Hebert Going to Manhattan

March 7, 2001 

In a surprise move the New York Rangers claimed Guy Hebert off waivers today. The Anaheim Mighty Ducks released the netminder after acquiring Steve Shields in the Teemu Selanne deal. While it's not surprising that Hebert was claimed, it is surprising that the Rangers claimed him. The team is all but mathematically eliminated from post-season play and yet they will absorb nearly $700,000 of Hebert's $3.5 million salary.  

It was common knowledge that the former Duck goalie was on his way out of Anaheim, but it was expected that he would clear waivers and the team would be forced to absorb most of his salary in any subsequent deal. As it stands, the Rangers have essentially picked up a considerable portion of the cash considerations included in the Selanne deal. 

Fantasy Impact: Considering the fact that the Rangers are in "sell-off" mode, this deal makes no sense. Hebert will be in no better position than he was in Anaheim. And to top it off, the situation will only get worse if the Rangers find new homes for Rich Pilon and Sylvain Lefebvre.