33-26-4: Six Pack Against The Caps

Before this season started pundits everywhere lauded the Washington Capitals, saying the team needed a little help on the back end to contend for the Cup. Well, Washington has gotten that help with the trade for Scott Hannan and the emergence of Karl Alzner, John Carlson and Michal Neuvirth. Unfortunately for them, somewhere along the way they lost their heart and their love for the game.

The pressure has increased on the Caps and it has crushed the life out of them. When Ovechkin was running around as the straw that stirred their drink and the big blissful belch that came after the big gulp, Washington was a happy-go-lucky hockey club. Now that Ovie has gotten serious - right down to the cleanly shaven face - the Caps aren't as fun and aren't as successful.

I know, I feel bad for them too. (No, not really.)

The Rangers beat the Capitals for the third straight time, winning tonight 6-0 to give them an aggregate score of 13-0 in their last two against DC. Perhaps it was because the Blueshirts played good defense, perhaps it was because they kept finding the back of the net, perhaps it was because there were nine power plays, perhaps it was because the Phone Booth had no atmosphere to speak of but this game was tremendously dull. Let's hope the boys didn't decide to liven things up after the game because they will face one very different, very tough Tampa team on Sunday.

Quick notes on this one:

*I admit it, I missed Tom Poti tonight.

*That the night ended without the news that Erik Christensen was traded should grounds for Sather's firing. His trade value has never been higher and will only go down from here. Mr. Softie is utterly useless 99% of the time - remember, there are no shootouts in the Stanley Cup FInals, much less any of the other playoff rounds, and thy are what we are shooting for.

*Love Mike Sauer but his decision to fight Jason Chimera was astoundingly stupid. Sure he bounced back and had a great game after that but he needs to know when, who and why it is worth fighting.

*If Staal is healthy on Sunday, MDZ should see the bench. Eminger was every bit the solid vet they have needed while Del Zotto took a stupid penalty that could have cost his team and he was mediocre the rest of the time. The Rangers are 8-6-1 in the last 15 that he dressed and 2-6-1 during that last nine game stretch where Torts went with the slumping sophomore.

*While talking defense, Dan Girardi was his usual tough self and Matt Gilroy had a really good, really quiet 20 minutes - his best all-around effort in a while.

*Watched the Stepan hit on Green a dozen times and it still is not suspension-worthy. Hell, it isn't even an offense worthy of a two minute minor. Green knew he was there, Green saw him coming and Green still skated right at him. The cross check Green laid on Step was far worse and even that wasn't egregious.

*Before this season I never would have said this but here it goes: Get well soon Fedotenko, we need you.

*Is there anyone who watched the last two games that believes that the Rangers are a better team with Marian Gaborik in the lineup? Didn't think so.

*Captain Callahan's feed to Christy on the third Ranger goal was quite likely the prettiest pass made by a Ranger this season.

*Arty Anisimov had his best game in a while. Perhaps he was trying to impress his fellow countrymen on the opposite bench?

*Everyone went wild over Wolski after his performance against the Hurricanes, but it was funny, hardly heard his name at all on this night. This team needs consistency.

*Did you see the reaction by Prospal after he scored? Even though it was the fifth Ranger goal of the night, you would have thought it was the first of his career. Kinda nice to see someone get that excited ...

*How many good saves did Hank have to make? Three, four?

*PHW Three Stars
3-Ryan Callahan - one assist.
2-Erik Christensen - two goals and two assists.
1-Henrik Lundqvist - 35 saves.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Ryan McDonagh - The kid slid into Staal's spot and - while he didn't star - he didn't look out of place in the least.
2-Step - Another youngster playing in all situations who acquitted himself quite well. Perhaps it was the hit on Green that set him off but Stepan was more involved buzzer-to-buzzer then he has been in a long time.
1-Christy - Trade him right f-ing now!

 A Dominant Display: Rangers' Six-Pack Against the Capitals

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In the world of professional ice hockey, moments of pure dominance on the ice are cherished by fans and celebrated by teams. The New York Rangers' impressive six-pack of goals against the Washington Capitals is one such moment that left fans in awe. In this article, we'll dissect this remarkable game, explore the key moments, and delve into what made it a night to remember for Rangers supporters.

Chapter 1: The Build-Up

Setting the stage is crucial in understanding the significance of this game. We'll discuss the Rangers' season leading up to this showdown, their position in the standings, and the anticipation surrounding the clash with the Capitals.

Chapter 2: The Key Players

Every great game has its standout performers. We'll introduce the key players who shone during this match, highlighting their roles and contributions.

Chapter 3: The Opening Salvo

The first period often sets the tone for a game, and this match was no different. We'll break down the opening period, detailing the goals, assists, and the atmosphere inside the arena.

Chapter 4: Unleashing the Offense

The Rangers' six goals didn't happen by accident. We'll examine the offensive strategies, the power play opportunities, and the impressive puck movement that allowed the Rangers to light up the scoreboard.

Chapter 5: Defensive Prowess

Scoring goals is one thing, but defending against a potent team like the Capitals is equally important. We'll analyze the Rangers' defensive efforts, the goaltender's performance, and the crucial saves that kept them ahead.

Chapter 6: Turning Points

Every game has its turning points—moments when the tide shifts. We'll identify these turning points in the match, discussing the impact they had on the final outcome.

Chapter 7: Fan Reactions

A great game is nothing without the passionate reactions of the fans. We'll showcase the reactions of Rangers' faithful, capturing the excitement and joy they felt during this memorable performance.

Chapter 8: The Aftermath

With a resounding victory in hand, we'll discuss the implications of this game on the Rangers' season, their confidence going forward, and the message it sent to the rest of the league.

Chapter 9: Comparisons and Historical Significance

To put this game in perspective, we'll compare it to other dominant performances in Rangers' history and highlight its place in the annals of the franchise.

Chapter 10: Lessons Learned

What can aspiring hockey players and teams learn from this game? We'll extract valuable lessons in teamwork, strategy, and determination that can be applied to the sport.

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The Rangers' six-pack against the Capitals was not just a display of offensive firepower; it was a testament to the team's unity, skill, and unwavering determination to succeed. It's a game etched in the memories of fans, a source of inspiration for future generations of hockey players, and a reminder of the magic that can happen on the ice when everything clicks. As Rangers supporters look back on this remarkable night, they do so with pride, knowing that their team can achieve greatness when they play as one.