Bantering Points: 1/18/24

Here are today’s news and links:

Rangers News:

Larry Brooks notes that although the Blueshirts’ even strength play has improved as of late, there remains even more room for improvement (NY Post)

Brooks also highlights the need for Kaapo Kakko to continue his development into a contributing player without his status as a former second overall draft pick hanging over him (NY Post)

Colin Stephenson chatted with Peter Laviolette about being named as a coach to the All-Star game due to the Rangers current placement atop the Metropolitan Division (Newsday)

Brian Abate discusses the Blueshirts’ lack of center depth and the issues it has caused thus far (The Hockey Writers)

Jesse Courville-Lynch believes that Alexis Lafreniere has made a strong case for a massive extension following the season (The Hockey Writers)

Around the NHL:

Yesterday’s scheduled game between the Chicago Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres was postponed and moved to tonight due to a lake effect snow storm affecting travel in the area (NBC Sports)

The San Jose Sharks announced that the organization will be retiring Joe Thronton’s #19 at some point during the 2024-25 campaign (TSN)

The Chicago Blackhawks agreed to a two year, $8.5 million contract extension with forward Jason Dickinson (ESPN)