New York Rangers management announced yesterday that they have offered prospect goaltender Jason Labarbera an entry level contract. Labarbera; 26 years of age is a tad over the "prospect" age, but has lots of experience at many levels of pro hockey. Recent Rangers scouts have hit the road to watch the netminder do this thing and have all come back to New York head man Nuvolone stating he is ready for the big show. "His technical game and consistancy have improved greatly compared to when he was drafted and when I seen him last." One scout stated when asked about Labarbera. "He looks ready to bring his game against the best players in the world." Another scout gushed when talking about his overall game.
Labarbera has long wanted to join the Rangers, but past management has either not wanted him in the system, or just did not think he was ready enough even for a backup role. While Labarbera's agent could not be reached for comment, it is believed the contract offer will be accepted. As of mid Febuary the Rangers have three goalies under contract; Kevin Weekes who is the starting tender, Sebastien Charpentier who now holds the backup role in the Big Apple, and Stephen Valiquette who is the Hardford Wolfpack starting goalie. Depending if Jason signs and how he looks in practice when and if he arives in NY will determine where the Rangers will send him. There are a few options which include taking over the backup job with the big club, or trying to take over the starters role in the minors and working his way back up. It is unlikely "Labs" will take over the starting role from Weekes who has raised his game the last month trying to get NY into the playoffs, but the backup job sure isn't out of the question.