R1, G7: Guts Beget Glory

Perhaps my favourite photo of the year... hilarious.

On Monday night the Washington Capitals spent the first period of Game 7 hitting everything that moved. They forechecked, they backchecked, they tried to inflict as much pain as possible - Ovie even attempted a Claude-Lemieux-on-Kris-Draper-like head drive on Ryan McDonagh. But McD missed all of one shift, and the Blueshirts came out of the opening frame up 1-0.

The Rangers killed off the penalty incurred by their initial goal scorer, then potted a pair of goals over the next five minutes to kill any life left in the Capitals. And that was pretty much that. Two more goals were scored over the remaining 34 minutes and the series was settled: the real red, white and blue won 5-0 and advanced to a second round meeting with Boston.

The Blueshirts took the best that the Caps could throw at them and came away with a win, a familiar theme this year - the rope-a-dope the Ranger Pundit has often observed. It is an ugly way to play, it is an unsettling way to play, but it has allowed this team to find some wins.

And now they need just 12 more.

Late Hits (recycling the first two from last year):

*John Druce, wherever you are, I have one thing to say to you: this.

*You know what would have made the victory sweeter? Tom Poti on the ice. Pooooooooooooooottttttttttttiiiiiiiiiiii.

*Brassard, Moore, Dorsett, Zuccarello - all late-season acquisitions, all massive parts of the Ranger offense now that the main mercenaries have faded. Something they all share? Decisiveness. There is no hesitation, no clenching the stick too tight ... they keep moving, they make plays, they come up with results. Simply, they don't play John Tortorella's brand of lifeless, shot blocking, dump-n-chase, north-south hockey. We'll see how that fleshes out in the end, but they have been fun to watch for now.

*As with Boyle in Game 4, my tw-enemy Asham giveth and he (almost) taketh away. If not for Hank's heroics, Asham's goal would have been wiped out by the power play brought about by his unnecessary penalty.

*Interesting that the Caps cried about the penalty situation in Game 6 - none called on the Rangers - and Ovie wasn't busted for his boarding. In fact, nothing was called on Washington until it was a 4-0 game in the third period. The refs didn't want things to get out of hand so they brought out their whistles. But they had managed to call a penalty early on to give the Caps quite a chance to tie it. I'm one rarely given to accusing the refs for anything (aside from in the heat of the moment, at the game), but it was curious how things worked out.

*The injury theories on Nash were made to look foolish yet again as he skated hard enough to get a few great chances, which he blew. Thankfully he, like Richard$, found other ways to contribute. Seeing as the players aren't getting paid for the playoffs, technically they aren't wasting our money. So any contribution is a bonus, right?

*LOLtby. A mediocre netminder, nothing more. And exposed as such when the team in front of him utterly gave up. No heart.

*Best game of Steve Eminger's Ranger career, wouldn't you say? Nice timing.

*Brassard, Step and Richard$ - three of the four centers. Not a single shot on goal between them, not a complaint about their play to be had.

*Well, one ... all played on the power play and, yet again, there were no power play goals.

*Can you hear us? Loved the Ranger fan presence. Glad to see the True Blue travel so well and add insult to injury, especially as the bandwagon pulled out of the Phone Booth in the third period.

*PHW Three Stars:
3-Arron Asham - one goal.
2-Derick Brassard - two assists.
1-Henrik Lundqvist - 35 saves.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars:
3-Brassard - Creative and confident. And just edging out Cally.
2-Hank - Your Conn Smythe-leading candidate.
1-McDonagh - Never give in.

 "R1, G7: Guts Beget Glory - The Thrill of Sports' Greatest Moments"

In the world of sports, few moments capture the essence of competition, determination, and glory like a Game 7. "R1, G7: Guts Beget Glory" is a phrase that embodies the thrilling drama and the indomitable human spirit that define these pivotal matchups. In this article, we will delve into the significance of Game 7, recount memorable Game 7 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 Essence of Game 7

The Do-or-Die Scenario

Game 7s represent the ultimate do-or-die scenario in sports. How does the format of Game 7 differ from other games in a playoff series, and why is it often considered the most exciting?

The Weight of Expectations

In a Game 7, the pressure is palpable. How do players, coaches, and fans deal with the tremendous weight of expectations and the knowledge that victory or defeat hangs in the balance?

Chapter 2: Memorable Game 7 Moments

Iconic Plays

Game 7s have produced iconic plays that are etched in the annals of sports history. What are some of the most unforgettable plays that have occurred in these decisive matchups?

Legendary Performances

Great players often rise to the occasion in Game 7s. Who are some of the legendary athletes who have delivered remarkable performances when it mattered most?

Chapter 3: The Impact of Game 7

Shaping Legacies

Game 7 moments have the power to shape legacies. How have players and coaches been remembered for their contributions in these pivotal games?

Fan Reactions

The reactions of fans add another layer of intensity to Game 7s. How have fans celebrated victories and coped with heartbreaking defeats in these contests?

Chapter 4: Game 7 Across Different Sports

Universality of Drama

The drama of Game 7 transcends sports. How does the intensity and significance of Game 7 manifest in various sports, from basketball to hockey to baseball?

Cultural Significance

Game 7s 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 7s:

Q1: Can Game 7s end in a tie, or do they always have a winner?

A1: Game 7s are designed to have a definitive winner, even if it takes overtime periods to determine it. There are no ties in Game 7s.

Q2: Are there any specific traditions or rituals associated with Game 7s?

A2: Game 7s 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 7 in sports history?

A3: We can explore which Game 7s have garnered the highest viewership and why they captured the attention of such a wide audience.

Q4: Do Game 7s have a lasting impact on the teams involved, regardless of the outcome?

A4: Game 7s 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 7s?

A5: Mental preparation is crucial for Game 7s. We can explore the strategies and approaches that players and coaches employ to handle the pressure.

Chapter 6: Conclusion - The Drama of Decisive Moments

Game 7s are a testament to the drama and unpredictability that make sports such a thrilling and enduring part of our culture. They showcase the power of human determination and the ability to thrive under immense pressure. As we reflect on "R1, G7: Guts Beget Glory" and the countless other Game 7s that have left an indelible mark on the sports world, we are reminded that it's in these moments of uncertainty and intensity that the true magic of sports unfolds. They are a celebration of the indomitable human spirit and a reminder that in sports, as in life, guts and determination often beget glory.