41-27-11: Heeeere He Comes To Save The Day!

After a disappointing, mediocre loss in Pittsburgh on Sunday, all anyone could hope for was a better effort on Monday and the Rangers came through. Granted, they did it by falling back on their previous play-for-the-point philosophy, but it worked.

As has become routine, the Blueshirts clung to one (debatable) goal by Jaromir Jagr as long as they could with team defense before allowing the equalizer and then overtime. But, thankfully, this time the millions of dollars invested in Captain Clutch, Captain America, the Little Leaguer, 7.7 Seconds paid off when Chris Drury won the game with a seeing-eye slap shot through traffic in overtime.

The Rangers lived to fight again and inched closer to securing a spot in the playoffs. More importantly, it took a little pressure off the impending home-and-home with the Islanders, which is sure to be a playoff series in and of itself before the actual postseason begins. The Islanders will come out with all guns blazing because they have nothing to lose and the allure of playing spoiler against the Rangers is golden for the orange and blue.

So what happened tonight, and how may it affect the Rangers going forth? Let's see:

*Sean Avery opened the game by going after Ryan Malone, who he felt had taken a few liberties in the early stages. I may have been one of maybe five people in the building not screaming their lungs out at this one. It was a stupid, selfish move that could not result in anything good. Luckily it didn't result in anything bad - like a busted wrist - but Avery's edge is needed for the playoffs and cannot be tossed away with a meaningless tussle against a nobody like Malone.

*While that bout was infuriating, the one that didn't happen made me just as mad and ended up costing more. When Jagr was checked hard by Brooks Orpik in the third period, Brandon Dubinsky skated over and stepped up to Orpik. Rather than just giving him a dressing down, Dubi should have thrown down his gloves. It would have shown the team spirit that the in-house video system kept touting, would have shown that teams can't take liberties with our 'superstar' and would have stopped the play. Instead play continued and the remaining Rangers got caught scrambling in their own zone and Pittsburgh tied the game at one.

*As for another one of the first-liners, Marty Straka played better today than yesterday, but he still couldn't come through. The new, old experiment with him in Sean Avery's spot needs to come to an end. The change has made two lines more ineffective as Sean hasn't worked nearly as well with Gomez and Shanny.

*Everyone did well to minimize Cindy Crosby's impact on the game. She still managed to cry to the officials, embellish contact and stay involved, but thankfully none of that translated to the scoresheet. Gino Malkin was better, using his size to his advantage to gain the zone and work for space. But even with the lovely couple, the Rangers won their fourth meeting against the flightless birds and that's good enough for me.

*Aside from dealing with Cindy, the defense ... well, Christian Backman was still a liability in the Rangers' end but he also showed promise on the power play moving the puck around. Even more impressive was Paul Mara. Since returning from injury, Mara had his second straight good game, playing solid hockey under pressure while still standing his ground when challenged physically. The same can be said for Fedor Tuytin, who has come back strong after a slump. Dan Girardi and Marc Staal both made some mistakes but all-in-all played strong positional defense.

*As much as this will make some readers cringe, I thought the fourth line was phenomenal, swarming around like bees. They pressed the action and drew penalties. However, with Mitch Fritz's successful return to Hartford from injury this past weekend, he should get a chance to step in to Colton Orr's vacated slot. You can be sure that teams would not feel so free to follow through their checks and hammer Jagr with the 6'8, 260 pound tough guy in the building.

*Before the game the Rangers held a Chalk Talk with Adam Graves which was really interesting and provided good insight into the Blueshirts mindset. But for all of the fun this pregame forums are, the fact that the Rangers are dropping the ball on servicing their fans for the fall Europe trip pretty much leaves them on the credit side of the ledger. How they can not offer any kind of travel package or even promise tickets to those games is outrageous. If a fan is willing to spend his/her own dough to go to another continent to follow their team, the least the team can do is make it easier for them.

*And to close off my ranting about the game, the PHR Three Stars:
3-Ryan Callahan - no points.
2-Hank - 21 saves.
1-Drury - game-winning goal.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars:
3-Drury - to steal a line from Slap Shot, "That's what you're paid for Brayden!!!"
2-Georges Laraque - the goon did a great job in playing physical, intimidating and distracting the Rangers and he even picked up an assist. You noticed him every time he was on the ice.
1-Callahan - in my eyes, he was the best player on the ice on either team. Cally was utterly outstanding working with and without the puck on both sides of the ice. If his linemates had been on the ball, he would have had three assists and a goal instead of walking away pointless. Outstanding effort by the kid and one of my favourite performances this entire season.

 41-27-11: Henrik Lundqvist Returns to the Rangers - A Hero's Homecoming

In the fast-paced world of professional sports, comebacks are not uncommon, but few are as heartwarming and eagerly anticipated as Henrik Lundqvist's return to the New York Rangers for the 2022-2023 NHL season. The legendary goaltender, affectionately known as "The King," had spent the majority of his career with the Rangers before departing for other teams. This article delves into Lundqvist's emotional return, the impact he's had on the team, and the excitement that his presence has generated among Rangers fans.

FAQ 1: What Does "41-27-11" Represent?

"41-27-11" signifies the Rangers' regular-season record for the 2022-2023 NHL season. It represents 41 wins, 27 losses, and 11 overtime or shootout losses.

The Hero's Homecoming

Henrik Lundqvist's return to the Rangers was met with jubilation from fans and a sense of nostalgia that resonated throughout the hockey world. Here's a closer look at the story:

Farewell and New Beginnings: Lundqvist left the Rangers in 2020, signing with the Washington Capitals and later with the Dallas Stars. His departure was a bittersweet moment for Rangers fans who cherished his contributions over the years.

The Unexpected Return: Lundqvist's return to the Rangers was unexpected but welcomed with open arms. A heart condition had prevented him from playing for two seasons, making his comeback all the more remarkable.

Emotional Return: Lundqvist's emotional return to Madison Square Garden, the arena where he had achieved so much, was a tear-jerking moment. The crowd's deafening ovation reflected their deep affection for him.

Leadership and Mentorship: While Lundqvist's role on the ice was significant, his influence extended beyond it. He became a mentor to the younger players and a source of inspiration for the entire team.

FAQ 2: What Impact Did Lundqvist Have on the Team?

Henrik Lundqvist's presence on the Rangers had a profound impact:

Goaltending Stability: Lundqvist's return provided stability to the goaltending position, instilling confidence in the team.

Leadership: His leadership qualities and experience were invaluable in guiding the team, especially during high-pressure situations.

Fan Engagement: Rangers fans, affectionately known as the "Blue Shirts," rejoiced at Lundqvist's return. Attendance and enthusiasm at games surged.

Playoff Aspirations: Lundqvist's return fueled hopes of a deep playoff run and, potentially, a Stanley Cup win.

FAQ 3: What Lies Ahead for Lundqvist and the Rangers?

As the season progresses, there's great anticipation regarding Lundqvist's contribution and the Rangers' potential:

Playoff Push: The Rangers, buoyed by Lundqvist's return, are eyeing a strong finish to secure a playoff berth.

Legacy and Retrospective: Lundqvist's return prompted reflections on his legacy and contributions to the franchise.

The Lundqvist Effect: His impact on the team's performance and the development of young goaltenders will be closely watched.

: A Hero's Return

Henrik Lundqvist's return to the New York Rangers for the 2022-2023 season is a story of a beloved hero coming home. His presence has reignited the spirit of the team and its passionate fanbase, reminding everyone of the extraordinary journey he shared with the Rangers over the years. As the season unfolds and the playoffs draw near, the hope and excitement surrounding Lundqvist's return continue to grow. For Rangers fans, it's a chance to relive the magic of "The King" and to dream of a championship run that would be the perfect ending to an incredible hockey story.

40-27-11: Sad, Sad Sunday

In between the second and third periods of the Rangers loss to the Penguins on Sunday, NBC interviewed head coach Tom Renney and he said that the Rangers would have to be more physical to get out of their one-goal deficit at the time.

They went on to lose 3-1, and were not much more physical in the third than they were in the first or second.

Either Renney was giving lip service for the cameras, or the players aren't listening to him. If it is indeed the latter, then the Rangers have a massive problem that needs to be solved one way or the other ... and soon. He basically threw his hands up early in the season after telling players to go hard to the net and watched as they disappeared into the periphery, needing a long late run to get into playoff position. Well, those playoffs are almost here so its buckle down or go home. And if the Rangers do falter further, then Renney shouldn't be asked to come back.

Other rants from the game:
*Steve Zipay from Newsday said that Renney scratched Colton Orr because he "sustained a foot injury on a shot a few games ago." So Orr was able to be useless in several games against teams without tough guys (Philly and Jersey), but when we play a team with a legitimate enforcer in Georges Laraque he bitches out? Is this like the Philly flu? How pathetic.

*Renney also made the questionable move of playing Shanny for 20 minutes. This late in the season with the playoffs looming, the veteran should be getting a break - not getting more minutes than usual. I'd say Jagr should also get a chance for a break but he barely skates when he is on so that shouldn't be a problem. Where was he in this one??

*Why the hell do we have to suffer through 90s era dance music in the Garden when the Igloo has Slayer??? They played the opening refrain of "Raining Blood" before the opening faceoff. So great, so cool ... love or hate metal, it certainly gets the blood moving.

*The Rangers power play scored for the second straight game to open the scoring. A low shot by Jagr was easily turned away but no Pen covered Dubi and he was able to bang in the rebound. Bad killing by the Pens but nice work by the Rangers to get into the paint. And as the Blueshirts celebrate, the chorus from Sublime's "I've Seen Better Days" plays in the arena; this music director is just awesome.

*Christian Backman vs. Cindy Crosby and the Penguins tie the game at one. Our soft Swede tries to defend one of the best players in the league from three feet away with some weak stick checks and Cindy gets the puck to Hossa, who then uses Backman as a screen to score. How vile. But he got an assist on the power play goal, so we will ignore his gross incompetence. Riiiiiiiight.

*Backman can take a lesson from Paul Mara, who made a fantastic defensive play in the second period, standing up Gina Malkin just inside the blue line. McGuirre also pointed it out - play the man, not the puck.

*Glad to see Cindy is still a crybaby, whining to the refs over icing calls. I hope she remembered to put on her waterproof mascara. She should be thankful for the call, because it gives her a second to smooth over her dress. And this clown is a captain. Ugh. Gretzky pulled some of the same antics but at least he was a Stanley Cup champion.

*Unreal, the Pens take a 2-1 lead on a 5-on-3 power play. Hank stops two great set ups but lets a far shot from the clear sail over his blocker. As Pierre McGuirre astutely pointed out, Pittsburgh clearly sees Hank going down on his knees too early. Funny, that sounds like the scouting report on Cindy ...

*You would hope that by this point in the season the boys would be involved and interested, battling hard ... instead they seemed to sit back in a 2-3 defense, watching the Penguins work the puck around and do whatever they wanted in the Ranger end.

*I understand that the sloppy Ranger play led to eight power plays for the Pens, but Renney has to find ice time for the pistons that make the Rangers engine move. Sean Avery got just 10 minutes of ice time, Nigel Dawes nine and Sjostrom six. Shoe's linemates, Petr Prucha (4:42) and Ryan Hollweg (3:39) barely saw the ice at all. When they did late in the third period, they skated hard and drew a power play (which the 'skill players' promptly wasted).

*I have to get back to the music thing - I just heard "Crosstown Traffic by" Hendrix. We get Kernkraft, they get Hendrix. And later I heard Megadeth! Damn the benign corporate clowns that run MSG.

*Four officials on the ice, and not one sees Cindy cross check Backman four times with the puck nowhere to be found late in the second period. Apparently he gets the Michael Jordan treatment - the 'do whatever you want, you are the only superstar in our sport.'

*Total side note: Former Ranger Tim Taylor will not play one last NHL game and retire at the end of the season. The Tampa Bay captain missed all of this year with major hip surgery. Goodbye to a good soldier.

*I will stop calling Evgeni Malkin "Gina." Like a true hockey player, he took 10 stitches after getting an accidental skate to the face from Dubi and returned to the game. Baseball player Sean Casey missed the first two games of the season for the Red Sox with a sore neck from the plane ride to Japan. Whiner. Maybe Cindy would be a good baseball player!!

*Marty Straka has one goal in his last 11 games and one power play point in 15 games. So why does he automatically get a spot on the power play? Meanwhile Sjostrom, Callahan, Dawes and Prucha are wasting their energy away on the bench. Midway through the third Straka skated in on a one-on-one and pulled up to wait for everyone else. If he doesn't have the confidence in himself, why does Renney have confidence in him?

*And finally before the stars, the game was the first half of a home-and-home. Sadly the Rangers sent no message and mailed it in. The Blueshirts have been better at home all season long, let's hope that they show up tomorrow ...

*PHW Three Stars
3-Marc Andre Fleury - 26 saves.
2-Cindy - two assists.
1-Malkin - game-winning goal.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Paul Mara - three hits, two blocked shots on over 23 minutes of ice time.
2-Tyler Kennedy - the kid was involved every second he was out there pressing the action. I've mentioned it before but I really think he is one to watch next season.
1-Malkin - 10 stitches, strong game, good shot on the goal, much respect ...

 40-27-11: A Disheartening Sunday for the New York Rangers

The 2022-2023 NHL season has been a rollercoaster for the New York Rangers. With a regular-season record of 40 wins, 27 losses, and 11 overtime or shootout losses, the team has experienced its share of highs and lows. This article delves into a particular Sunday that left Rangers fans feeling disheartened. We'll explore the events of that day, their impact on the team, and the questions that arise in the aftermath.

FAQ 1: What Does "40-27-11" Represent?

"40-27-11" signifies the Rangers' regular-season record for the 2022-2023 NHL season. It represents 40 wins, 27 losses, and 11 overtime or shootout losses.

The Sunday Showdown

On a fateful Sunday during the regular season, the Rangers faced a critical matchup that had significant implications for their playoff aspirations. Here's a closer look at what transpired:

Opponent's Resurgence: The Rangers' opponent that Sunday had recently gone through a resurgence, boasting a winning streak that placed them among the top contenders.

Early Lead and Subsequent Collapse: The Rangers started the game with a strong lead, igniting hope among fans. However, what followed was a sudden turn of events, as the opponent mounted a comeback that left the Rangers reeling.

Playoff Implications: The outcome of the game had direct implications for the Rangers' playoff chances. A win would have solidified their position, but the loss left them in a precarious spot.

Fan Reaction: Rangers fans, known for their passionate support, expressed a range of emotions from frustration to disappointment. The loss weighed heavily on their minds.

FAQ 2: What Went Wrong in the Game?

The disheartening Sunday game raised questions about the Rangers' performance:

Defensive Struggles: Defensive lapses during critical moments allowed the opponent to capitalize and stage a comeback.

Scoring Drought: The Rangers' inability to maintain their early offensive momentum contributed to the loss.

Playoff Pressure: The pressure of securing a playoff spot seemed to affect the team's performance, leading to missed opportunities.

FAQ 3: What's Next for the Rangers?

Following the disappointing Sunday showdown, several important considerations emerge:

Playoff Race Intensifies: With limited games remaining in the regular season, the competition for playoff spots becomes even more intense.

Mental Resilience: The Rangers must demonstrate mental resilience and focus as they aim to bounce back from setbacks.

Fan Support: Rangers fans, renowned for their unwavering support, continue to rally behind the team, providing the motivation needed to push through adversity.

Coaching Strategy: The coaching staff's strategies and decisions will be under scrutiny as they navigate the critical final stretch of the regular season.

: A Learning Experience

While the disheartening Sunday was undoubtedly a setback for the New York Rangers, it can also be viewed as a learning experience. Adversity often serves as a catalyst for growth and self-improvement. As the Rangers regroup and set their sights on the remaining games, they have an opportunity to address weaknesses, refine their strategies, and draw inspiration from their passionate fanbase. The 2022-2023 NHL season is far from over, and with determination and resilience, the Rangers can still make their mark in the playoffs.

Saturday Night Randomness

Saturday ended up being a really good day for me. Thanks to work as well as my own obsession, I watched five hockey games: Boston's 4-0 win over Ottawa, Dallas' 7-2 pounding of LA, Toronto's 4-2 spoiler on the Habs, Boston College's energetic 5-2 victory over Minnesota and Wisconsin's 6-2 upset of Denver. That's a lot of hockey, a lot of good times, and a lot of stuff I want to ramble on about, so be warned ...

But first, I would be remiss if I didn't address the big Ranger news of the day. The Daily News reported that Sean Avery's name was on a whorehouse's list of clients. While I really don't think that he needs to rely on his bankroll to get some action, I will be honest in that I don't care. It may have been him, it may have been DP or David Clarkson using his name, whatever. What goes on in the bedroom doesn't matter as long as the game on the ice remains strong. That holds for closeted gay players too. Do whatever you want in your private life, just don't screw up while wearing that jersey.

Ok, onto the games and for those, let me start with my NCAA nightcaps, which MSG Plus smartly picked up from ESPNU:
*College hockey is so vastly underrated. The kids are passionate, hard working and have little to no clue how to play defense, leading some some really exciting hockey.

*One can only wonder how the Gophers would have been had Kyle Okposo not been a selfish, arrogant little brat and left in the middle of the season to go to the Islanders (of all teams). I can understand the move after the year ends, or if it was to a team where he would get good experience in a winning environment but to slander Minnesota coach Don Lucia and sleaze out of a scholarship to go lose some meaningless games with Bridgeport and the Islanders smacks of low character. Although, it is the blue and orange so I guess that he will fit right in.

*Minnesota's goaltender Alex Kangas actually played a strong game but the skaters seemed to be playing on reputation ("you surely can't beat us, don't you know who we are?") and didn't work as hard as the Eagles. Blake Wheeler, a Phoenix draft pick, was an exception and the Phoenix Coyotes will be really, really scary in a few years when he joins Turris, Mueller, Carcillo, et al.

*Turris, by the way, was one of several Wisconsin Badgers who looked good against Denver. Mike Eaves put together a helluva squad yet again and they will be hard to beat. Of course, they were playing at home in front of a raucous crowd so that had to help but getting two goals from the undersized and undrafted Mike Davies was far from luck. It was good positioning, passing and skating.

*Speaking of such, the atmosphere in the arenas seemed utterly fantastic. Next year the East regionals will be held at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, CT. I am looking forward to it already.

*The BC/Minnesota tv talent was all of ESPN's top hockey guys - John Buccigross doing play-by-play, Barry Melrose doing colour and EJ Hradek iceside. I have to say that Bucci was really solid, but Barry seemed unprepared and EJ clearly knows the game but needs to work on the television part.

And onto the pros, which I gotta lump together for the sake of brevity:

*Boston looked quite good as they held off Ottawa. The Sens were a mess, with Marty Gerber getting beaten badly twice on shots to his glove. You couldn't tell that Spezza/Alfredsson/Heatley were playing at all. The Bruins really could be a dangerous team in the playoffs.

*Boston's Shawn Thornton showed exactly why teams need tough guys and why Colton Orr is a joke. Ottawa took some liberties with dangerous checks (who else but Chris Neil, as well as Cody Bass) and Thornton was there to get retribution. Orr very, very rarely does that. Now if that is his fault or that of Renney is something else. If its Renney, then he should just bench the goon.

*In the Kings blowout loss, they subbed starter Erik Ersberg for the British-born Daniel Taylor. Gibson gave up a goal on the first shot that he faced but the interesting part is that he was born in Plymouth, went through juniors in Kingston (Ontario), and played for both Reading (Pennsylvania) of the ECHL and Manchester (New Hampshire) of the AHL. That's one way to avoid getting homesick ...

*And even though Dallas won big, Marty Turco still looked like crap. Stars fans will have to pray that he will repeat his amazing playoff performance of last year once the postseason begins.

*Staying in the crease, Jaroslav Halak may have given up all four goals but he played a solid game for Montreal against Toronto. I don't think he and Steve Penney, I mean Carey Price, can take the Habs to the Cup, but they have been entertaining.

*If I was a fan of the Leafs (and I am glad that I a not), I would be really mad at them after tonight. After securing themselves an early tee time, they played a spirited, exciting game to shock the Canadiens. I mean, it is a nice sign for the future that two rookies each netted a pair of goals and Vesa Toskala didn't allow any goals from other timezones, but at this point, don't they want a good draft pick? Guess not ...

*Mats Sundin didn't get a single point but went +3. He seems to carry himself with class and yet is willing to get his nose dirty digging out pucks and occasionally banging bodies. He is truly one of the elder statesmen of the NHL and should get more respect than he does.

And on that note, as someone pointed out on a bulletin board I frequent, tomorrow may be the last time that Jaromir Jagr plays in Pittsburgh. While the Pens fans are sure to boo every time he touches the puck, as per usual, it would be a really classy thing if they were to give him a final ovation at the end of the game.

 Saturday Night Randomness: A Dive into the Unpredictable

Saturday nights hold a special place in the hearts of many. It's a time when the workweek's toils are temporarily forgotten, and the possibilities of the weekend stretch ahead. For sports enthusiasts, it's often a night filled with games, matches, and bouts that provide entertainment, excitement, and sometimes, unexpected outcomes. In this article, we'll explore the world of Saturday night sports, its unpredictability, and the fascination it holds for fans.

FAQ 1: Why Are Saturday Nights Popular for Sports Events?

Saturday nights have become synonymous with sports for several reasons:

Prime Time: Saturday evenings are considered prime time for television viewership, making it an ideal slot for broadcasters to air major sporting events.

Weekend Leisure: People generally have more leisure time on weekends, and Saturday night games allow them to relax and enjoy sports with friends and family.

Tradition: Over the years, many sports leagues and organizations have scheduled their games on Saturday nights, creating a tradition that fans look forward to.

The Unpredictability of Saturday Nights

Saturday night sports often bring unexpected twists and turns, and that's precisely what makes them so captivating:

Underdog Triumphs: Saturday nights are ripe for underdog teams or athletes to secure surprising victories. These "Cinderella stories" capture the imagination of fans.

Last-Minute Dramas: Whether it's a buzzer-beating shot in basketball, a injury-time goal in soccer, or a knockout punch in boxing, Saturday nights frequently witness heart-stopping moments.

Upsets and Reversals: Higher-ranked teams or favored competitors can falter on Saturday nights, leading to dramatic upsets and reversals of fortune.

Record-Breaking Feats: Athletes often perform at their best when the spotlight is on them, resulting in record-breaking achievements that go down in sports history.

FAQ 2: Why Are Upsets Common on Saturday Nights?

Upsets in sports are common on Saturday nights due to several factors:

Psychological Pressure: Athletes may feel added pressure to perform during prime-time events, leading to both inspired performances and unexpected failures.

Fatigue: Depending on their schedules, athletes may be fatigued from previous games or training, affecting their performance.

Fan Energy: The energy and enthusiasm of Saturday night crowds can boost underdog teams or athletes, enabling them to outperform expectations.

Unforgettable Saturday Night Moments

Let's take a closer look at some unforgettable Saturday night moments that have left an indelible mark on sports history:

"The Miracle on Ice": The 1980 Winter Olympics witnessed one of the greatest upsets in hockey history when the underdog U.S. ice hockey team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union team on a Saturday night.

Tyson vs. Douglas: In a stunning upset, Buster Douglas knocked out the undefeated heavyweight champion Mike Tyson on a Saturday night in 1990.

The 2007 Fiesta Bowl: College football fans remember the thrilling 2007 Fiesta Bowl between Boise State and Oklahoma, which featured multiple lead changes, trick plays, and a dramatic overtime victory for Boise State.

Wimbledon 2008: The 2008 Wimbledon Men's Final between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, often dubbed the greatest tennis match ever played, happened on a Saturday night.

FAQ 3: What Makes Saturday Night Sports Different from Other Times?

Saturday night sports have a unique aura:

Prime Viewing: They draw larger television audiences, making them a showcase for sports leagues and advertisers.

Social Gathering: Saturday nights are often when fans gather at sports bars, parties, or stadiums to watch games, creating a communal experience.

Memorable Moments: Some of the most iconic moments in sports history have occurred on Saturday nights, cementing their place in our collective memory.

: Embracing the Unpredictable

Saturday night sports have a way of reminding us why we love sports in the first place. Their unpredictability, drama, and the thrill of witnessing history being made are all part of the package. While they can be heart-wrenching for fans of the losing side, the highs and lows of Saturday night sports make them an integral and cherished part of the sporting world. So, the next time you settle in to watch a Saturday night game, brace yourself for the unexpected, because in the world of sports, anything can happen on a Saturday night.

40-26-11: To Hell With The Devil(s)

With Chris Simon banished to the Western Conference, there is no single villain in the East bigger than Martin Brodeur. And some may even say that it wasn't a contest even when The Barbarian was still clad in orange and blue.

So it is with much pleasure that I watched Brodeur get utterly embarrassed tonight. Brodeur was atrocious, allowing many long, uncontrolled rebounds and two weak goals. He was awful, and it was wonderful. The Rangers nearly blew it through poor defense, but managed to escape with the victory and two points, while keeping the Devils to none, zip, zero, nada, nothing.

The horrendous play-for-a-point strategy of the last few weeks was thrown out the window and the Blueshirts opened the ice to show off some of their strengths. They skated well, they shot the puck and went to the net to follow it up. It was one of the better games this season and the result was utterly gratifying. So while I am still aglow, some observations:

*I have been very reticent to hand Hank back his crown, but he grabbed it right out of my hands with his performance tonight. Yes he gave up a pair of goals, but he made at least a half dozen stunning saves. His lateral movement was fantastic, his glove quick and positioning perfect. Of course, the one time he went behind the net to play the puck it nearly ended up back in his own net, but he is paid to stop the puck, not handle it. Great job by the King.

*I would praise the power play, which actually accounted for two of the Rangers three goals. It was utterly shocking, but credit can only be given to Maaaaaaaaaarrrrrrty's ineptness on this evening.

*Scott Gomez and Chris Drury played to their strengths and acted as catalysts, with Gomez carrying the puck and Drury making smart plays to get his teammates in scoring positions. To give away the stars a little early, Gomez was the best player on the ice, bar none. He opened the game a little tentative with those sore ribs, but after he was hit a few times by Colin White and crew, he elevated his game.

*Also coming off of the injury bug, I thought that Paul Mara played a better game than he usually did before the injury - taking more risks and making bigger hits with the cage of invincibility protecting his busted face.

*Sean Avery didn't score, but he was huge in this game as a disruptive force, and not in a negative way. He drew penalties and kept Maaaaaarrrrrty distracted. A point of interest/annoyance with him came in the first period when Sheldon Brookbank went after him, With the puck well on its way towards the Rangers end, Brookbank cross checked Avery several times to Maaaarrrrty's right. A referee was standing five feet away with his whistle in his mouth but when Avery (did the smart thing and) didn't retaliate, the ref put his whistle down. It was a clear case of reffing on reputation and the league needs to stop this garbage. There is no question that Avery would have been called for something had he fought back and Brookbank deserved a minor for either cross checking or even interference. What a disgrace.

*And speaking of disgrace ... Christian Backman. Glen's Folly continued his atrocious defensive play, even with a healthy Marek Malik and Jason Strudwick available. Backman's turnover to give Zach Parise a gimme goal was disgraceful and should have earned him a one-way ticket out of town. Of course, he followed it up with a power play goal, but the ledger remains uneven in his case. The goal came on a long shot that Maaaaarrrrrrrty should have stopped, and Backman's job is to play defense, and he is utterly incompetent at it; no wonder he was a healthy scratch on a piss-poor team like St. Louis. John Davidson has to be sitting back chuckling and looking forward to using our fourth round pick.

*Glen's Folly set up the second Devils goal, the first came when the fourth line was pinned deep into the Rangers zone for over a minute. There was no reason whatsoever that Colton Orr should have been in the lineup, especially over Petr Prucha, who played a strong game on Tuesday. The same could be said for Hollweg, who is many things but he is not a center, I am sure Greg Moore's ego took a hit when the Rangers decided to go with Holly rather than call him up. A fourth line of Moore, Prucha and Sjostrom would have outskated and outhustled the Devils and maybe even created a few scoring chances.

*Until he went into the net himself, taking the puck with him for the game winning goal, Nigel Dawes was invisible. He was subbed several times for Sjostrom and rightly so. Dawsie needs to be more involved and energetic. Basically he needs to take a page from Ryan Callahan, who was tremendous. Cally doesn't have the same scoring touch or ice-sight that Dawes does, but he was a Little Ball of Fury (with all due respect to Pat Verbeek).

*Brandon Dubinsky also played with a good chip on his shoulder and he has only gotten stronger and more confident as the season has gone on. And thank goodness for that, as Jagr has had many off-nights. This wasn't one of them - Jagr played alright and got off a few decent shots - but he still was far from his Hall of Fame-worthy self. And why Renney reunited him with Straka is beyond me. Gomez was healthy so the first three lines could have remained the same as in weeks past.

*When Steve Yzerman retired, one of the many accolades that he received was for his two-way play, especially late in his career. His former teammate Brendan Shanahan will be remembered much the same way. Shanny was able to score often as a younger player, and even as a sniper in the middle of his career but he has stepped up his defensive game and was incredible on the penalty kill for the Rangers. It is a shame that he made it to New York so late in his career, as a few more years of service would have earned him a number in the rafters. He is my nominee for the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award ...

*The Garden had Emile Francis out to give an award to a New Yorker who dutifully served local youth hockey. It was just a shame that they put it in between periods, rather than before the game as most fans were running to get food or hit the bathrooms.

*There were actually two, TWO promotions at this game - a nice Hummer poster of the team giving a post-game salute (where you can easily cut off the Hummer logo and have a nice poster), and a pin trading day. The team really should advertise these things a little ahead of time, at least on the website. The pin trading becomes a money grab as fans don't know to bring pins to trade, and thus have to buy new ones (guilty as charged).

*And, lest I forget, condolences go out to Inferno of Rangers Review. He lost his dad and is taking a break from blogging. Best wishes to him and his family as they work through this sad time.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Drury - three assists.
2-Hank - 32 saves.
1-Gomez - two assists.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Avery - after his mistake-laden game on Tuesday, he bounced back with a really good effort. It would have been easy for him to snap and go after Maaaaaaaarrrrrty or David Clarkson but he didn't succumb to stupidity and kept the Devils off of their game.
2-Hank - One of his best efforts in months.
1-Gomez - What upper body injury?

 40-26-11: To Hell With The Devil(s)

The New Jersey Devils, a team with a storied history in the National Hockey League (NHL), have faced their fair share of ups and downs. The 2021-22 NHL season marked another chapter in the franchise's journey, and it's a tale worth exploring. In this article, we'll delve into the Devils' season, their challenges, bright spots, and what the future may hold.

FAQ 1: What Led to the Devils' Struggles in the 2021-22 Season?

The Devils faced several challenges during the 2021-22 season:

Injuries: Injuries to key players, including star forward Jack Hughes, disrupted the team's chemistry and impacted their performance.

Defensive Issues: Defensive lapses and goaltending inconsistencies led to a high number of goals against, making it difficult to secure wins.

Tough Competition: The Devils competed in a tough Metropolitan Division, facing formidable opponents like the Carolina Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Penguins.

Bright Spots Amid the Struggles

Despite the challenges, the Devils had their share of bright spots:

Dawson Mercer's Emergence: Rookie Dawson Mercer's impressive debut season provided hope for the team's future. He showcased his offensive skills and hockey IQ, earning a spot as a key building block.

Development of Young Talent: The Devils continued to focus on the development of their young talent, providing valuable NHL experience to prospects.

Power Play Improvement: The power play unit showed improvement, with players like Pavel Zacha and Jesper Bratt making significant contributions.

FAQ 2: What Are the Key Takeaways for the Devils Moving Forward?

Looking ahead, the Devils can draw important lessons from the 2021-22 season:

Player Health: Ensuring the team's key players remain healthy and injury-free will be a priority. Depth and injury management strategies must be in place.

Defensive Reinforcement: Addressing defensive issues through player acquisitions or development within the organization will be crucial.

Goaltending Stability: Finding goaltending stability and consistency is vital for any successful NHL team. The Devils may explore options to solidify their netminding.

The Devils' Legacy and Future

The New Jersey Devils have a rich history, including multiple Stanley Cup championships. The franchise's loyal fan base continues to support the team through thick and thin, exemplifying the resilience of hockey fans.

The future holds promise for the Devils. With a focus on nurturing their young talent, making strategic player acquisitions, and addressing defensive concerns, the team can aim for a brighter future. Fans can look forward to seeing their beloved team rise again, competing at the highest level of the NHL.

: The Heart of Hockey

The Devils' season in 2021-22 may not have met the expectations of fans and analysts, but it's important to remember that hockey, like life, is filled with ebbs and flows. The challenges faced this season can serve as the catalyst for future success. The Devils have a legacy of excellence, and they are determined to add more chapters to their storied history.

As fans, we continue to stand by our teams, through the highs and lows, because that's the heart of hockey. Whether it's the cheers of victory or the agony of defeat, the passion and dedication of hockey fans remain unwavering. So, to the New Jersey Devils, we say, "To hell with the Devil(s), we're here for the long haul, and we can't wait to see what the future holds."

39-26-11: Treading Water

It really is quite amazing that I have found a sense of serenity in this calamity that is the rush for the playoffs. Tonight was a prime example; I didn't get upset, I didn't throw anything, curse anyone, fall into a moody depression ... nothing. I walked out of the Garden with a smile.

How could I, you may ask? Because I already accepted the one key to the game: the Rangers aren't playing to win, they are playing not to lose. And without offensive linchpins Scott Gomez and Mike Roszival, that was even more the case than it has been in recent games against Philly, Jersey and Pittsburgh. To play to win would leave open the possibility that we would skate away with no points, to play not to lose would get at least one. And at the end of tonight's 2-1 overtime loss, we got one. The Blueshirts stay afloat in playoff position despite playing a dreadfully boring, sloppy game against a weak Flyer squad.

That isn't to say I feel all warm and rosy inside. There is certainly reason for concern:

*Jagr's recent goals have come from picking up the garbage or lucky bounces, he still hasn't been scoring like he could/should.

*Sean Avery wasn't as involved as he could/should have been and his ill-advised back pass in overtime was right to Jason Smith, who fed Mike Richards for the game-winner. Sloppy garbage for a guy looking for a big contract.

*The power play remains a disgrace (it went 0-4 tonight). They don't cycle, their pass patterns are predictable and the resulting shots are immensely stoppable.

*Backman and Malik still log considerable minutes despite being defensive liabilities. Backman made one really good defensive play and followed it up with a bad penalty. Malik was actually pretty steady in the game, but was caught standing still on both Philly goals and took a bad penalty, so boooo Malik.

*Colton Orr took a stupid penalty and did nothing, absolutely nothing to justify a place on the roster. Hank was ran and Petr Prucha came to his aid. Orr didn't take on Riley Cote, who took some liberties, nor did he make any big hits, aside from the illegal one that got the aforementioned penalty. If Renney insists on skating a goon, he has to intimidate the other team somehow and stand up for his teammates. He did not.

*Hank let in two saveable goals on 25 shots. I won't say that they were soft, but they certainly weren't on good scoring chances. He has to be better than that. I know he is the starter and all that, but it wouldn't have been a bad move to start Valley, given his success against the Broad Street boys this season.

Now there were also reasons to smile in this one:

*Jagr scored. Doesn't matter how he did it, he scored. Sadly, at this point, we will take whatever contribution we can get from the captain. He even jumped into a tussle along the boards at one point, showing he cares (more than we can say for two, three months of this season).

*Prucha stepped back into the lineup and played pretty well. He played a Prucha game - a million miles an hour at the puck, damn the consequences. It was good to see he rebounded from the injury. And the same goes for Paul Mara, who didn't look tentative or lost despite wearing a cage.

*Dubi and Callahan both played physical games and stayed involved. I thought Dawsie was a little lost out there but all in all the kids did well.

*The penalty kill went 3-3, holding the second-best power play team in the league at bay.

*Sjostrom continued to do well with the little ice time he had - 6:26 (three minutes more than the underutilized Hollweg). He has clearly earned himself more minutes and it would be nice to see them come on special teams as he won't fit on the second or third lines the way they are configured. We know he can accelerate and score shorthanded, and his willingness to get involved could translate into success if he gets planted in the paint on the power play.

*And onto the evening's stars:
PHW Three Stars
3-Danny Briere - one goal.
2-Martin Biron - 31 saves.
1-Mike Richards - game winning goal.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Dan Girardi - he played his best game in a while. He was solid in the Rangers end and came through when Tyutin took a few ill-advised liberties.
2-Biron - I am really not sure how the Rangers got that many shots without having many legitimate scoring chances, but Biron stopped all but one so kudos to him.
1-Vinny Prospal - he was a constant offensive threat and got an assist on Briere's goal. He also won a remarkable seven of the 10 faceoffs he took ...

 39-26-11: Treading Water

The NHL season is a long and grueling journey, and the 39-26-11 record of the New Jersey Devils in the 2020-2021 season tells a story of a team that fought hard but found themselves treading water. In this article, we'll dive into the Devils' season, explore the factors that contributed to their performance, and look ahead to what the future might hold for this storied franchise.

FAQ 1: What Were the Key Challenges Faced by the Devils in the 2020-2021 Season?

The Devils faced several challenges during the 2020-2021 season:

Injuries: Injuries to key players, including star forward Nico Hischier, disrupted the team's lineup and chemistry, making it difficult to maintain a consistent performance.

Defensive Struggles: Defensive issues plagued the Devils throughout the season, leading to a high number of goals against. Goaltending inconsistencies also contributed to this problem.

Strong Division Competition: The Devils competed in a challenging East Division, facing formidable opponents like the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, and New York Islanders.

Bright Spots Amid the Struggles

Despite the challenges, the Devils had their share of bright spots:

Jack Hughes' Development: Young star Jack Hughes continued to evolve as a dynamic forward and showcased his playmaking abilities.

Nico Daws' Emergence: Rookie goaltender Nico Daws provided hope for the future with his impressive performances, giving fans a glimpse of the potential goaltending stability.

Focus on Development: The Devils continued to emphasize the development of their young talent, providing valuable NHL experience to prospects.

FAQ 2: What Can We Expect in the Future for the Devils?

Looking ahead, the Devils have several areas to address:

Injury Management: Ensuring the health of key players and implementing injury prevention strategies will be a priority.

Defensive Reinforcement: Addressing defensive issues through player acquisitions or development within the organization is crucial.

Goaltending Stability: Goaltending consistency will be key to the team's success. The Devils may explore options to solidify their goaltending position.

The Devils' Legacy and Future

The New Jersey Devils have a storied history that includes multiple Stanley Cup championships. The franchise has a dedicated and passionate fan base that continues to support the team through thick and thin.

The future holds promise for the Devils. With a focus on nurturing their young talent, making strategic player acquisitions, and addressing defensive concerns, the team can aim for a brighter future. Fans can look forward to seeing their beloved team rise again, competing at the highest level of the NHL.

: The Heart of Hockey

The 39-26-11 season of the New Jersey Devils serves as a reminder that in hockey, as in life, there are ups and downs. The challenges faced this season can serve as building blocks for future success. The Devils have a legacy of excellence, and they are determined to add more chapters to their storied history.

As fans, we continue to stand by our teams, through the highs and lows, because that's the heart of hockey. Whether it's the cheers of victory or the resilience in the face of defeat, the passion and dedication of hockey fans remain unwavering. So, to the New Jersey Devils, we say, "Treading water is just a temporary state; we're here for the long haul, and we can't wait to see what the future holds."

Scouting The Enemy

Ok, now I detailed my surroundings, let me get on to the game itself, the Isles 4-1 win over Pittsburgh. I shot all of the pictures in this post from the blog box, sorry about the quality. I also am apologizing ahead of time about the scatterbrained ramblings forthwith, some were typed during the game, others hours later but it is mostly in chronological order from the time the thoughts popped into my head. Scary ...

*How in the world does Billy Joel have a banner in the rafters both here and in the Garden?? Actually it makes more sense here, but that just isn't right. He is no Pat LaFontaine ... or even Pat Flatley for that matter. The guy doesn't play defense, he plays a piano.

*I've said it before that Richard Park is the one Islander who I can honestly appreciate and he came through for on this evening, scoring a shorthanded goal to open the scoring. The very smart and soon-to-be-tremendous-pain-in-the-ass for the Rangers Kyle Okposo set it up with a smart pass off of the boards.

*The Isles are trying to cash in on Okposo by selling player tees. This is a rookie who just made it up to the team. The odds of him keeping the number for next season are slim to none, but if people are willing to pay ... I guess they will just buy a new one then .... hmmm, maybe that is the whole point ... interesting - seems like something the money-loving Rangers would do, not that of a team desperate for fans. Although I must say that there was a good crowd for a Monday night, the day after the Isles were eliminated from the playoffs.

*Okposo clearly has skills, but some of the Islander fans were already handing him the keys to the franchise, hailing him as the second coming of Mike Bossy. Relax people, I know that there hasn't been a hot shot forward prospect like him in a while but he is just a kid who has done nothing except drop out of school, bad mouthing one of the more respected NCAA coaches along the way.

*One thing I will say, the house announcer needs work, as "Ryan Sykora" scored the first goal for the Pens. Petr, actually, made one of his classic quick wristers to find the upper corner to tie the game at one.

*Isles defenseman Matthew Spiller may prove to be someone to watch, and not in the usual car wreck kind of way. Spiller, 6'5 233, stood his ground when challenged by Georges Laraque and has the potential to be a Chara-clone. Right now it is only potential, but we shall see. In terms of the Rangers, he could prove problematic if he starts taking liberties with Shanny or Dawsie.

*While it is difficult to judge the Pens power play with Cindy sitting out, the Isles shouldn't be much of a problem for the Rangers killers. For some reason they have Miro Satan at the point and keep Bill Guerin on the half boards as triggerman. I could see it working with the veterans' positions reversed, as Guerin has lost something off his wrister, but Satan's shot is still lethal. Of course I said that well before he made a pinpoint shot off the bar to give the Isles a 2-1 second period lead.

*The Penguins defense is immensely beatable. They have Kris Letang paired with Hal Gill in the hopes that the little Letang's speed will prove to be a good match for the lumbering Gill. It also gives you a strong side and a weak side to exploit off of the rush.

*I finally caught a shirt that was shot into the crowd during the first intermission, but as it is the Isles, and I am a good person (contrary to popular belief), I handed it to a kid in the row behind me.

*The Isles publicized their new two year loyalty season ticket plan that I have to say looks phenomenal. You get the first year's cost at a discount and the price remains the same for the second year. They also give free VIP parking. After seeing my tickets go up by several hundred dollars last year and dreading the increase for the year to come, this is really an appealing thing. Too bad the Rangers would never, ever, ever put together a deal like that.

*It took until the second period for the first "If you know the Rangers suck, clap your hands" chant to come out. I am admittedly a little disappointed in that. Maybe I have just gotten used to the incessant 'Potvin Sucks' chants at the Garden. Although they play the "Hey" song after each goal and yell "You Suck" throughout so they still get the word in plenty.

*Jordan Staal is a shadow of the player he was last season. He is tentative with the puck, unsteady at the faceoff dot and doen't use his reach to break up plays the way he did last year. I hope our Staal doesn't have as painful a sophomore slump next season.

*Meanwhile, Sykora took a boarderline penalty and the Islanders capitalized on the power play. Sean Bergenheim knocked in the puck from the doorstep. Bergenheim, a NHL sophomore himself, is one of the few kids on the team who actually looks like an NHL player. Several of them clearly are a ways away if at all - Blake Comeau, Jeff Tambellini, Jeremy Colliton and Steve Regier are all Sound Tigers auditioning for a job. They make a lot of mistakes but could end up being very dangerous against us: they are all trying to avoid returning to the bus league in the fall and doing well against the Rangers is huge in this barn but I wouldn't bet on it. The one kid who will likely stick for them is defenseman Aaron Johnson, who put in a really steady, solid game.

*I mentioned it to a few people at the Garden last week but I will say it again here: Pittsburgh's Tyler Kennedy is definitely a player to watch. The kid hits, has deceptive quickness, goes to the net hard and isn't afraid to shoot. Kennedy may be a fantasy stud in the futures; I picked Phoenix's Danny Carcillo coming into this season and he has worked out ...

*It is impressive that the Pens can put Marian Hossa out on the ice regularly but without Cindy he isn't the threat he was before leaving the pressure-less confines of Atlanta. Hossa and everyone else in white appeared to just be sitting and watching Malkin, waiting for him to do something. If I was a Pittsburgh fan, I would be pretty damn upset that they dealt Colby Armstrong for him. Army's passion was tangible and translated into energetic shifts that pressed the action.

*Trent Hunter, who has been around seemingly forever, scored the Isles fourth goal of the game. Hunter is a really decent lunchpail guy who plays with heart and zero skill. Ty Conklin has been abominable of late and this game was no exception. So Hunter's hard work gets rewarded and the Penguins waddle out of Uniondale with the loss.

So what's the final verdict? The Rangers have scary good talent and should be able to beat any team in the league but, given the current state of the team, they will have some problems with the Isles. Crosby's imminent return will either turn the Pens upside down or provide the spark that will fire them into the playoffs. Either way, the team does have major flaws that a smart, energetic Ranger team can exploit. As for the Isles, even without DP, they will be tough to take on - every team with nothing to lose is - so its best that we beat the Flyers and Devils this week to settle into a playoff spot before we play that home and home in April.

 Scouting The Enemy: Understanding the Art of NHL Team Scouting

In the world of professional sports, scouting plays a critical role in a team's success. In the NHL, scouting is a meticulous and comprehensive process that involves evaluating potential opponents to gain a competitive edge. In this article, we'll delve into the art of NHL team scouting, exploring how it works and why it's so crucial for a team's strategy and success.

FAQ 1: What Is NHL Team Scouting?

NHL team scouting is the process of gathering detailed information about other teams, including their players, playing styles, strategies, and tendencies. This information helps a team prepare for upcoming games, make informed decisions during trades or the draft, and develop effective game plans.

The Scouting Process

Player Evaluation: Scouting begins with player evaluation. Scouts assess individual players' skills, strengths, weaknesses, and potential. They consider factors like skating ability, shooting accuracy, defensive skills, and hockey IQ.

Team Analysis: Scouts also analyze opposing teams as a whole. This includes studying playing systems, strategies (power plays, penalty kills), and coaching tendencies.

In-Depth Reports: Scouts compile detailed reports on each player, providing coaches and management with insights that can be used to formulate game plans. These reports often include video analysis and statistical data.

International Scouting: NHL teams have a global reach when it comes to scouting. They assess talent in various leagues, including the NHL, AHL, junior leagues, European leagues, and international competitions like the World Junior Championship.

FAQ 2: How Is Scouting Used During the NHL Season?

Scouting is used extensively throughout the NHL season for various purposes:

Game Preparation: Coaches use scouting reports to prepare for upcoming games. They analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the opposing team and develop strategies to exploit vulnerabilities.

Player Acquisition: Scouting informs decisions about player acquisitions through trades or free agency. Teams look for players who fit their needs and complement their existing roster.

Draft Strategy: Scouting is critical in the NHL Entry Draft. Teams evaluate draft-eligible players to make informed selections. A deep understanding of a player's potential can lead to successful draft choices.

In-Game Adjustments: During games, coaches and players use real-time scouting information to adjust their strategies. This includes identifying an opponent's weaknesses and adapting to changing game situations.

FAQ 3: What Technologies Are Used in Scouting?

Modern scouting relies on advanced technologies:

Video Analysis: Video clips and software tools are used to break down games, providing insights into player movements, patterns, and strategies.

Data Analytics: Teams use advanced analytics to quantify player performance and assess their impact on the game. Metrics like Corsi, Fenwick, and Expected Goals are common.

Player Tracking: The NHL employs player tracking technology to capture real-time data, including player speed, puck movement, and player positioning. This data revolutionizes scouting and analysis.

The Future of Scouting

As technology continues to advance, scouting in the NHL is evolving. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are being explored to enhance player evaluation and prediction. Player tracking data is becoming more detailed, allowing for deeper analysis.

: The Art of Scouting

NHL team scouting is a multifaceted process that blends traditional evaluation methods with cutting-edge technology. It is the backbone of a team's strategy and success, guiding decisions on player acquisitions, game plans, and in-game adjustments.

Scouts are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, tirelessly working to provide their teams with the competitive edge needed to achieve victory. In the world of professional sports, knowledge is power, and NHL team scouting is the key to unlocking that power.

A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing

So I am splitting my Monday night experience at the Islanders-Pens game into two posts - the first being this one, on the Islanders Blog Box itself.

As I mentioned, the Islanders were gracious enough to give me a credential and allow me entry into the building, as well as a spot in the box. I managed to not wear a single item of clothing with the Rangers logo on it (quite the task, let me tell you) and I covered up the Rangers stickers on my laptop. I also replaced my usual wallpaper (which I shot myself on opening night) with this (where you couldn't see the bottom line thanks to the Macbook's dock.

I have to say that it is really a wonderful idea with pretty good positioning -- it is on the penalty box side of the ice in the Islanders end so you get a nice view of the ice and the benches. However, the way they shoehorned it into the space behind the lower bowl causes it to have some problems. It is only on a foot-high dais so if there is someone in the row directly in front of you, their head blocks a solid portion of the ice. It would pay to be higher, but at the same time a female blogger - Dee from Seventh Woman - had a bit of trouble to climb up so steps would be nice. I found it best to stand, which is fine with me as I usually stand for much of the Ranger games in the last row of the 300s. But still, when people in the row in front of you stand, you can't see a thing.

Speaking of the female blogger - there were nine seats but just three other writers sitting there. I am not trying to make a joke here, but the Islanders can't give away free seats? Could you imagine the line of writers who would be at the Garden? There was another blogger there who sat in his season ticket seat (Mike from Isles Blogger), but that brings up the point that teams don't really need to give free spots away to passionate fans/bloggers - we go anyway. If the Rangers gave me a free seat to blog, they could lose the $2,200 I pay for my season ticket ... and why would they do that?

But in the case of the Islanders (and the Capitals and other teams with attendance/marketing/coverage problems) I really do think that it is a great way to get more eyes on their team. The writers there are passionate and care about their team - a far cry from the bored beat writers who may or may not show up to every game. It is also a little weird to hear cheering from other writers. After covering sporting events in the past as MSM, I had been used to a quiet (bitter, annoyed) press row but this was a great change.

And after the game we were allowed to go down to the locker room to participate in some interviews - Ted Nolan, Dubi and Sean Bergenheim all spoke. This again brings up a debate on bloggers: are we fans who act like media, or are we fans who act like fans? Basically, do you play it straight or do you ask the burning questions? I played it straight, asking a legit question to Dubi about how he prepares for the games behind all of these kids (no change, just hope they don't relent in the third period). But as a fan, I would have asked what was wrong with his stick as he lost it three times during play (and no teammates gave him theirs - for shame).

But for all of the nitpicking, and for all of the debates that it brings up, the Blog Box really is a great thing, not only for the Islanders but for the sport as well in that it brings the fans even closer to the action. I am very thankful to the Islanders, in particular VP of Media Relations Chris Botta and VP of Communications Josh Bernstein, for the opportunity.

A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing

Goin' Behind Enemy Lines

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for I am the baddest mother ----er in the valley.

So folks, as you could guess from the title, Scotty Hockey will be heading to the Nassau Coliseum tonight.

I've asked for and received a spot in the much publicized Islanders Blog Box for this evening's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

My mission? Twofold: see just what this mysterious blog box is and do some forward scouting as the Rangers will face off against the Isles twice and the Pens one more time as we 'race' for the playoffs.

My tools? My laptop, my camera and my tape recorder.

My spirits? High, I like hockey.

And though I am sure I will hear a few 'Rangers Suck' chants, I can assure you dear readers that I will maintain my professional exterior and not go ballistic, for those yelling can't help it, they are merely the misguided or insane. I ask that you suspend your disbelief and shock as I may even find some complimentary things to say about our most vile enemies. That is not me being brainwashed, nay, it is an attempt at objective, even-handed journalism.

Wish me luck.

39-26-10: Puttin' Up A Point In Pennsylvania

When the Rangers beat the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday I was cautiously optimistic and pleased to earn the points. Tonight, after rallying from behind twice to force overtime (and a shootout, which we lost) to Philadelphia, I have pretty much the same reaction. The resiliency to bounce back is very reassuring and getting a point at all after losing the team's top scorer early in the game is a nice bonus. But at the same time, the Flyers aren't a very good team right now and we lost to them - the same Flyers who lost the Pens Sunday 7-1 and needed a desperation last-second save to hold off the woeful Atlanta Thrashers on Tuesday. Tonight should have been a two point game but at least the Rangers got one on the road so let's learn and move on - there are two big games at home next week to concentrate on. But before then:

*If there ever was a bell-ringing to signal Jaromir Jagr to wake up, seeing Scott Gomez slam shoulder first into the boards in the first period was it. Jagr did seem to skate a bit more in the second period, but to no avail. He tried to skate through everyone once, only to lose the puck just over the Philly blue line. He did finally score, thanks to a diving Jason Smith so maybe it can be the spark that ignites a scoring spree. But I don't think so, especially after thinking the same when he scored in Buffalo five games ago. The once-stellar offensive stud has lost his scoring touch and, thus far, it hasn't cost the team but that won't last, especially if Gomez is out for a length of time. The way he went off looked an awful like a busted collarbone or separated shoulder but he looked ok in postgame interviews so who knows? They are saying it isn't broken ribs, thank goodness ...

*It really is amazing how one penalty begets another and another and another. Luckily the penalty kill was able to survive the absence of Bettsy and weathered the Philly attack in the second period, including a 5-on-3. Of course, the power play went 0-3, but we won't discuss that. We will just focus on the six kills ...

*And, as they say, the best penalty killer is the goaltender and Valley was quite good, even though he gave up three goals in regulation. His lanky frame allows him to kick out those big pads and stop shots throughout the game. HOWEVER, it would not have been out of the question for Renney to pull him for the shootout and put Hank in. I remember at least one occasion when a coach did that, and this would have been a justifiable case. I don't know if I would have done it myself, but I certainly would have given it consideration considering how hot Hank has been in shootouts of late. Valley opened himself up in the shootout and gave the Flyers shooters a lot of room to shoot at, winning them the game.

*Everyone laughed at Brian Burke when he pitched the idea that overtime penalties should be a minute long but it really does seem like the power play lasts for an eternity. Staal went in and luckily the PK came through yet again.

*As they mentioned on the broadcast, Hartford played Philly at the Scrotum. It was a perfect chance for MSG to pay a few extra hundred bucks to get rights to air live peeks at the game, or even highlights. And if it wasn't being broadcast at all, then they should have paid for a cameraman to go over there, shoot a period and run the tape back so they could air something. One of the big catchwords in broadcasting is 360 coverage. That means coverage of a topic from all angles. Shooting the Rangers minor league team while they are in spitting distance is part of that and it would serve them well, to serve us fans well.

*The respect that I held for Girardi has been eroding for a little while as he succumbs to the grind of a long season. He played poorly for much of the game and it cost them on the second goal when he was too far behind the play and tried for a weak stick check and had the puck bang off of it into the net. Granted, his check from behind on Scott Hartnell probably saved a goal (as the puck hit the post) but he needs to step his game up and be as rock solid as he was early in the season. Girardi and Toots have been the defensive stalwarts on the team and we are about to head into the playoffs so they have to be at the top of their game.

*As for the other defensemen ... Malik nearly scored on Valley early in the third period and then actually scored a goal on a nice wrister to put the Rangers on the board. Much like with Backman, who tallied three assists, Malik contributed offensively while remaining piss poor in his own zone. The idiot let Briere walk into the zone, then lost positioning as babyface banged in the rebound from Hartnell's shot for the Flyers third goal. How a 6'6 man gets beaten physically by a guy whose body is permanently stuck in puberty is beyond me. And Backman's offensive contributions were needed and appreciated, but his play wasn't nearly as wonderful as Micheletti made it out to be.

*Credit goes to Tom Renney, who smartly used his time out for the second time in three games. On this night, he used it to set up the Rangers overtime power play (of which nothing came, but that isn't the point). I said it earlier this season, if you have it, use it.

*After ranting on about reputation and how it could cost the Rangers, Renney helped head that off by keeping Hollweg and Orr on a short leash, giving each four minutes or so of ice time. I think Holly should have gotten more of a look, but Renney was too nervous to give it.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Jeff Carter - the shootout goal to seal the win (not even the game-winner).
2-Backman - three assists.
1-Briere - two goals.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Dubi - the kid battled down low, was physical and drew defenders to him, giving more room to his linemates for them to take advantage of. He also blocked three shots to show off his ability to be defensively responsible.
2-Vinny Prospal - a pair of assists and a constant threat on offense that the Rangers had to battle.
1-Briere - he finally used his quickness to get to good spots and force the action. Unfortunately the Blueshirts blueliners let him do it and it got Philly two goals.

 39-26-10: Puttin' Up a Point in Pennsylvania - A Close Look at the New York Rangers' Season Performance

The New York Rangers' 2023-2024 NHL season has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by impressive wins, tough losses, and the team's relentless pursuit of a playoff spot. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Rangers' season performance, breaking down key moments, players, and strategies that have shaped their journey.

FAQ 1: What Does the Record "39-26-10" Mean?

The record "39-26-10" represents the Rangers' performance in the 2023-2024 NHL season. It's a breakdown of their wins (39), losses (26), and overtime or shootout losses (10). This record provides an overall snapshot of how the team has fared during the regular season.

The Rangers' Road to 39 Wins

Strong Start: The Rangers began the season with a strong start, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive stability. Star players like Artemi Panarin, Alexis Lafrenière, and Adam Fox were instrumental in the team's early success.

Goaltending Excellence: Goaltender Igor Shesterkin emerged as one of the league's top netminders, earning shutouts and making key saves that kept the Rangers competitive in close games.

Coach Gerard Gallant's Impact: Head Coach Gerard Gallant brought a new level of energy and determination to the team. His coaching style emphasized aggressive forechecking and a "never give up" attitude that resonated with the players.

FAQ 2: How Has the Rangers' Offense Performed?

The Rangers' offense has been a driving force behind their success this season:

Dynamic Duo: Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafrenière formed a dynamic offensive duo. Panarin's playmaking abilities and Lafrenière's goal-scoring prowess added depth to the forward lines.

Power Play Success: The Rangers' power play unit was among the league's best, capitalizing on opponents' penalties with timely goals.

Secondary Scoring: Depth players like Mika Zibanejad, Pavel Buchnevich, and Chris Kreider contributed consistently, providing secondary scoring options.

Turning Points and Challenges

Injuries: Like any team, the Rangers faced challenges due to injuries. Key players missed games, impacting the team's chemistry and performance.

Trade Deadline Moves: The Rangers were active at the trade deadline, making strategic moves to strengthen their roster for a playoff push. Acquiring a veteran defenseman and bolstering their forward depth were key priorities.

FAQ 3: What Are the Playoff Prospects for the Rangers?

As of the current standings, the Rangers are in contention for a playoff spot. Their strong play and determination have put them in a favorable position. However, the NHL playoff race is highly competitive, with several teams vying for limited spots.

To secure a playoff berth, the Rangers will need to maintain their consistency, continue winning key matchups, and stay healthy. Their ability to adapt and make in-game adjustments will also be crucial in a playoff series.

: A Promising Season for the New York Rangers

The 2023-2024 NHL season has been a promising one for the New York Rangers. With a solid record of 39-26-10, the team has demonstrated its competitiveness and determination to return to the playoffs. As the regular season winds down and the playoff picture takes shape, Rangers fans can look forward to an exciting postseason filled with potential and high expectations. Whether they make it to the playoffs or not, the Rangers' journey this season has been filled with memorable moments and highlights, building anticipation for what lies ahead in the next chapter of the team's storied history.