Observations:

April 2014 – Moore playing as a bottom pair role for the Rangers in this season with some power-play time. Moore is a left handed, offensive-minded defenseman, but in the first half of the season he was forced to play on his off side, paired with similar type of defenseman Michael Del Zotto. That partnership proved to be a train wreck. Late January Rangers swapped MDZ to Nashville for Kevin Klein, who is his exact opposite, and Moore’s play improved. In the middle of March Moore suffered a mild concussion in a game versus Columbus and was forced to miss some games. His point production is not what you would expect from an offensive defender, but he is young, skates well, and has a solid shot. He is playing already in a very good system in the Rangers. If he can put it together, has an upside to play top-four minutes someday in the NHL. Jozsef Kurtosi

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April 2013 – The Rangers decided to add even more depth to their defensive core in adding Moore. They will like his size and hope that with a more potent offensive system and supporting cast, Moore will grow into his potential with less pressure needed in the short term. He had found himself a healthy scratch lately so this move was likely a relief to him, but he may be assigned to Connecticut as the Rangers currently have seven healthy veterans to use along with Marc Staal hopefully returning from injury soon.  Last month I mentioned he should avoid being owned, but with the organizational change he becomes a prospect that is worth holding and could be productive if he can get in the regular lineup and give some production to a team that needs more offence from the back end, especially on the power play. Jason Banks

March 2013 – At the moment Moore has been sticking with the big club, but his position long term is a bit questionable. His place in the regular NHL lineup is mostly based on due to injuries to James Wisniewski and Ryan Murray. His lack of production makes him vulnerable to demotions to work on his game and confidence. His play at the AHL level is very capable, but also lacks high end production that should be expected. He remains a good prospect to watch, but when his skills will finally click is rather foggy. I wouldn’t suggest holding him until he starts to show more of his potential. Jason Banks

March 2012 – Moore is a slick-skating defenseman who possesses the offensive instincts to be a top-six blue liner in the near future. He developed his game in the junior leagues both at the USHL level as well as the OHL. He has a quick, accurate, and solid shot, provides a good first pass on the breakout, and isn’t afraid to join the rush. Like many young players he will need to improve on decision making of when to stay or go and develop overall defensive game. Recalled to the parent club in October 2011 and hasn’t been returned, so being a top-six contributor has come sooner than later. Brenden Ross

Fantasy Outlook: B-

Moore has great offensive upside from the blue line, but will need to mature in decision making process.

Footage:

John Moore snaps his first career NHL for Blue Jackets from the point vs. Red Wings on 10/25/2011.

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