18 AM ET

Wow...this is absolutely digusting…

Posted by Garth on 11/07/08 at 10:35 AM ET

I understand the Ranger’s point.  By the letter of the law, they’ll never sign Cherepanov.  That’s the main point Sather and the Rangers have.  Zholtok and Fischer were NHL players (well Zholtok wasn’t at the time) and therefore this rule does not apply.  It’s (on paper, so don’t crucify me for saying this) no different than Blake Wheeler not signing with the Coyotes.  The rule ays if after so long a time you do not sign your previous first round pick (unless there’s a death stipulation, doubtful) you’re entitled to a similar pick in the next year’s draft.  I understand Sather’s concern, and to be honest business is business.  Not to sound heartless, but kudos to whoever though about the possibility of this from the Rangers’ front office.

Again, it may not be the classiest move, but Sather isn’t in his position for his class.  He’s a smart GM and hockey person who knows his role and what he needs to do.  It may not be the best decision he’s ever made, but I for one totally understand it.

Posted by Phil from Pittsburgh, PA on 11/07/08 at 11:24 AM ET

The poor kid’s family probably doesn’t even have the headstone engraved yet, and the Blueshirts are already moving on.  What a bunch of corporate jerks. 

It’s a tragic loss, Slats.  Worry more about the family and get over the loss of the draft pick.

Posted by Mike A. on 11/07/08 at 12:02 PM ET