The Blueshirts were sent to the brink on Friday night when they fell 2-1 in overtime to the Caps.
The first 60 minutes were full of mind-numbingly boring hockey, with the Rangers seemingly playing for a shootout that would never come. But once they hit the OT, things suddenly opened up and it was a edge-of-the-seat, heart attack-inducing, utterly terrifying sudden death stanza. And you know what? The Rangers were just fine. Hank made some big saves - he can do that, you know - and the boys were in it.
It was only when they went back to being Torts' team and followed his failed philosophies that they lost. They collapsed deep in their zone, clogged the middle, allowed the Washington point men time and space, and focused on blocking shots rather than pressing the action. They penalty killed at even strength and the NHL's top power play players took advantage.
Poor John Moore blocked a shot, found himself stranded and then out of position as Mike Ribeiro slid into the slot to slam home the game-winner. And now the Rangers return to MSG Sunday - at the odd time of 4:30 in the afternoon. I know I'm repeating the cliche: it's not over until the home team loses and if they lose Sunday, it's over.
Late Hits:
*Mentioned it after last game, how Clowe was taking a risk playing at less than 100%. Skating around with a bullseye on his head he was one hit away from trouble and he took that hit in the first period. The terms "upper body" and "lower body" were created to protect players because, in the playoffs, opponents would target weakness to knock them out. Everyone knew Clowe had a concussion so it is little surprise that one of Washington's warriors, Jason Chimera - would take advantage of that knowledge.
*Five games down, still no sign of Rick Nash. But I'm sure he'll show up again in October.
*Boyle giveth, Boyle taketh away. Another goal for, another mistake that led to a goal against. Credit due him for being more involved than he was during the regular season, I guess.
*Richard$ has been horrid but to put him with Asham and Pyatt? How can you spark a playmaker if you put him with guys who can't play?
*That being said, having Richie and DZ out on the power play is getting ridiculous. The team went 0-4, including virtually four straight minutes of man advantage time in the second period. The unit is slow, predictable and about as harmless as a puppy. All told, seven shots in eight power play minutes, none by Nash.
*Thought Dorsett skated well, he's slowly finding his fitness and should be terrific after a full training camp.
*Anton Stralman is too soft and incapable to be a useful second-pairing blueliner. That was him getting outmuscled by Troy Brouwer on the final play, allowing for the tip to Ribeiro. But at least he is better than Del Zaster, right?
*Guess I wasn't just being cruel when I pointed out DZ's various deficiencies? Or can he still play the age card? By the way, this was his 275th NHL game ...
*Why does it seem that Ryan Callahan and Carl Hagelin are often the only Rangers on the ice when they rush over the Washington blue line? Every attack appears to be one on three or one on four.
*Crazy numbers for Matt Hendricks: 9:12 of ice time - 3:29 of it was shorthanded - four hits and seven blocked shots. That's one helluva playoff performance.
*PHW Three Stars:
3-Henrik Lundqvist - 33 saves.
2-Joel Ward - one goal.
1-Mike Ribeiro - one goal.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars:
3-Ovie - Fifteen shot attempts, nine of which went on net. Damn.
2-Hank - Where Holtby was hardly tested, the King found himself under siege and can not be collectable for the loss.
1-Ribeiro - Won a ton of faceoffs and helped make Hank's life hard.
The first 60 minutes were full of mind-numbingly boring hockey, with the Rangers seemingly playing for a shootout that would never come. But once they hit the OT, things suddenly opened up and it was a edge-of-the-seat, heart attack-inducing, utterly terrifying sudden death stanza. And you know what? The Rangers were just fine. Hank made some big saves - he can do that, you know - and the boys were in it.
It was only when they went back to being Torts' team and followed his failed philosophies that they lost. They collapsed deep in their zone, clogged the middle, allowed the Washington point men time and space, and focused on blocking shots rather than pressing the action. They penalty killed at even strength and the NHL's top power play players took advantage.
Poor John Moore blocked a shot, found himself stranded and then out of position as Mike Ribeiro slid into the slot to slam home the game-winner. And now the Rangers return to MSG Sunday - at the odd time of 4:30 in the afternoon. I know I'm repeating the cliche: it's not over until the home team loses and if they lose Sunday, it's over.
Late Hits:
*Mentioned it after last game, how Clowe was taking a risk playing at less than 100%. Skating around with a bullseye on his head he was one hit away from trouble and he took that hit in the first period. The terms "upper body" and "lower body" were created to protect players because, in the playoffs, opponents would target weakness to knock them out. Everyone knew Clowe had a concussion so it is little surprise that one of Washington's warriors, Jason Chimera - would take advantage of that knowledge.
*Five games down, still no sign of Rick Nash. But I'm sure he'll show up again in October.
*Boyle giveth, Boyle taketh away. Another goal for, another mistake that led to a goal against. Credit due him for being more involved than he was during the regular season, I guess.
*Richard$ has been horrid but to put him with Asham and Pyatt? How can you spark a playmaker if you put him with guys who can't play?
*That being said, having Richie and DZ out on the power play is getting ridiculous. The team went 0-4, including virtually four straight minutes of man advantage time in the second period. The unit is slow, predictable and about as harmless as a puppy. All told, seven shots in eight power play minutes, none by Nash.
*Thought Dorsett skated well, he's slowly finding his fitness and should be terrific after a full training camp.
*Anton Stralman is too soft and incapable to be a useful second-pairing blueliner. That was him getting outmuscled by Troy Brouwer on the final play, allowing for the tip to Ribeiro. But at least he is better than Del Zaster, right?
*Guess I wasn't just being cruel when I pointed out DZ's various deficiencies? Or can he still play the age card? By the way, this was his 275th NHL game ...
*Why does it seem that Ryan Callahan and Carl Hagelin are often the only Rangers on the ice when they rush over the Washington blue line? Every attack appears to be one on three or one on four.
*Crazy numbers for Matt Hendricks: 9:12 of ice time - 3:29 of it was shorthanded - four hits and seven blocked shots. That's one helluva playoff performance.
*PHW Three Stars:
3-Henrik Lundqvist - 33 saves.
2-Joel Ward - one goal.
1-Mike Ribeiro - one goal.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars:
3-Ovie - Fifteen shot attempts, nine of which went on net. Damn.
2-Hank - Where Holtby was hardly tested, the King found himself under siege and can not be collectable for the loss.
1-Ribeiro - Won a ton of faceoffs and helped make Hank's life hard.
"R1, G5: Failed Philosophy - A Deep Dive into a Pivotal Game 5"
In the realm of sports, Game 5 often serves as a critical turning point in a playoff series. "R1, G5: Failed Philosophy" encapsulates the drama, strategy, and the unpredictable nature of these pivotal matchups. In this article, we will explore the significance of Game 5, recount memorable Game 5 moments, analyze their impact, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the enduring legacy of these unforgettable contests.
Chapter 1: The Strategic Importance of Game 5
The Series Shift
Game 5 often represents a series shift, as it can swing momentum and determine the direction in which a playoff series is heading. What makes Game 5 pivotal, and how does it impact the mindset of teams?
Coaching Philosophy
Game 5s require careful coaching strategies. What are some of the coaching philosophies that come into play in these decisive contests, and how do they affect the outcome?
Chapter 2: Memorable Game 5 Moments
Iconic Plays
Game 5s have witnessed iconic plays that have left an indelible mark on sports history. What are some of the most unforgettable plays that have occurred in these critical matchups?
Heroic Performances
Great players often shine in Game 5s. Who are some of the legendary athletes who have delivered remarkable performances when it mattered most?
Chapter 3: The Impact of Game 5
Shaping the Series
Game 5 can significantly shape the narrative of a playoff series. How have teams' victories or defeats in this pivotal game influenced the overall series outcome?
Fan Reactions
The reactions of fans add an emotional layer to Game 5s. How have fans celebrated triumphs and coped with devastating defeats in these contests?
Chapter 4: Game 5 Across Different Sports
Universality of Drama
The drama of Game 5 extends across different sports. How does the intensity and significance of Game 5 manifest in various sports, from basketball to hockey to baseball?
Cultural Significance
Game 5s 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 5s:
Q1: Can Game 5s end in a tie, or do they always have a winner?
A1: Game 5s 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 5s?
A2: Game 5s 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 5 in sports history?
A3: We can explore which Game 5s have garnered the highest viewership and why they captured the attention of such a wide audience.
Q4: Do Game 5s have a lasting impact on the teams involved, regardless of the outcome?
A4: Game 5s 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 5s?
A5: Mental preparation is crucial for Game 5s. We can explore the strategies and approaches that players and coaches employ to handle the pressure.
Chapter 6: Conclusion - The Philosophy of Sports
Game 5s are not just contests; they are an embodiment of the philosophy of sports. They encapsulate the essence of competition, strategy, and the resilience of athletes who strive to reach the pinnacle of their respective fields. As we reflect on "R1, G5: Failed Philosophy" and the countless other Game 5s that have left their mark on the sports world, we are reminded that these pivotal contests are a testament to the enduring legacy of sports. They embody the philosophy that in sports, as in life, failure can be a stepping stone to success and that the journey is as important as the destination.
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