#30's #s: 68 games, 36-27-5, 2.28 gaa, .923 save %, 11 shutouts (5 playoff games, 1-4, 2.25 gaa, .917 save %).
Take the good: Hank led the NHL with 11 shutouts (a career high for him) and won more than 35 games for the fifth straight season. The Rangers got a lot of press for all of their blocked shots but that resulted in a lot of pucks deflected on goal and yet Hank still held his ground. He stood up to shot after shot (he had 18 games where he faced 35 or more) and finally physically defended his crease when he took down Max Pacioretty. Hank did not face any of the random ailments that popped up over the last few seasons (hips, headaches, knees, whatever) and gave the young Rangers the strong netminding they needed. He only got the hook three times all year and was strong enough to survive the stretch run without a real backup.Take the bad: Because of the goal deficient team in front of him, Hank had to be close to perfect for the team to win and, thus, every one of his mistakes were magnified. And when he had bad nights, the Blueshirts were screwed - they lost every game where he allowed more than three goals. He - and the team for that matter - couldn't build any kind of momentum: he had just one win streak more than two games (a rip of five in mid-March). Torts had to sit him down at one point in November to get extra work with Benoit.
Take them both and then we have: The King. He played in 68 games, a total less than he had in any of the previous four seasons. The less work was ice but did not pay off as he couldn't Jon Casey the Rangers past the Caps in the playoffs. The occasional soft goals became more infrequent this season, perhaps as a result of his maturation or increased confidence in himself and his defenders. He survived the Rozsival era and made it though the MDZ mistakes only to have to deal with the defensively lacking Bryan McCabe. The last time Hank had a fully capable corps of defensemen in front of him he won the Olympic gold medal so let's hope that he will have some more help this fall.
The NYR Facts Of Life: #30 Henrik Lundqvist
In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of professional hockey, the role of a goaltender is nothing short of pivotal. For the New York Rangers, one man has epitomized excellence between the pipes for over a decade: Henrik Lundqvist. In this installment of "The NYR Facts of Life," we delve into the remarkable career of the Rangers' iconic netminder, exploring his journey to Broadway, his impact on the team, and his enduring legacy.
Table of Contents
Introduction: The Guardian of Broadway
Setting the stage for a deep dive into Henrik Lundqvist's extraordinary career with the New York Rangers.
Henrik Lundqvist: A Royal Beginning
Tracing Lundqvist's early years and his remarkable journey from Sweden to the NHL.
King Henrik: The Rangers' Last Line of Defense
Examining Lundqvist's role as the backbone of the Rangers and the heart of Madison Square Garden.
Iconic Moments: Playoff Heroics and Milestones
Reliving some of Lundqvist's most memorable performances and milestones, including his pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
Off the Ice: Lundqvist's Impact Beyond Hockey
Discussing Lundqvist's philanthropic endeavors, fashion ventures, and his status as a beloved figure in New York City.
Lundqvist's Legacy: A Rangers Icon
Reflecting on the indelible mark Henrik Lundqvist has left on the New York Rangers franchise and its fans.
Fanfare and Farewell: Lundqvist's Departure from Broadway
Chronicling Lundqvist's emotional departure from the Rangers and his enduring connection with the team and its supporters.
Future Endeavors: What Lies Ahead for Henrik Lundqvist
Speculating on Lundqvist's future in hockey and beyond, including the possibility of a Rangers reunion.
: The King's Reign Lives On
Summarizing Henrik Lundqvist's remarkable career and the lasting impact he has made on the New York Rangers and the sport of hockey.
1. Introduction: The Guardian of Broadway
In the world of professional sports, few athletes become synonymous with their respective teams and cities. Henrik Lundqvist, the Swedish goaltending sensation known as "The King," is one such rare individual. His tenure with the New York Rangers has not only solidified his status as a hockey icon but also endeared him to fans in the heart of Manhattan.
2. Henrik Lundqvist: A Royal Beginning
Henrik Lundqvist's journey to NHL stardom is a remarkable tale of determination and skill. Born and raised in Åre, Sweden, Lundqvist's path to Broadway took him from the rinks of Scandinavia to the bright lights of New York City.
3. King Henrik: The Rangers' Last Line of Defense
For over a decade, Henrik Lundqvist has been the Rangers' ultimate last line of defense. His acrobatic saves, composure under pressure, and unparalleled work ethic have made him a beloved figure among fans and a beacon of hope for the franchise.
4. Iconic Moments: Playoff Heroics and Milestones
Lundqvist's career has been punctuated by unforgettable moments, from his numerous playoff heroics to his climb up the NHL's all-time wins list for goaltenders. We revisit some of his most celebrated achievements.
5. Off the Ice: Lundqvist's Impact Beyond Hockey
Henrik Lundqvist's impact extends far beyond the rink. We explore his philanthropic efforts, his foray into the world of fashion, and his role as a cultural icon in New York City.
6. Lundqvist's Legacy: A Rangers Icon
As Lundqvist departs from the Rangers, we reflect on the legacy he leaves behind. His influence on the team and the city is immeasurable, and his jersey will forever hang in the rafters at Madison Square Garden.
7. Fanfare and Farewell: Lundqvist's Departure from Broadway
The emotional farewell between Henrik Lundqvist and the Rangers was a bittersweet moment for fans. We revisit his departure and the lasting bond he shares with those who bleed blue and red.
8. Future Endeavors: What Lies Ahead for Henrik Lundqvist
What does the future hold for Henrik Lundqvist? We examine the possibilities, including the potential for a return to the Rangers, his continued charity work, and his legacy as a goaltending legend.
9. Conclusion: The King's Reign Lives On
In conclusion, Henrik Lundqvist's reign as the Rangers' goaltending monarch may have concluded, but his legacy endures. His impact on the team, the city, and the sport of hockey will be felt for generations to come, ensuring that the King's reign lives on in the hearts of fans and the annals of Rangers history.
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