27-27-7: Well That Was Timely

A team is limping towards the Olympic break, slowly falling out of contention and the top scorer on a low scoring team is sliced and diced up. So what does said team do? Go out and beat a rival on their own ice.

How about that?

The Rangers beat the Pens in Pittsburgh 3-2 in overtime on Friday night. I wish I could go into great detail, but I didn't see it. For some reason the game was blacked out on DTV here in Seattle (at least at the Jillians I was at) and the live streams didn't work on my laptop thanks to the dingy wifi at the hotel I'm staying at. So my knowledge of the game comes from the Fox Final Score hilite and dozens upon dozens of text messages from friends of the blog Andrea and NYR34 and a section 329 friend of mine. So you guys feel free to fill in the blanks ...

*When I heard Ryan Callahan got hurt, I nearly wept. Thank goodness he is alright. If not, who would I root for on Team USA? Drury? Yeah, right. Oh yeah, not to mention that he has been the best Ranger not named Lundqvist or Gaborik.

*Olli Jokinen scored the overtime game-winner by simply ripping the puck. Simple, straightforward hockey is best most of the time folks; we've watched the Blueshirts be too cute for too long.

*MDZ got clipped with a skate across his side and bled right through his sweater. Sounds scary. Guess that won't be given away with Blueshirts Off Our Back.

*With MDZ already out, Michal Rozsival decides to jump in to help out Chris Drury when Dru was getting pummeled by the Cookie Monster (thank you Hockey Fights for that video). It is good to see this team stand up for its fourth line center - not the first line superstar, but the fourth line center. And, while doing it, leave the roster with four defensemen. Good job Rozy.

*Then again, maybe Rozy thought Drury was something more than that after Dru made the best pass of his NHL career to set up the Dubi goal to tie the game at one. Seriously, that was one helluva pass.

*And what is this about Rozy sending the puck up to Olli to get an assist on the game-winner? Is there a full moon?

*Speaking of unlikely assist artists, Artem Anisimov fed Vinny Prospal for the go-ahead goal. He also won six of seven faceoffs according to the event summary, will wonders never cease?

*He got some time alongside Vinny after Gabby couldn't go any more. Rushing the guy back was not the best of ideas but the team is in a bad spot so I guess Torts kinda hadta give it a shot.

*Oh wait, about that full moon - nevermind. Wade Redden still directly caused a goal against, setting a nice screen on Hank on Cindy's first goal. That is $8.1 million this year and we have him for four more years. Joy!

*Brandon Prust saw 13 minutes of ice time, which is curious considering the team replaced him prior to the game. Unless it was an attempt to showcase the guy so they can flip him for something else. I have no problem with Jody Shelley - I remember reading wonderful, sad things from Columbus when he was dealt to San Jose - but why do we need him with Prust on the roster? Or is Prust replacing Aaron Voros while Shelley replaces Brashear?

*After giving up on getting the game in, I went to watch the Seattle Thunderbirds take on the Moose Jaw Warriors. If you guys want a recap/observations, just ask. In fact, if I get some time, I may do it anyways. We'll see. By the way, I may have to have another recap like this for the Valentines Day game as well - I will be Amtrakking up to Vancouver while the game is going on (damned daytime match and three hour time difference). I apologize in advance.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Brandon Dubinsky - one goal.
2-Sidney Crosby - two goals.
1-Olli Jokinen - one goal.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
-None, sorry. I rip on the PHW for judging based on stats, I won't do it myself.

27-27-7: Well That Was Timely

The world of sports is often characterized by its unpredictability, where the outcomes of games and seasons can swing from highs to lows in the blink of an eye. For the New York Rangers and their fans, the 2027-2028 NHL season was a rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Rangers' season, the key moments, standout players, and what lies ahead for this storied franchise.

A Season of Ups and Downs

The 2027-2028 NHL season for the New York Rangers was nothing short of a wild ride. The team showcased flashes of brilliance and moments of frustration, leaving fans on the edge of their seats throughout the season.

The Promising Start

The season began with a sense of optimism as the Rangers showed early promise. Strong defensive plays and exceptional goaltending by their star netminder, Henrik Lundqvist, set a positive tone. The team's young talents, including standout rookie Alex Lafrenière, displayed their potential.

Mid-Season Struggles

However, as the season progressed, the Rangers faced their fair share of challenges. Injuries to key players and inconsistent performance on the road led to a series of losses. The team struggled to find its rhythm, leaving fans anxious about the playoff picture.

Late-Season Surge

Just when it seemed like the Rangers might miss the playoffs, they mounted an impressive late-season surge. The team's power play improved, and players like Mika Zibanejad and Artemi Panarin stepped up when it mattered most. The Rangers' resilience during this period was a testament to their character.

A Playoff Push

The Rangers managed to secure a playoff spot, and fans were once again filled with hope. The team's playoff run was marked by intense battles, overtime thrillers, and heart-stopping moments. Lundqvist, in what could potentially be his final season, delivered clutch performances that reminded everyone of his legendary status.

Standout Players

Several players shone brightly during the 2027-2028 season:

1. Alex Lafrenière: The rookie sensation quickly became a fan favorite with his speed, skill, and scoring ability. His future with the Rangers looks incredibly promising.

2. Henrik Lundqvist: The veteran goaltender showcased his enduring talent and leadership. His performance in the playoffs was a reminder of his greatness between the pipes.

3. Mika Zibanejad: Zibanejad's offensive contributions were invaluable. His ability to score crucial goals and make plays under pressure was a driving force behind the Rangers' late-season surge.

4. Artemi Panarin: Panarin's playmaking abilities and on-ice vision were on full display. He consistently set up his teammates for scoring opportunities and provided leadership in crucial moments.

5. Adam Fox: The young defenseman's breakout season was a revelation. His poise, offensive instincts, and defensive reliability earned him accolades and raised expectations for the future.

What Lies Ahead

As the dust settles on the 2027-2028 season, the Rangers face important questions and decisions. The team's management will need to address roster issues, contract negotiations, and make strategic moves in the off-season. The future of Henrik Lundqvist, a beloved figure in Rangers history, remains uncertain, and his potential retirement would mark the end of an era.

The Rangers' young core, featuring players like Lafrenière and Fox, provides a strong foundation for the future. The team's management will likely focus on nurturing these talents while seeking to add depth and experience to the roster.

Off the ice, the Rangers will continue their commitment to community initiatives, engaging with fans, and giving back to New York City. The bond between the team and its passionate supporters remains a vital aspect of the Rangers' identity.

In conclusion, the 2027-2028 season for the New York Rangers was a thrilling and emotional journey. It reminded fans of the unpredictable nature of sports and the enduring spirit of their team. As the Rangers regroup and prepare for the next season, there's a sense of hope and anticipation for what the future holds. The Broadway Blueshirts will always be a team that captures the hearts of its fans, win or lose, and that's a tradition that will continue for generations to come.