The French Canadian center won a job with Rangers out of camp by default. Losing Derek Stepan and Oscar Lindberg in the offseason left New York thin down the middle. Alain Vigneault’s decision to cut both Lias Andersson and Filip Chytil made Desharnais the last man standing.
New York’s situation changed, however, when Boo Nieves arrived from Hartford. Nieves’ stellar defensive play gives the Rangers a much needed lift.
Between Nieves and J.T. Miller’s conversion to center, there’s no spot for Desharnais when everyone’s healthy. Zibanejad and Hayes provide the top six threats. Miller adds scoring depth and Nieves locks down opposing threats.