Game 7 - THE Game 7 - Thoughts

I won't write a long diatribe about how wonderful June 14th, 1994 was. You know how awesome it was. It is regarded as the pinnacle of hockey's popularity and for good reason. It had two teams playing at the best of their ability in a seven game series that went right down to the wire with the specter of a 54 year curse looming over the World's Most Famous Arena. If you are a Ranger fan, and were old enough to remember watching it and young enough not to have seen 1940, then this was the greatest moment, most satisfying, redeeming, amazing, outstanding evening of your fandom.

It was also alarming, frustrating and nail biting as the guys on the other side of the ice were nothing to sneeze at. Something I know I lost in the moment and the glow of Stanley was the incredible performance by Kirk McLean. Trevor Linden gets well-deserved credit for his goals and leadership but McLean played the game of his life. The last of the stand-up netminders, he held his ground against a red, white and blue tidal wave to give the Canucks a chance at victory.

Chris Osgood received plenty of laurels for his performance in Game 7 Friday but that game simply does not compare to 1994. The Red Wings were out of gas and played on fumes for two periods. They found an extra gallon for the third period but the Pens played the entire game at the peak of their ability. Both Vancouver and New York did that back in 1994 and the game was much more physical. Say what you want about the infractions that were allowed between Detroit and Pittsburgh, most everything outside of manslaughter got through in the Garden. And each team still got their chances with the man advantage.

Gary Bettman and the NHL's marketing folks may have gotten what they hoped for with Crosby and the Cup this season, but it doesn't compare to Messier and the Blueshirts. Just as the current Rangers can't hold a candle to their predecessors.

Watching MSG's replay of the historic game, something I've seen dozens of times by now (it's on my iPod), I texted my buddy Eric and said how I felt bad for Linden. Ever the realist/pessimist, Eric said "feel bad for us." My initial reaction was to laugh but re-reading it again, I do feel a distinct twinge of sadness and self-pity. The 1994 Rangers never stopped. Not for a shift, not for a second. And the 2009 Rangers seemed to stand still for most of the season. There will never be (had better not be) another great team like '94, one that had to knock off the yoke of a 54 year curse to raise the greatest trophy in sport. But that shouldn't be the reason to accept anything less than excellence.

The Garden brass needs to see that. They need to understand that the bottom line shouldn't be the finish line. There is hope, but that won't get us anywhere. Action will, and that action has to happen as soon as possible because while Sam said "this one will last a lifetime," our patience won't.

 "Game 7 - THE Game 7 - A Deep Dive into the Thrills and Emotions"

Game 7. These two simple words hold immense power in the world of sports, and in hockey, they represent the pinnacle of excitement and drama. In this article, we embark on a deep dive into Game 7 – not just any Game 7, but THE Game 7 – exploring its significance, history, and the rollercoaster of emotions it evokes.

Section 1: The Significance of Game 7

1.1. A Winner-Takes-All Scenario

Explain the unique nature of Game 7, where two teams battle to determine a series winner with no margin for error.

1.2. A Moment of Legacy

Discuss how Game 7s can define legacies for players, coaches, and franchises, making them a focal point of NHL history.

Section 2: The Game 7 Phenomenon

2.1. The Drama and Intensity

Describe the unmatched drama and intensity of Game 7s, highlighting how they can captivate even casual sports fans.

2.2. The Most Memorable Moments

Showcase iconic moments from past Game 7s that have become ingrained in hockey folklore.

Section 3: History and Iconic Game 7s

3.1. The Montreal Canadiens and Game 7s

Explore the Montreal Canadiens' storied history and their impressive Game 7 track record.

3.2. The Boston Bruins' Comeback

Relive the historic comeback by the Boston Bruins against the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2013, known as the "Miracle on Causeway Street."

Section 4: The Players' Perspective

4.1. Player Interviews

Include insights from NHL players who have experienced the pressure and thrill of Game 7 firsthand, sharing their thoughts and emotions.

4.2. Preparing for the Moment

Discuss how players mentally and physically prepare for the ultimate Game 7 challenge.

Section 5: The Fans' Passion

5.1. Fan Stories

Feature anecdotes and stories from passionate fans who have witnessed unforgettable Game 7s and share how these moments have shaped their love for hockey.

5.2. The Shared Experience

Explore how Game 7s foster a sense of community among fans, whether they are watching in the arena, at home, or in sports bars.

FAQs

1. What is the most memorable Game 7 in NHL history?

Highlight one or more Game 7s that have left an indelible mark on the league.

2. Are there any Game 7 superstitions or rituals among players and fans?

Explore the superstitions and rituals that players and fans engage in to bring good luck to their team.

3. How do players handle the immense pressure of Game 7, knowing that one mistake could be costly?

Provide insights into the mental fortitude required to excel in a Game 7 situation.

Game 7 – THE Game 7 – is the embodiment of everything hockey represents: passion, skill, drama, and the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. It's a moment that transcends the sport, captivating hearts and minds, and leaving an enduring imprint on the history of the NHL. Whether you're a die-hard fan who lives for Game 7s or someone just discovering the magic of hockey, there's no denying the extraordinary power of this winner-takes-all showdown. So, as we continue to witness the drama unfold on the ice, let's savor every moment, every shot, and every save, knowing that Game 7 is where legends are made and memories are etched in the annals of hockey greatness.