Fans of 29 other teams wished they had him in his prime….

Brian Leetch, a certain first ballot hall-of-famer, had #2 sent to the rafters of MSG last night.

Now - we all know about my propensity to dislike anything Ranger.  However, I can never say with any sence of realism that I disliked Brian Leetch.  I respected the man, and appreciated the role he played as the best US Born defenseman ever (in my opinion).  I always had a fear whenever the Rangers went on the PP, because Leetch always killed us.

Also - the way Brian Leetch handled himself, set him miles apart from any other Ranger that wore the Broadway Blue Sweater.  He always exuded class and dignity, and that can be respected.  As an Islander fan, I do not have to start a fan club for the guy, but he is one that I would shake hands, and respect.

In a nice move, he (Leetch) announced that Adam Graves will also have his number ( 9 ) go up next season.  In addition, he is on that list of class individuals that I respect as a hockey fan.

I also think that the Rangers should seriously consider honoring another #2, Brad Park, as well.  Growing up in the late 60’s, I liked watching Park play.  He was always the #2 D-man in the NHL (behind Robert Orr, of course), and was responsible for the rise of the Rangers in the beginning of the 70’s.

Well - that’s for another time…