Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette makes defenseman priority for training camp

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Ryan Hall
August 24, 2024 (8:49)

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Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette mentioned that top defensive prospect Zac Jones will be given a long look during training camp as he is expected to replace Erik Gustafsson.

Many feel that Jones will be a dark horse in this season and likely one of the best upcoming defensemen in the league. Laviolette spoke to the media recently and gave his thoughts on what Jones will bring to the Rangers.

«He's worked his tail off every practice and every day,» Laviolette said. «He's gotten an opportunity to jump back in. He's waited, he's been patient, worked hard to get the opportunity and he's jumped back in and played excellent again.»

Jones played 31 games last year for the rangers scoring two goals with 7 assists for 9 points. Many feel that he will find his game at another level and make the case to remain with the Rangers for the entire year.

«Zac Jones got better every single time he played for us,» Laviolette said via NHL.com. «He had to bring that out in himself every time we called his number, and it wasn't on a consistent basis. When he got the opportunity, he was fantastic. Certainly, he's going to get a long look in training camp.»

It remains to be seen whether he will meet his coaches challenge and become an elite defenceman with the Rangers. At 23 years old he still has plenty to learn and to prove to people but if the intangibles are there and the defenseman can play at the level people think he can that he'll be just fine and management will be pleased with the results.

Source : The Hockey News

Zac Jones Going To Get A �Long Look' In Training Camp