NEW YORK – Although the Rangers were unhappy about their latest collapse to Detroit on Monday, they seemed pleased that reinforcements were on the way.

With the acquisition of Sean Avery, the Blueshirts acquired a type of player they haven't had since Ville Nieminen last season – an energy-type pest, who can also score.

“People will see he's a very good skater. He has better skills than people give him credit for,” said Brendan Shanahan, who was Avery's teammate in Detroit. “Sean is well suited for this division. I think to play in New York, you have to be the type of person who thrives on this stage. Sean is that type of person.”

Avery brings 10 goals and 18 assists to the team for 28 points, he is fifth in the league in penalty minutes and specializes in tormenting opposing teams, much like Esa Tikkanen did back in the 1990s.

“He's a difference maker, because you know he is on the ice at all times,” Shanahan said. “The New York fans will love his passion. He could have been a guy tonight who could have gotten Detroit off its game. The big thing about Sean, he is noticeable.”

The cost was steep, with Jason Ward departing and prospect Marc-Andre Cliche also included in on the deal, but the Rangers, know change had to come. Said Matt Cullen, “Jason Ward was a big part of the team, but this is what happens when you are not winning. Hopefully [Avery] can help us.”

The 26 year-old may not be a household name. Actually, he may be more famous for whom he is dating [actress Elisha Cuthbert] than his on ice prowess, but coach Tom Renney seems to be looking forward to having him. “I think we can use what he brings us and will deploy him accordingly,” the coach said. “He's a valuable addition to our team.”

But with the Blueshirts on a downturn, is Avery too little too late?

“We'll have to wait and see,” said captain Jaromir Jagr, who admitted not knowing too much about him. “Hopefully he's going to help us, but we need more than Sean Avery right now.”