The Lowdown on Dubinsky

The New York Rangers opened training camp today, and third-year center Brandon Dubinsky of Anchorage wasn't there -- he doesn't have a contract, so his status is up in the air.

His agent and the Rangers have been negotiating, but so far no deal for the restricted free agent. Rangers coach John Tortorella is already bitching and moaning about Dubinsky's absence.

The Rangers have made a qualifying offer to Dubinsky for a one-year deal -- that's been reported at $522,000. He'll end up with much more, of course, befitting a guy who likely will be at least the club's second-line center, provided they don't trade him. Another team could also present Dubinsky with an offer sheet, but that seems unlikely because it involves giving up primo draft picks in the future.

Dubinsky, 23, can't be in camp until he has a deal.

Anyhow, to check various writers' takes on the situation, check out some info from the New York Daily News, Newsday, New York Post and Blueshirts Bulletin.