In a Q&A session on twitter, Mike Rupp said that he is planning to switch his number from 71 to 17 this season.

Rupp said “Yeah, I think so. That’s been a number that’s been with me for a while., and I really enjoy that number! Hopefully if I can get (No. 17) then another little part of me being entrenched here is in place!”

Rupp wore 17 with the Devils and Penguins before coming to the Rangers.

17 was taken by Brandon Dubinsky.

@Rupper17 thanks bro! Same goes for you! #warrior #greatguy feel free to get your #17 back now!!—
Brandon Dubinsky (@BDubi17) July 25, 2012