Rumor: Grachev Not Returning to Juniors

[Declan]

Thanks, DBMaven

This story was originally posted in several places as a confirmation but it now appears that the initial writer left out the word "rumor" -- that one word makes a big difference.

IMO it's pretty much a given that this is how it'll play out anyways

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It will likely come as a surprise to no one, but according to OHL Prospects, Evgeny Grachev’s time in the Ontario Hockey League is up after a single season. According to the blog, the New York Rangers have already informed the Brampton Battalion that the 19-year old winger won’t be returning for a sophomore season, and will instead turn pro, playing in either the AHL or NHL.

Grachev, a Rangers 2008 third round draft pick (75th over all), finished second in team scoring for the Battalion in 2008-2009, leading all OHL freshmen in goals and points and earning OHL Rookie of the Year honors in the process. Despite his strong North American debut, it’s likely the 6′3″ 202-pound winger will need to spend some time adjusting to the professional game with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL before he earns a roster spot in New York.

www.beyondtheblueshirts.com/2009/08/grachevs-time-in-juniors-finished/

Confirmation of what pretty much everyone assumed. If Grachev doesn't make the Rangers roster he'll be in the AHL

[The Rambler]

With the forwards the Rangers have under contract already it could be between Lisin & Grachev to see who cracks the Ranger roster because I don't see either of them playing minimal minutes on the 4th line

[dbmaven]

Update from Brock at OHL Prospects posted. The word "rumor" was left out of the story/blogpost.
He apologizes for the mishap, and says he's going to try to get some sort of confirmation from Brampton management if he can.

DOesn't change the likelihood that the rumor is correct - just that there's no confirmation that the Rangers or Grachev have actually done any "notification".

It's now a separate post on the front page of Blueshirt Banter.