Michael Del Zotto at age 19 took his first step to becoming a premier NHL offensive defenseman this season, playing for a team who other than Marian Gaborik, didn't possess many creative players to pass the puck to.
Despite playing back line for a mostly inept Ranger offense, MDZ put up fantastic numbers in his first year in the big leagues.
Del Zotto scored nine times in his rookie NHL season and added twenty-eight helpers, finishing 7th overall n Rookie scoring and second overall in scoring for rookie defenseman.
The only D-man with better point totals is Calder finalist Tyler Myers who plays for the Sabres.
Now MDZ's game is not without it's flaws, his defensive play was at times erratic and reckless with positioning problems being the main reason for his somewhat worrisome -20 +/- rating.
Most of that was due to being thrust into the NHL earlier than expected combined with being saddled with a lot of ice time on a very troubled team.
The Mouth has no doubt Michael will improve and be an offensive asset for our Blueshirts for years to come.
The Mouth lends his commentary the video below until the action begins highlighting some MDZ's best work during the Rangers 2009-2010 season.
The Hi-Lite video was done by a terrific videographer and dedicated Ranger fan from Norway named LoFFen.
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