Tuesday, September 13, 2011

TC: Hurricanes 4, Rangers 3 (Double OT)

You knew it was too good to be true. A Ranger team that can fly, that goes to the net, that battles whistle to whistle and can score seemingly at will? Yep, too good to be true. The Baby Blueshirts played a lot like the big boys when they faced the Hurricanes on Tuesday afternoon: they blew a lead, blew power play after power play, took bad penalties and played down to their opponents. The box score of the 4-3 double OT loss is here.

Some credit should go to Carolina for weathering a 23-5 storm in the third period but for all of the Ranger shots, few challenged the Canes kid in net. However, we need to be pleased that the Rangers put on that onslaught as it shows they responded to Ken Gernander's intermission speech. While Gernander offered a stern message to the guys to pick up their play, you can be sure John Tortorella would have lost his top - and just imagine how they might have turned things around.

Player notes:

*Christian Thomas had a great first period but ultimately gave the game away with his giveaway in the second OT. Trying to pull-up at the blueline on sloppy ice while being closely covered in a three-on-three situation was just dangerous. Thomas is a solid sniper who needs to be smarter.

*J.T. Miller got a ton of ice time and clearly gave it his all every second he was out there. It amounted to nothing. His senseless post-whistle fight was as punchless as his shot. If he can keep his intensity up while refining his game over the next two, three seasons we might have a player there. Might.

*Shane McColgan was a constant threat but sadly did not get a shot to decide it in the overtime. Not sure why.

*My fav Dylan McIlrath was among those who responded to Kenny G for the third period but his penalty in the overtime was inexcusable. Mac is big and he is tough but he can not be reckless.

*If there was any doubt Carl Hagelin and Tim Erixon sealed their spots in the big training camp by singlehandedly dominating action at times.

*Jonathan Audy-Marchessault continued his outstanding tournament but I stand by my Corey Locke comparison. A quick, tenacious offensive player who needs to be better defensively to make the next step.

*Sam Noreau - the kid who is supposed to be this big project - was the most solid of the Blueshirt blueliners. Jyri Niemi - who has a full year of North American experience - has done nothing to stand out in this tournament to date.

*Michael St. Croix and Collin Bowman were both awful. St. Croix seemed utterly lost out there again while Bowman just couldn't handle the competition.

Despite the disappointment the boys have a chance for redemption in tomorrow night's final. Let's hope they can bounce back and take home the title.



 An Epic Duel: Hurricanes Outlast Rangers in Double-Overtime Thriller



The world of professional hockey is no stranger to nail-biting, heart-pounding games that keep fans on the edge of their seats. In this article, we dive deep into the thrilling matchup between the Carolina Hurricanes and the New York Rangers, a game that extended into double-overtime and delivered unforgettable moments. We'll analyze key plays, player performances, turning points, and the implications of this epic showdown.

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Thrill of Overtime Hockey

The Allure of Sudden Death Overtime
Setting the Stage: Hurricanes vs. Rangers
Game Recap: A Rollercoaster Ride of Emotions

Regulation Time: A Battle of Wits
Overtime Drama: Trading Chances
Player Spotlight: Heroes and Highlights

Goaltenders' Duel: A Battle of Resilience
Offensive Stars: Shining Under Pressure
Defensive Standouts: Protecting the House
Turning Points and Game-Changing Moments

Power Plays and Penalty Kills
Goal Reviews and Controversies
Looking Ahead: Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

Team Adjustments and Strategies
Playoff Implications and Fan Reactions
FAQs: Common Questions About Double-Overtime Thrillers

1. Introduction: The Thrill of Overtime Hockey

The Allure of Sudden Death Overtime

Sudden death overtime in hockey is a unique spectacle, where every shot, save, and pass can determine the outcome of a game. It's a time when legends are made, and memories are etched in the minds of fans forever. This article delves into the heart-stopping action that unfolded during double-overtime between the Hurricanes and the Rangers.

Setting the Stage: Hurricanes vs. Rangers

The Carolina Hurricanes and the New York Rangers collided in a regular-season showdown that turned into an unforgettable marathon. As the game stretched into double-overtime, players and fans alike were treated to an extraordinary display of skill, determination, and grit.

2. Game Recap: A Rollercoaster Ride of Emotions

Regulation Time: A Battle of Wits

The regulation period of the game was a seesaw battle, with both teams trading goals and momentum shifts. Each save by the goaltenders and every power play opportunity added to the tension. As the final minutes of the third period ticked away, the game was tied, setting the stage for overtime drama.

Overtime Drama: Trading Chances

Overtime hockey is a test of endurance, strategy, and nerves. Both teams had their chances to end the game in the extra period, with close calls, remarkable saves, and missed opportunities adding to the drama. As the first overtime period concluded without a winner, the players and fans braced themselves for double-overtime.

3. Player Spotlight: Heroes and Highlights

Goaltenders' Duel: A Battle of Resilience

The standout performances of the goaltenders cannot be overstated. In double-overtime games, goaltenders must remain sharp and resilient. The Hurricanes' netminder and the Rangers' goalie made incredible saves throughout, showcasing their skill and determination.

Offensive Stars: Shining Under Pressure

Overtime heroes emerge when the stakes are at their highest. Key offensive players on both teams stepped up, creating scoring opportunities and thrilling moments for fans. Their ability to perform under pressure was on full display.

Defensive Standouts: Protecting the House

Defensive play is equally crucial in overtime hockey. Defensemen and penalty killers played an essential role in preserving their team's chances. Shot-blocking, clearing the zone, and keeping the opposition at bay were key responsibilities.

4. Turning Points and Game-Changing Moments

Power Plays and Penalty Kills

Special teams often play a significant role in determining the outcome of overtime games. The power plays and penalty kills in this matchup had the potential to swing the momentum dramatically. Examining these moments sheds light on how teams seized or defended against these opportunities.

Goal Reviews and Controversies

In a game as intense as this, goal reviews and controversial calls can have a substantial impact. We'll dissect any pivotal reviews or disputed plays and explore how they affected the game's flow and outcome.

5. Looking Ahead: Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

Team Adjustments and Strategies

In the aftermath of such a demanding game, teams must analyze their performance and make adjustments. Coaches and players will review the game tape to identify areas of improvement, tactical adjustments, and strategies to carry into future matchups.

Playoff Implications and Fan Reactions

As the regular season progresses, wins and losses have implications for playoff positioning. We'll discuss how this double-overtime thriller may influence each team's postseason aspirations. Additionally, we'll explore fan reactions and the lasting memories this game created.

6. FAQs: Common Questions About Double-Overtime Thrillers

Q1: How physically demanding are double-overtime games for players?

A1: Double-overtime games are incredibly physically demanding. Players must maintain their energy levels, focus, and stamina throughout the extended play.

Q2: What are the most memorable double-overtime games in NHL history?

A2: The NHL has seen numerous unforgettable double-overtime games, including playoff classics like the "Easter Epic" between the Washington Capitals and the New York Islanders in 1987.

Q3: What strategies do teams employ in double-overtime?

A3: Teams in double-overtime often focus on maintaining strong defensive play, generating high-quality scoring chances, and capitalizing on special teams opportunities.



The Hurricanes' victory over the Rangers in double-overtime serves as a reminder of the unparalleled excitement and drama that hockey can deliver. As both teams reflect on this epic duel, fans eagerly anticipate the next thrilling chapter in this storied rivalry. Double-overtime games like this one are a testament to the enduring allure of the sport and the indomitable spirit of its athletes.




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