Mandatory Photo Credit: Alex McIntyre/New York Riptide/NLL
In the midst of an extended off season, the Philadelphia Wings remain adamant in building a championship roster. On November 24th, the Wings announced that they have acquired a fourth-round pick in accompaniment to defenseman John Ranagan from the New York Riptide. Paul Day, General Manager and Head Coach, is still strategically moving pieces with a “win-now,” mentality. This proves true with his most recent transaction. This transaction was made in exchange for defenseman Matt Marinier and a second-round pick. Previously, Marinier was selected in the second round in the 2019 by the Wings but has yet to see playing time. Ranagan, who began his NLL career in Philadelphia in 2014, returns to his former stomping grounds.
Profile on John Ranagan
In college, John Ranagan was an All-American at Johns Hopkins University in 2011 and 2012. Last season, Ranagan played in twelve games, totaled two points (a goal and an assist). He recovered 51 ground balls, turned the ball over eight times, and caused a turnover. Ranagan also served twelve penalty minutes. In hindsight, this move by the Philadelphia Wings provides veteran assistance for the 2021 season while maintaining a draft pick. The comparison between Ranagan and Matt Marinier’s 2021 campaign command the attention of fans to determine who won this trade.
A Rookie for a Veteran
The addition of a 6’4″, 216lb player helps strengthen the roster, specifically in transitional effort. Paul Day claims Ranagan is a “big, fast player” who offers a “positive veteran presence” in the Wings locker room. Returning to Philadelphia in his sixth season means Ranagan will be able to settle in a familiar environment. Formerly, Ranagan was a teammate with a current Wings transition specialist and captain, Kiel Matisz. In 2019, Ranagan was the NLL Teammate of the Year while playing for the Georgia Swarm.
Therefore, adding veteran depth to the Philadelphia Wings bolsters the team with leadership to make a playoff push. The Wings have made many changes during the 2020 offseason, but sending a prospect and a second-round pick for a veteran defenseman and a fourth-round pick raises an eyebrow. Potentially, John Ranagan is a defenseman who offers guidance to a blooming defense. Trading a young prospect and an early-round draft pick for a veteran and a mid-round draft pick could mean that Philadelphia was not impressed by Matt Marinier’s development. Or, Paul Day chose the known commodity.
Faceoff Weekend
The 2021 NLL Faceoff Weekend kicks off on April 9th. In 2020, the Wings finished the abbreviated season with an 8-6 record, just behind the first-place New England Black Wolves in the East Division. The New York Riptide finished 1-12, six and a half games behind the Wings.
