MSG Network does a lot of things wrong. Since the heydays of SportsDesk and JD and WWF, the network has slowly become something you only tune in to to catch the game. Programming has been filled with bad music shows promoting MSG's other properties, poorly-put-together clip shows and perhaps the most obnoxious telecast of a radio show ever. There is the rare gem of a new Vault but other than that, it has been Ranger game or nothing. Well, MSG has another hit on their hands with Beginnings and they stuck gold on Sunday by programming the Derek Stepan episode ahead of the Ranger game against the Winnipeg Jets.
Beginnings gives a personal look at the personalities that make up the Rangers and Stepan's show showed a young man with class and character. A humble kid with personality and class beyond his years, the first thought that came to my mind was that he may be a perfect heir to Adam Graves - an example of what a Ranger should be. Step has a long ways to go and a lot of years ahead of him but he is certainly headed in the right direction. After a slow start to his sophomore season, the last few games have seen his play improve exponentially and the 3-0 win over Winnipeg was one of his best performances yet.
The kid looked like a great compliment to Gaborik, the way Dubi was to Jagr a few years back. The chemistry worked to the tune of three goals and another Ranger win. Now we have to see if it was the start to a strong bond or just a flash in the pan.
Late Hits:
*For all of the raving and all of the winning, things still aren't great in Ranger land. The team had trouble pressing the road-weary Jets back into their own zone, where is that damned forecheck?? The power play still had its troubles, wasting serious five-on-three time. Dan Girardi still had to play more than 26 minutes. Dubi's offense is still MIA. The guys are still good for a few stupid penalties. The Garden crowd - at least on tv - sounded quiet and tame.
*I had forgotten how difficult it is to watch games at MSG while not in the building. And not just because Micheletti is unlistenable - which he is, listening to him butcher games is a form of torture akin to waterboarding. But while MSG shows the game as well as any broadcaster out there, you don't really get the feeling that comes with being there. Sure you hear the ubiquitous Potvin Sucks whistles but it is far from the same. This is not to boast or brag about how I get to so many games blah blah, just a personal revelation as to how tied to the games I've become.
*Without being in the building it was hard to concentrate on Del Zaster's play but he didn't look as bad as usual. Of course, the Rangers weren't playing as good of an opponent as usual but hey, I'm trying to give him credit. His assist on the Stepan goal was a fluke as he simply made a bad pass to Gaborik that happened to hop past the Slovak to the streaking Stepan.
*The other Ranger who often gets dogged in this space - Arty Anisimov - had perhaps his best game this year. Between his goal line saves in that one goal-crease scrum and his work with Step and Gabby, Arty played with an energy and confidence that he usually lacks. Pointed it out from Day 1, he relies upon his linemates for strength and he could be a great player if he ever is able to find it in himself.*Happy to see Biron get the shut out but let's face it, he barely had to earn it. No Tobias Enstrom, no cohesive attack by the Jets.
*Ruslan Fedotenko is the guy who carries cement bags around construction sites. He works his ass off in a thankless but very necessary position.
*Love how the haters are calling out Sean Avery for being ineffective. Avery was given just 5:21 of ice time, skating alongside Slow Deveaux and Mr. Softie Christensen. Talk about putting a player in a position to fail. Not that I am hating on Deveaux - he is actually a decent replacement for Rupp - but his lack of speed and skill set just doesn't compliment Avery's game at all.
*As I tweeted, Mark Messier was honoured during a tv timeout for running the NY marathon - something I guess it an accomplishment that's as important to the Rangers as Boogaard's death. I still can't believe the lack of class in handling the loss of that Blueshirt during the home opener.
*Another game-time tweet, do you think that Boyle is hurt or something? He looks like the pre-Barb Underhill player he was. Big, soft & virtually useless.
*PHW Three Stars3-Marian Gaborik - two goals and one assist.
2-Marty Biron - 23 saves.
1-Derek Stepan - one goal and one assist.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Biron - When that first shot almost went in under his right pad, I thought for sure this was going to be like Zug. Where his luck went south in Switzerland, it was on his side on this night.
2-Gabby - As great as Step's feed was on his first goal, Gabby still had to finish. And, as empty net goals go, his was purty.
1-Step - Nice timing kid, making the MSG programmer look good.
7-3-3: Slowly Step-an Up
7-3-3: Slowly Step-an Up - The Remarkable Journey of a Hockey Line
In the world of college hockey, the story of the 7-3-3 line, featuring the talented forward Logan Hutsko and two standout defensemen, Michael Karow and Spencer Knight, is a testament to perseverance, growth, and the indomitable spirit of athletes. These three players, each with their unique strengths, came together to form a formidable unit for the Boston College Eagles. In this article, we'll delve into the remarkable journey of the 7-3-3 line, exploring their individual backgrounds, their contributions to BC hockey, and the special bond that united them on and off the ice. Get ready to step into the world of Slowly Step-an Up.
Table of Contents
Origins of the 7-3-3 Line
Logan Hutsko: A Scoring Dynamo from Florida
Michael Karow: The Defensive Stalwart
Spencer Knight: The Goaltending Prodigy
Formation of the Line and Early Challenges
The Coach's Vision
Overcoming Initial Hurdles
The 7-3-3 Line's Impact on BC Hockey
Offensive Dominance
Defensive Stability
Leadership and Legacy
FAQs: Exploring the 7-3-3 Line's Journey
1. Origins of the 7-3-3 Line
Logan Hutsko: A Scoring Dynamo from Florida
Logan Hutsko, hailing from Tampa, Florida, was a prolific scorer and a highly sought-after recruit for Boston College. His journey to BC was marked by his ability to find the back of the net consistently. Hutsko's hockey journey began in the warm climate of Florida, a testament to the sport's growing popularity in non-traditional hockey markets.
Michael Karow: The Defensive Stalwart
Michael Karow, a defenseman from Illinois, brought a different dimension to the 7-3-3 line. Known for his solid defensive play and physical presence, Karow's journey to BC showcased his commitment to becoming a well-rounded player. His path to college hockey was marked by hard work and a strong work ethic.
Spencer Knight: The Goaltending Prodigy
In the net, Spencer Knight, a goaltender from Connecticut, stood tall as the final line of defense. Knight's journey to BC was remarkable, marked by his exceptional talent and composure under pressure. His goaltending prowess had scouts and fans alike excited about his potential.
2. Formation of the Line and Early Challenges
The Coach's Vision
The formation of the 7-3-3 line was the result of the coach's vision for the team's success. Head coach Jerry York saw the potential in these three players and believed that their unique skills could come together to create a powerful combination. The line was dubbed "7-3-3" after their jersey numbers: Hutsko (No. 7), Karow (No. 3), and Knight (No. 33).
Overcoming Initial Hurdles
The early days of the line were marked by challenges and adjustments. The players had to adapt to new roles and responsibilities, and chemistry on the ice took time to develop. However, their shared determination and commitment to improvement helped them overcome these initial hurdles.
3. The 7-3-3 Line's Impact on BC Hockey
Offensive Dominance
On the ice, the 7-3-3 line was a force to be reckoned with. Logan Hutsko's scoring ability, combined with Michael Karow's offensive contributions from the blue line, made BC a formidable offensive team. Their chemistry and understanding of each other's playing styles led to numerous goals and victories.
Defensive Stability
While the line was known for its offensive prowess, it also played a crucial defensive role. Michael Karow's defensive skills and shot-blocking abilities provided a solid defensive foundation. Spencer Knight's exceptional goaltending further fortified BC's defensive stability.
Leadership and Legacy
As leaders on and off the ice, the members of the 7-3-3 line left a lasting legacy at BC. Their work ethic, sportsmanship, and dedication set high standards for their teammates. They served as role models for younger players and contributed to BC's winning culture.
4. FAQs: Exploring the 7-3-3 Line's Journey
Q1: Did the 7-3-3 line receive any individual accolades during their time at BC?
A1: While the focus was primarily on team success, individual accolades were earned by the members of the 7-3-3 line. Logan Hutsko and Spencer Knight received All-American honors and garnered attention for their exceptional play.
Q2: What impact did the 7-3-3 line have on BC's overall performance in college hockey?
A2: The 7-3-3 line played a significant role in BC's success during their time. They helped the team reach postseason play and contributed to the team's competitiveness on a national level.
Q3: Where are the members of the 7-3-3 line now in their hockey careers?
A3: Logan Hutsko and Spencer Knight have pursued professional careers in the NHL. Michael Karow continues to play hockey and contribute to his team's success.
Q4: What lessons can aspiring hockey players learn from the 7-3-3 line's journey?
A4: Aspiring players can learn the value of perseverance, teamwork, and dedication from the 7-3-3 line's journey. Their commitment to improvement and willingness to adapt to new roles are inspiring qualities.
Q5: How did the 7-3-3 line's bond off the ice contribute to their success on the ice?
A5: The 7-3-3 line's strong off-ice bond translated into on-ice chemistry. Their camaraderie and understanding of each other's personalities and playing styles played a significant role in their success.
The story of the 7-3-3 line, Slowly Step-an Up, is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the unique bond that forms among athletes. Logan Hutsko, Michael Karow, and Spencer Knight, with their distinct backgrounds and skills, came together to create a line that left an indelible mark on BC hockey. Their journey from early challenges to on-ice dominance and leadership is an inspiring tale for aspiring athletes. As they continue their respective hockey careers, their time at BC will always be remembered as a remarkable era of growth, camaraderie, and excellence in college hockey.
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