Fritsche, while not scoring last night, certainly played a strong game. In under 10 minutes of ice time, he took 4 shots, 3 of which were good. For those who don't remember, the Rangers had less than a dozen shots that were quality, the rest being low-angle shots that were easily covered or repelled.
Yes, I think Korpikoski deserves playing time. However, not as a 3rd line winger in New York. Backed by a goal in last year's elimination game versus the Penguins and a strong pre-season, Korpikoski made a point for himself to be on the team this year. So far, he hasn't delivered. Six games, 1 shot on goal, and a -1 in roughly the same amount of ice time per game that Fritsche has been given.
It's not like Korpikoski would be benched for a veteran so everyone could gang up on the organization for holding back it's talent. Fritsche is twelve and a half months older, still young, fresh, and hungry for a chance in New York. He certainly proved it last night.
Is this how Tom Renney rewards him? Besides, wouldn't Renney want an experienced player in against the defending champs? Fritsche has 4 goals and 1 assist in 19 games against Detroit. What does Korpikoski offer? He hasn't shown anything yet this season.
Looks like you were right, my friend. Korpikoski had zero shots on goal and was a minus 2 in twelve minutes of action last night. Ouch. But as long as guys like Aaron Voros keep working out, nobody's going to question Renney for this one, which is unfortunate.
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