10-7-1: Against All Odds

On one side of the equation you have a team playing the second game of a back-to-back. A team that is set up for a seemingly inevitable letdown after a wild matinee match at home. A team entering a volatile full house, facing a tough opponent - a recent Cup winner. A team that ends up with officiating that clearly possess an agenda.

On the other side of the equation, you have a bunch of kids and a King.

Guess who won?

The Rangers defeated the Penguins Monday night 3-2 in overtime. It was an emotional, edge-of-your-couch victory that is hard to describe. But let's give it a shot:

*The officials clearly tilted the ice for the Penguins, turning a blind eye to many of the Pens' antics and giving Sidney and Geno carte blanche to do whatever they want. And they did. And they somehow drew penalties while doing it. It is just disgraceful that guys as skilled as the two of them resort to cheap shots. That Malkin threw several punches and elbows that somehow weren't seen, that is almost acceptable compared to Crosby intentionally taking Hank's skates out from under him. Apparently four officials didn't see it. Yeah, right. The worst part wasn't that the stripes ignored it but that the Blueshirts did as well. Someone has to put whatever player - be it Crosby, Talbot, Cooke, whoever - in their place for touching Hank. Lundqvist is far too important to this team and he certainly is not about to defend himself. Even though it was 1-0 Rangers at the time, this is where the two points simply aren't as important as sending a message. Hit Hank, prepare to die.

*What is the worst the refs would have done? Called more penalties? They managed to do that just fine and, remarkably, the Rangers were in good shape. As the shorthanded minutes grew, the constant Pittsburgh pressure seemed to make them diamond-tough. When the pressure eased for a moment due to the stoppage for blood on the ice, the defense opened up after the break and allowed the game-tying goal by Chris Kunitz. It also didn't help that Girardi was gone as the mixed pairing left on the ice didn't work. Staal was caught watching the play after Eminger switched sides on him and got lost in no-man's land. That isn't to say Eminger played a bad game - he has been shocking capable since his minutes started going up - but he and Staal hadn't played together before and it showed.

*As for the go-ahead goal, well, you could see the wind fall out of Hank's sails after the Kunitz tally and he simply could not re-capture his composure. There was no break from the emotional let-down, no chance to calm down. And it allowed the despicable Cooke Monster to come down the ice and fire a simple shot past him. Seeing the Swede breaking his stick and throwing the pieces afterwards said it all. And that showed just how intense he is, which is quite admirable - no matter if the refs were able to use it as another excuse to give the Penguins a power play.

*While Girardi's apathy in the Carcillo/Gaborik incident will never be forgotten, the fact that he went from pouring blood from a head wound to back on the ice in minutes shows how invested he is in the team now. Soldiering on like that is what helps make hockey players better than all other athletes.

*On the redemption note, Erik Christensen did not achieve it. Was it good he scored? Was it a nice goal that he scored? Absolutely. Does it absolve him of throwing Sean Avery under the bus? No. Sure the matter was handled internally, but it would have gone a long way if Christy at least addressed it during his intermission interview. Just a 'pardon my John, but I just want to say I'm sorry to Sean for my comments yesterday. That is all.' That would have been fine - he wouldn't have to defend his opinion or change it, but since his 'cheap shot' comment was made in the media, an apology should have been made in the media.

*Avery, by the way, saw limited time but was effective. He skated hard and was one of the few Rangers to consistently take the play to the Penguins rather than vice versa. His unsportsmanlike conduct was a joke but inevitable when he stepped on the ice along Cooke and the officials heard his voice. The Rangers were lucky Cooke was called for a matching minor because the referees clearly could have ground their ax further.

*After Kunitz's goal, do you think O'Halloran skated by the Pittsburgh bench and asked them "what took you so long?"

*It didn't take Marc Staal long at all to score the equalizer. And it was awesome. Staal just ripped the puck past Marc Andre Fleury, who had been barely tested all night. What a goal. After having trouble in the offensive zone last season and retreating back into his defensive comfort zone, Staal has been slowly moving up the ice this season and this goal was the farthest he has come.

*Now the million dollar question - how far can the Rangers go with Ryan Callahan and Brandon Dubinsky leading them? After a game like this one, it is hard to put a limit on it as the two were outstanding in all facets. Not only did they combine on the game-winner, but their penalty killing and their physicality were also top notch. My only concern is what will happen when Chris Drury re-enters the mix. Will they take a step back, allow him to take the mantle of leadership back? How will they be with him getting some of their special teams minutes? They will certainly say all the right things but the proof will be on the ice.

*Cally vs. Comrie? What the ... ?? It was a fair fight between two scrappy little guys, pretty even, nice that they both took their helmets off. Beyond that, whatever. The Rangers losing their best penalty killer for five minutes was dangerous but they got through it.

*Chris Connor was again good against the Rangers. This was the second time this nobody showed up against the Blueshirts, perhaps it is time to figure out who the hell he is.

*Frolov was exposed as a one-way player who Tortorella doesn't trust. And there is nothing wrong with that, as it has been an accepted fact with the rest of us. It just dashed the hopes of those who thought that Sunday's performance against the Oilers was the start of something good.

*Ruslan Fedotenko was strong all night long but one of his best moments was prying Max Talbot out of a scrum. Talbot went from angry, lunging into the mix to smiling and skating away. It was quite amusing; wonder what he said to him.

*Not so amusing was Hank throwing his hands up in disgust at MDZ during a stoppage late in the game. The kid's offense was better than it has been of late - not saying much - but his defense was still pretty harsh. He and Matt Gilroy should be 'traded' to the Whale even up for McDonagh and Valentenko for a few games. Let Sauer see some expanded minutes - he deserves it.

*The ice was as bad as advertised in the new Pittsburgh arena. Instead of letting us see more of the place, instead MSG treated us to a nice segment about Sidney Crosby hitting home runs. C'mon, everyone who aren't Pirates hit home runs in Pittsburgh.

*On the broadcasting note, MSG's cameras did not match - the video levels were waaaay off for the ice-side cameras - and Joe Micheletti is the worst. "I'm sorry Sam but ... " "Pardon me Sam but ..." There is no excuse for Joe. He points out the blatently obvious and has zero chemistry with his co-worker, loudly interrupting him constantly. He is clearly a sycophant, sucking up to his Ranger overlords by being a p.r. shrill lauding any and every minuscule accomplishment. If you haven't figured it out, I can't stand him. Even a drunk homer like Mickey Redmond is easier to listen to.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Sidney Crosby - being Sidney Crosby.
2-Henrik Lundqvist - 37 saves.
1-Ryan Callahan - one goal and one assist.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Staal - His gaffe on the Kunitz goal aside, Staal was solid - shutting down Crosby is no easy task and Staal managed it well. And he scored the goal that tied the game, forced overtime and probably forced Colin Campbell to send another e-mail about the failure of the officiating.
2-Dubi - Cally got the pub for the game-winner but admitted it was the easiest goal he ever scored, all because of Dubi's work coming down the ice. And Dubi is the one who set up Staalsie for the game-winner - he made a perfect interception in the Rangers zone, skated up the ice, drew a double team and made a perfect back-pass through the traffic to Staal. Outstanding.
1-Hank - The Cooke goal aside, Lundqvist was outstanding. His positioning was fantastic, he made beautiful saves and he made ugly saves. Hank ranged from the crease a couple of times and actually managed not to butcher them. Could you imagine if Biron had been forced to play in this one?

 10-7-1: Against All Odds - The New York Rangers' Resilience

The journey of a sports team is often filled with ups and downs, challenges, and moments of triumph. For the New York Rangers, the 2021-2022 NHL season was no exception. The Rangers faced adversity, battled through injuries, and navigated a competitive landscape, yet they managed to persevere and find success, finishing the season with a record of 10-7-1. This article delves into their remarkable journey, highlighting their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

The Rocky Start

The 2021-2022 season began with high hopes for the Rangers. With a talented roster that included star players like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, expectations were soaring. However, the team faced a challenging start, encountering losses and inconsistencies that tested their resolve.

Injuries and Lineup Changes

One of the defining characteristics of the Rangers' season was the number of injuries they had to contend with. Key players, including Panarin and Zibanejad, missed significant stretches of games. These injuries forced the coaching staff to make frequent lineup changes, integrating younger and less experienced players into the mix.

The Silver Lining: Emerging Stars

While injuries could have been a major setback, they provided an opportunity for emerging stars to shine. Young talents like Alexis Lafrenière and Vitali Kravtsov stepped up and showcased their potential. Lafrenière, in particular, displayed his scoring ability and playmaking skills, giving Rangers fans a glimpse of a bright future.

Goaltending Heroics

In the face of adversity, goaltending emerged as a pillar of strength for the Rangers. Igor Shesterkin, the team's young netminder, delivered outstanding performances night after night. His ability to make crucial saves and keep the team competitive, even in challenging situations, earned him the admiration of fans and teammates alike.

Leadership and Coaching

The Rangers' resilience can be attributed, in part, to strong leadership within the locker room and effective coaching strategies. Captain Ryan Strome and alternate captain Jacob Trouba provided stability and guidance to the team, fostering a culture of hard work and determination.

Coach Gerard Gallant, known for his motivational prowess, instilled a winning mentality in the squad. His ability to rally the team and keep them focused on the task at hand was instrumental in the Rangers' success.

The Playoff Push

As the season progressed, the Rangers found their stride and embarked on a remarkable playoff push. The team's ability to rally from behind, secure crucial victories, and maintain their composure under pressure was a testament to their growth and resilience.

The Playoff Run

Earning a spot in the playoffs was a significant achievement for the Rangers. Their postseason journey was filled with thrilling moments, including overtime victories and clutch performances. It was a reminder of the magic and unpredictability of playoff hockey.

Looking Ahead

The Rangers' 10-7-1 season showcased their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As they continue to develop their young talent and build for the future, there is a sense of optimism surrounding the team. The lessons learned during this season will undoubtedly shape their journey moving forward.

The New York Rangers' 2021-2022 season was a rollercoaster ride filled with challenges, injuries, and moments of brilliance. Through it all, the team's resilience and determination shone brightly. Their ability to overcome adversity and secure a playoff berth was a testament to the character of the players, the leadership within the organization, and the unwavering support of Rangers fans. As the team looks ahead to the future, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation, knowing that the lessons learned during this season will only make them stronger in the seasons to come.

9-7-1: What The ... ???

The two big topics that are sure to be talked about are Avery's antics in the 8-2 Ranger win over the Oilers and Colin Campbell's idiocy with e-mails. Seeing as the big picture stuff is best left to big picture people, you will not find reaction on our former coach's stupidity here (really, it is just more of a continuation from his tenure here). As for Avery, well, many points need to be made but first off, if you haven't seen it, this is a must watch. Here are a half dozen thoughts:

1- Above everything, this incident proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that fight belongs in hockey. All of the tree-hugging pacifists out there that cry over it aren't the ones roaring their approval. The Garden was far from capacity and yet it was louder than it has been all season long. And you know what? Not one of the many (many) little kids ran crying out of the place. Not one parent in the general vicinity of section 329 shielded their children's eyes. The emotion of the moment energized the place like nothing else has outside of the rare playoff victory.

2- This space has been very favourable for Avery but he needs to be called out in this instance. If you are going to fight, fight like a man. Jumping some soft, stupid European is not honourable. Even if said Euro literally asked for it. And after a perfectly legal hit.

3- That being said, Avery attacking Smid did not cause the brawl. Tom Renney's inability to control his players did that. As Copper & Blue lamented before the game, the Renney that is "leading" Edmonton is not the Renney that ran the Rangers. Our head coach kept the team on a tight leash, one that at times strangled the life out of Colton Orr and the team. If you think, for one moment, that Renney would have allowed a Ranger to skate the length of the bench and try to run down the runway after an opposing player, you never watched him coach. As soft of a touch that man had, he was in full control.

4- Theo Peckham deserves more of a beating than Boyle gave him in that wrestling match and Colin Fraser should be fined for going after Dubinsky, who was on the Ranger bench. No wonder Chicago had no qualms with dropping the affordable Fraser ...

5- The NHL On The Fly crew went off about how Avery is forcing his teammates to fight his battles for him, an utterly illogical assumption based upon their predetermined loathing for him. Hey guys, sticks and stones. Avery was pulled off the ice by a smart linesman while he was still yapping but the petulant children on the Oilers were responsible for losing their temper and getting physically out of control. And to say that Brandon Prust solely squared off with Huggy Bear Zack Stortini because of Avery is ridiculous as the two have a history and you could see it coming earlier in the game.

6- The NHL schedule-makers suck. As detailed in No. 1 on this list, people enjoy fighting. Bad blood sells. Too bad these teams won't face each other again for a year, year-and-a-half and even then, it will likely be in Edmonton, not MSG.

Now there was indeed a full hockey game played so other notes:

*Since the adrenaline is still flowing, Boogaard vs. MacIntyre I and II weren't bad fights. Sure they were pre-ordained but they happened in the flow of play. Both battles featured too much clutching and grabbing for my tastes and too many helmet hits but it is about time we get to see a real heavyweight fight. That being said, neither battle compared to the Erskine/Boulton tussle in the Caps game.

*For all of us who dropped Alex Frolov in fantasy hockey, we just have to shrug. Two goals, two assists, five shots and +5. Dammit. Maybe Gabby makes all the difference, maybe Edmonton just sucks that bad. Personally I think the latter as it did not appear that the Rangers changed any of their tactics, it was just that all of them worked.

*Gabby's three goals marked the first hat trick at the Garden in nearly two years. I know this because I looked it up because damned my memory, I couldn't remember the last time I had seen one in person. And, unfortunately, I was wearing a hat that was too meaningful to me to throw (not that Versus would understand that). Fantastic moment after the game: a little girl talking through one of the photographer portholes to one of the ice crew guys asking if she could get her daddy's hat back.

*It was unfortunate that Magnus Paajarvi didn't dress, it would have been nice to see that young talent in person. Apparently people think that that Taylor Hall kid and that Jordan Eberle kid have some kind of ability but whatever they possess was easily suffocated by Marc Staal and Dan Girardi.

*Derek Stepan didn't face anything resembling a tough defender and played his best game in weeks. Hopefully it will be a confidence boost going forward for the youngster.

*Someone shoulda told Ole Twitchy Nik Khabibulin that playing puck hung over is a bad idea. The drunk driver seemed to give in to the headache after the melee, allowing three bad goals.

*It was very nice for Arty to score a goal - and a nice one at that - but please, someone teach him how to take a faceoff.

*Do you know why Boyle keeps scoring goals? It isn't necessarily because of his much-publicised skating lessons. It is because, finally, it appears Brian Boyle realizes he is Brian Boyle. He has broken his game waaaay down and is keeping things simple. See the net, shoot at the net, go to the net if the last step didn't work.

*Hank had better get well soon because Marty Biron is not particularly good. The first goal was not his fault - Matt Gilroy really should learn how to play defense one of these days - but the second was abominable. And it clearly got to him as he wiffed on a swing at the puck behind the net soonafter, resulting in a turnover. You can take the guy out of the Island(ers) but you can't take the Island(ers) out of the guy.

*Remember when Ales Hemsky was a world-class player? If so Oiler fans (if you are out there), you should remind him.

*And it's late - or early depending on how you look at it - so no Peepin' Foes for the Pens, sorry. Just know that that Crosby fellow is despicable but good, the Pens have scored no less than four goals in each of their last four games (while winning three of them) and the ice sucks in Pittsburgh.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Erik Christensen - three assists.
2-Alex Frolov - two goals and two assists.
1-Marian Gaborik - three goals and one assist.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Frolov - Did you see that goal he scored falling down at the end of the second period? It happened because he went to the front of the net, not the back of it.
2-Christy - Last season we saw flashes of the chemistry he had with Gabby and when you add in Frolov and face a team like Edmonton, it is a caustic mix that just results in goals. Christensen had his head up and made some great passes. He also had a takeaway that looked positively Datsyukian - it was that kind of highway robbery.
1-Gabby - Sure Khabby had given up long before Gaborik completed his trick but to see three goals by a Ranger (in one game) was just awesome. Gabby is one dangerous fella and he makes his magic look so easy ...

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8-7-1: A Win? At Home? Strange ...

The Rangers' fortunes changed for the better on Thursday as the Blueshirts won at the Garden, and in overtime no less. They beat Buffalo 3-2 on an OT goal by Arty Anisimov, his second goal of the game. And it counted, which was almost as surprising as the officials found ways to call two other Ranger goals off.

Two issues before I get to the game:

1- Trading Dane Byers was stupid. The Pack are doing terrible, so they trade the captain? I would gladly watch the Rangers lose a few if it meant that Chris Drury would be dealt... Byers has done everything right on the ice, I can't see the logic in letting him go for a Blue Jacket - especially considering how well the last trade with that franchise went. Unless Hartford goes on a five, 10, 15 game win streak, this trade was a mistake.

2- I want all of your input on this one - do you feel that the Garden needs to be renovated? Does the state of the building keep you from attending games? I had a discussion with my rep and she couldn't comprehend my reluctance. Ticket prices have skyrocketed since the lockout, and who will end up paying for it? Us. And what are we getting out of it? Nothing that I can see. Her rationale was that there would be more bathrooms and more places to buy food/beer. I don't know about you guys, but most Garden regulars I know all have their routines and rarely have problems. So please comment - do you think a new shiny building with a few more toilets is worth paying five, 10, 20 bucks more a night?

Ok, some game stuff:

*Credit to Marty Biron, stepping in last second. He really didn't have to do all that much - Buffalo wasn't particularly good - but goaltenders are creatures of routine and being thrown into the net just before gametime surely was a surprise. Biron's biggest saves were all his own fault as his rebound control was atrocious. If he had allowed Buffalo to take the lead on that third period wrap-around, Alex Frolov may have requested a trade.

*Buffalo was indeed mediocre. The Sabres the Rangers faced last night were far, far different from the team that won the Northeast last year. That team had rock solid goaltending that radiated a confidence that the rest of the players drew off of. They combined skill with effort and great coaching to take the division title. Last night's squad was actually quite like the Rangers - the skill guys can't score and dump and chase is the dull gameplan of choice. They battle but they don't have that extra level it takes to put away scoring chances.

*It is a shame that Pat Kaleta wasn't injured. He lost his balance and fell, then literally cried about it. What a piece of garbage. He is just as despicable as Matt Cooke.

*Seven goals were scored in the game (two didn't count) and six of them were scored within a few feet of the paint. Sometimes you just have to get dirty to get the job done. If the Ranger forwards can keep that willingness to work going forward, and the defense can learn how to do their jobs, the team can be quite formidable.

*The best thing I saw all night was Marc Staal clocking Thomas Vanek when Vanek was jamming at Biron in the second period. Standing up for the goaltender. Second game in a row. Finally.

*Brian Leetch seems to be around a bit this season, perhaps he needs to be hired full time to coach Michael Del Zotto. The kid needs serious tutoring and if it won't come in Hartford, it needs to come at the country club training center. There is no debate left, a blind man can see MDZ has regressed. Something has to be done and throwing him minute after minute of ice time is not it. His mistakes, his indecision and his reluctance to shoot is a massive reason why the Ranger power play is a disaster.

*Marian Gaborik definitely was rusty but his poise with the puck was a breath of fresh air. Unlike many of his teammates, Gabby doesn't panic with he gains possession in the offensive zone. He doesn't immediately throw it behind the net or bounce it off the boards, he takes a second, looks at his options and makes his play. He is kinda good.

*Frolov is not. And that is all I have to say about him.

*Matt Gilroy returned and was quietly effective as he focused on his defense rather than trying to add offense. That being said, he was rarely put under pressure so it may be best to withhold judgement.

*Do the Rangers think that Derek Stepan is in a position where he can succeed while playing with Sean Avery and Todd White? All three are miscast on that line.

*Avery and Brandon Prust need to get things going. Their compete level can not be questioned but they haven't been effective lately for some reason or another - the juggling linemates, the ice time they are getting, the opponents they are facing.

*I still can't decide if I want Prust, Sauer or Cally on the back of the new Heritage sweater. All three had assists in this game, all three always work hard, all three have traits of their game I find admirable and all three easily could be gone by next season.

*I just saw on MSG that Acacio Marques had his 1,000th game last night - it is a shame that he wasn't honoured in the building. Guys like him and Jim Ramsay make the Rangers go.

*There were a lot of Buffalo sweaters at the Garden. It was easy to laugh at them as many were Buffa-slugs but still, in a game that wasn't at capacity, there was a solid number of those people. Mike Grier is a helluva player and yet I didn't see a single one of his jerseys. Stupid Sabres fans.

*Erik Christensen caught Arty's bug - the disease where he can't win a faceoff to win his life. Christy was probably the worst Ranger on the ice in this one, which hurts as the return of Gabby was supposed to energize the waiver wire acquisition.

*It was Steve Eminger's best game as a Ranger. He made smart, simple plays and his positioning was solid.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Mike Grier - one goal.
2-Martin Biron - 29 saves.
1-Artem Anisimov - two goals.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Arty - Right spots at the right times. Credit given.
2-Grier - One of those core lunchpail NHLers who just goes out there and does his job. The BU grad has never been one of the most skilled guys but he has always been one of the hardest workers.
1-Ruslan Fedotenko - Fedotenko was faced without a NHL job this season and was lucky enough to get a tryout with the Rangers. Well, he is rewarding their faith with a willingness to do anything to score. Fedotenko banged home a pair of goals from the doorstep (only one counted) and his efforts resulted in Arty's game-winner.

 8-7-1: A Win at Home? Strange Season for the New York Rangers

The 2021-2022 NHL season has been anything but ordinary for the New York Rangers. With a regular-season record of 8-7-1, the team's performance at home has raised eyebrows and generated plenty of discussion among fans and experts alike. In this article, we'll delve into the ups and downs of the Rangers' season, focusing on their performance at Madison Square Garden and the factors contributing to this unconventional campaign.

The MSG Mystique

Madison Square Garden, often referred to as "The World's Most Famous Arena," holds a special place in the hearts of Rangers fans. With its rich history and passionate fan base, MSG has been a fortress for the Blueshirts over the years. However, the 2021-2022 season has seen the team's performance on home ice take an unexpected turn.

Struggles at Home

The Rangers' struggles at MSG during this season have been puzzling. Historically, the Garden has been a place where the team thrived, but this year, the home-ice advantage seemed to wane. The team's inability to consistently secure wins at home games left fans scratching their heads.

Factors Contributing to Home Woes

Several factors have contributed to the Rangers' unusual performance at MSG this season:

Injuries: The team faced injuries to key players, including star forward Artemi Panarin and top defenseman Jacob Trouba. These absences disrupted the lineup and impacted the team's overall performance.

Defensive Issues: Defensive lapses and struggles in keeping opponents at bay have been more noticeable in home games. The Rangers have faced challenges in limiting high-danger scoring chances and maintaining a strong defensive presence.

Goaltending: While Igor Shesterkin has been exceptional throughout the season, there have been moments when he faced an unusually high number of shots in home games. Goaltenders often thrive on routine and consistency, and disruptions in the team's defensive play may have affected his performance at MSG.

Special Teams: Inconsistent special teams play, both on the power play and penalty kill, has been a recurring issue at home. The Rangers' ability to capitalize on opportunities with the man advantage or prevent opposing power-play goals has been sporadic.

Opponents' Strategies: Opposing teams have been keenly aware of the Rangers' home-ice struggles and have often come prepared with game plans to exploit weaknesses. This added pressure has made it challenging for the Rangers to regain their home-ice dominance.

The Road Warriors

While the Rangers have faced challenges at home, their road performances have been a stark contrast. The team has exhibited resilience and tenacity when playing away from MSG, securing critical victories and earning valuable points in the standings. The ability to perform well on the road has kept the Rangers in playoff contention.

The Impact on Playoff Aspirations

The Rangers' inconsistency at home has placed additional importance on their road games. With the playoff race intensifying, each point becomes crucial, and the team must continue to excel on the road to secure a playoff spot.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, the Rangers will undoubtedly work to address their home-ice struggles. The coaching staff and players will analyze their performance at MSG, identify areas for improvement, and implement necessary adjustments.

Fans remain hopeful that the Rangers can recapture their home-ice advantage, as Madison Square Garden is an iconic venue where unforgettable moments have unfolded. The team's history is filled with incredible victories and unforgettable performances at the Garden, and fans are eager to witness the Blueshirts create new memories on home ice.

The New York Rangers' 2021-2022 season has been marked by an unusual dynamic: a team that excels on the road but faces challenges at home. While this trend has raised eyebrows and generated discussion, it's a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports. As the Rangers continue their quest for a playoff berth, they will undoubtedly focus on finding solutions to their home-ice woes while building on their strengths as road warriors. Whether at Madison Square Garden or on the road, the Rangers remain a team with a passionate fan base and a bright future.

Peepin' Foes: Buffalo Sabres

The four game homestand continues on Thursday as the Rangers face off against the Sabres at 7 pm sharp on MSG. It is the second meeting between the teams this season, as the Rangers opened their schedule in Buffalo with a 6-3 Stepan-fueled victory.

Where We Are: Actually in a decent position all things considered. According to all of the beat reporters, Marian Gaborik will return to the lineup. Without him the team treaded water, breaking even at 6-6, which would be almost acceptable but when you look at the fact that the Gaborik-less Blueshirts went 2-5 at the Garden during that span, it is inexcusable. Also returning to the lineup will be Hobey Gilroy, who will take Michal Rozsival's spot. After Rozy's awful performance sank the team on Tuesday, it came to light that he had been dealing with a long term shoulder injury. What a coincidence!

Where They Are: Buffalo is one of the worst teams in the NHL thanks to their home record, a horrid 0-6-1. On the road, however, they are 5-3-1. They have a two game win streak (both shootout victories) and will be playing on the back end of a back-to-back. The Sabres beat the Devils on Wednesday night in a ridiculous shootout that saw Ilya Kovalchuk blow a breakaway late in the third period and then have a shameful shootout attempt.

Who To Watch For: The goal scorers in that one are always dangerous when they face the Rangers - Jason Pominville, Derek Roy, Tyler Myers and Tyler Ennis. Roy is red hot with 17 points in 16 games; he had a regulation goal and an assist, along with an effortless shootout goal. Myers was horrible in his game against the Blueshirts but against the Devils he played just over 22 minutes, had a goal and two assists on three shots while going +3. Perfect timing (ugh). Thomas Vanek is pointless in his last six games but he scored a nice goal in the shootout so that may boost his confidence and get things started for him. Pat Kaleta is sure to cause some chaos and attempt to injure a few Blueshirts while grinders Paul Gaustad, Mike Grier and Rob Niedermayer are always tough against the Rangers.

What To Watch For: Buffalo's grinders making life difficult for MDZ and Gilroy. Myers and Leopold to spend a lot of attention on Gaborik. Faceoffs: the Rangers suck in the circle but the Sabres weren't particularly good themselves at the Rock, losing 38 of 60. Whoever plays goal for Buffalo: Enroth looked jumpy, stopping 28 of 32 shots and two of three New Jersey shootout attempts. Patrick Lalime had been held out of the game because of abdominal pain and Ryan Miller has been rehabbing a knee injury. Enroth could want to prove himself against Lundqvist, Lalime has a good career record vs. the Rangers and Miller is Miller. The Sabres power play: they have just one goal with the man advantage over their past six games, going 1-22 in that span. A large part of that is due to bobblehead Tim Connelly attempting to quarterback the unit and not doing particularly well, while Vanek's cold streak hasn't helped.

What We'll (Hopefully) See: More of Tuesday's first period, less of Tuesday's third. Gaborik to ignite Frolov and turn him into an acceptable hockey player. The Rangers to come up with something that isn't dump and chase, since they dump better than they chase. Derek Stepan to find the magic that gave him a hat trick in the first game against Buffalo. Ryan Callahan to snap his three game pointless streak (where he has also gone -1 in each of the three). Brandon Dubinsky to do something better with his hands then to fight a clown like Mike Green for no reason. Derek Boogaard to keep Kaleta in line and keep his scoring streak alive.

Also Check Out: Sabres Edge, Shots off the Crossbar and SBN's Die By The Blade.

 Peepin' Foes: Analyzing the Buffalo Sabres

In the world of professional hockey, rivalries often take center stage. Whether it's a historic rivalry or a recent feud, these matchups capture the attention of fans and players alike. In this edition of "Peepin' Foes," we turn our focus to the Buffalo Sabres, a team that has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent years. We'll delve into the Sabres' history, their current state, and what the future may hold for this storied franchise.

The History of the Buffalo Sabres

Founded in 1970 as part of the NHL's first expansion, the Buffalo Sabres quickly became a fixture in the league. The team's blue and gold colors and the iconic Sabretooth logo have become synonymous with hockey in western New York. Over the years, the Sabres have had their share of memorable moments, including playoff runs and notable players donning the blue and gold.

The Dominik Hasek Era

One of the most celebrated periods in Sabres history was the Dominik Hasek era. The legendary goaltender, known as "The Dominator," was a force between the pipes. During his time with the Sabres, Hasek won multiple Vezina Trophies as the league's best goaltender and carried the team to deep playoff runs.

The Controversial "No Goal"

However, for all the success the Sabres have had, one moment still haunts the franchise and its fans. In the 1999 Stanley Cup Final against the Dallas Stars, a controversial goal scored by Brett Hull in triple overtime of Game 6 led to the Stars winning the Cup. The goal, which came with Hull's foot in the crease, sparked debate and frustration among Sabres fans, many of whom believe the Cup was unfairly taken from them.

Recent Struggles

In recent years, the Buffalo Sabres have faced significant challenges. The team has experienced prolonged playoff droughts, with their last postseason appearance dating back to the 2010-2011 season. Frequent changes in coaching staff and front-office personnel have added to the turbulence surrounding the franchise.

The Eichel Saga

A prominent storyline in Buffalo in recent times has been the situation involving former captain Jack Eichel. The star center's desire for a specific medical procedure on his injured neck became a contentious issue between Eichel and the team's management. Ultimately, Eichel was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, ending his tenure in Buffalo.

The Future of the Buffalo Sabres

Despite the challenges, there is reason for optimism in Buffalo. The Sabres hold a treasure trove of draft picks, including high selections in the upcoming NHL Entry Drafts. Building through the draft is a common strategy for rebuilding teams, and the Sabres have the opportunity to add top-tier talent to their roster.

Key Young Players

The Sabres also boast promising young players who could be integral to the team's future success. Rasmus Dahlin, the first overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, is a dynamic defenseman with immense potential. Dylan Cozens, another high draft pick, has shown flashes of brilliance as a forward.

Coaching Stability

The hiring of Don Granato as the team's head coach provides a sense of stability behind the bench. Granato's approach emphasizes player development and accountability, which aligns with the Sabres' long-term goals.

The Buffalo Sabres, a team with a rich history and passionate fan base, have faced their share of trials and tribulations in recent years. Despite the challenges, the future holds promise for this storied franchise. With a renewed focus on player development, a collection of high draft picks, and a sense of stability in the coaching staff, the Sabres have the building blocks in place to return to playoff contention. As the team continues to grow and evolve, hockey fans will be keeping a close eye on Buffalo to see if this once-proud franchise can rise to new heights and create a brighter future for Sabres faithful.

7-7-1: Sad Kitty

I don't know about you but I love the Big Bang Theory. Utter hilarity. I bring that up because in it, Penny (the hot chick) sings to Sheldon (the lunatic genius) when he is sick a song called Soft Kitty. The start of it is 'soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur ...' Well, change that to 'happy kitty, shocked kitty, little ball of rage' and you have my emotions after the three periods of the Rangers 5-3 loss to Washington on Tuesday night.

The happiness in the first period came not necessarily from the 2-1 lead but the fact that the Rangers finally, finally stood up for each other. Three times. Brian Boyle went after Jason Chimera after a hit on MDZ, Mike Sauer went after Matt Hendricks after a hit on Steve Eminger and several Rangers jumped on a Cap after he got too friendly with Henrik Lundqvist. It was all that I wanted to see, all that this Ranger team had to do to re-new my faith.

The shock came in the second period when Derek Boogaard scored on a Mighty Ducks-esque knuckle puck. He ran out of gas at the blueline, wound up and fired a slow shot that seemed to dip, throwing off Neuvirth. Even with the puck's movement, how a goaltender who has won the last two Calder Cups and accumulated a 8-3 record entering the night allowed that shot to go in was stupefying. Also stupefying? While his teammates were standing up for each other he was nowhere to be found and didn't even both to tangle with DJ King, one of the only other goons in the league willing to take him on.

And the rage, well that came when the Rangers didn't bother to come out for the third period. All of the fire from the first period was gone and it was blatantly apparent that they were just waiting for the Caps to take the lead. And once they did, the Blueshirts called it a night. They had five shots after Hendricks gave Washington the lead, just one of which came in the final five-and-a-half minutes. Teams are supposed to 'defend the house' and play with an extra level of ferocity on their home ice. The Rangers simply don't do that and, as a fan and season ticket holder, it is utterly infuriating.

Now I didn't get a chance to watch a re-air on tv and am writing this at 6am after a night out but these are my notes - feel free to comment if TV showed/explained something better:

*The Rangers scored three goals, two of which were pretty much flukes - a lucky turnover and quick shot was Boyle's second goal and the atrocity that was Boogaard's shot was, well, highly unlikely. A lot is to be said about the lack of Gaborik but there should be a few other guys on the roster capable of scoring a skill goal. Dubi, Fedotenko, Christy, Frolov ...

*Dubi is a clown, having a meaningless tussle against that faux-hawked clown Mike Green - a meaningless tussle he lost too. As my buddy Eric said, the Rangers missed Dubi far more than the Caps missed Green during the ensuing five minutes and, frankly, the rest of the game. The Pack Line's inability to get a puck in the net sank the Rangers. Arty Anisimov, who seemed to lose the puck the second a brisk breeze hit him, can't win a faceoff if his life depended on it. There were several shifts where they were outworked by Washington's fourth line - which is utterly unacceptable.

*As good as Henrik Lundqvist is - and he was stellar outside of the Erskine goal - he can't win games on his own when he has a bunch of idiots in front of him. John Tortorella, in his infinite wisdom, put MDZ on the ice with Rozsival. His lack of faith in Sauer and Eminger caused the combination as Torts was forced to put Girardi with Staal to handle Ovie's line. So that left the two worst defensemen on the team playing together and it didn't work out. Rozy, perhaps channeling his departed teammate Tom Poti, had his worst game of the season, going -3 while gifting the Caps the go-ahead goal.

*Sadly little can be done about the Czech vet but MDZ needs to be banished to the bus league, and fast. The kid is atrocious in his own zone, his passes are off the mark, he panics with the puck and is often too afraid to shoot the damn thing. This marked the second straight game where the opponent shined a mirror on the Rangers, showing the mistake they made with bringing MDZ into the NHL too soon. Alex Pietrangelo on Sunday and John Carlson tonight were both more rounded, smarter, steadier kids who were drafted in the same class but had an extra season of development. As mentioned here before, if Phoenix's Dave Tippet can send Kyle Turris to the AHL, the Rangers can do it with MDZ.

*Poti, by the way, was nowhere to be found. I had a friend look for my 'old friend' by the press box to try to finally get my "Dear Scotty, I hate you too, love/hugz/xoxo, Tom" autograph, but to no avail. Damn.

*Back to Hank for a second. He gave up the Erskine goal because he was already down in the butterfly when the Washington defenseman took the shot. When Hank loses track of the puck, he tends to drop down to take away the bottom of the net, leaving the top wide open. I mean, it isn't as if Erskine realized that or that he actually tried to go top shelf but that is why he scored.

*If someone find's Sean Avery's jock, please return it to him; Ovie made him look stupid on the Knuble goal. The fact that Avery was out there at all when Ovie was out shows one of the underlining problems with the Rangers now: they don't have a shutdown line. Long gone are the days when Betts, Sjostrom and Orr could be counted to get out there and quiet Ovie or Cindy while the top line took a rest. Perhaps that will change when Drury comes back and Torts jumbles the roster.

*What is it about Washington that makes Torts lose his cool? First the debacle during the playoffs and tonight a senseless 'abuse of officials' penalty? Yes, the referees made questionable calls on Christy and later Girardi but the coach has to cope with it. Acting like a jackass won't get him anywhere (or at least it hasn't since 2004). Luckily he doesn't buy his own talk about accountability so he will be right back at his antics next game.

*It was nice to see Derek Stepan finally get some more ice time, and even a few moments of extra man action. He wasn't perfect (far from it) but he played good minutes and gave it a good effort. We can live with his ups and downs as he grows into a NHL player.

*At this point we can only pray that Marian Gaborik's return will spark Alex Frolov, because the Russian is awful. Some folks, especially after preseason, saw Frolov returning to his 30 goal form. Well, as things are now, we will be extremely lucky if he gets half that.

*I enjoy watching Mike Sauer work and he is only getting stronger as his comfort level raises.

*Caps fans, if you aren't going to have the good sense and decency not to get hammered and act like a jackass in an away arena, at least don't do it while wearing a Semin jersey ... the jokes wrote themselves for one particular double-fisting jerk in my section, who luckily (for him) calmed down before I beat him senseless, threw him down the stairs and had him removed from the arena. Likely in that order.

*There is no shame in losing to Washington - they are a far, far better team - but when you have the lead and can put them on the ropes, well, it's just maddening to see the Rangers piss the opportunity away (night after night after night after night after night after night after night after night after night after night after night).

*PHW Three Stars
3-Alex Ovechkin - two assists.
2-Brian Boyle - two goals.
1-Matt Hendricks - one goal and one assist.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Jason Chimera/Matt Bradley - Not a whole lot of skill between the two of them but they are relentless and they make things happen.
2-Boyle - Before anyone goes wild over Susan's seven goals, remember that two seasons ago Aaron Voros had nine points in the eight games starting the season. But, that being said, Boyle's skating has improved and so has his confidence, allowing him to use his body better, to be in better positions and to have no qualms with simply shooting the damned puck.
1-Brooks Laich - Laich is what secondary scoring looks like. Fedotenko has a lot of the same qualities but he just can't get the puck in right now. Hopefully that will change, and soon.

 7-7-1: The Tale of the Sad Kitty

In the unpredictable world of professional sports, teams often experience highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks. For the New York Rangers, the 2021-2022 NHL season brought a rollercoaster of emotions as they navigated through a 7-7-1 start. This article delves into the story of the Rangers' season, examining the factors contributing to their record, key player performances, and what lies ahead for the Blueshirts.

The Early Season Struggles

A 7-7-1 start to the season may not seem particularly dire, but for a franchise with high expectations like the New York Rangers, it raised concerns among fans and analysts. In the early going, the team experienced defensive lapses, inconsistent scoring, and challenges in goal.

Goaltending Woes

Goaltending, often considered the backbone of a successful team, became a focal point of the Rangers' struggles. Star netminder Igor Shesterkin, who had been a standout performer in previous seasons, faced difficulties early on. Injuries and stretches of subpar play contributed to the team's uneven performance between the pipes.

Defensive Vulnerabilities

The Rangers' defensive unit also faced scrutiny as they grappled with issues in their own end. Defensive breakdowns, turnovers, and difficulties in clearing the defensive zone led to increased opposition scoring. The team's blue-line corps, which featured promising young talents like Adam Fox and K'Andre Miller, needed time to find their footing.

Offensive Ups and Downs

Offensively, the Rangers showcased their potential but lacked consistency. Star forwards like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad had moments of brilliance but also faced scoring droughts. The team needed more balanced scoring to secure victories consistently.

The Impact of Coaching

Under the guidance of Head Coach Gerard Gallant, the Rangers continued to embrace an up-tempo, aggressive style of play. Gallant's system encouraged offensive creativity and a relentless forecheck, which generated scoring opportunities. However, it also left the team susceptible to counterattacks, contributing to the win-loss oscillations.

Notable Player Performances

Despite the team's struggles, several players stood out during the 7-7-1 stretch:

Igor Shesterkin: The Russian goaltender, despite his early-season challenges, displayed glimpses of his elite form and made crucial saves to keep the Rangers competitive.

Artemi Panarin: The "Bread Man" continued to be a dynamic offensive force, showcasing his playmaking ability and offensive creativity.

Adam Fox: The reigning Norris Trophy winner proved his worth as one of the league's premier defensemen, contributing both offensively and defensively.

Alexis Lafrenière: The young forward showed signs of growth, contributing key goals and improving his all-around game.

Looking Ahead

As the Rangers navigated their 7-7-1 start, it was clear that they possessed the talent and potential to compete at a high level in the NHL. Addressing defensive consistency, shoring up the goaltending situation, and achieving balanced scoring were priorities moving forward.

Rangers fans can take solace in the fact that the team's season was far from over at this juncture. The NHL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and the Blueshirts had ample opportunities to right the ship and climb the standings.

The New York Rangers' 7-7-1 start to the 2021-2022 NHL season was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports. While early-season struggles raised concerns, the team possessed the talent and leadership to rebound. As the season unfolded, Rangers fans remained hopeful that their beloved Blueshirts would find their stride and embark on a successful journey toward playoff contention. In the end, the season's outcome hinged on the ability of players and coaching staff to adapt, evolve, and overcome the challenges that lay ahead.

Peepin' Foes: Washington Capitals

Alex Ovechkin and his entourage will be in the Garden on Tuesday night to face off with the Rangers at 7:30 (damn you Versus).

Where We Are: Sitting at .500 with seven wins and seven losses, coming off of a 2-0 failure against the St. Louis Blues on Sunday evening - the opener of a four game homestand. That defeat dropped the Blueshirts to 2-4-1 at the Garden, which would be nauseating if you didn't consider that the Devils are 0-5-1 at the Rock and the Sabres are 0-6-1 at HSBC.

Where They Are: Washington is tied for best in the league with 20 points, holding a record of 10-4-0. They have a +13 goal differential - the Rangers are flat at 0. The Caps enter the game having won four in a row after Mike Green scored a power-play goal 29 seconds into overtime for a 3-2 victory over Philly on Sunday.

Who To Watch For: Green has goals in four straight games, as does the other Alex, Alexander Semin. The Ovechkin fellow has 18 points this season, 10 of which came in the last six games. His center Nicklas Backstrom 'only' is averaging a point per game and had two assists in each of his last two games. Semyon Varlamov is injured so Left Wing Lock has Michal Neuvirth starting across from Hank after getting the Philly game off. Who the hell is he? Well Neuvirth has played just 35 games over the last three seasons while winning two Calder Cups in the AHL and is 8-3-0 this campaign. He was drafted in the second round in 06, 13 picks after Bobby Sanguinetti and 20 ahead of Arty Anisimov. Real American Hero John Carlson - the guy I wanted the Rangers to draft instead of MDZ in '08 - has been quite good, especially for a rookie, and has eight points. The latest Ups & Downs at Japer's Rink says that he is playing at a high level now that Green is relatively healthy after a shoulder injury (nine points in 11 games). Sadly my buddy, my pal Tom Poti is out with a lower-body injury, a bad groin ... which lends itself to just so many jokes ...

What To Watch For: The Pack line of Arty-Dubi-Cally to have a bit of an easier time than in recent games as Washington lacks tough, shutdown defensemen (sorry, plus-minus machine Jeff Schultz doesn't count). On that same note, Staal vs Ovechkin is always wonderful to watch. DJ King to help justify Derek Boogaard's paycheque by renewing their relations. Tomas Fleischmann to set up a Washington goal - he had four assists in his three games against NY last season.

What We'll (Hopefully) See: The Rangers standing up for each other. That's all I ask, that's all I want to see at this point.

Also Check Out: The Caps have a really strong blogosphere but I just head to Japer's Rink for all my info.

7-6-1: When Does It End?

I can accept that Michael Del Zotto can't keep the puck in the offensive zone and passes to the other team as often as he does his own.

I can accept that Derek Boogaard is a liability on the ice who's mistake led to the three-on-two that St. Louis scored on.

I can accept that the Rangers get no favours from the officiating, it isn't like they are the Canadiens or the Penguins.

I can even accept the fact that the Rangers blew a five minute power play for the second straight game.

I can not accept the fact that a Ranger was hammered by a member of the opposition and NO ONE DID ANYTHING. As his teammates went for another of their poorly-timed line changes, Derek Stepan chased down the puck in the Blues zone and was railroaded by B.J. Crombeen. Dubi rushed over and let himself get picked off by a linesman while the other Rangers stood around. They stood around. Crombeen had four shifts on the ice after getting out of the penalty box and not a single Ranger went after him. Sure they would have gotten a penalty and threatened whatever slim possibility they had to tie the game but so what? So the hell what? A two minute instigator or even a early November loss is a infinitesimally small price to pay to show the NHL that the Rangers are a team. A team of honour. A team of pride. A team that fights for the city, the fans and for each other. But they're not. As I have no wish to spark the ire of any female or homosexual readers, I will avoid using the abundance of slurs that are appropriate for this bunch of Blueshirts but just know they aren't flattering.

Notes:

*The punchless Ranger play with the man advantage is sure to be a talking point but it is of little surprise. How can it be? The Rangers actually carried the puck over the Blues blueline once during the five minute major. ONCE. The talent-less Rangers and their dump-and-chase philosophy depends on the team out-hustling the other team and winning battles. Well, J.D. built himself a largely talentless hard-working team that wins those battles. They are bigger and they are stronger and they play a helluva lot more determined.

*Someone get Alex Frolov away from Sean Avery please. After Frolov tried - and failed - at a wrap around (shocker), Avery tried it twice. Ty Conklin isn't a very good goaltender, but he isn't a bad one. Even though New Jersey is a Mickey Mouse organization again, this isn't 1983. Halfhearted wrap-arounds rarely work so to use it every single time is utter stupidity.

*Avery has one goal this season and took seven shots on goal. Brandon Dubinsky has 10 goals and had one shot. One.

*For those that want to refute my earlier rant, saying that the two points are too important for someone to stand up for Stepan, well do you think that the coach really had the two points in mind when he started Marty Biron, a goaltender who had never beaten St. Louis in his career? You can't blame Biron for this loss, that is for sure, but it isn't like Tortorella is doing anything and everything to win.

*MDZ was drafted 16 spots after Alex Pietrangelo in the 2008 draft but was playing in his 95th NHL game while Pietrangelo was playing in just his 30th, as St. Louis held him back a season. Well, J.D. clearly beats Glen Sather in this battle because giving Pietrangelo an extra year in junior has resulted in a much more complete, much more polished player.

*At the faceoff dot the home side is allowed to get their stick down first, giving them an advantage. So how is it exactly that the Rangers were utterly dominated? They lost 38 of 54 faceoffs. That's pathetic and that allowed St. Louis to carry the play. David Backes, technically a right wing, went 11-1.

*Geno Grachev's hard work and good timing nearly earned him a breakaway (that was broken up by a great defensive play). So, when the Rangers were desperate to create anything offensively, why wasn't he on the ice? Grachev played 4:10 in all, not a second of which was on the power play - one of only two Rangers not to get on the ice with the man advantage (Boogey being the other). Considering this guy was hyped as a big scorer that will make up for the loss of Alex Cherepanov who was supposed to make up for the loss of Jaromir Jagr, don't you think he should get a few seconds to show what he has? Grachev and Stepan are not being placed in a position where they can succeed when they are saddled with Boogaard on their line.

*You know your team is wracked with injuries when Brian Boyle plays 16-and-a-half minutes, over three of which were on the power play. I know he has potted a career-high five goals this season, but let's get serious - it's Brian Boyle.

*On a night where Derek Boogaard's former teammate John Scott utterly annihilated Zack Stortini, Boogey didn't drop his gloves; he punched a guy with them on and took a bad penalty for it. The one so-called fight in the game came between Brandon Prust and Tyson Strachan and it was over fast. It looked impressive in the Garden but, watching the video, I'm pretty sure Prust didn't land a single real punch until after Strachan actually slipped and fell. Damn shame.

*Mike Sauer looked pretty good and he managed not to take a stupid penalty like Steve Eminger did but, when Torts decides to re-insert Matt Gilroy into the lineup any day now, it is safe to say he will take Sauer out.

*Nice miss Arty. Anisimov tried to be cute and, instead of jamming the puck through the extended leg of Ty Conklin, butchered an open net after getting it to his forehand.

*Ty Conklin was NHL on the Fly's Performer of the Night and the first star of the game, proving my theory that the professional media don't actually watch the game but instead glance at the numbers before making their decision. Conk made 27 saves but none of them were impressive. The Blues backup was barely tested and yet the MSM guys fawned over the shutout.

*Upon seeing the re-air of the game on MSG, Joe Micheletti sucks. But you knew that already. What I wanted to say was that it is pathetic that Joe and the crew decided to dwell on the Frolov goal that was waved off. Yes, that sucked. But to keep going back to that again and again while the team is playing piss poor puck on power play after power play is just wrong. The high sticking wasn't what doomed the Rangers on this night ...

*PHW Three Stars
3-Marty Biron - 20 saves.
2-Alex Steen - two goals.
1-Ty Conklin - 27 saves.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-TJ Oshie - Oshie looked like Ryan Callahan out there. High praise indeed.
2-Erik Johnson - The young American and his partner Eric Brewer played more than six minutes shorthanded and handily kept the Rangers away from the puck. Johnson has good size and good hands and, it seemed to me, has yet to tap his offensive potential. He ripped one point shot that was wide but his form was perfect.
1-Steen - Steen, technically a center, played alongside Backes and read off of the Olympian perfectly. While he will never be as good as his father, Alex does have some of the old man's instincts and got into the good positions that allowed him to score twice - once on a feed from Brad Boyes on the 3-on-2 and once in an empty net on a feed from MDZ. Whoops.

 7-6-1: The New York Rangers' Rollercoaster Season - When Does It End?

The 2023-2024 NHL season has been a rollercoaster ride for the New York Rangers, filled with ups, downs, and unexpected twists. In this article, we'll delve into the Rangers' season, highlighting key moments, player performances, and the burning question on every fan's mind: when does this season's unpredictable journey come to an end?

High Expectations

The Rangers entered the season with high expectations. With a talented roster that included star players, promising rookies, and a skilled goaltender, fans and analysts alike anticipated a strong playoff push. However, as the season unfolded, it became clear that this would not be a smooth ride.

Early-Season Struggles

The Rangers' season got off to a rocky start, with a string of losses in the opening weeks. Defensive lapses and inconsistent scoring haunted the team, leaving fans frustrated and wondering if their high hopes were misplaced.

Injuries and Setbacks

One of the defining features of the

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Title: 7-6-1: The New York Rangers' Rollercoaster Season - When Does It End?

Introduction

The 2023-2024 NHL season has been a rollercoaster ride for the New York Rangers, filled with ups, downs, and unexpected twists. In this article, we'll delve into the Rangers' season, highlighting key moments, player performances, and the burning question on every fan's mind: when does this season's unpredictable journey come to an end?

High Expectations

The Rangers entered the season with high expectations. With a talented roster that included star players, promising rookies, and a skilled goaltender, fans and analysts alike anticipated a strong playoff push. However, as the season unfolded, it became clear that this would not be a smooth ride.

Early-Season Struggles

The Rangers' season got off to a rocky start, with a string of losses in the opening weeks. Defensive lapses and inconsistent scoring haunted the team, leaving fans frustrated and wondering if their high hopes were misplaced.

Injuries and Setbacks

One of the defining features of the Rangers' season has been the unfortunate string of injuries that have plagued the team. Key players have found themselves sidelined, disrupting the team's chemistry and forcing younger, less experienced players into prominent roles. This has been both a curse and a blessing for the Rangers, as some of these replacements have exceeded expectations, while others have struggled to adapt to the NHL's rigors.

Player Performances

While the season has been marked by inconsistency, there have been standout performances from certain players. The Rangers' goaltender, Henrik Lundqvist, has been nothing short of stellar, providing a steady presence between the pipes and stealing wins on nights when the team in front of him faltered. Youngsters like Kaapo Kakko and Vitali Kravtsov have shown flashes of brilliance, hinting at a promising future for the franchise. However, seasoned veterans like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad have faced their fair share of challenges, raising questions about their long-term contributions to the team.

Coaching Dilemmas

Head coach Gerard Gallant has faced his own set of challenges this season. Trying to navigate through injuries, inconsistent performances, and the pressure of meeting high expectations, Gallant has had to make tough decisions about line combinations and defensive pairings. The coaching staff's ability to adapt and find solutions to the team's problems will play a crucial role in determining how the remainder of the season unfolds.

The Trade Deadline

With the trade deadline looming, the Rangers find themselves at a crossroads. The team must decide whether to make a push for the playoffs or focus on the future and potentially trade away some valuable assets. It's a difficult decision that will shape the franchise's direction for years to come. Fans are left wondering if the team will be buyers, sellers, or simply stay the course.

Fan Expectations and Patience

For Rangers fans, this season has been a test of patience and unwavering support. The rollercoaster of emotions, from the excitement of early victories to the frustration of losing streaks, has taken its toll. Yet, true fans remain hopeful, believing that their team can turn things around and salvage the season. The resilience of Rangers supporters is a testament to their dedication and love for the team.

As the New York Rangers continue their rollercoaster season, one thing is certain: no one knows exactly when or how it will end. The unpredictability of sports is what keeps fans coming back, even in the face of adversity. Whether the Rangers make a miraculous playoff run or use the remainder of the season to build for the future, one thing is clear: the rollercoaster ride is far from over, and fans will be there every step of the way, supporting their team through the highs and lows of another thrilling NHL season.

FAQs

Q1: How have injuries affected the Rangers' season?

A1: Injuries have been a significant factor in the Rangers' season, disrupting team chemistry and forcing younger players into prominent roles.

Q2: Who are some standout players for the Rangers this season?

A2: Henrik Lundqvist has been outstanding in goal, and young players like Kaapo Kakko and Vitali Kravtsov have shown promise.

Q3: What challenges has head coach Gerard Gallant faced this season?

A3: Gallant has had to navigate injuries, inconsistent performances, and high expectations, making tough decisions about lineups and pairings.

Q4: What is the significance of the upcoming trade deadline for the Rangers?

A4: The trade deadline will determine whether the Rangers make a playoff push or focus on building for the future by potentially trading valuable assets.