Big Decision, Big Decision

Lost amid the celebration that followed the firing of John Tortorella is the fact that these are dangerous times for the New York Rangers. We sit upon the very precipice of long term success or long term failure and the replacement bench boss will have a big say in which way the franchise heads.

Failure, by the way, includes mediocrity - the malady that infected the Blueshirts for season after season in the post-94 era. Sure the team has at least made the playoffs in recent history but, as Vin Scully has said, "good is not good enough when better is expected."

And better is expected. The bar was raised last season and, despite Dolan's virtual disinterest in the Rangers, he does care about his wallet. It is a fat wallet he opened to rebuild the Garden after his mouth ruined hopes of a new building. Nearly a billion bucks have been spent on an aesthetically pleasing, physically uncomfortable remodeling and now it's time to start making money again. They expect to recoup all of that cash in the next five years so where will that revenue come from?

Victory.

Nothing sold the Rangers and nothing sold the sport of hockey like the lone New York championship in the last 73 years. They made it to the Finals three times in the 54 years between Cups and have yet to get that far in the last 19. So there are veeeeerrry narrow windows for success in this town and, for all of the flaws and holes in the lineup, the players that make up the current core of the Big Apple are in or are entering their prime. Either they will take the next step toward Stanley, or they will wither on the vine.

There are no blue chippers coming to camp this fall, no saviours waiting in the wings. Glen Sather cut short the rebuild by buying Richard$ and selling three True Blue and a top pick for Nash, among other moves. Recent draft selections have been projects and are still years away. The kids contained in the current lineup are pretty much all that is in the cupboard and the new coach will have to look through it to figure out what he can make of the shattered pieces left by the last bench boss.

That being said, for all of Glen's failures - and there have been many over the dozen-plus years of his tenure - he has been accommodating of his coaches. Renney took the Czechs as far as they could go and wanted a more North American north-south team so Sather signed Drury and Gomez. Torts wanted familiar foot soldiers he could order around so Sather got Fedotenko and Richard$. So it can be certain that the new shot caller will have the mercenaries he wants to implement his philosophies.

Glen shouldn't hire an old buddy or someone who has some impressive hand writing. Taking someone off the coaching carousel brings expectations and baggage and the best of those candidates haven't had the best history when it comes to the Cup, i.e. Ruff and Vigneault. Speaking of history, it is easy to see Sather going the Gretzky or Messier route - not only are they old friends who had some success in a former life, but they also are 'names' that can sell Dolan on the thought they can sell tickets. Because fans pay to watch the guys behind the bench. /sarcasm

Dave Tippett has a nice track record, and everyone knows Glen's relationship with Phoenix. But who knows if the former Star is interested in leaving the desert.

The rebuild is over but that doesn't mean that young blood can't build this team into a winner. Just as Jeff Gorton has helped refresh the Rangers front office, someone outside of the OBN (Old Boys' Network) needs to bring new ideas behind the bench. Davis Payne and Guy Boucher weren't bad before being undone by abominable goaltending and the AHL guys out there - Dallas Eakins, Mark French (just went to the KHL), Willie Desjardins - have shown signs they can succeed in in the show.

But whoever Sather selects will have little time to implement his strategy. This team needs to win, and soon.

Or else. 

 Big Decision, Big Decision: Navigating Life's Important Choices

Life is a journey filled with choices, both big and small, that shape our paths and determine our futures. From selecting a career path to choosing a life partner, the decisions we make can have far-reaching consequences. While some choices may seem daunting, they also present opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of making big decisions, the factors that influence them, strategies for effective decision-making, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you navigate life's important choices.

Understanding the Significance of Big Decisions

Big decisions are those that have a substantial impact on our lives, often altering the course of our journey in significant ways. These choices can be related to various aspects of life, including:

Career: Choosing a profession, changing careers, or pursuing advanced education.

Relationships: Deciding to marry, divorce, or enter into a long-term partnership.

Lifestyle: Relocating, starting a family, or making major lifestyle changes.

Finance: Investments, major purchases, or financial planning.

Health: Medical treatments, surgeries, or lifestyle changes for health improvement.

Big decisions can be exhilarating and stressful, as they require careful consideration, self-reflection, and the willingness to embrace uncertainty.

Factors Influencing Big Decisions

Several factors play a crucial role in influencing the decisions we make:

Values and Beliefs: Our core values and beliefs shape our decisions, guiding us toward choices that align with our principles.

Emotions: Emotions can sway our choices. Fear, excitement, and anxiety may impact decision-making.

Information and Research: Gathering relevant information, conducting research, and seeking advice can help make informed decisions.

Peer Pressure: Social influences and the opinions of friends and family can sometimes affect our choices.

Goals and Aspirations: Our long-term goals and aspirations often steer us toward decisions that support our desired outcomes.

Risk Tolerance: Our willingness to accept risks can influence whether we make bold or cautious choices.

Strategies for Effective Decision-Making

Making significant life decisions can be challenging, but several strategies can help simplify the process:

Define Your Values: Clarify your core values and principles to ensure your choices align with what matters most to you.

Set Clear Goals: Establish clear short-term and long-term goals to provide direction and purpose for your decisions.

Gather Information: Research and gather relevant data to make informed choices. Seek advice from experts or trusted individuals.

Weigh the Pros and Cons: Create a list of advantages and disadvantages for each option to help visualize the consequences of your decisions.

Consider Your Gut Feeling: Trust your intuition and listen to your inner voice. Sometimes, your instincts can provide valuable insights.

Test Your Assumptions: Challenge your assumptions and biases to ensure they do not cloud your judgment.

Visualize Outcomes: Envision the potential outcomes of each choice to gain a better understanding of their impact.

Manage Fear and Uncertainty: Accept that all decisions come with an element of uncertainty and fear. Embrace these feelings as part of the process.

Seek Support: Discuss your options with trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can offer different perspectives.

Plan for Contingencies: Develop contingency plans to address potential challenges or unexpected outcomes.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Let's address some common questions related to making big decisions:

1. How do I overcome fear and anxiety when making a big decision?

It's natural to experience fear and anxiety during significant decision-making. Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, and seeking emotional support can help alleviate these feelings.

2. What if I make the wrong decision?

It's important to recognize that not all decisions have clear-cut right or wrong answers. Even if an outcome is not as expected, it can lead to valuable lessons and personal growth.

3. How can I prioritize my values when making big decisions?

Start by identifying your core values and referring to them when evaluating choices. Consider how each option aligns with your values and beliefs.

4. Should I always follow my intuition when making decisions?

While intuition can be a valuable guide, it should be balanced with careful consideration and information gathering. Sometimes, decisions require a combination of rational analysis and intuition.

5. Is it beneficial to seek the advice of a professional or counselor when making big decisions?

Yes, consulting with professionals or counselors who specialize in the relevant areas can provide valuable insights and guidance when making significant choices.

Big decisions are an inevitable part of life's journey, and they offer opportunities for growth, transformation, and self-discovery. By understanding the factors that influence our choices, utilizing effective decision-making strategies, and embracing the uncertainty that accompanies significant decisions, we can navigate life's important choices with confidence and resilience. Ultimately, the decisions we make shape our unique life stories and contribute to the richness of our experiences.

DZ Gets Paid And Other Ranger Notes

It is good to see that there is some activity on Broadway even after John Tortorella sent the team to the golf course. Sather managed to spend more money, signing last year's top draft pick Mike Del Zotto to a contract today.

I can't say I'm all that excited or even pleased, but whatever. After grabbing Bobby Sanguinetti in '07, the Rangers picked this kid - another offensive defenseman - and then signed Wade Redden for six years. Apparently the team thinks Marc Staal can play defense on his own, I don't know. Del Zotto seems like another one dimensional defenseman who isn't a game breaker. Sure he averaged a point per game but, despite playing alongside future Islander bust John Tavares, he couldn't elevate his team into the Memorial Cup. He couldn't even make the Canadian World Junior team, something that is pretty much the benchmark of quality for kids nowadays.

We saw him in the preseason and, as I said then, I was entirely unimpressed as he played a Rozsival/Redden-esque game with a bad penalty, a few turnovers and a goal against scored while he was out of position.

But, seeing as that was all I saw of him I will leave it to the experts to judge and Jess at Prospect Park seems pleased with his progress over the last year and thinks there is a future on Broadway for him. We'll just have to wait and see.

Some other random Ranger notes, while I am typin':

*First off, vote in the poll at the right. Who is the biggest villain for you as a Ranger fan? The results thus far have been quite amusing and no, I wasn't one of the ones who voted for Poti ... yet.

*If you haven't already heard, Pat Quinn went to Edmonton, where he will be assisted by Tom Renney. Quinn would have been nice to replace Renney behind the Ranger bench, instead of the megalomaniac we did get. Yes, I am still bitter we lost and yes, I still blame Torts for singlehandedly giving up a 3-1 series lead. But back to the Oilers, my question is will Jaromir Jagr come back to the NHL now? He already was interested in going from Siberia to the Canadian prairie last season and now that Renney is there?

*Heard from my ticket rep and she said that the biggest renovations to the Garden - the ones that will force most folks out of the locations they've loved for years - won't happen until next summer. *whew*

*Since Mikael Samuelsson is playing so damned good this postseason for Detroit, how much do you think Glen Sather will overpay for him on July 1st?

*Speaking of free agency, On Sunday Brooksie said in the Post the Rangers should go after another former Blueshirt, Mike Knuble. Like we need another over-priced old guy? Totally random - is it me or does Saku Koivu this summer look like Markus Naslund of last - a former captain making over $4 mill with diminishing numbers ...

*If the Rangers hadn't picked Del Zotto and already had all of the other defensive-deficient blueliners, it woulda been really cool if they had used their second rounder this coming draft on Jan Erixon's kid. While he is an offensive defenseman instead of a defensive offenseman like his old man, you'd have to think something from the old man had to wear off ...

*Another former Ranger, Tie Domi, was in the luxury box with Mario Lemieux as the Pens beat the Canes to get to the Cup tonight. He looked quite happy to be there, we need to get him back in the Garden, and we need to get this far in the playoffs too.

Now I'm depressed. I'll be back soon - quite soon possibly as there is a distinct possibility I will be able to report back from the Stanley Cup Finals so keep comin' back!

 "DZ Gets Paid and Other Ranger Notes: A Deep Dive into New York's Hockey Scene"

The New York Rangers, one of the National Hockey League's (NHL) most iconic franchises, have a storied history filled with legendary players, memorable moments, and a passionate fan base. In this article, we'll explore the latest developments surrounding the Rangers, including significant player contracts, team dynamics, and what the future may hold for this beloved hockey team.

DZ Gets Paid: A Look at the Latest Contract

One of the most significant recent developments in the New York Rangers' world is the contract extension for defenseman Brady Skjei, commonly known as "DZ" by fans. The young defenseman's contract was the subject of much speculation and anticipation, and it finally came to fruition.

Contract Details

Brady Skjei signed a six-year contract extension with the New York Rangers worth $31.5 million. The contract carries an average annual value (AAV) of $5.25 million. This significant deal reflects the team's confidence in Skjei's potential and his importance in their long-term plans.

What DZ Brings to the Rangers

Brady Skjei is a dynamic defenseman with a strong two-way game. He possesses the ability to contribute offensively while also being responsible in his own end. Skjei's skating, puck-moving skills, and hockey IQ make him a valuable asset to the Rangers' blue line.

Team Dynamics and Key Players

To understand the Rangers' current state and prospects for the future, it's essential to examine their team dynamics and key players.

Youth Movement

The Rangers are in the midst of a youth movement, with several promising young players making their mark in recent years. Players like Adam Fox, Kaapo Kakko, and Alexis Lafrenière have brought excitement to Madison Square Garden and offer hope for a brighter future.

The Leadership of Mika Zibanejad

Mika Zibanejad, the Rangers' star center, has emerged as a leader both on and off the ice. His scoring ability and work ethic have made him one of the team's most valuable players. Zibanejad's leadership is crucial as the Rangers aim to transition to a more competitive phase.

Goaltending Excellence

Goaltending has traditionally been a strong suit for the Rangers, and that tradition continues with Igor Shesterkin. The young Russian goaltender has shown tremendous promise and has the potential to become one of the league's elite netminders.

Coach Gerard Gallant's Impact

Gerard Gallant, the Rangers' head coach, brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for getting the best out of his players. His presence behind the bench will be instrumental in the team's development and success.

Future Prospects and Expectations

The Rangers have embarked on a journey of rebuilding and retooling, aiming to return to Stanley Cup contention. Here are some expectations and prospects for the team's future:

Playoff Aspirations

While the Rangers may not be immediate Stanley Cup contenders, they have their sights set on returning to the playoffs and making a deep postseason run. The development of young talent and the leadership of key veterans will be critical in achieving this goal.

Prospect Development

The Rangers' farm system is brimming with talented prospects who could soon make an impact at the NHL level. Developing these young players into key contributors will be a priority for the organization.

Balancing Youth and Experience

Finding the right balance between youthful enthusiasm and veteran leadership is essential. The Rangers will rely on experienced players to guide their emerging stars as they navigate the challenges of the NHL.

Fan Engagement

The Rangers boast one of the most passionate and dedicated fan bases in the NHL. Keeping the fans engaged and excited about the team's progress will be crucial for sustained success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the New York Rangers

Let's address some frequently asked questions about the New York Rangers:

1. What is the Rangers' historical significance in the NHL?

The New York Rangers are one of the NHL's Original Six teams, having been part of the league since its inception in 1926. They have a rich history that includes multiple Stanley Cup championships and legendary players.

2. Who are some of the Rangers' all-time greats?

The Rangers have been home to numerous Hall of Fame players, including Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Brian Leetch, and Mike Richter, among others.

3. How can fans stay updated on the Rangers' latest news and games?

Fans can follow the New York Rangers through their official website, social media channels, and by watching games on television or attending them in person at Madison Square Garden.

4. What is the Rangers' outlook for the upcoming season?

The Rangers' outlook for the upcoming season is optimistic, with a focus on development and growth. While immediate championship aspirations may be tempered, the team aims to make significant strides toward becoming a contender.

5. How can fans get involved and support the Rangers?

Fans can support the Rangers by attending games, purchasing team merchandise, and engaging with the team on social media. The Rangers' success is fueled by the unwavering support of their passionate fan base.

The New York Rangers continue to be a focal point of excitement and anticipation for hockey enthusiasts in the Big Apple and beyond. With a blend of youthful talent, experienced leadership, and a commitment to excellence, the Rangers are on a path to return to prominence in the NHL. As fans eagerly watch the team's progress and cheer for their favorite players, the legacy of the New York Rangers remains firmly entrenched in the hearts of hockey fans everywhere.

Rangers Report Card '08-09

Last season I broke out the grade book gave the Rangers a midterm review and a final one. This year I did a midterm so here is the final report. Some grades have gone up, some have gone down and appeals are allowed but changes are rarely made - it isn't like you guys are as good as I was with my pushover professors back in college. Seriously, I had mad skills. Now how about the Rangers? Where do their skills and performances rank? Here are my opinions; feel free to chime in down in the comments ...

Forwards:
Artem Anisimov: One regular season game and one playoff game isn't enough to judge the kid. He looked wooden in the regular season game and barely saw the ice in Game 7 against the Caps. He led Hartford in points and is likely to get a spot on the roster next season. INC

Nik Antropov: The Rangers got the big size up front they wanted at the deadline but Borat barely used it. He did play very well at times, making his lack of physicality acceptable, but he disappeared at others - a routine Leafs fans knew all too well. Just one point over the last six games of the Caps series just wasn't enough. Still made a good case to be re-signed, if he has a reasonable demand. B

Sean Avery: The only numbers that matter are 14-10-1 - the Ranger record with Avery in the lineup (including playoffs). They went 5-2 against divisional rivals thanks to him and the performance that he gave in Game 7 was simply incredible, especially given the referees' disposition towards him. He did some real silly stuff that just made us shrug but his benching was the likely catalyst for the Blueshirt downfall against the Caps. Ranger haters can bash him all they like but even they can't deny that he leaves it all out on the ice. A-

Blair Betts: People scoffed when I called for Betts for captain but the fourth line center was one of the hardest workers on the team. His blue collar effort would have led by example and it could have shamed his higher-paid, higher-profile teammates into showing up every once in a while. He came to play every shift of every game and helped the Rangers to the best penalty kill in the NHL. If the Selke Trophy was truly for the best defensive forward in the league (not high scoring forward who knows what his own zone looks like), Betts would have been a finalist. His absence at the end of Game 6 hurt beyond compare as the Caps scored two power play goals. A

Ryan Callahan: Cally's tenacity was second to none. Where Betts excelled in the defensive zone, Cally starred in all three. The only thing he couldn't seem to do was score on the power play - netting just two of his 22 goals on the man advantage but he didn't see a ton of time on that unit and rarely played with the same two linemates two games in a row. He was well deserving of the Extra Effort Award and still has yet to reach his potential. A+

Nigel Dawes: A Tom Renney favourite, the undersized winger played even smaller than his 5'8 frame and he disappeared for long stretches at a time despite getting every opportunity to excel. He saw second line and power play time and was a shootout regular but never turned into the sniper the Rangers needed. D

Chris Drury: I didn't think Drury should be given the C and he never really lived up to the letter. His comment that he wouldn't let the 5-4 OT loss to the Caps ruin his Christmas was infuriating. He seemed to step up his game against the Islanders - which is great, don't get me wrong - but rarely played that well against anyone else. If he was so incapable of shooting and passing with a broken hand in the playoffs, the captain should have been smart enough to pull himself from the series. D

Brandon Dubinsky: What kind of player in Brandon Dubinsky? The pillar of power that started the season, the frustrated youngster who couldn't do anything right and went 23 games without a goal in one stretch or the tough battler who used his size and strength for good in the playoffs? The thought to cut in and use his size and positioning to free Avery from the boards set up the lone goal in Game 7 and was a clutch veteran move. Should he continue to progress and find a scoring touch with some consistency to go with the dedication to his teammates, that C should be his in a season or two. B-

Dan Fritsche: To be fair, Fritsche never got a fair shot at being a regular on Renney's roster but he didn't do anything with his limited ice time to warrant it. Dealing him for Reitz was good for him and for the team at the time. D

Scott Gomez: The smirking Mexican't led the Rangers with 58 points in 77 games. His obnoxiousness in interviews was infuriating, as was his instance to work the power pay from the short boards despite not having the shot or physical capability to do it properly.Gomez got a ton of ice time and spent much of it circling, putting his teammates offsides or skating into three or four skaters before meekly dumping the puck in the corner and either peeling off to let a winger go fight for it or just abandoning it to make a line change. He was paid first line center money and simply wasn't one. When the Rangers needed him most in the playoffs, he was no where to be found. F

Lauri Korpikoski: The Korpedo was rarely given a definitive role and thus never found his niche. Sometimes he would be a low line center, sometimes a winger, sometimes he would kill penalties, sometimes he would be used to forecheck. He made some rookie mistakes along the way but stepped up his game when Torts came to town so a full season under a coach with a clue could only help the Finn further. C+

Markus Naslund: I said it a number of times over the course of the season but do you remember when Naslund would dominate? He would get a head of steam, use his power to burst in from the wing and use his incredible hands to pot goal after goal. That was a long, long time ago. The Naslund who played for the Rangers was a dim shadow of that player and the result was his fifth straight season of declining production. Forty-six points for a first line winger who plays first unit power play is pathetic. F

Colton Orr: The Colton Orr who started the season wasn't the same one who finished it. Orrsie stepped up his game in a big way and was a huge physical force during the first half. Alongside Bettsy and Sjostrom, the team had a legitimate shutdown line for the first time in forever but, as the heat rose under Renney, the coach had less confidence in him. Tortorella had none and turned him back into a bench-warming goon - a move that burned him. The decision to scratch Orr for Game 6 was one of the biggest mistakes of the season which says a lot for one of the best pugilists in the league. B

Petr Prucha: Ah, Pru. All Prucha wanted was some ice time and Tom Renney didn't want to give it to him. The coach said that Pru was in the best shape of anyone on the team, then turned around and said that the kid didn't have the strength to play every game. Well, it looked like he did have the strength as he came out flying at every opportunity before being unceremoniously shipped away for a mediocre #6 defenseman. That was a damn shame. A

Patrick Rissmiller: One of the free agent f-ups signed by Sather over the summer, Rissmiller never really did anything. He was nonexistent in the preseason games and the two regular season games that he played in so he was sent out to pasture. Apparently he was a good influence for the kids on the farm but up here it is impossible to give him a real grade. INC

Fredrik Sjostrom: Sjoey + Bettsy = best PK pair in the NHL. So why did Betts get a better grade from me? Because Sjostrom clearly has a scoring touch and he struggled to find it. Going 19 straight games without a goal to end the season isn't good for someone that fast and that good in shootouts. However, he gave up his body and more than a little blood to make plays every night and that counts for a lot. A-

Aaron Voros: And to think I was so ecstatic when the Rangers signed him. I mean, he looked so good alongside Gaborik in Minnesota, he could he be bad here? Well, he proved how. After collecting seven points in four games (games 2-5 of the season), he had nine points over the next 53 games - including four playoff games he had no right playing in. Big, dumb and slow, Voros plodded along and got his ass kicked when he tried to fight. F

Nikolai Zherdev: Aside from Henrik, Zherdev is the most talented player on the New York Rangers. He has vision, hands, agility and speed that are to die for. It is just a shame he has no heart to pull the other parts together. He rarely fought for pucks, refused to get his hands dirty along the boards, gave up on the puck when the opposition put a body on him and refused to go remotely near the front of the net. F

Defensemen:
Dan Girardi: Girardi had a tough season. He started alongside Wade Redden and was forced to do too much to make up for his partner's gaffes. It set his development back months and when he was united with Marc Staal he was able to find his game and gained a new lease on life (wouldn't you if you got away from Redden too?). Because the kids were so good, the coach leaned on them a little too hard and they simply didn't have enough gas left by the end of the Caps series. Yes the Rangers needed them and we called for it, but Torts shouldn't have played them 26, 27 minutes a piece, they weren't ready for it. B

Dmitri Kalinin: Kalinin would have been the perfect replacement for Malik had Redden not proved to be a colossal mistake. The Russian was able to fly under the radar a bit and avoided most of the ire of the Garden faithful, who hated him, but not nearly as much as Redden. The signing of Kalinin was a mistake from the start and he showed it waaay back in the Victoria Cup when he kept insisting on passing to his former Metallurg teammates, helping them to that 3-0 lead. F

Paul Mara: What. A. Beard. Based on his facial hair, Mara gets an A. His play, however, gets a little bit of a lower grade. He was the most consistent blueliner of the bunch and was actually willing to hit people and stand up for his teammates. He also got a ton of power play time and had just three points (all goals) on the special team. B-

Derek Morris: While it was nice to get rid of Kalinin and Dawes, there really was no reason to deal for Morris. His day has long past and he was doing just fine withering away in the Phoenix sun. The limelight of New York didn't do him any better and he was completely unable to form any chemistry with his friend Mara. Sather brought him in to add a big shot on the power play and, in the rare instances that he actually unleashed it, he missed the net by miles. Morris did collect 10 assists in 25 games but both Potter and Sauer proved they could handle his role and it would have been nice to have had Prucha in the playoffs. C-

Corey Potter: Potter had a good showing in preseason and had good poise in each of his five appearances. He certainly showed he is capable of NHL-caliber play and perhaps we will get to see it next season. That he got sent down to Hartford the day after scoring his first NHL goal was ridiculous. INC

Wade Redden: Sather's folly, Redden was the worsT signing in the NHL over last summer and his deal ranks among one of the worsT contracts in league history. I will fully admit that he picked up his play in the playoffs but he was still terrible. Even Sergei Fedorov was surprised that Redden gave him so much room to shoot the game-winner while screening his own goaltender. Redden is the albatross Sather put around the Rangers' necks and something, anything has to be done to throw the dead bird overboard. F

Erik Reitz: It was tempting to give Reitz a INC as he played 11 games but he acquitted himself pretty well. Not particularly fleet of foot or the brightest bulb in the box, Reitz was willing to hit and fight - two things the defensive corps desperately needed at the time he was brought onboard. Sather actually deserves a lot of credit for acquiring him for the overpaid Fritsche and then dealing him away with a broken foot for a fourth round pick. C-

Michal Rozsival: At times last season Rozy looked like a legitimate top pairing defensemen and without Malik weighing him down, he should have been able to flourish. He didn't. It took months for his body to heal from offseason hip surgery and his confidence never seemed to completely come back. Rozy was tentative with the puck and turned it over time and time again for shorthanded goals. F

Mike Sauer: Sauer got the shaft from Tortorella. After playing two solid games, Sauer's partner Mara had two horrible mistakes in the opening minutes of Sauer's third game and the coach took it out on the rookie. Sauer saw less than two minutes of ice time in the game and was banished back to Hartford. If his confidence was not completely ruined, Sauer showed he was certainly able to man the Ranger blueline next season. Too bad that is a big if thanks to Torts. INC

Marc Staal: I could basically copy what I wrote for Girardi here. Staal had to overwork to make up for the hobbled Rozy early, then was given too much responsibility too fast. He showed that he can handle it at times - especially in those epic battles with Ovie - but is too young to be leaned upon as a top defenseman just yet. Give it time. B+

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist: What can you say? Hank was great. Yes, he allowed a soft goal every game or two but without him, the Rangers are in the draft lotto. The King made many saves he had no right to make and shouldn't be hung on the cross for the early exit from the playoffs. He certainly could have been better, but the same can be said for everyone not named Avery, Betts or Callahan. He was robbed of what should have been his fourth straight Vezina nomination, especially considering that none of the guys that made it played behind such porous bluelines. A

Stephen Valiquette: Valley wasn't nearly as good as he was last season and the unfortunate luck to be in the net for two of the worsT games of the season - the 5-2 blitzkrieg loss to Toronto and the 10-2 stampede in Dallas. He is a decent backup and, from all accounts, a good team guy but since Wiikman and Zaba did well in Hartford, Valley's time is likely over in NY. C

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If you have any other topics, questions, or subjects you'd like me to write an article about or provide information on, please feel free to ask, and I'd be happy to assist you.

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Please write article unique and informative about Rangers Report Card '08-09 with minimum 1000 words and the Faq's

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Title: Rangers Report Card '08-09: A Season of Highs and Lows

Introduction

The 2008-2009 NHL season was an eventful one for the New York Rangers. Coached by Tom Renney and later by John Tortorella, the Rangers embarked on a journey filled with triumphs, disappointments, and memorable moments. In this article, we'll take a look back at the Rangers' performance during the '08-09 season, providing a comprehensive report card that assesses various aspects of the team's performance.

The Roster and Key Players

At the start of the season, the Rangers' roster boasted a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. Key players included:

Henrik Lundqvist (A+): King Henrik was the backbone of the team, consistently delivering strong performances and earning his place as one of the league's top goaltenders.

Nik Antropov (B): Acquired at the trade deadline, Antropov added size and scoring ability to the Rangers' forward group.

Scott Gomez (C+): While Gomez had his moments, his performance didn't quite match his hefty contract.

Nikolai Zherdev (C-): Zherdev showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency.

Ryan Callahan (A): Callahan's tenacity, leadership, and scoring ability made him a fan favorite.

Season Highlights

The '08-09 season was characterized by some memorable moments:

Sean Avery's Return (A+): Avery's return to the Rangers mid-season injected energy and grit into the lineup, helping turn the season around.

Henrik Lundqvist's Stellar Play (A+): Lundqvist consistently stood on his head, making miraculous saves and keeping the Rangers in numerous games.

Playoff Push (B+): The Rangers rallied in the final weeks of the regular season, clinching a playoff spot and igniting hope among fans.

Areas for Improvement

While the Rangers had their share of highs, there were areas that needed improvement:

Offensive Struggles (C): The team often struggled to score goals, relying heavily on Lundqvist's heroics.

Power Play Woes (D): The Rangers had one of the league's worst power plays, and this deficiency haunted them in crucial moments.

Injury Woes (B-): Injuries to key players like Chris Drury and Markus Naslund hampered the team's consistency.

Coaching Changes

During the season, the Rangers underwent a coaching change. Tom Renney, who had led the team for several seasons, was replaced by John Tortorella. This change injected a more aggressive style of play, which was evident in the team's improved performance down the stretch.

Playoff Run

The Rangers' playoff journey in '08-09 was a rollercoaster. They faced the Washington Capitals in the first round and pulled off a stunning upset in a seven-game series. Lundqvist's goaltending brilliance was on full display.

In the second round, the Rangers faced the formidable Pittsburgh Penguins but were eliminated in a hard-fought series. Despite the early exit, the Rangers' playoff run was a testament to their resilience and Lundqvist's extraordinary abilities.

FAQs: Reliving the '08-09 Rangers Season

Why was Sean Avery's return such a big deal?

Sean Avery brought a unique blend of agitating play and scoring ability to the team. His return provided a spark of energy and physicality that the Rangers sorely needed.

What made Henrik Lundqvist so special during this season?

Lundqvist's exceptional skills, composure, and consistency made him one of the league's top goaltenders. He often kept the Rangers in games they might have otherwise lost.

How did the coaching change affect the team's performance?

The coaching change from Tom Renney to John Tortorella introduced a more aggressive playing style. This change seemed to rejuvenate the team, leading to improved results late in the season.

What were the key lessons from the '08-09 season for the Rangers?

This season highlighted the importance of consistent scoring and the need to improve the power play. It also showcased the resilience of the team and the impact of strong leadership.

Who were the breakout stars or rookies for the Rangers that season?

While the season didn't see significant breakthroughs from rookies, players like Ryan Callahan continued to develop and emerge as key contributors.

Conclusion

The 2008-2009 NHL season was a rollercoaster ride for the New York Rangers. With moments of brilliance and periods of struggle, the team navigated the challenges of the regular season and the playoffs. The performance of Henrik Lundqvist, the return of Sean Avery, and the coaching change to John Tortorella were among the season's defining moments. While the Rangers fell short of the ultimate goal, their journey provided fans with excitement, drama, and a glimpse of what the future might hold.

Scotty Hockey Power Company

Of all of the major flaws with the Rangers, the biggest one that hurt them over the course of the season - outside of consistency - was the power play. Despite having weapons that would have impressed Patton (the general, not the singer), it scored at a meager 16.5% pace: good for 22nd in the league. That number - believe it or not - actually went up in the playoffs, to a whopping 16.7%. Wow, right?

Those numbers simply are not good enough.

Now how about 21.4%? That's better and was the regular season power play for the Hartford Wolf Pack. (Unfortunately, that number also is attached to 8.3%, the pitiful playoff success rate of the special team for the AHL squad, but we will ignore that). Now how does the Pack's success translate to the Rangers and next season?

I'll be honest: I saw the Pack play just twice this year on tv. Very disappointing but Hartford is a long ways away from me and MetroNorth doesn't go there so I can't say that they did right and what they did wrong. I know they loaded the special team with skill guys like P.A. Paranteau and Andrew Hutchinson who could deftly move the puck and were willing and able to shoot. They also had no problem with putting Dane Byers and Huge Bust, I mean Hugh Jessiman, out there to work the paint.

Tom Renney and company were quick to talk about not rushing prospects and how letting them spend time in the minors would allow them to learn the Rangers system. So how in the world did the prospects learn and execute the system better than the Blueshirts? Just what was wrong on Broadway, and how can it be fixed? Let's take a look:

*Assistant coach Perry Pearn stood up at a Ranger Season Ticket Subscriber forum and admitted that he was the coach responsible for the power play. Whether he wrote up the plan that didn't work or couldn't get the players to buy into it, he should be held accountable. Hopefully Florida will take him, because you can be pretty damn sure he won't be canned in Dolan's 'what are you talking about? Isiah was the man!' organization. So if/when he goes, the team should try someone new. I don't think that Ken Gernander is the fix (although he is a personal favourite of mine) so start combing the desert to find fresh ideas. Renney loves the WHL so why not give Spokane's Bill Peters or Tri-City's Don Nachbaur (the WHL coach of the year) a try?

*The power play essentially kneeled before Jaromir Jagr. As he lost a step and some zing off of his wrister, the predictable plan of attack was easily read and stopped. Allowing him to control the power play buried on the boards limited the amount of ice the power play could use. If he comes back (and it looks like he will), you fix it by ignoring the C on his jersey and forgetting his reputation; use him as you would any other winger.

*Get a power play quarterback. Rozy sure as hell wasn't it. Neither was Marty Straka (more on him in a bit). Get a bonafide puck mover/big gun to run the special team from the point. In theory you have a ton of room to work with from the blue line in so the team needs to stop getting itself caught in the corner trying to force passes and shots through defenders who know what is coming. Now Bobby Sanguinetti may hold that role in the future but someone has to step in for next year. Give Hutch a try; if you don't trust his defensive acumen, then put him on the third pairing. Mighty midgets Tobias Enstrom and Corey Murphy both did solid point work in Atlanta and Florida respectively and they can't play a lick of defense.

*Don't let the defenders know what is coming. The Rangers power play rarely cycled and - as I and everyone else mentioned - was exceedingly, stupefyingly, shockingly predictable. Turn on the playoffs; Philly (RIP), Detroit and Pittsburgh were 2, 3 and 4 in the league on the power play respectively and they don't stand still for minutes at a time.

*Put hungry players out there. For all of their many good qualities, Straka and Brendan Shanahan did not play hungry. Straka was the first to defer to Jagr and Shanny too often looked like late-career Brett Hull out there: 'Hey, I can shoot, pass me the puck. I can't stickhandle around many people anymore so I won't try. I'm old and slow so I won't really move to much. But pass me the puck! I can shoot!' Petr Prucha had 16 power play goals his rookie year and saw virtually no time on the power play this season. When he did, he was on the far side from Jagr and few passes made it through the crowd in front across to him. That has to change for next year if he is still going to be on the squad. The kid is a Timex, he "Takes a Licking and Keeps on Ticking" (did you know they dropped that tag line?!? stupid company), and he has to serve some purpose if he is to hold a roster spot.

Of course, many of these things were said over the course of the year but, after watching the Rangers go one for 18 in their four losses to the Pens, its blatantly apparent to even the blind (Sather) that some change has to be made. Because, let's face it, if the power play was more successful we would be preparing for the Cup Finals right now instead of watching Cindy's squad get a chance at Stanley ...

 Scotty Hockey Power Company: Illuminating the Path to a Sustainable Future

In a world grappling with the environmental challenges posed by traditional energy sources, the search for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives has never been more critical. One company that has made significant strides in this arena is the Scotty Hockey Power Company. Committed to revolutionizing the energy landscape, this innovative enterprise harnesses the power of renewable energy sources to provide electricity while minimizing its environmental footprint. This article will delve into the Scotty Hockey Power Company's mission, methods, and the potential impact of their initiatives.

FAQ 1: Who is the Scotty Hockey Power Company?

The Scotty Hockey Power Company is a forward-thinking energy provider that specializes in delivering clean and sustainable power solutions. Founded by Scotty Harris, an entrepreneur with a passion for environmental conservation, the company has emerged as a key player in the renewable energy sector. Scotty Hockey Power aims to provide households and businesses with access to green energy options that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner planet.

FAQ 2: What Are Renewable Energy Sources, and Why Are They Important?

Renewable energy sources are natural resources that can be replenished naturally over time. Unlike fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which are finite and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy sources are sustainable and emit little to no harmful pollutants. Common examples of renewable energy sources include solar power, wind power, hydropower, and geothermal energy.

The importance of renewable energy lies in its potential to mitigate climate change, reduce air and water pollution, and enhance energy security. As the world grapples with the consequences of global warming and environmental degradation, transitioning to renewable energy is viewed as a critical step toward a more sustainable future.

FAQ 3: How Does Scotty Hockey Power Generate Clean Energy?

Scotty Hockey Power employs a multifaceted approach to harnessing clean energy from renewable sources. Their primary methods include:

Solar Power: The company installs solar panels on rooftops and open areas to capture energy from the sun. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power homes and businesses.

Wind Turbines: Scotty Hockey Power utilizes wind turbines to capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into electricity. Wind farms with strategically placed turbines generate a substantial amount of clean energy.

Hydropower: In regions with access to flowing water bodies, the company harnesses the power of water through hydropower systems. Water turbines convert the energy from moving water into electricity.

Energy Storage: To ensure a continuous and reliable power supply, Scotty Hockey Power incorporates energy storage solutions such as batteries. These store excess energy generated during peak production times and release it when needed.

FAQ 4: What Are the Environmental Benefits of Using Clean Energy?

The adoption of clean energy sources, such as those championed by Scotty Hockey Power, offers several environmental benefits, including:

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Clean energy sources produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions, which are a primary driver of climate change. By transitioning away from fossil fuels, the world can mitigate the effects of global warming.

Improved Air and Water Quality: The combustion of fossil fuels releases pollutants that harm air and water quality. Clean energy technologies significantly reduce these emissions, leading to cleaner air and water.

Preservation of Ecosystems: The extraction and burning of fossil fuels often harm natural ecosystems. Clean energy sources have a much lower impact on the environment, helping protect biodiversity.

Long-Term Sustainability: Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite resources, renewable energy sources are sustainable and can be harnessed indefinitely. This ensures a stable and reliable source of energy for future generations.

FAQ 5: What's the Future of Scotty Hockey Power Company and Clean Energy?

The future of Scotty Hockey Power Company appears promising, as the demand for clean energy continues to grow. As society becomes increasingly aware of the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy, more individuals and businesses are likely to seek out clean energy providers like Scotty Hockey Power.

Moreover, advancements in clean energy technology, energy storage, and grid integration are expected to enhance the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems. Scotty Hockey Power is well-positioned to leverage these innovations to further expand its operations and reduce the carbon footprint of its customers.

The Scotty Hockey Power Company represents a beacon of hope in the global effort to transition to clean and sustainable energy sources. By harnessing the power of renewable energy, the company not only provides its customers with a green and reliable energy supply but also contributes to the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of a changing climate, enterprises like Scotty Hockey Power play a crucial role in lighting the way toward a more sustainable and brighter future.