R2, G6: Nothing Done In DC

As has been the tendency this season, the Rangers proved unable to decisively finish the task at hand. Throughout the year they would take a lead and cling on to it, rather than put the hammer down. And last night, with a chance to close the series against the Caps, they did not put the hammer down. In fact, they didn't even pick it up.

The Blueshirts secured Game 7 revenue for big boss Dolan by tanking Game 6, limply losing 2-1 to Washington in a game that wasn't nearly as close as the scoreline. That isn't to say that they lost intentionally, but their hearts clearly weren't into it - at least after the first 88 seconds. Just as a Brandon Prust fight in the first two minutes has ignited the team in the past, the penalty to Stralman and the ensuing Ovechkin goal extinguished any fire the Rangers may have had at puck drop. They went on to spend the game reacting instead of acting, working on the outskirts of the Washington zone, unwilling to pay the price to make things happen.

Having home ice will be the key to Game 7 on Saturday because there is no way the MSG crowd will allow the Rangers to sleepwalk their way to failure the way they did last night.

Late Hits:

*Dan O'Halloran handed the Blueshirts chance after chance after chance to get into the game. And, of course, the Ranger power play went 0-5, wasting 10 minutes of man advantage time. New York typical.

*The biggest factor in that failure was John Tortorella, of course. He has yet to figure out a power play lineup that works and a philosophy that breeds success. The goals that have been scored this season have come in lucky bursts, as they did in Game 5. Too often the team goes through painful slumps that cost them, as they did in Game 6.

*Del Zaster at the point simply does not work because he does not think quickly enough. Having just one player - Ryan Callahan - willing to plant his ass by the crease does not work. Putting John Mitchell on the ice is just ridiculous. The guy has played 235 career NHL games and has 13 power play points, one being an assist off of that fortuitous faceoff loss in Game 5. Mitch's last power play goal came for Toronto against Atlanta in December of 2010. Yeah. And yet he saw 2:31 of power play time while Kreider, Hagelin and Boyle saw none.

*Kreider, by the way, didn't attempt a single shot in his stellar six minutes of time. What is the point of even dressing this kid if he is not put in a position to succeed? A young scorer saddled with Mike Rupp is going nowhere.

*When shorthanded, there is inevitably going to be one member of the opposition that will be uncovered. The Rangers can not allow that one person to be Alexander Ovechkin. On the opening goal both Girardi and Cally went across to Wideman and the Caps moved the puck across. Cally fell and got caught in Wideman's feet while Girardi went back low to take Johansson (who was smartly screening Hank). Ovie was left wide open. Ugh.

*Brad Richard$, who was almost as awful as DZ on the power play, lollygagged around the Ranger end on the second Caps goal. He was too busy watching the puck to cover Jason Chimera and Chimera cut to the post and scored. And yet the NBC idiots blamed Stu Bickel for not being able to block the shot from Carlson. Perhaps they have spent too much time with Torts and have gotten used to making Stu the scapegoat. Love the look on Chimera's face, even he is shocked he was left alone.

*Washington's minor league netminder had another easy evening of number inflating. Holtby barely had to move the Rangers put the puck in his chest or in his waiting glove. That last-minute glove save was nothing special, as Hagelin did him a favour by skating out of the way so he could see the shot.

*The one puck that did get past Hershey's finest was a gift as Gabby's shot was way off the mark. It luckily hit off of Carlson's ass and ricocheted in. Ugly goals are still goals though ...

*PHW Three Stars
3-Jason Chimera - one goal.
2-Alex Ovechkin - one goal.
1-Braden Holtby - 30 saves.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Alzner/Wideman/Carlson - The top three defenders for DC made things tough enough for the Rangers down low so the Blueshirts didn't even bother battling them.
2-Ovechkin - Yeah, so he's kinda good. Whatever.
1-Backstrom - The Swedish center played in all situations and set up both Washington goals.

 R2, G6: Nothing Done In DC - The Thrilling NHL Playoffs Game 6

The NHL playoffs are a rollercoaster of emotions, where every game is a must-watch spectacle. Game 6 of a playoff series often holds the fate of teams in the balance, with one eye on elimination and the other on survival. In this article, we'll explore the excitement, tension, and significance of Game 6 in the NHL playoffs, with a focus on the thrilling matchup that was Round 2, Game 6. Additionally, we'll address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the intensity and drama of Game 6 in the postseason.

Section 1: The Importance of Game 6

Game 6 Overview: An introduction to the pivotal role of Game 6 in playoff series and why it's often referred to as a "swing game."

Historical Significance: A look at some of the historic Game 6 moments that have left an indelible mark on NHL playoff history.

Section 2: Round 2, Game 6 Drama

Diving into the nail-biting action and key takeaways from Round 2, Game 6:

Teams in Contention: An overview of the two teams facing off in this crucial game, including their paths to this stage.

High-Stakes Drama: An analysis of the intense pressure, pivotal plays, and thrilling moments that unfolded during the game.

Series Implications: How Game 6 outcomes can reshape series dynamics and influence the road ahead.

Section 3: The Psychological Battle

Understanding the mental and emotional aspects of Game 6:

Player Mindset: A look at the mindset of players heading into Game 6, from veterans with experience to rookies facing elimination for the first time.

Fan Perspective: The rollercoaster of emotions that fans experience during a Game 6, from hope and anxiety to jubilation or heartbreak.

Section 4: Strategies and Adjustments

An exploration of the strategies and adjustments made by teams in Game 6:

Coaching Decisions: How coaches approach Game 6, including lineup changes, tactical adjustments, and motivational speeches.

Players to Watch: Spotlighting key players who often make the difference in Game 6, from star performers to unsung heroes.

Section 5: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - NHL Playoffs Game 6

Addressing common questions and curiosities about Game 6 in the NHL playoffs:

What's the significance of home-ice advantage in Game 6?

Home-ice advantage can provide a boost in terms of crowd support, last change, and comfort in familiar surroundings.

How do players prepare differently for Game 6 compared to other playoff games?

Players focus on recovery, mental fortitude, and executing their roles with precision, knowing that a loss could end their season.

What role do pivotal moments in Game 6 play in shaping series outcomes?

Game 6 moments can become lasting memories and alter the course of a series, leading to historic comebacks or heartbreaking defeats.

Section 6: Conclusion

Round 2, Game 6 lived up to the expectations, delivering the heart-pounding drama and excitement that fans have come to associate with the NHL playoffs. It showcased the resilience, determination, and skill of athletes competing at the highest level and the emotional rollercoaster that is playoff hockey. As we look ahead to future Game 6s in the playoffs, one thing is certain: the magic of these pivotal contests will continue to captivate fans and create indelible memories in the world of hockey. Game 6s are where heroes emerge, and they remind us why the NHL playoffs are among the most thrilling and captivating events in the world of sports.