How many times have the Ranger’s signed players from other teams only to find that they do not fit in? Case in point, Bobby Holik. Everyone had their doubts that one of the most hated Devils could jump ship, crawl out of the swamp and do well for the Rangers. As it turned out, the fans were right.

Holik came to the Rangers and turned up at camp out of shape. He injured his groin as a result and only played 65 games that season. Reportedly, he caused disharmony in the lockeroom. He went to Atlanta after the lockout, after being bought out.

This summer, the Rangers signed another high profile Devil. Like Holik, Gomez is also a center. Unlike Holik, Gomez has shed his Devil skin and has already proved himself a Ranger with one simple gesture.

After losing a puck toss with Chris Drury for the right to wear number 23 for the New York Rangers, Scott Gomez offered Blair Betts $10,000.00 if he would give Gomez his number 19. At first I thought this was a bit presumptuous. Hey Gomer, don’t come to the Rangers and throw your new big contract money around trying to buy the number of a existing Ranger. That’s kind of pushy, eh?

But, Blair Betts said he didn’t want the money and said Gomez could have his number 19. Blair would wear 15. Now that’s a friendly gesture toward a new teammate to make him feel welcome. It isn’t where the story ends. In response to Bett’s generosity, Gomez is going to donate the $10,000. to the Garden of Dreams foundation.

By this simple and generous gesture, Scott Gomez has shed his Devil horns, pitchfork and tail. 

Scott Gomez, welcome! You are a New York Ranger!