And The Survey Says?

Where I immediately disliked the deal the Rangers made today (see the post below), I figured I would open my mind to see what others think.

Inferno at Rangers Review is positively gushing about how wonderful the deal was:

oh sweet Jesus how can you not be excited right now?

The Manic Ranger Fan watched the same YouTube and said:

Great Trade.. Fantastic Trade.. Zherdev could prove to be a steal of enormous proportions.

Meanwhile, LTL of the Blue Jackets blog Light The Lamp is also enthused ... to have gotten rid of Zherdev:

The biggiest (sic) knock on him was his inconsistancy (sic). He was a dis-connected player that did not fit the mold that this team moving towards. He razzled he dazzled but when the game got tough he dissapeared (sic) most nights. The Jackets loved his talent - hated his competitiveness. He was never going to be re-signed after his contract expired next season and he certainly did not have the value that many think he did.

The last time I read such a ... positive review of an outgoing player was at the trade deadline when the Blues bid adieu to Christian Backman and we all know how that worked out ...

Dubi at Blueshirt Bulletin spoke to Zherdev back in the '06-07 season and said:

[Zherdev] was in awe of the noise level at the Garden, but annoyed at the way Ranger fans booed their own players.

So unless he somehow finds some kind of motivation (like stepping up in the last year of his contract), it appears that Zherdev is headed for an unhappy stay on Broadway.

 And the Survey Says? Unlocking the Power of Surveys for Insights and Decision-Making

In an age of information overload, businesses, organizations, and individuals rely on data-driven decision-making more than ever before. Surveys have emerged as a powerful tool for collecting valuable insights, opinions, and feedback from a diverse range of sources. In this article, we will explore the world of surveys, their various applications, the science behind crafting effective surveys, and how to interpret survey results. Additionally, we will address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the use and significance of surveys.

The Power of Surveys

Surveys are structured data collection tools used to gather information, opinions, or feedback from a targeted group of respondents. They can take various forms, including online questionnaires, phone interviews, in-person paper surveys, and more. The versatility of surveys makes them invaluable for a wide range of purposes:

Market Research: Businesses use surveys to understand customer preferences, market trends, and competitive landscapes.

Employee Engagement: Organizations use surveys to gauge employee satisfaction, identify areas for improvement, and boost workplace morale.

Academic Research: Researchers use surveys to gather data for studies in fields ranging from psychology to sociology.

Government and Public Policy: Governments use surveys to collect data on topics such as census, public health, and social welfare.

Customer Feedback: Companies use customer satisfaction surveys to improve products and services.

Designing Effective Surveys

Creating a well-designed survey is crucial to obtaining meaningful and actionable data. Key considerations include:

Clear Objectives: Begin by defining the purpose of your survey. What information or insights are you seeking to gather?

Target Audience: Identify the specific group of people (your target audience) whose opinions or feedback you want to capture.

Question Design: Craft clear, concise, and unbiased questions. Use a mix of closed-ended (multiple choice) and open-ended (text response) questions.

Survey Flow: Organize questions logically to maintain respondent engagement. Start with easy-to-answer questions before delving into more complex topics.

Questionnaire Length: Keep the survey concise to prevent respondent fatigue. A typical survey should take no longer than 10-15 minutes to complete.

Pilot Testing: Test your survey with a small group to identify any issues with clarity, relevance, or length.

Data Analysis Plan: Consider how you will analyze and interpret survey responses. This will guide the types of questions and response formats you choose.

Interpreting Survey Results

Once you've collected survey data, the real work begins—making sense of the responses. Here's how to interpret survey results effectively:

Quantitative Data: For closed-ended questions with numerical responses, calculate averages, percentages, and other relevant statistics. Create visual representations like charts or graphs for clarity.

Qualitative Data: For open-ended questions, perform thematic analysis to identify common themes or patterns in responses.

Comparison: Compare results across different demographic groups or segments of your target audience to uncover variations in opinions or preferences.

Identify Insights: Look for actionable insights that can inform decisions, strategies, or improvements.

Reporting: Present your findings in a clear, concise report, including visuals, key takeaways, and recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are surveys important?

Surveys are crucial for gathering data, opinions, and feedback that inform decision-making in various fields, from business to academia and government.

What is the ideal sample size for a survey?

Sample size depends on the population size, desired confidence level, and margin of error. Larger samples generally provide more accurate results.

How can I increase survey response rates?

Personalize survey invitations, keep surveys short, offer incentives, and follow up with reminders to boost response rates.

What is the role of ethics in survey research?

Ethical considerations include obtaining informed consent, protecting respondents' privacy, and ensuring that surveys are unbiased and respectful.

Can surveys be used for predicting future trends?

Surveys can provide insights into current trends and attitudes, which may inform predictions about future behavior or preferences.

Surveys have become indispensable tools for collecting data and insights across a wide spectrum of applications. Whether you are a business seeking to understand customer needs, a researcher exploring human behavior, or a government agency gathering demographic data, surveys offer a structured and efficient way to collect information. By adhering to best practices in survey design, administration, and data analysis, individuals and organizations can harness the power of surveys to make informed decisions, drive improvements, and gain deeper insights into the world around them.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

I wrote my post about Sean Avery leaving, then went to settle down and watch a movie - the Shawshank Redemption. Now, I've seen that flick a hundred times, but its wonderful each watching. I get back to my computer and find another movie awaiting me: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

The Good: The Rangers traded away Christian Backman.

The Bad: The Rangers traded away Fedor Tyutin.

The Ugly: The Rangers acquired Nikolai Zherdev and Dan Fritsche.

I had hoped that I would be overcome with joy when Backman was bounced but my celebration is certainly muted by the rest of the deal. The Rangers got rid of the only defenseman on the team who hit people last season for virtually nothing. Zherdev is almost as lazy as Pavel Brendl/Alex Bourret was, has had some minor injuries and has no idea of what the defensive zone looks like. Fritsche is a good heart and soul working winger, but the Rangers picked up two of them YESTERDAY!

Now, I said that Sather had better have something up his sleeve to get Marc Staal back some ice time, but this wasn't what I had in mind. Dealing away half of the best defensive pairing last season, the closest thing to a crease-clearer on the roster was not it.

Losing Tyutin had better be offset with the acquisition of Rod Langway or Scott Stevens out of retirement and a better backup goaltender because otherwise Hank is going to get hurt quickly. The defensive physical play was in question last season and Hank was ran many, many times. The Rangers came into the offseason looking for a big body to help counter it - perhaps Brooks Orpik, who is now returning to Pittsburgh - and instead they dealt away the only player who did something about it.

There has to be a final piece to this puzzle. There just has to ...

 The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: Navigating Life's Complexities

Life is a multifaceted journey filled with moments that can be characterized as good, bad, or even ugly. Each of these experiences plays a unique role in shaping our perspectives, challenging our resilience, and defining our character. In this article, we will delve into the diverse aspects of life's complexities, exploring what constitutes the good, the bad, and the ugly, and how we can navigate them. Additionally, we will address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to coping with life's challenges.

The Good: Embracing Moments of Joy and Success

The "good" in life encompasses moments of joy, fulfillment, and achievement. These moments can take various forms:

Personal Achievements: Accomplishing personal goals, whether it's graduating, landing a dream job, or achieving a fitness milestone, brings a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Positive Relationships: Building and maintaining healthy, supportive relationships with family, friends, and partners fosters emotional well-being and a sense of belonging.

Creativity and Inspiration: Creative pursuits, such as art, music, or writing, can lead to moments of inspiration and a deep connection to one's passions.

Acts of Kindness: Both giving and receiving acts of kindness, whether big or small, can create a ripple effect of positivity in our lives.

Embracing the good in life involves savoring these moments, expressing gratitude, and using them as a source of motivation and resilience when facing challenges.

The Bad: Navigating Life's Challenges

Life inevitably presents challenges and setbacks that can be categorized as the "bad." These challenges come in various forms:

Personal Loss: Coping with the loss of a loved one, whether through death or the end of a relationship, is one of life's most profound challenges.

Health Issues: Dealing with physical or mental health issues can be emotionally and physically taxing, requiring resilience and support.

Financial Struggles: Financial setbacks, such as debt, job loss, or economic instability, can lead to stress and uncertainty.

Mistakes and Failures: Experiencing failures or making mistakes is a natural part of growth, but it can be emotionally challenging.

Navigating life's challenges involves developing coping strategies, seeking support, and maintaining a growth mindset. It's important to remember that adversity often leads to personal growth and resilience.

The Ugly: Confronting Life's Darker Side

Life's complexities also include moments that can be described as "ugly." These moments are characterized by darkness, adversity, and sometimes cruelty:

Conflict and Violence: Experiencing conflict, whether in personal relationships or on a larger scale, can have lasting emotional and societal impacts.

Injustice and Discrimination: Confronting systemic injustices and discrimination based on factors like race, gender, or socioeconomic status is an ongoing struggle in society.

Natural Disasters: The destructive power of natural disasters can lead to loss of life, property, and a sense of security.

Personal Crisis: Personal crises, such as addiction, abuse, or trauma, can be deeply unsettling and challenging to overcome.

Confronting the "ugly" aspects of life often requires collective efforts, advocacy for change, and support from individuals and communities. It is essential to address these issues to promote a more just and equitable world.

Navigating Life's Complexities

Resilience: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity. Building resilience involves developing coping skills, seeking support, and maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of challenges.

Self-Care: Self-care practices, such as mindfulness, exercise, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, are crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

Community and Support: Building a support network of friends, family, or support groups can provide a safety net during challenging times.

Advocacy and Social Change: Addressing societal issues and advocating for positive change can help combat the "ugly" aspects of life.

Gratitude: Practicing gratitude can help individuals appreciate the "good" moments in life and build emotional resilience.

Seeking Professional Help: In times of severe distress, seeking professional help from therapists, counselors, or medical professionals is a vital step toward recovery.

FAQs: Navigating Life's Challenges

How can I stay positive during difficult times?

Staying positive involves focusing on what you can control, practicing gratitude, and seeking support from loved ones or professionals.

How can I help someone going through a tough time?

Offering a listening ear, providing emotional support, and encouraging them to seek professional help if needed are ways to support someone facing challenges.

Can adversity lead to personal growth?

Yes, adversity often fosters personal growth by building resilience, developing coping skills, and increasing self-awareness.

How can I contribute to positive social change?

Contributing to positive social change involves educating oneself, advocating for justice, supporting organizations aligned with your values, and participating in community efforts.

Life's complexities encompass the good, the bad, and the ugly, each playing a significant role in our personal growth and societal progress. Navigating these complexities requires resilience, self-care, and a commitment to addressing challenges collectively. By embracing the good, navigating the bad, and confronting the ugly, individuals and communities can find meaning, purpose, and strength in their journey through life.

Food For Thought

Not to be a drag, or throw a cloud over tonight's game, but as you watch tonight, take a look at Christian Backman's play - good or bad, who knows what will happen (sincerely hopefully good) - and just think of this:

Notable New York Ranger Fourth Round Draft Picks:
*Pat Conacher '79 - Played just 21 games for us, but had a solid 521 game NHL career that featured a Finals visit with Gretzky and the Kings.

*John Vanbiesbrouck '81 - Vezina Award winner and First Team All Star 85-86, 449 games as a Ranger over 10 years of action.

*Paul Broten '84 - 194 games as a dependable defensive forward.

*Mark Janssens '86 - 157 of his 711 NHL games were as a Ranger.

*Tony Amonte '88 - All Rookie Team 91-92, 183 points in 234 games as a Blueshirt and was traded for Brian Noonan and Stephane Matteau.

*Marc Savard '95 - Just 98 games as a Ranger but 271 points over his last three seasons.

*Ryan Callahan '04 - Kid has been one of the hardest workers on the ice since his debut last season, and he scored the game-winner in Game 1.

Interesting, huh? I was flipping through the media guide and I thought I would point out the success the Rangers have had in the past with fourth round picks (what they dealt for the soft Swede). As I said, hopefully he will be good tonight, and over the next season will develop into the puck moving maven that Sather and company predicts; there is certainly room for improvement.

 The Delectable World of Hockey Food: A Culinary Journey

Hockey is more than just a sport; it's a culture, a way of life, and an experience that transcends the game itself. And when you talk about the hockey experience, it's impossible to ignore the delicious and diverse world of hockey food. In this article, we'll take you on a mouthwatering journey through the delectable cuisine that defines the hockey arena and its passionate fans. From classic hot dogs to gourmet offerings, let's explore the food for thought in the world of hockey.

FAQ 1: What Makes Hockey Food So Special?

Hockey food holds a special place in the hearts of fans, and here's why:

Tradition and Ritual: Eating your favorite arena snack is a cherished part of the pre-game ritual for fans. It's about more than just filling your stomach; it's about connecting with the team and the community.

Unique Regional Flavors: Hockey arenas across North America offer a unique blend of regional flavors. Whether it's poutine in Canada or cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, each city's food culture is on full display.

Comfort and Nostalgia: There's something comforting about enjoying a hot dog or a slice of pizza while watching the game. These familiar flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia and bring back memories of games gone by.

The Classics: Hot Dogs and Popcorn

When you think of hockey food, the classic hot dog is often the first thing that comes to mind. Whether you prefer it smothered in mustard, ketchup, onions, or sauerkraut, the hot dog is an arena staple. It's quick, convenient, and perfect for a fast-paced game.

Accompanying the hot dog is another favorite, popcorn. The irresistible smell of freshly popped popcorn wafts through the arena, enticing fans to grab a bag or a bucket. Popcorn is the perfect snack to munch on during intense moments in the game.

FAQ 2: Are There Any Unique Hockey Food Items?

Absolutely! Hockey arenas are known for offering unique and sometimes downright indulgent food items:

Poutine: In Canada, especially in Quebec, poutine is a must-try. It's a delicious combination of crispy French fries, cheese curds, and rich gravy. It's the ultimate comfort food for Canadian hockey fans.

Nacho Helmets: In some arenas, you can order nachos served in a miniature hockey helmet. It's not just a snack; it's a souvenir.

Gourmet Burgers: Many modern arenas have elevated their food offerings, serving gourmet burgers with artisanal ingredients and creative toppings. It's a far cry from the standard arena burger.

Craft Beer and Local Brews

Pairing hockey with a cold brew is a time-honored tradition. While standard domestic beers are readily available, many arenas now showcase local craft breweries. Fans can enjoy a wide selection of craft beers, adding a touch of sophistication to the game.

FAQ 3: How Has Hockey Food Evolved Over the Years?

Hockey food has come a long way from the basic concessions of the past:

Diverse Menu: Modern arenas offer diverse menus that cater to various dietary preferences. You can find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options alongside the classics.

Gourmet Offerings: High-end options like sushi, artisanal pizzas, and charcuterie boards have made their way into hockey arenas. These gourmet offerings provide a premium experience for fans.

Celebrity Chef Collaborations: Some arenas have partnered with celebrity chefs to create exclusive dining experiences. This elevates the culinary aspect of attending a game.

Hockey is a sport that brings people together, and so does hockey food. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual spectator, the culinary offerings at the arena are an essential part of the experience. From classic favorites like hot dogs and nachos to gourmet delicacies and local craft beers, there's something for everyone.

So, the next time you attend a hockey game, don't just focus on the action on the ice; savor the flavors of the arena. Hockey food is not just sustenance; it's an integral part of the culture and camaraderie that makes the sport so special.

40-26-11: To Hell With The Devil(s)

With Chris Simon banished to the Western Conference, there is no single villain in the East bigger than Martin Brodeur. And some may even say that it wasn't a contest even when The Barbarian was still clad in orange and blue.

So it is with much pleasure that I watched Brodeur get utterly embarrassed tonight. Brodeur was atrocious, allowing many long, uncontrolled rebounds and two weak goals. He was awful, and it was wonderful. The Rangers nearly blew it through poor defense, but managed to escape with the victory and two points, while keeping the Devils to none, zip, zero, nada, nothing.

The horrendous play-for-a-point strategy of the last few weeks was thrown out the window and the Blueshirts opened the ice to show off some of their strengths. They skated well, they shot the puck and went to the net to follow it up. It was one of the better games this season and the result was utterly gratifying. So while I am still aglow, some observations:

*I have been very reticent to hand Hank back his crown, but he grabbed it right out of my hands with his performance tonight. Yes he gave up a pair of goals, but he made at least a half dozen stunning saves. His lateral movement was fantastic, his glove quick and positioning perfect. Of course, the one time he went behind the net to play the puck it nearly ended up back in his own net, but he is paid to stop the puck, not handle it. Great job by the King.

*I would praise the power play, which actually accounted for two of the Rangers three goals. It was utterly shocking, but credit can only be given to Maaaaaaaaaarrrrrrty's ineptness on this evening.

*Scott Gomez and Chris Drury played to their strengths and acted as catalysts, with Gomez carrying the puck and Drury making smart plays to get his teammates in scoring positions. To give away the stars a little early, Gomez was the best player on the ice, bar none. He opened the game a little tentative with those sore ribs, but after he was hit a few times by Colin White and crew, he elevated his game.

*Also coming off of the injury bug, I thought that Paul Mara played a better game than he usually did before the injury - taking more risks and making bigger hits with the cage of invincibility protecting his busted face.

*Sean Avery didn't score, but he was huge in this game as a disruptive force, and not in a negative way. He drew penalties and kept Maaaaaarrrrrty distracted. A point of interest/annoyance with him came in the first period when Sheldon Brookbank went after him, With the puck well on its way towards the Rangers end, Brookbank cross checked Avery several times to Maaaarrrrty's right. A referee was standing five feet away with his whistle in his mouth but when Avery (did the smart thing and) didn't retaliate, the ref put his whistle down. It was a clear case of reffing on reputation and the league needs to stop this garbage. There is no question that Avery would have been called for something had he fought back and Brookbank deserved a minor for either cross checking or even interference. What a disgrace.

*And speaking of disgrace ... Christian Backman. Glen's Folly continued his atrocious defensive play, even with a healthy Marek Malik and Jason Strudwick available. Backman's turnover to give Zach Parise a gimme goal was disgraceful and should have earned him a one-way ticket out of town. Of course, he followed it up with a power play goal, but the ledger remains uneven in his case. The goal came on a long shot that Maaaaarrrrrrrty should have stopped, and Backman's job is to play defense, and he is utterly incompetent at it; no wonder he was a healthy scratch on a piss-poor team like St. Louis. John Davidson has to be sitting back chuckling and looking forward to using our fourth round pick.

*Glen's Folly set up the second Devils goal, the first came when the fourth line was pinned deep into the Rangers zone for over a minute. There was no reason whatsoever that Colton Orr should have been in the lineup, especially over Petr Prucha, who played a strong game on Tuesday. The same could be said for Hollweg, who is many things but he is not a center, I am sure Greg Moore's ego took a hit when the Rangers decided to go with Holly rather than call him up. A fourth line of Moore, Prucha and Sjostrom would have outskated and outhustled the Devils and maybe even created a few scoring chances.

*Until he went into the net himself, taking the puck with him for the game winning goal, Nigel Dawes was invisible. He was subbed several times for Sjostrom and rightly so. Dawsie needs to be more involved and energetic. Basically he needs to take a page from Ryan Callahan, who was tremendous. Cally doesn't have the same scoring touch or ice-sight that Dawes does, but he was a Little Ball of Fury (with all due respect to Pat Verbeek).

*Brandon Dubinsky also played with a good chip on his shoulder and he has only gotten stronger and more confident as the season has gone on. And thank goodness for that, as Jagr has had many off-nights. This wasn't one of them - Jagr played alright and got off a few decent shots - but he still was far from his Hall of Fame-worthy self. And why Renney reunited him with Straka is beyond me. Gomez was healthy so the first three lines could have remained the same as in weeks past.

*When Steve Yzerman retired, one of the many accolades that he received was for his two-way play, especially late in his career. His former teammate Brendan Shanahan will be remembered much the same way. Shanny was able to score often as a younger player, and even as a sniper in the middle of his career but he has stepped up his defensive game and was incredible on the penalty kill for the Rangers. It is a shame that he made it to New York so late in his career, as a few more years of service would have earned him a number in the rafters. He is my nominee for the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award ...

*The Garden had Emile Francis out to give an award to a New Yorker who dutifully served local youth hockey. It was just a shame that they put it in between periods, rather than before the game as most fans were running to get food or hit the bathrooms.

*There were actually two, TWO promotions at this game - a nice Hummer poster of the team giving a post-game salute (where you can easily cut off the Hummer logo and have a nice poster), and a pin trading day. The team really should advertise these things a little ahead of time, at least on the website. The pin trading becomes a money grab as fans don't know to bring pins to trade, and thus have to buy new ones (guilty as charged).

*And, lest I forget, condolences go out to Inferno of Rangers Review. He lost his dad and is taking a break from blogging. Best wishes to him and his family as they work through this sad time.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Drury - three assists.
2-Hank - 32 saves.
1-Gomez - two assists.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Avery - after his mistake-laden game on Tuesday, he bounced back with a really good effort. It would have been easy for him to snap and go after Maaaaaaaarrrrrty or David Clarkson but he didn't succumb to stupidity and kept the Devils off of their game.
2-Hank - One of his best efforts in months.
1-Gomez - What upper body injury?

 40-26-11: To Hell With The Devil(s)

The New Jersey Devils, a team with a storied history in the National Hockey League (NHL), have faced their fair share of ups and downs. The 2021-22 NHL season marked another chapter in the franchise's journey, and it's a tale worth exploring. In this article, we'll delve into the Devils' season, their challenges, bright spots, and what the future may hold.

FAQ 1: What Led to the Devils' Struggles in the 2021-22 Season?

The Devils faced several challenges during the 2021-22 season:

Injuries: Injuries to key players, including star forward Jack Hughes, disrupted the team's chemistry and impacted their performance.

Defensive Issues: Defensive lapses and goaltending inconsistencies led to a high number of goals against, making it difficult to secure wins.

Tough Competition: The Devils competed in a tough Metropolitan Division, facing formidable opponents like the Carolina Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Penguins.

Bright Spots Amid the Struggles

Despite the challenges, the Devils had their share of bright spots:

Dawson Mercer's Emergence: Rookie Dawson Mercer's impressive debut season provided hope for the team's future. He showcased his offensive skills and hockey IQ, earning a spot as a key building block.

Development of Young Talent: The Devils continued to focus on the development of their young talent, providing valuable NHL experience to prospects.

Power Play Improvement: The power play unit showed improvement, with players like Pavel Zacha and Jesper Bratt making significant contributions.

FAQ 2: What Are the Key Takeaways for the Devils Moving Forward?

Looking ahead, the Devils can draw important lessons from the 2021-22 season:

Player Health: Ensuring the team's key players remain healthy and injury-free will be a priority. Depth and injury management strategies must be in place.

Defensive Reinforcement: Addressing defensive issues through player acquisitions or development within the organization will be crucial.

Goaltending Stability: Finding goaltending stability and consistency is vital for any successful NHL team. The Devils may explore options to solidify their netminding.

The Devils' Legacy and Future

The New Jersey Devils have a rich history, including multiple Stanley Cup championships. The franchise's loyal fan base continues to support the team through thick and thin, exemplifying the resilience of hockey fans.

The future holds promise for the Devils. With a focus on nurturing their young talent, making strategic player acquisitions, and addressing defensive concerns, the team can aim for a brighter future. Fans can look forward to seeing their beloved team rise again, competing at the highest level of the NHL.

: The Heart of Hockey

The Devils' season in 2021-22 may not have met the expectations of fans and analysts, but it's important to remember that hockey, like life, is filled with ebbs and flows. The challenges faced this season can serve as the catalyst for future success. The Devils have a legacy of excellence, and they are determined to add more chapters to their storied history.

As fans, we continue to stand by our teams, through the highs and lows, because that's the heart of hockey. Whether it's the cheers of victory or the agony of defeat, the passion and dedication of hockey fans remain unwavering. So, to the New Jersey Devils, we say, "To hell with the Devil(s), we're here for the long haul, and we can't wait to see what the future holds."

37-26-9: Rangers Get Electrocuted

Ah, two games against two terrible teams and the Rangers skate away with exactly zero points. The 3-0 loss to Tampa Bay is something they will need to take as a learning experience: you can't underestimate opponents, especially those with nothing to lose - a lesson they should have learned already but I guess their arrogance kept them from accepting. The offense barely skated and missed chance after chance - hell, Tampa looked like they were trying to lose the game and the Blueshirts couldn't put the puck. The defense was close to the worse that it has been all year missing coverage assignments, allowing the Bolts to do whatever they wanted and taking stupid penalties. And the goaltending? Well, I had been all ready to jump all over Renney for playing Hank but he played some of his best hockey in months. He was great. Everyone else? Blech.

*That starts with the captain. All of you apologists who leap to his defense every time I say something negative about him can not deny that Jagr missed at least four prime scoring chances in the game. He got himself into prime positions and blew them. In a game where the team is lagging, the superstar needs to shine and he didn't - he was just as bad as the rest of them. And he had the nerve to tell the AP that Tampa "had nothing to lose. Skating up and down, they had more scoring chances than us.” Do you think Mark Messier would let the Rangers sleepwalk through a game like this? I don't think so.

*Remember Mike Smith? He stopped 39 shots when he beat us with Dallas earlier this year. He used his size to his advantage then as he did tonight. Unlike that evening, Smith took more liberties in this one but was lucky that the Rangers were too incompetent to take advantage of them. He made all of 20 saves in this one and nearly had an empty net goal.

*Power play goes 0-3 ... no surprise there at this point.

*I was at work for the first two periods and at a bar for the third so I didn't hear much of the game. I did get to catch Sam making the outrageous nomination of Colton Orr for the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award. And, of course, that idiot monkey Micheletti agreed. There are a number of good guys that are deserving (I voted for Shanny) but Orr isn't one. He is an enforcer that doesn't discourage the other teams from going after Jagr or crashing the net. He is also -13 with two points and 18 fighting majors, at least 10 of which were meaningless tussles with other goons.

*The inadequacies of the Blueshirt blueline were numerous. Rozy was terrible, Marc Staal had one of his worse games, Girardi looked uncertain, and Backman ... well I think I am going to stop calling him Wally. The real Wally Backman was a productive baseball player before flushing his life away and this Backman has produced nothing. He is incapable of playing a tough game, incapable of playing a smart game, and unworthy of the uniform.

*Renney's stubborn attachment to the current lines has to change. I said yesterday that Prucha needed to play - something I stand by - and I have said numerous times that Sjostrom needs to get more ice time. He was one of the few Rangers who pressed the action and he saw less than eight minutes of ice time. Meanwhile Marty Straka was nearly invisible and logged more than 14.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Hank - 27 saves.
2-Jeff Halpern - one assist.
1-Mike Smith - 20 save shutout.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Mathieu Darch/Vinny Levacalier - both were constant threats on the ice that sent the Rangers back deep into their own zone. Darche was wily and quick, and Vinny was a horse.
2-Hank - he played great with little to no help all night long and kept the Rangers in a game they should have lost 7-0.
1-Dan Boyle - the guy played more than 30 minutes - he was on the ice for more than half the game. No wonder Tampa decided he was more important than pretty boy Richards. Boyle's performance really makes me hope that Bobby Sanguinetti proves to be the real thing. I hate putting unfair pressure on the kids but the hole on defense is just getting bigger and bigger.

 Lightning Strikes: Rangers Get Electrocuted in Tampa Bay

The New York Rangers have faced numerous challenges throughout their storied history. In the 2022-2023 season, they found themselves facing a formidable opponent in the Tampa Bay Lightning. This article delves into the electrifying matchup between the two teams, offering insights into key moments, standout performances, and the lessons the Rangers can take away from their encounter with the reigning Stanley Cup champions.

FAQ 1: What Made the Tampa Bay Lightning a Formidable Foe?

The Tampa Bay Lightning have established themselves as one of the NHL's powerhouse teams in recent years. They possess a combination of skill, depth, and experience that makes them a tough matchup for any opponent. Key factors contributing to their dominance include:

Offensive Prowess: The Lightning boast a high-scoring offense led by superstars like Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point.

Goaltending Excellence: Andrei Vasilevskiy, often considered the best goaltender in the league, provides a strong last line of defense.

Championship Experience: Having won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021, the Lightning are battle-tested and know what it takes to win.

FAQ 2: What Were the Highlights of the Rangers vs. Lightning Series?

The Rangers vs. Lightning series was filled with memorable moments:

High-Scoring Affairs: Several games in the series featured a flurry of goals, showcasing the offensive firepower of both teams.

Overtime Thrillers: Multiple games went into overtime, including a double-overtime clash that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Standout Performances: Players like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad showcased their offensive prowess, while Igor Shesterkin made remarkable saves in goal.

Physical Play: The series also saw its fair share of physicality, with both teams engaging in hard-fought battles along the boards.

FAQ 3: What Can the Rangers Learn from This Series?

While the Rangers ultimately fell to the Lightning, there are valuable lessons to be gleaned from the experience:

Experience Matters: The Lightning's championship experience highlighted the importance of having seasoned players who can perform under pressure.

Special Teams: Improving penalty killing and power play effectiveness can be a game-changer in playoff matchups.

Depth Matters: Building depth throughout the roster ensures that injuries or fatigue won't be insurmountable obstacles.

Mental Toughness: Postseason success often hinges on mental resilience and the ability to bounce back from adversity.

: A Bright Future Ahead

The New York Rangers may have been "electrocuted" by the Tampa Bay Lightning in this particular series, but the experience gained will serve them well in the seasons to come. With a talented roster, a passionate fan base, and a commitment to improvement, the Rangers are well-positioned to continue their journey toward championship glory. As the NHL evolves, so too will the Rangers, and their electrifying encounters on the ice will undoubtedly continue to captivate fans in New York and beyond.