42-18-7: Grit Can Only Go So Far

The Rangers were on the road during the recent raise in temperatures around New York and thus remained mired in their mid-winter doldrums. On Friday they completed their three-game road trip with a 4-3 failure to the Blackhawks.

The recent skid has exposed the Rangers as the one-trick pony that they are. Their skill guys rarely come to play, their power play is atrocious, and their grit - their wonderful, endearing and enduring grit - only goes so far. Harsh? Absolutely. But seemingly true.

Gaborik breaks down the wing and gives up an open shot to try to pass it though a defender towards Richard$. Two futile power plays. Six forwards on the ice at the end of the game - inexplicably including John Mitchell - and they dump and chase, with just one forward doing the chasing ...

The team has to do some soul searching and they have to do it fast with the evil Islanders in the Garden on Sunday. Despite being a bad joke of a franchise, the Isles always step up their game against the Rangers and an embarrassment at their hands would be ... well, I don't even want to consider it.

Late Hits:

*Yet again the Rangers came out flat and Marian Hossa very nearly made them pay. Luckily he faced Henrik Lundqvist instead of Marty Biron and the Rangers didn't immediately fall behind. But Hank wasn't infallible. After the game Cally said his stick didn't deflect Johnny Oduya's shot, meaning that the Rangers starting goaltender gave up a goal just as bad as his backup did a day before. A sad truth is that Hank has to be as close to perfect as possible for his team to have a shot to win - as it has been for far too long.

*Been advocating Hank For Hart for a while but perhaps Dan Girardi is the Rangers most valuable player. All of the minutes earlier in the season - and that slap shot to the arm a few games ago - are finally getting to Logan's dad. Torts finally noticed the wear and tear and played Girardi less than 25 minutes in each of the last seven games ... and the Rangers went 3-3-1 during that span.

*It was unfortunate the Rangers waited to finally find their forecheck after Patrick Kane kicked in the game-sealing empty netter. The Blueshirts were voracious off of the ensuing faceoff and it resulted in Richard$' goal. Where was that effort the previous 59:07?

*Arty's goal was dirrrty. He is finally gaining the confidence he needed, now he needs the strength to help use it with regularity. If Vassili Zaitsev (get it? the Russian sniper from Enemy at the Gates?) ever bulks up to add power to that skill, man could he be a helluva player.

*While piling upon the Rangers, credit must be given to the 2010 Stanley Cup winners. Chicago played a complete game from Emery on out. Emery improved to 7-1 lifetime against the Blueshirts (thanks @KevinComplains) by being solid during the rare times that the defense in front of him faltered (which wasn't often). And the Blackhawk offense was working on all levels with their first three lines all accounting for goals.

*While his goal was a gift from Hank, Oduya had himself one solid game. Damned former Devil. Had Sather not been sucked in to the Nash derby, perhaps he could have picked up Oduya from Winnipeg. A solid citizen who is well aware of Atlantic Division hockey, he surely would have been an upgrade over Eminger and Stralman (and a certain someone else).

*Can you imagine what this one would have been like had Chicago had their best player, one of the top five all-around talents in the NHL?

*Also missing was my favourite punching bag, so there was no blaming Del Zaster on this one as he was a late scratch. But he wasn't missed, as the power play was as ineffective without him as it has been with him.

*Bryan Bickell edged out Stu Bickel in this one. Each accounted for three hits but Bickell had an assist on the Shaw goal that saw Bickel stumbling around the crease.

*Love Pruster. Good things happen when you go to the net kids.

*Proof plus/minus is nonsense? Cally was -3. Boyle was +2.

*Another stat anomaly? Anton Stralman was credited with a game-high seven hits. What?

*Rangers survive the early onslaught, escape the first period with the lead and what happens? Mike Rupp decides to defend his own selfish honour against an undrafted minor league goon. Rupp was supposed to be a multi-dimensional veteran who would give more to the team then a thug and yet - Winter Classic luck aside - has done nothing to help his team or his teammates on the ice this season.

*Those Blackhawks sweaters are beautiful.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Patrick Kane - one goal and one assist.
2-Brandon Prust - one goal.
1-Johnny Oduya - one goal and one assist.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Mackey D - Thought he was the best of the Blueshirts.
2-Hossa - Unlike Gaborik, Chicago's Slovak sniper was a constant threat every time he stepped on the ice.
1-Oduya - A defenseman with a heavy shot who is not afraid to use it? What a concept!

Title: "42-18-7: Grit Can Only Go So Far - A Look at Boston College's Season"

Introduction

The Boston College Eagles embarked on a journey during the 42-18-7 season that epitomized the essence of grit, resilience, and determination. This article delves into the rollercoaster ride of a season that tested the mettle of the team, highlighting the moments of triumph, the challenges faced, and the invaluable life lessons learned along the way.

Section 1: Setting the Stage

The Eagles' Ascent: A brief overview of Boston College's pre-season expectations and the excitement surrounding the team.

Early Success: Discussing the promising start to the season and the initial victories that had fans buzzing with anticipation.

Section 2: Facing Adversity

Injuries and Setbacks: Exploring the challenges the Eagles encountered, including injuries to key players and losing streaks.

The Grit Factor: Spotlighting the team's resilience and determination to bounce back from adversity.

Section 3: Stars and Standouts

Captain's Leadership: Emphasizing the role of team leaders, including captains and senior players, in guiding the team through rough waters.

Emerging Talents: Identifying underclassmen and rising stars who stepped up in critical moments.

Section 4: The Coach's Perspective

Coaching Resilience: Insights from the head coach about maintaining morale and motivation during tough stretches.

Strategy and Adaptation: How the coaching staff adjusted strategies to overcome challenges.

Section 5: Memorable Moments

Clutch Performances: Recalling the standout games and individual heroics that kept the season exciting.

The Rivalries: Exploring the intensity of rival matchups and their significance in the season.

Section 6: The Fanbase

Loyal Supporters: Highlighting the dedication of Boston College's fans and their unwavering support through thick and thin.

Eagle Nation: Sharing stories and traditions that make the fan community unique.

Section 7: Learning from Adversity

Life Lessons: Discussing how facing adversity in sports can teach valuable life skills like resilience, teamwork, and perseverance.

The Road Ahead: Looking ahead to the future with optimism and the lessons learned from this challenging season.

Section 8: FAQs - Beyond the Scores

Answering common questions related to the season:

What were the key turning points in the 42-18-7 season?

Analyzing critical moments that defined the team's journey.

How did the team maintain morale during losing streaks and injuries?

Insight into the psychological aspects of team dynamics.

What lessons can be drawn from this season's challenges?

Discussing how sports adversity can provide valuable life lessons.

The 42-18-7 season may not have culminated in the ultimate victory, but it was a journey that showcased the heart, soul, and resilience of the Boston College Eagles. It was a reminder that in sports and in life, grit can only go so far, but the lessons learned along the way are priceless. As the Eagles look ahead to future seasons, they carry with them the experiences, memories, and the indomitable spirit that define Boston College hockey. With every challenge faced and every obstacle overcome, the team emerges stronger, united, and ready for whatever the future holds.