Rangers respond to Ducks

Rangers GM Phil Grote was straight to the point in his response to the news that Ducks GM Kevin Reynolds was unhappy with the Mark Streit signing. Here's what he had to say:

"GM's in the MRFHL have been crying for years for one reason or another. This is not unexpected or new. Until a deal is signed, you should never think "you had a deal in place" Either you do or you don't. In this instance, they didn't and now they want to rile up the troops because of some perceived slight? I think if they have to manufacture motivation out there on the West Coast, then problems are alot larger than one would think. And in that vein, it's not really surprising why the player would choose to be somewhere else."

Mark was a bit more diplomatic with his response

"The choice was not an easy one. The Ducks have a great team over there and GM Reynolds has done some fantastic work in bringing in some quality depth. I enjoyed my time in Anaheim, but felt that the Rangers provide me with the best chance at winning. The depth that GM Grote has been able to acquire at every position makes this team dangerous in any situation no matter who is on the ice. I also feel that the forwards in NY better compliment what I bring to the team. The speed and skill that these guys have 1 thru 12 is not something that may teams in the league can boast. Additionally, I have had some of my better seasons playing in the Eastern Conference and finally, being able to say when all is said and done that I was fortunate enough to have dressed for three of the Original Six Franchises is an honor in and of itself"

Streit went on to say that "I wish the Ducks all the best, and who knows, if they are fortunate enough to make the Playoffs, maybe they can meet us in the Finals"