In The Hall!

Just yesterday we were talking about the ongoing link between the New York Rangers and US-born players. One great example of a US-born Ranger player - Brian Leetch - was selected yesterday as the first ever USA-American defenseman to be inducted into the NHL hall of fame. And we couldn't be happier for the long time Ranger star and former team captain.

Leetch played 17 amazing years for the New York Rangers and may have been the best all-around defenseman ever to wear the Blue Jersey. In addition to his defensive skills, Leetch was a big asset to team on offense as well. He is a first-ballot all time Ranger defenseman on the Blueshirt Brothers all time list.

Brian was part of the legendary 1994 squad that brought the Stanley Cup back to MSG. And as we remember - it was Leetch - not Mark Messier or Adam Graves or Mike Richter - who won the 1994 Conn Smythe trophy as the most valuable player in the 94 playoffs. And once again - to this day - Brian is the only United States born player to ever earn that award.

Joining Brian in this years selections to the NHL Hall of Fame are Brett Hull, Steve Yezerman, and Luc Robitaille. As you hopefully remember, Luc wore Ranger blue for two seasons (95-96 and 96-97) and holds the all time record for goals by a left winger: with 668.

It's a great day for the Rangers - with one exception - Mike Richter - the Ranger goalie who won us the cup - was passed over for the Hall of Fame for the 2nd straight year. We're still pulling for you Mike.