Ben Harpur is not unfamiliar with his current circumstance.
Harpur converted an AHL professional tryout with the Wolf Pack into a two-year agreement with the Rangers after a tough offseason spent unsure of where he would play. He skated in 21 consecutive games with Braden Schneider on the third defensive pair, bringing the size and strength that head coach Gerard Gallant prefers in his blueliners.
Harpur found himself on the outside looking in when Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury acquired Blues forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola via trade.
“It’s part of the business and the reality of being on a great team that wants to make the playoffs,” Harpur told The Post following the Rangers’ morning skate prior to their 4-1 loss to the Jets at Madison Square Garden on Monday. “Every alternate year, the same thing occurs. They provide depth. It is not the first time this has occurred to me, nor will it likely be the last. I suppose I’m somewhat accustomed to it, but I view it positively.
Ben Harpur is not moping about his diminished playing time.
AP
Ben Harpur had skated in 21 consecutive games before to the Rangers’ move, which altered his role.
Robert Sabo, New York Post
“The team is performing quite well. We’re currently in a strong position, so rather than selling, we’re making moves at the deadline to strengthen our staff. I have experienced the opposite of it. At the conclusion of my two years in Ottawa, we finished second-to-last and dead last. I’d much prefer be in this position where the team is performing well. I am aware of what the team requires of me at this time.
“I am aware that things can occur quickly as well. During my tenure with Ottawa, when we reached the Eastern Conference finals, I spent the entire season in the American League and participated in the postseason. I played in New York during that season. So that events can occur rapidly, injuries occur. It is my responsibility to simply take it in stride and be prepared for the next opportunity.
In a span of 21 games, Harpur scored one goal and dished out three assists, indicating a shift in his routine. Since he is not seeing game action, he spends additional time on the ice during practice days and game days. The 28-year-old stated that he strives to maximize each day in order to be available in the event of an injury.
“He recognizes that this is a part of the game,” Gallant said. “When your team improves, things occur. Ben has made great strides this year. He arrived from Hartford, where he did not receive much recognition, before arriving here and playing [21] consecutive games while playing great hockey. He understands it. He’s been a veteran and he’s been a decent soldier.”
Igor Shesterkin started on Monday, marking his 41st start of the season. The goaltender made 17 saves on 21 shots.
The Rangers’ 51 shots on goal established a new season high, surpassing the 46 shots against the Avalanche on October 25 and the Lightning on December 29. It was also the most shots taken by the Rangers since January 27, 2010, when they had 52 against the Islanders.
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