Rangers' McIlrath Clears Waivers, Headed Back To Hartford

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Rangers defenseman Dylan McIlrath cleared waivers Friday and has been assigned to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League.

The Blueshirts waived McIlrath, the 10th overall pick in the 2010 entry draft, on Thursday to make room for winger Pavel Buchnevich, who was returning from injured reserve.

McIlrath, 24, skated in one game with the Rangers this season. In 34 games as a rookie last year, he had two goals, two assists and a plus-7 rating.

"I'm never going to blame this on the coaches," McIlrath said Thursday after learning he had been placed on waivers. "This was all about my play and not earning a spot in the lineup."