Assuming Jimmy Vesey and Michael Grabner have opening-night jobs with the Rangers locked up, that leaves five forwards vying for two roster spots.
With the release of Max Lapierre from his professional tryout, the Rangers had some competitions better outlined as they lost 3-2 in overtime to the Islanders on Tuesday night at Barclays Center.
One battle is for fourth-line center, vacant since Dominic Moore left this summer as a free agent. Fighting for that spot are Marek Hrivik and the diminutive veteran Nathan Gerbe, both needing to excel at penalty killing to show the most worth.