As usual, the boys didn't make it easy - they blew a two-goal lead, grabbed another and let Washington to draw within one with plenty of time to go. Nerve-racking, fingernail-biting, orifice-tightening, ulcer-inducing time.
Seeing as there is little rest for the wicked and Game 5 is Friday night, here are just a few Late Hits:
*Step's eventual game-winner has to rank among the top five goals this season. What beautiful play between Cally, Hags and him. No surprise that they are all True Blue Rangers - not mercenaries - and have a degree of chemistry.
*That being said, that play really showed the difference between winners and losers. By now you've seen the Ovie "controller" gif showing his lack of interest in covering Step. Last week in Los Angeles, with the Kings up 1-0 with around five minutes to go, the Blues' Jordan Leopold had an empty net to shoot on and Justin Williams made an amazing dive to knock the puck away (wish I could find the video). That's why Williams has a Cup ring and Ovechkin is and will always be a loser.
*Rick Nash hasn't done anything to dispel my notion that he can't hack the playoffs. The overrated, overpaid showboat has been a virtual nonfactor four games in, easily covered by the Caps' mediocre collection of defensemen. Fancypants moves are great for Youtube but they don't get you Stanley nowadays. Nash has to figure out how to persevere despite the pressure.
*Del Zaster, Stralman and Eminger ... oh, to have Staal, Sauer and Tyutin ... then we'd have Stanley.
*Astounding how quickly Torts goes back to his old habits, leaning hard on a precious few players. Even with elite athletes, the fuel is not infinite and quickly the returns will start diminishing. Half hour of play for McDonagh and Girardi, over 20 minutes for Brian Boyle? Not healthy for them, not healthy for the team.
*Anyone remember Varsity Blues, when Billy Bob asked about a play, saying "is this the one where I trot downfield and act like I'm lost?" I think of that most every time Boyle skates into the offensive zone.
*It is always hard to score goals in hockey. In the NHL it is almost impossible, that's why these players are well-paid professionals. But, in theory, when there are five of your guys and there are just three of the bad guys the odds to score should, in theory, go up. If having one less bad guy out there is called having an "advantage," then having two less bad guys must really be something wonderful. And it is, for everyone except the New York Rangers. Of course.
*Nice to see Clowe back on the ice but he clearly was not 100%. It is scary to think of the risk he is taking, especially when there are capable alternatives available for the amount of ice time available.
*I mentioned the "Any Given Sunday" 'one inch' speech in my wrap of Game 3 and MSG had a dead puck pump-up video to it in Game 4. Could be coincidence but perhaps someone's watching me ...
3-Dan Girardi - one goal.
2-Derick Brassard - two assists.
1-Carl Hagelin - one goal and two assists.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars:
3-Brassard - That skilled guy from Columbus keeps collecting points; no, the other one ...
2-Mathieu Perrault - A goal and an assist for this fast, persistent little pest.
1-Hagelin - Bork. Borkborkbork. Bork. So glad the Swede's hard work paid off, really love the hustle.
"R1, G4: Holding Serve - The Strategy and Significance of Game 4 in Sports"
In the world of sports, Game 4 often stands as a crucial juncture in a playoff series. "R1, G4: Holding Serve" captures the essence of strategy, resilience, and the pivotal nature of these matchups. In this article, we will explore the significance of Game 4, recount memorable Game 4 moments, analyze their impact, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the enduring legacy of these critical contests.
Chapter 1: The Tactical Importance of Game 4
Establishing Dominance
Game 4 is often viewed as an opportunity for a team to establish dominance or level the playing field in a playoff series. How does the outcome of Game 4 affect the series dynamics, and what strategies come into play?
Psychological Warfare
Game 4 can also be a psychological battle, as teams seek to gain momentum and confidence. How do teams approach the mental aspect of this pivotal contest?
Chapter 2: Memorable Game 4 Moments
Game-Changing Plays
Game 4s have witnessed game-changing plays that have left a lasting impact on sports history. What are some of the most unforgettable plays that have occurred in these critical matchups?
Heroic Performances
Great players often rise to the occasion in Game 4s. Who are some of the legendary athletes who have delivered remarkable performances when it mattered most?
Chapter 3: The Impact of Game 4
Series Momentum
Game 4 can set the tone for the remainder of a playoff series. How have teams' victories or defeats in this pivotal game influenced the overall series outcome?
Fan Reactions
Fan reactions add an emotional layer to Game 4s. How have fans celebrated triumphs and coped with devastating defeats in these contests?
Chapter 4: Game 4 Across Different Sports
Universality of Strategy
The strategic nature of Game 4 extends across different sports. How does the intensity and significance of Game 4 manifest in various sports, from basketball to hockey to baseball?
Cultural Significance
Game 4s hold cultural significance for fans around the world. How have these contests become more than just sporting events, turning into cultural moments?
Chapter 5: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let's address some common questions and inquiries about Game 4s:
Q1: Can Game 4s end in a tie, or do they always have a winner?
A1: Game 4s are designed to have a definitive winner, and ties are not an option. Overtime periods are used to determine a winner if necessary.
Q2: Are there any specific traditions or rituals associated with Game 4s?
A2: Game 4s often have unique traditions or rituals among fans or within teams. These can include pre-game rituals, fan superstitions, and more.
Q3: What is the most-watched Game 4 in sports history?
A3: We can explore which Game 4s have garnered the highest viewership and why they captured the attention of such a wide audience.
Q4: Do Game 4s have a lasting impact on the teams involved, regardless of the outcome?
A4: Game 4s can indeed have a lasting impact on teams, influencing their morale, future strategies, and even fan loyalty, regardless of the outcome.
Q5: How do players and coaches prepare mentally for Game 4s?
A5: Mental preparation is crucial for Game 4s. We can explore the strategies and approaches that players and coaches employ to handle the pressure.
Chapter 6: Conclusion - The Art of Holding Serve
Game 4s are a testament to the art of holding serve, maintaining composure, and executing strategies under pressure. They showcase the resilience of athletes and the enduring appeal of sports as a platform for drama, excitement, and memorable moments. As we reflect on "R1, G4: Holding Serve" and the countless other Game 4s that have etched their place in sports history, we are reminded that these pivotal contests embody the essence of competition. They teach us that in sports, as in life, maintaining one's course and strategy, even in the face of adversity, can lead to success and ultimately, to glory.
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