Top 10 Americans To Watch in 2011-2012

USA Hockey Magazine is counting down the top 10 Americans to watch in 2011-2012. In no particular order, this list features players and personnel from all different levels.

10. Ryan Callahan, New York Rangers

Ryan Callahan (right) stands next to fellow Team USA Olympian Ryan MaloneRyan Callahan (right) stands next to fellow Team USA Olympian Ryan Malone

Sept. 29 Ryan Callahan
Oct. 1
Tyler Biggs
Oct. 2
Dean Blais
Oct. 3
Seth Jones
Oct. 4
Knight, Decker
Oct. 5
Ron Wilson
Oct. 6
David Backes
Oct. 7
Rocco Grimaldi
Oct. 8
Zach Parise
Oct. 9
Tim Thomas

HEIGHT: 5-11

WEIGHT: 190

BORN: March 21, 1985

HOMETOWN: Rochester, N.Y.

LAST SEASON: Tallied 23 goals and 25 assists for 48 points in 60 games for the Rangers.

Recently named the 26th captain in franchise history, Callahan enters his sixth NHL season with high hopes. The Blue Shirts off-season may be highlighted by the free-agent signing of some guy named Brad Richards, but this Rochester, N.Y. native is the team’s true workhorse. Known for his character and work ethic, it’s no surprise Callahan was chosen to wear the “C.”

The Rangers drafted Callahan in the fourth round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He also helped Team USA to a silver medal in the 2010 Olympics.

The right-winger posted career highs in goals, assists and points last season. With added offensive firepower and more responsibility for the captain, watch for Callahan to surpass his totals and bring the Stanley Cup Playoffs back to the Big Apple.

Here’s what Callahan told ESPN New York’s Katie Strang:

"Obviously it's a privilege and an honor," said Callahan, who served as an alternate captain the previous two seasons. "The way I'm going to approach it is going to be the same as wearing an A. The things I do on the ice and off the ice – there's a reason why I feel I got the A – and I'm continuing on now with the C."

 

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