from Mark Herrmann of Newsday,

The man who has had his ups and downs, has heard his share of criticism and who often keeps his distance from the media, looks clairvoyant. Consider his comment on March 5 about having acquired Martin St. Louis for captain Ryan Callahan: "I think the guy that's coming in helps us advance a little farther than we expected to this year."

St. Louis' inspired leadership and clutch scoring has brought the Rangers to their surprising cusp, making the GM look brilliant. Here are some of Sather's other moves that have paid off:

Dealing Scott Gomez to the Canadiens for a package that included Ryan McDonagh, June 30, 2009. So McDonagh was accused by Daniel Briere of being one of the NHL's notorious slashers. He has blossomed into one of the league's top defensemen.

Extending Henrik Lundqvist's contract, Dec. 4, 2013. Has anyone in these Stanley Cup playoffs been more important to his team?

Hiring Alain Vigneault, June 21, 2013. Sather proved he actually does listen to players in exit interviews. It grew clear in those talks last spring that John Tortorella was not bringing out the best in them. So the coach was replaced by a firm but calmer presence.

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