As I asked on Twitter, "how does one contain excitement over a rookie who nearly scores 4 goals in his debut?" After a bit of contemplation, I decided what I said in an earlier tweet held true: responding to Jim Cerny's factoid that 'Stepan is first rookie to score a Hat Trick in NHL debut since Fabian Brunnstrom of Dallas in 08' I wrote "and look at Barnstormer now..." One game does not a career make, so let's enjoy the moment, share in his mom's beaming pride and wait and see before passing any kind of judgement.
The same should go for the entire team so I will try to stick to observations ... yeah right:
*Stop me if this sounds familiar: the Rangers start hot - dominate even - then let their opponent back into the action before a fervent finish. The Blueshirts did that in many, many games in the past and that also pretty much sums up their last few seasons.
*And it is tough to be giddy about the game, or even the outrageous start, when the opponent was just so completely crappy (I think that is the professional term). Buffalo was a step slow and completely disorganized. Ryan Miller gave up some bad goals but he was clearly the last line of defense behind a tired collection of mediocrity. Their Calder kid from last season, Tyler Myers, suddenly turned into Eric Cairns. He was lumbering around, falling all over himself and helped the Ranger cause immeasurably both with his turnovers and the confidence it gave the Rangers. Lindy Ruff must have reigned hellfire in the locker room during both intermissions as the Sabres stepped up their play each time. When they started getting physical, they started doing better. *The physical Rangers - the fourth liners - weren't particularly impressive at all. We got some soso work from Boyle and Prust killing penalties and the expected six minutes of nothing from Boogaard. Zenon Konopka didn't fight against Dallas tonight so the likelihood of a tilt between the two on Monday went up just a notch. But only a notch because things are setting up for a Boogaard/Orr battle at the home opener that will define the Boogeyman's Ranger career, much the way Brashear's bout with Colt did.
*My opinion of Ruslan Fedotenko also went up. He was pointless in the game but his energy level carried over from the preseason when he was fighting for his NHL career. Feds and Avery were both stellar and easily outshined the duo of Frolov and Gaborik.
*Frankly, I didn't notice Mike Sauer at all. And that is terrific. That is exactly what we want from him - solid, steady, capable and quiet defending. Steve Eminger, on the other hand was all too noticeable. Eminger took two bad penalties, was weak along the boards and I even spotted him backing down and away from Nathan Gerbe - a player eight inches smaller.
*MDZ was far better in the Ranger end than he was during preseason. He chased a few hits but his positioning was definitely improved - which is all I asked for. The kid has to play both ends of the ice.
*The other Ranger I voiced my concern about, Arty Anisimov, wasn't any better than I expected but he wasn't any worse. Arty's timing and offensive instincts are good but he is still all too soft, he still can be intimidated physically and he still can't put all of his skills together at once. It may come together one day, but it isn't there yet.
*Joe Micheletti is just plain difficult to listen to and his obsession with Dubi's kiss to Stepan's visor was just a little disturbing. But I have to give credit where due and his observation that Paul Gaustad getting kicked out of the faceoff circle led to Dubi's empty netter was spot on.
*Dubi and Cally played their games and did it well. They hustled and they got results. At what point does Torts bequeath an A for Dubi's sweater? Since Sean is certainly not going to get it, Dubi is quite deserving and he is a home-grown guy. Better him than a mercenary like Prospal (if/when he comes back).*Speaking of lettermen, Chris Drury was not particularly missed and do you think it was any kind of coincidence that immediately after the MSG staff starts talking about him Buffalo scored? I'm too superstitious to let that one go anytime soon...
*Now the Rangers probably put the 85th anniversary patch up on the shoulder because of the cut of the Reebok jersey but it is still interesting that it is in the same place where they had put the '94 Cup patch. It leaves the left chest open, making the captains' letters that much more special.
*Hank allowed three goals on 36 shots. He is still quick to drop into the butterfly, allowing one of Leopold's shots in up high. That isn't troubling - that the Rangers allowed 36 shots to a team like Buffalo is. The Sabres are far from an offensive powerhouse; what will happen when Washington comes to town? Are we going to see Lundqvist do a Denis Lemieux confused collapse into his own locker?
*PHW Three Stars3-Dan Girardi - two assists.
2-Jordan Leopold - two goals and one assist.
1-Derek Stepan - three goals.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Leopold - While his goals weren't particularly impressive, the Sabre defender did what he was supposed to do - throw the puck at the net and make something happen.
2-Avery - Talk about making something happen ... Avery showed that he can be a perfectly competent player when he reins in his emotions and just goes to work. This wasn't Sean riding the razor's edge with borderline actions; this was Avery's energy level and physicality making room for his linemates. Speaking of which ...
1-Stepan - If he never plays another game it will still be magical - a kid plays his first game, has his mom in the crowd and puts up a hat trick. Outstanding. But yeah, let's hope he saved some goals for the rest of the season.
1-0-0: Well, It's A Start
The 2011-2012 NHL season had finally arrived, and fans of the New York Rangers couldn't have been more excited. After an offseason filled with anticipation, the Blueshirts were back on the ice at Madison Square Garden, ready to embark on a new journey. The opening game of the season was a chance for the team to set the tone and prove that they were serious contenders. In a thrilling matchup against the Los Angeles Kings, the Rangers did just that, securing a 1-0 victory that left fans eager for more.
The Offseason Buzz
Leading up to the season opener, the Rangers had generated plenty of buzz during the offseason. General Manager Glen Sather had been hard at work, making strategic moves to bolster the team's roster. One of the most significant acquisitions was the signing of Brad Richards, a star center with a proven track record of offensive excellence. Richards was expected to provide a much-needed boost to the Rangers' scoring capabilities and playmaking abilities.
Additionally, the Rangers had re-signed several key players, including captain Ryan Callahan and standout goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. The core of the team remained intact, instilling confidence in the fan base that this could be a special season.
A Season of Expectations
As the puck dropped for the season opener against the Los Angeles Kings, the atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was electric. Rangers fans had high expectations for the team, hoping to see a return to the glory days of Stanley Cup championships. The pressure was on, but the Blueshirts were prepared to meet the challenge head-on.
The Duel of Goaltenders
The game against the Kings was a goaltending showdown for the ages. On one side, there was Henrik Lundqvist, the Rangers' beloved "King Henrik," known for his acrobatic saves and unflappable composure. On the other side was Jonathan Quick, the star netminder for the Kings, who had earned a reputation as one of the league's top goalies.
The goaltenders put on a clinic, turning away shot after shot with remarkable skill and precision. Both Lundqvist and Quick made highlight-reel saves, showcasing their world-class talents. For fans of goaltending excellence, this game was a treat.
Richards' Debut
Brad Richards made his Rangers debut in spectacular fashion. With the game still deadlocked in a scoreless tie late in the third period, Richards seized the moment. He showcased his playmaking abilities by setting up a beautiful one-timer opportunity for Marian Gaborik. Gaborik, the Rangers' sniper, made no mistake, blasting the puck past Quick and into the net.
The roar of the crowd at Madison Square Garden was deafening as Gaborik celebrated his goal. Rangers fans knew they were witnessing something special. Richards had made an immediate impact, providing the offensive spark that the team had been searching for.
Defensive Grit
While the Rangers' offense had received a boost from Richards, their commitment to defense remained unwavering. The team's blue-line corps, led by Dan Girardi and Marc Staal, played a physical and disciplined game. They blocked shots, disrupted passing lanes, and provided crucial support to Lundqvist.
One of the defining moments of the game came during a penalty kill, where the Rangers successfully defended against a 5-on-3 power play by the Kings. It was a testament to their defensive prowess and determination.
The Final Minutes
As the final minutes of the game ticked away, the Rangers clung to their 1-0 lead. Lundqvist made several crucial saves in the dying moments, including a remarkable diving stop that left fans in awe. The Kings pulled Quick in a last-ditch effort to tie the game, but the Rangers' defense held firm.
When the final buzzer sounded, Madison Square Garden erupted in celebration. The Rangers had secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory in their season opener, and the message was clear: they were a force to be reckoned with.
The Rangers' 1-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings in the season opener was a thrilling start to what would become an unforgettable season. Brad Richards had made an immediate impact, the defense had shown its grit, and Henrik Lundqvist had once again proven his status as one of the league's premier goaltenders.
As the season progressed, the Rangers would face new challenges and triumphs, but this opening game served as a testament to their potential. It was a reminder to fans that, with determination and skill, the Blueshirts were capable of achieving greatness.
FAQs:
Q1: How did Brad Richards perform in his Rangers debut?
A1: Brad Richards made an immediate impact in his Rangers debut by setting up the game-winning goal and showcasing his playmaking abilities.
Q2: Who were the standout players in the game against the Los Angeles Kings?
A2: Henrik Lundqvist, Jonathan Quick, Brad Richards
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