Bantering Points: 12/9/23

Here are today’s news and links:

Rangers News:

Mollie Walker relays word that Barclay Goodrow’s availability is up in the air for tonight’s game in Washington as he remains on the mend after taking a puck to the face (NY Post)

Walker also heard from Alexis Lafreniere about his ability to tune out outside noise and how doing so has helped him to a massive step in the early goings of the 2023-24 campaign (NY Post)

Brendan Azoff believes that the Rangers’ recent defensive deficiencies might lead to long term concern if they aren’t fixed quickly (The Hockey Writers)

Around the NHL:

The New York Islanders acquired defenseman Robert Bortuzzo from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for a seventh round selection in the 2024 Entry Draft (NBC Sports)

Free agent forward Jesse Puljujarvi has been cleared for full contact as he continues his attempted return from bilateral hip surgery in the offseason (TSN)