With Brian Leetch still hurting from a groin strain -- and questionable for the season opener on Saturday -- the Rangers bolstered their defensive depth by signing Mike Mottau, last year's Hobey Baker winner as the best U.S. college player.

	Mike Mottau is trading in his college jersey in for a blue Rangers sweater.

Mottau reported late to training camp but has played solid in his few games with the big club. In last Sunday's preseason finale against the Islanders, Mottau played Leetch-like minutes when two defensemen received misconducts.

"Mike is excited and happy to be there and I think he'll do real well in New York," said Bob Murray, Mottau's Boston-based agent.

The holdup in the contract was over bonus money, and in the end, both parties reached a compromise.

"If Mike plays (with the Rangers), he'll get to the (rookie) cap," Murray said.

It was originally thought that Mottau was a sure-fire bet to start in the AHL; however, because of injuries, some personnel moves and Mottau's play, he might start the year with the Rangers.

Playing for Boston College last season, Mottau garnered 37 assists before winning the college game's most prestigious award. He was a seventh-round draft pick by the Rangers in 1997.

Brian A. Shactman is the NHL Editor for ESPN.com.