Dylan McIlrath era in NY maybe ushered in sooner than later...

While practicing in Hartford today with the Whale, Ranger defenseman Marc Staal told reporters per Andrew Gross that he is not in game shape and not cleared for contact which throws his availability in to question for the start of the season in Sweden against the Kings and Ducks next week. This completely changes my opinion on whether Staal should play overseas at all. The Rangers need to keep him here and get him in game shape for their first regular season game against the Islanders on 10/15. If Staal can't go, I can really see the Rangers keeping McIlrath for the time being. Although Torts says he isn't ready he may not have a choice especially with Erixon struggling.