Newz Forum: HOCKEY: Rangers agree to terms with Blackburn, page 1

New York, NY (Sports Network) - The New York Rangers have come to terms on an undisclosed contract with restricted free agent goaltender Dan Blackburn. Blackburn missed the entire 2003-04 season with a nerve injury in his left shoulder and underwent surgery on March 31.

The 21-year-old Blackburn was dubbed the Rangers' goaltender of the future when the team selected him with the 10th overall pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. This year, New York spent its first-round pick on University of Michigan goaltender Alvaro Montoya.

Blackburn made his NHL debut at the ripe age of 18 and became the fifth youngest goaltender to appear in a game. In two years with the Rangers, Blackburn has appeared in 63 games, posting a 20-32-4 mark, along with a 3.22 goals-against average.

New York announced a second signing on Thursday, with defenseman David Liffiton. The 19-year-old, considered one of the organization's top defensive prospects, played in 44 games for the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League last season. He recorded two goals, nine assists and 85 penalty minutes.