Anyone whose been watching the Rangers' last 2 home games can see that this is a team still searching for it's identity. This team is far from being a playoff team if this is how they plan on competing, but there is still a lot of season left with a lot of time to correct plenty of issues.
Our defense is suffering without Marc Staal. His presence alone brings so much to the lineup because it enables Torts (we will get to Torts in a minute) to put familiar pairings back together. Staal's return means Sauer Mcdonagh back together, and more likely than not the return of either Erixon or Del Zotto to Connecticut.
Why is Richards centering Dubinsky and Callahan while Gaborik is playing with CHRISTENSEN and Wolski? Guy has lost his fucking mind...
On a different note, 2 powerplay goals today. Richards is best suited at the point on the powerplay. That was made pretty clear in today's loss. Has great vision and can shoot the puck as well.
Biron should have been in net today. With the Sharks and Ducks coming in this week, it would have made more sense to let Lundqvist rest after he admitted to not being focused during the home opener. If Tortorella can't get this team going by the end of the home stand, it wouldn't shock me if Rangers' management looks to shake things up. This team is maybe one or 2 guys short of being a beast in the east and yet we are just another 500 team right now.
.... Maybe we should just tank the season and draft Yakopov
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Okay, so I'm a little fucked up right now, which is why this is going to be awesome. Girlfriend's in the shower and watching NHL on the fly. Fuck Philadelphia. I hate this fucking team and Ilya Bryzgalov is just as good as I thought he would be... fucking terrible. haha highligts are great. I hate Montreal but its awesome when anyone beats Philadelphia.
Michael sauer says he will play in the home opener. Just read the bottom line. Good shit. Sauer Mcdonugh back together hopefully. We need a fucking third line. Without a third line, we have no 2nd line, and without a 2nd line the top line gets owned by the other teams best players. Stepan needs to be your third line center so the third line is a threat again, taking the pressure off Callahan Anisimov Dubinksy, and in return taking the pressure off Gaborik and Richards. I said it all summer and I will say it again. We need a fucking top line LW to play with Gaborik and Richards. Fucking Patrrik Sharp signing that contract was awful for us, but there are a ton of players who would fit in perfectly on that top line. Stepan Wolski and Zuccarello with Fedotenko Prust and Boyle (or Rupp if you are not thrilled w Boyle) would make tihs team far more effective and if we want to compete we need more than just the top line.
Our defense is going to be solid all year long. Staal has to return to the lineup to solidfy things, but with his presence teh Rangers will have one thing that they haven't had in a while back there... balance. When your defense partners click like Staal and Girardi and Sauer w. Mcdonugh you can start to focus on the offense lacking rather than playing solid defense.
Lundqvist is a fucking G. Best one 2 goaltending punch in the NHL when they are both healthy. FUck you Islander fans. You are all so unrealistic and don't know shit about hockey. W the homestand starting tomorrow, I'll start doing this spober again, but man it feels good to get this out. BTW, my girlfriend is beating the CO Author on this Blog. How emasculated do you feel Andrew?... Thought so.
Michael sauer says he will play in the home opener. Just read the bottom line. Good shit. Sauer Mcdonugh back together hopefully. We need a fucking third line. Without a third line, we have no 2nd line, and without a 2nd line the top line gets owned by the other teams best players. Stepan needs to be your third line center so the third line is a threat again, taking the pressure off Callahan Anisimov Dubinksy, and in return taking the pressure off Gaborik and Richards. I said it all summer and I will say it again. We need a fucking top line LW to play with Gaborik and Richards. Fucking Patrrik Sharp signing that contract was awful for us, but there are a ton of players who would fit in perfectly on that top line. Stepan Wolski and Zuccarello with Fedotenko Prust and Boyle (or Rupp if you are not thrilled w Boyle) would make tihs team far more effective and if we want to compete we need more than just the top line.
Our defense is going to be solid all year long. Staal has to return to the lineup to solidfy things, but with his presence teh Rangers will have one thing that they haven't had in a while back there... balance. When your defense partners click like Staal and Girardi and Sauer w. Mcdonugh you can start to focus on the offense lacking rather than playing solid defense.
Lundqvist is a fucking G. Best one 2 goaltending punch in the NHL when they are both healthy. FUck you Islander fans. You are all so unrealistic and don't know shit about hockey. W the homestand starting tomorrow, I'll start doing this spober again, but man it feels good to get this out. BTW, my girlfriend is beating the CO Author on this Blog. How emasculated do you feel Andrew?... Thought so.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Subpar Start
There is no way that this is the start New York Ranger fans were expecting after months of anticipation. An 0-1-2 record combined with the vacancy of Marc Staal on defense probably has some fans a little worried about just how this year will play out. Keep one thing in mind though; It was not that long ago the Philadelphia Flyers had that awful start and went on to be one of the best teams in the East (hopefully no one on our team is banging their teammates wife, but that's a story for another day Jeff Carter).
With no clear cut top line LW for Gaborik and Richards heading into camp, the Rangers are still trying to mix and match to find the perfect line combinations. From the first few games (especially against the Islanders) it should be pretty clear that for now that vacancy at LW will be filled by Derek Stepan. Stepan certainly does have the skill to fill the role, but this creates problems on the third line. Without Stepan at center, it's become pretty clear that Mats Zuccarello is not as effective (which is made even more evident by his reassignment to the Whale), and the question still remains whether or not can Brian Boyle continue to elevate his game.
Right now the Rangers are short Staal and Sauer, which has Tortorella scrambling for defense pairings that will connect. There's no way a guy like Jeff Woywitka will remain a fixture in the lineup upon Staal and Sauer's return when we have guys like Erixon and Del Zotto up and coming. That being said, I wouldn't mind seeing Del Zotto sent back down again. Sure he has great vision and excellent hands, but the guy cannot play in his own zone. What good are you contributing offensively as a defenseman if every goal that is scored is your fault?
There are 2 good things to come from the Rangers sub par start. Gaborik looks like the 40 goal scorer from 2 years ago, and Lundqvist has picked up right where he left off. With these two things going for this team, it's just a matter of time before the Rangers assert themselves to the top of the Eastern Conference. The first 1-2 weeks of the season really do not mean much (if you need reassurance take a look at the Western Conference Standings as for the 2nd straight year Colorado is #1). Our window of opportunity is in the next 1-3 years, so the sooner this team can cement the better our future will be.
It's time for the Rangers to really grind down and pull out some tough points in Canada over the next few games. The Canucks, Flames, Oilers, and Jets are all very beatable teams right now, and if the Rangers could get themselves back to 500 before their home opener, it will set the stage for a monster 6 game homestand.
With no clear cut top line LW for Gaborik and Richards heading into camp, the Rangers are still trying to mix and match to find the perfect line combinations. From the first few games (especially against the Islanders) it should be pretty clear that for now that vacancy at LW will be filled by Derek Stepan. Stepan certainly does have the skill to fill the role, but this creates problems on the third line. Without Stepan at center, it's become pretty clear that Mats Zuccarello is not as effective (which is made even more evident by his reassignment to the Whale), and the question still remains whether or not can Brian Boyle continue to elevate his game.
Right now the Rangers are short Staal and Sauer, which has Tortorella scrambling for defense pairings that will connect. There's no way a guy like Jeff Woywitka will remain a fixture in the lineup upon Staal and Sauer's return when we have guys like Erixon and Del Zotto up and coming. That being said, I wouldn't mind seeing Del Zotto sent back down again. Sure he has great vision and excellent hands, but the guy cannot play in his own zone. What good are you contributing offensively as a defenseman if every goal that is scored is your fault?
There are 2 good things to come from the Rangers sub par start. Gaborik looks like the 40 goal scorer from 2 years ago, and Lundqvist has picked up right where he left off. With these two things going for this team, it's just a matter of time before the Rangers assert themselves to the top of the Eastern Conference. The first 1-2 weeks of the season really do not mean much (if you need reassurance take a look at the Western Conference Standings as for the 2nd straight year Colorado is #1). Our window of opportunity is in the next 1-3 years, so the sooner this team can cement the better our future will be.
It's time for the Rangers to really grind down and pull out some tough points in Canada over the next few games. The Canucks, Flames, Oilers, and Jets are all very beatable teams right now, and if the Rangers could get themselves back to 500 before their home opener, it will set the stage for a monster 6 game homestand.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
No vote could mean no more rivalry
As a die hard fan of one of the greatest sporting franchises in the world, it's easy to shake your head and maybe even let out a lough at what happened on August 1st. On the flip side, as a fan of one of the greatest sporting franchises in the world, it's just as easy to be upset about what happened that very same day. What was quoted as being an 'abysmal' turnout could lead to the departure of the New York Islanders from Nassau county, and along with them one of the rivalries I've been able to drive 5 minutes to enjoy since I was a kid.
I understand that Ranger fans are spread throughout this entire state, as well as in New Jersey and Connecticut, but I think it's time you all heard exactly how this went down from a resident of Nassau county. For those of you who aren't aware, Nassau county is one of the highest taxed (if not the single highest) counties in the United States. Now while we can all agree that our taxes are ridiculous no matter where you are in the state, try to keep in mind that Nassau county is not a place where recent college graduates such as myself reside. Simply put, we can't afford to live here. If you aren't living at home, you are struggling to make ends meat as a young member of this community. While I really don't care too much about that because I don't intend on sticking around Nassau county much longer, it just goes to show you that the only people who reside here are the working class, and the elderly who are pushing retirement (if they haven't already done so). Any time you say the words "tax increase" to anyone over the age of 40 (generalizing of course), the response is always an overwhelming no.
Due to the aforementioned problem, Charles Wong opted to hold the budget vote for the new arena and minor league stadium in the "off" season, knowing that voter turnout would be minimal. He did very little to campaign to the residents of Nassau county and really did only stress the vote to Islander fans. While there truly were reasons for non Islander fans to vote for this arena, publicizing this vote would have produced a worse turnout than the 57% Yes 43% No turnout it was, so I really don't blame him too much for that. As it turned out, less than 15% of Nassau county registered voters showed up at the polls to cast their vote.
Having worked 10-7 on the day of the budget vote, I went straight to my local polls to cast my vote as soon as I could. Arriving at 7:20, I put on my Lundqvist jersey and went in to vote knowing that the budget was already being crushed. I can say with confidence that I was the only person in that gymnasium under the age of 50. After bullshitting with the people at the table, I knew that it was over.
I don't care if you are from Nassau county or not or even if you voted yes or not, but just realize that the no vote really puts the Islanders organization in some trouble. It goes without saying that Charles Wang has a plan B up his sleeve. If he went into that budget vote expecting the highest taxed county in America to accept another tax increase, he will be right there with Mike Milbury as the dumbest people to ever be in the Islander organization.
The selling point to a lot of people who voted yes in this county was the creation of jobs and the stimulation of the local economy (other than Islander fans). Clearly that wasn't enough to get this budget to pass. I wouldn't be surprised if they restructure the plan for the new arena so the tax increase is not as drastic as it previously was. Charles Wang will have to eat some of the financing for this project which I'm sure he won't mind considering he was willing to privately finance the Lighthouse project. If and when there is a re vote for the construction of a new arena, I think it's in every Ranger fans best interest to vote yes, and here's why...
1) While it hasn't been as heated in recent years, the Rangers Islanders rivalry is one of the best all time. With the Islanders finally putting together a decent team, it'll pick up again over the next few seasons. There's nothing better than starting shit with fans of a rival team, especially when that team is in your own backyard.
2) How can you honestly not enjoy beating up on this team? It's anywhere from 8-12 extra points in a season, and this past season has shown us that every point counts.
3) And probably the most important reason of all, POTVIN SUCKS! The significance of that will die out over time when they become the Cleveland Clevelanders.
Plain and simple, the New York Rangers NEED the New York Islanders. WE WANT THE CUP
I understand that Ranger fans are spread throughout this entire state, as well as in New Jersey and Connecticut, but I think it's time you all heard exactly how this went down from a resident of Nassau county. For those of you who aren't aware, Nassau county is one of the highest taxed (if not the single highest) counties in the United States. Now while we can all agree that our taxes are ridiculous no matter where you are in the state, try to keep in mind that Nassau county is not a place where recent college graduates such as myself reside. Simply put, we can't afford to live here. If you aren't living at home, you are struggling to make ends meat as a young member of this community. While I really don't care too much about that because I don't intend on sticking around Nassau county much longer, it just goes to show you that the only people who reside here are the working class, and the elderly who are pushing retirement (if they haven't already done so). Any time you say the words "tax increase" to anyone over the age of 40 (generalizing of course), the response is always an overwhelming no.
Due to the aforementioned problem, Charles Wong opted to hold the budget vote for the new arena and minor league stadium in the "off" season, knowing that voter turnout would be minimal. He did very little to campaign to the residents of Nassau county and really did only stress the vote to Islander fans. While there truly were reasons for non Islander fans to vote for this arena, publicizing this vote would have produced a worse turnout than the 57% Yes 43% No turnout it was, so I really don't blame him too much for that. As it turned out, less than 15% of Nassau county registered voters showed up at the polls to cast their vote.
Having worked 10-7 on the day of the budget vote, I went straight to my local polls to cast my vote as soon as I could. Arriving at 7:20, I put on my Lundqvist jersey and went in to vote knowing that the budget was already being crushed. I can say with confidence that I was the only person in that gymnasium under the age of 50. After bullshitting with the people at the table, I knew that it was over.
I don't care if you are from Nassau county or not or even if you voted yes or not, but just realize that the no vote really puts the Islanders organization in some trouble. It goes without saying that Charles Wang has a plan B up his sleeve. If he went into that budget vote expecting the highest taxed county in America to accept another tax increase, he will be right there with Mike Milbury as the dumbest people to ever be in the Islander organization.
The selling point to a lot of people who voted yes in this county was the creation of jobs and the stimulation of the local economy (other than Islander fans). Clearly that wasn't enough to get this budget to pass. I wouldn't be surprised if they restructure the plan for the new arena so the tax increase is not as drastic as it previously was. Charles Wang will have to eat some of the financing for this project which I'm sure he won't mind considering he was willing to privately finance the Lighthouse project. If and when there is a re vote for the construction of a new arena, I think it's in every Ranger fans best interest to vote yes, and here's why...
1) While it hasn't been as heated in recent years, the Rangers Islanders rivalry is one of the best all time. With the Islanders finally putting together a decent team, it'll pick up again over the next few seasons. There's nothing better than starting shit with fans of a rival team, especially when that team is in your own backyard.
2) How can you honestly not enjoy beating up on this team? It's anywhere from 8-12 extra points in a season, and this past season has shown us that every point counts.
3) And probably the most important reason of all, POTVIN SUCKS! The significance of that will die out over time when they become the Cleveland Clevelanders.
Plain and simple, the New York Rangers NEED the New York Islanders. WE WANT THE CUP
Monday, July 18, 2011
18 days later
Almost 3 weeks later, I'm curious to know how you feel going into the preseason. Enough time has passed for us to come down from our high about signing Brad Richards... unless of course you are like Dano and are creaming your pants in anticipation for Bobby Ryan (one day man way to keep the dream alive). Without a doubt the New York Rangers are better on paper than they were in 10-11, but just how good are we? Here's a realistic look at what our future could hold..
Option 1: Danoland- The New York Rangers win the Stanley Cup and restore honor to the Garden...
Bro I think it's time to get over it. I realize you probably have a hard time seeing from the last row in the 400 section, but this is just not a cup team yet. Michael Del Zotto will most likely not have 55-60 points and Bobby Ryan won't be the missing piece this year (not to say I don't agree with you, but any team that lets Bobby Ryan go deserves to finish dead last every single year). Give us a left winger and yeah we are talking, but until then definitely keep up the enthusiasm because someone needs to. Deep down I know you realize we aren't there yet, otherwise all those long train rides to the city were just a serious waste of money, although Phil Collins would disagree.
Option 2: Fucking Closet Islander Fans who can't drive and how Richards is like everyone else
Lets get this out of the way right now, Brad Richards CANNOT be compared to the likes of Holik, Gomez, and of course Drury. "Well he's only one hit away from the end of his career" says the Islander fan who hasn't been to a game since Chara was on the team. You know who else is only 1 hit away from having his career ended? The (in my mind) most talented player in the NHL and should be #1 pick in everyone's fantasy draft based on how unbelievable he was last year, Sidney Crosby. While I am a die hard NYR fan and wouldn't mind seeing his career shortened so we don't have to deal with the Penguins anymore, there is absolutely no denying this kid's talent based on his performance in the first half of last year. While Richards does have some years on Crosby, he is in the same situation and I don't expect him to play any different. In today's game everyone is susceptible to serious injury and I'm not about to say Richards wasn't worth signing because if concussion issues. This was the right move.
Option 3: The Realist
While it would be nice to think Brad Richards will bring the Rangers a cup, this type of fan realizes he cannot do it alone. Sure Gaborik is an elite player when healthy, having 86 points with absolutely no surrounding crowd his first season on Broadway, but it just seems so obvious that these two need a top line LW. This isn't your only concern however, because you clearly recognize that the window of opportunity is the next 2-4 years. While you still find it hard to believe because you watched him instantly assert himself to the starting position his rookie season, Henrik Lundqvist is now 29 and we can only hope he is on top of his game at 33. While he has shown absolutely no signs of falling off, it won't be long before the New York Rangers will have to start thinking about goaltending beyond King Henry. Recognizing your teams strengths and weaknesses, you accept the fact that you must shed some defensive talent that you may not want to, but in the end once the trade is complete and you have that top line LW you realize the cup is ours for the taking.
With serious question marks through the Rangers lineup heading into the regular season, whose to say that any particular point of view is the correct one? It's time New York Ranger fans started being realistic about this team and it's chances.
Option 1: Danoland- The New York Rangers win the Stanley Cup and restore honor to the Garden...
Bro I think it's time to get over it. I realize you probably have a hard time seeing from the last row in the 400 section, but this is just not a cup team yet. Michael Del Zotto will most likely not have 55-60 points and Bobby Ryan won't be the missing piece this year (not to say I don't agree with you, but any team that lets Bobby Ryan go deserves to finish dead last every single year). Give us a left winger and yeah we are talking, but until then definitely keep up the enthusiasm because someone needs to. Deep down I know you realize we aren't there yet, otherwise all those long train rides to the city were just a serious waste of money, although Phil Collins would disagree.
Option 2: Fucking Closet Islander Fans who can't drive and how Richards is like everyone else
Lets get this out of the way right now, Brad Richards CANNOT be compared to the likes of Holik, Gomez, and of course Drury. "Well he's only one hit away from the end of his career" says the Islander fan who hasn't been to a game since Chara was on the team. You know who else is only 1 hit away from having his career ended? The (in my mind) most talented player in the NHL and should be #1 pick in everyone's fantasy draft based on how unbelievable he was last year, Sidney Crosby. While I am a die hard NYR fan and wouldn't mind seeing his career shortened so we don't have to deal with the Penguins anymore, there is absolutely no denying this kid's talent based on his performance in the first half of last year. While Richards does have some years on Crosby, he is in the same situation and I don't expect him to play any different. In today's game everyone is susceptible to serious injury and I'm not about to say Richards wasn't worth signing because if concussion issues. This was the right move.
Option 3: The Realist
While it would be nice to think Brad Richards will bring the Rangers a cup, this type of fan realizes he cannot do it alone. Sure Gaborik is an elite player when healthy, having 86 points with absolutely no surrounding crowd his first season on Broadway, but it just seems so obvious that these two need a top line LW. This isn't your only concern however, because you clearly recognize that the window of opportunity is the next 2-4 years. While you still find it hard to believe because you watched him instantly assert himself to the starting position his rookie season, Henrik Lundqvist is now 29 and we can only hope he is on top of his game at 33. While he has shown absolutely no signs of falling off, it won't be long before the New York Rangers will have to start thinking about goaltending beyond King Henry. Recognizing your teams strengths and weaknesses, you accept the fact that you must shed some defensive talent that you may not want to, but in the end once the trade is complete and you have that top line LW you realize the cup is ours for the taking.
With serious question marks through the Rangers lineup heading into the regular season, whose to say that any particular point of view is the correct one? It's time New York Ranger fans started being realistic about this team and it's chances.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Where we sit in the East
Lets assume that all of our RFA's are resigned come the fall. This is what our roster could potentially look like on opening night...
Wolski Richards Gaborik
Callahan Anisimov Dubinsky
Zucc/Rupp Stepan Fedotenko
Avery/Rupp Boyle Prust
Staal Girardi
Sauer Mcdonagh
Del Zotto Erixon (and lets not forget Mcilrath)
The only other combination I have not listed is moving Avery up to the top line to play with Richards and Gaborik, moving Wolski down to play with Stepan. Avery thus far seems to get the best out of Gaborik, and has a very good relationship with Brad Richards.
It's always interesting to speculate what moves the Rangers will make heading into the regular season, but one option that must be considered is that the Rangers may not make any. Assuming this is the case, lets take a look where we stand amongst the top dogs in the East...
Florida Panthers- While they have lost franchise goalie Tomas Vokoun, they have added a ton of talent including Campbell Fleischmann Kopecky not to mention already having Weiss and Booth under contract. Shaky defenseman and Jose Theodore are this team's real downfall.
Tampa Bay Lightning- Waiting on a Stamkos signing, this team has lost a couple of components that helped them to be so competitive last season. Gagne is now gone, and they have broken up the dynamic 3rd line tandem of Moore and Bergenhiem. Roloson has resigned for 1 year, so they will certainly not be out of any games.
Washington Capitals- This could honestly be their year. Stealing Vokoun for 1 yr $1.5 million while retaining the core of their lineup has the Capitals sitting on top of the East for me. Ovechkin Semin Backstrom Green Laich and Carlson, not to mention one of my favorite young players Johansson. The only reason this team doesn't win the cup is because of the lack of defensive depth.
Carolina Hurricanes- Eric Staal and Cam Ward fell one game short of being the hottest team headed into the playoffs. With one of the most underrated goalies in the NHL, and the emergence of a potential star in Jeff Skinner, it's almost impossible too count the 'Canes out of any game.
Winnipeg Jets- Could be one of the biggest surprises in the NHL. Could this be one of those teams whose hometown advantage makes them unbeatable at home much like the Canucks, or will this be the same old Thrasher team just in a different city? One thing's for sure, they must find a way to get Ladd under contract for next season.
Buffalo Sabres- One of the surprisingly busy teams this off season, the Sabres have softened the blow of losing Connolly to free agency by obtaining Leino Ehrhoff and Regehr. This has become a deep team, and should really start drawing some more attention from teams around the league.
Boston Bruins- Essentially the same cup winner from this season. Recchi is sure to retire and Ryder may be gone, but does any of this really matter when you have Krejci? What an animal he was in the playoffs. Backstopped by Thomas and Chara, you know what to expect from this team.
Ottawa Senators- Oh man. Just saying the name truly makes me want to vomit. This team is just disgraceful and really needs to find an identity. I just don't respect any team that believes Craig Anderson is the answer. Talk about a team that could have done well signing Vokoun. At least Vokoun could hold it down while this very very young developing team comes together. It may be time to move Spezza for the right return.
Toronto Maple Leafs- One of these days this team is going to make the playoffs (NOT). On paper, this team really is not that bad. After missing out on Richards they signed Connolly to play with Kessel, and it' be interesting to see how that works out. They now have Phaneuf and Liles on the point to man the powerplay, and with Reimer in net who knows, maybe Toronto will finally get a taste of what it's like to be out in the first round.
Montreal Canadians- Talk about a team that has something to prove. After receiving a ton of heat, losing his starting job, and being benched in the playoffs, Carey Price had probably his best season as the Canadians should have taken out Boston in the first round. It'l be interesting to see if Price is the real deal or if he is just another bust goaltender coming from Montreal.
New York Islanders- Look, we are all Ranger fans. We all hate the Islanders we were just born that way. Make no mistake about it, the Islanders have a very solid team. Still young and trying to come into their own, this team needs a few years before they will really be a solid playoff team in the East. Only thing this team needs to figure out is who can play goal and how to part ways with Rick Dipietro.
New Jersey Devils- Brodeur is a washed up pro. Arguably the best goalie in NHL history just has not seem to be able to find his game. With an AHL defense, it's tough to say the Devils are an elite team even with Parise (assuming he signs) and Kovalchuk.
Philadelphia Flyers- Anyone else find it hilarious that the Flyers dismantled their entire team in order to get Bryzgalov under contract for $5.6 mil meanwhile Vokoun signed for $1.5? No Richards no Carter and no guarantee that Schenn is ready to play at the NHL level, can finally say with confidence that this is not the Flyer team that I've dreaded playing over the last few seasons... Fuck you Jagr.
Pittsburgh Penguins- What a different post season it would have been if Crosby had been healthy. Over a month after this guy went on the IR he still lead the NHL in points. Same solid team minus a few role players still has the Penguins amongst the best in the East.
New York Rangers- There are two things preventing this team from bringing the cup back to the Garden; a top line LW and an extremely talented Leetch-like defenseman. Del Zotto has the potential to fill the role of that defenseman we need on the powerplay (not to compare him to Leetch just yet but lets not forget he had 37 points his rookie year) and Wolski could possibly mesh with the highly anticipated Gaborik Richards duo ( Wolski had 65 points in 09-10). Of course, these are 2 huge maybes, but this team is built to win in the next 2-3 years.
As of July 5th 2011, this is how I see the East playing out...
1- Washington
2- Pittsburgh
3- Buffalo
4- Boston
5- New York Rangers
6- Tampa Bay Lightning
7- Philadelphia Flyers
8- Carolina Hurricanes
9- Montreal Canadians
10- New York Islanders
11- Toronto Maple Leafs
12- Winnipeg Jets
13- New Jersey Devils
14- Florida Panthers
15- Ottawa Senators
How's that for 1st round matchups? Washington Carolina, Pittsburgh Philadelphia, Buffalo Tampa, Boston NYR. Could be looking at another excellent playoffs.
Wolski Richards Gaborik
Callahan Anisimov Dubinsky
Zucc/Rupp Stepan Fedotenko
Avery/Rupp Boyle Prust
Staal Girardi
Sauer Mcdonagh
Del Zotto Erixon (and lets not forget Mcilrath)
The only other combination I have not listed is moving Avery up to the top line to play with Richards and Gaborik, moving Wolski down to play with Stepan. Avery thus far seems to get the best out of Gaborik, and has a very good relationship with Brad Richards.
It's always interesting to speculate what moves the Rangers will make heading into the regular season, but one option that must be considered is that the Rangers may not make any. Assuming this is the case, lets take a look where we stand amongst the top dogs in the East...
Florida Panthers- While they have lost franchise goalie Tomas Vokoun, they have added a ton of talent including Campbell Fleischmann Kopecky not to mention already having Weiss and Booth under contract. Shaky defenseman and Jose Theodore are this team's real downfall.
Tampa Bay Lightning- Waiting on a Stamkos signing, this team has lost a couple of components that helped them to be so competitive last season. Gagne is now gone, and they have broken up the dynamic 3rd line tandem of Moore and Bergenhiem. Roloson has resigned for 1 year, so they will certainly not be out of any games.
Washington Capitals- This could honestly be their year. Stealing Vokoun for 1 yr $1.5 million while retaining the core of their lineup has the Capitals sitting on top of the East for me. Ovechkin Semin Backstrom Green Laich and Carlson, not to mention one of my favorite young players Johansson. The only reason this team doesn't win the cup is because of the lack of defensive depth.
Carolina Hurricanes- Eric Staal and Cam Ward fell one game short of being the hottest team headed into the playoffs. With one of the most underrated goalies in the NHL, and the emergence of a potential star in Jeff Skinner, it's almost impossible too count the 'Canes out of any game.
Winnipeg Jets- Could be one of the biggest surprises in the NHL. Could this be one of those teams whose hometown advantage makes them unbeatable at home much like the Canucks, or will this be the same old Thrasher team just in a different city? One thing's for sure, they must find a way to get Ladd under contract for next season.
Buffalo Sabres- One of the surprisingly busy teams this off season, the Sabres have softened the blow of losing Connolly to free agency by obtaining Leino Ehrhoff and Regehr. This has become a deep team, and should really start drawing some more attention from teams around the league.
Boston Bruins- Essentially the same cup winner from this season. Recchi is sure to retire and Ryder may be gone, but does any of this really matter when you have Krejci? What an animal he was in the playoffs. Backstopped by Thomas and Chara, you know what to expect from this team.
Ottawa Senators- Oh man. Just saying the name truly makes me want to vomit. This team is just disgraceful and really needs to find an identity. I just don't respect any team that believes Craig Anderson is the answer. Talk about a team that could have done well signing Vokoun. At least Vokoun could hold it down while this very very young developing team comes together. It may be time to move Spezza for the right return.
Toronto Maple Leafs- One of these days this team is going to make the playoffs (NOT). On paper, this team really is not that bad. After missing out on Richards they signed Connolly to play with Kessel, and it' be interesting to see how that works out. They now have Phaneuf and Liles on the point to man the powerplay, and with Reimer in net who knows, maybe Toronto will finally get a taste of what it's like to be out in the first round.
Montreal Canadians- Talk about a team that has something to prove. After receiving a ton of heat, losing his starting job, and being benched in the playoffs, Carey Price had probably his best season as the Canadians should have taken out Boston in the first round. It'l be interesting to see if Price is the real deal or if he is just another bust goaltender coming from Montreal.
New York Islanders- Look, we are all Ranger fans. We all hate the Islanders we were just born that way. Make no mistake about it, the Islanders have a very solid team. Still young and trying to come into their own, this team needs a few years before they will really be a solid playoff team in the East. Only thing this team needs to figure out is who can play goal and how to part ways with Rick Dipietro.
New Jersey Devils- Brodeur is a washed up pro. Arguably the best goalie in NHL history just has not seem to be able to find his game. With an AHL defense, it's tough to say the Devils are an elite team even with Parise (assuming he signs) and Kovalchuk.
Philadelphia Flyers- Anyone else find it hilarious that the Flyers dismantled their entire team in order to get Bryzgalov under contract for $5.6 mil meanwhile Vokoun signed for $1.5? No Richards no Carter and no guarantee that Schenn is ready to play at the NHL level, can finally say with confidence that this is not the Flyer team that I've dreaded playing over the last few seasons... Fuck you Jagr.
Pittsburgh Penguins- What a different post season it would have been if Crosby had been healthy. Over a month after this guy went on the IR he still lead the NHL in points. Same solid team minus a few role players still has the Penguins amongst the best in the East.
New York Rangers- There are two things preventing this team from bringing the cup back to the Garden; a top line LW and an extremely talented Leetch-like defenseman. Del Zotto has the potential to fill the role of that defenseman we need on the powerplay (not to compare him to Leetch just yet but lets not forget he had 37 points his rookie year) and Wolski could possibly mesh with the highly anticipated Gaborik Richards duo ( Wolski had 65 points in 09-10). Of course, these are 2 huge maybes, but this team is built to win in the next 2-3 years.
As of July 5th 2011, this is how I see the East playing out...
1- Washington
2- Pittsburgh
3- Buffalo
4- Boston
5- New York Rangers
6- Tampa Bay Lightning
7- Philadelphia Flyers
8- Carolina Hurricanes
9- Montreal Canadians
10- New York Islanders
11- Toronto Maple Leafs
12- Winnipeg Jets
13- New Jersey Devils
14- Florida Panthers
15- Ottawa Senators
How's that for 1st round matchups? Washington Carolina, Pittsburgh Philadelphia, Buffalo Tampa, Boston NYR. Could be looking at another excellent playoffs.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Wooooo Richards and the Future
THERE'S NOTHING LIKE TALKING ABOUT THE FUCKING RANGERS AT 315 AM AFTER DOWNING A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE WITHOUT HELP AS WELL AS A TON OF BEER. IT'S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE WE WIN THE FUCKING CUP.
One of the big things Richards was pushing for when looking to sign a contract was not only the commitment of of a team to years and $$$$ but a real plan for the team to finalize a roster that would compete for the Stanley cup. Well, we didn't max out the salary like Calgary offered according to Bobby M, nor did we try to court this guy to NY, and yet BRAD RICHARDS IS A FUCKING RANGER. This guy would not just sign here. Sather must have a plan up his sleeve for the remainder of the off season.
With this being one of the weakest free agent classes available, it's now time to speculate what happens next. Richards wants a LW to play alongside him and Gaborik, and there is no way that LW is going to be Wolski (sorry dude but you're just not proven yet). He wants someone who will solidify that line as an avg of over 75 pts per player. Anyone have any ideas who Sather may be giong after?
There are really only 2 names that I can think of right now that make any sort of sense to me (and that may just be bc of the alcohol). Patrick Sharp and Dustin Penner. Dustin Penner currently makes $4.25 mil a season with 1 year left on his contract before he is an UFA. Patrick Sharp currently makes $3.9 mil and is also an UFA next summer. Out of the two I think it goes without saying that Sharp is the man we want to have, but Penner also has some talent, and with only 1 year left on his contract and the Kings right up against the cap, it wouldn't surprise me if they try to unload him in order to sign Doughty. Keep in mind, LA just signed Gagne to a 2 yr $7 mil contract, meaning gagne is now the top line guy in place of Penner.
Sharp on the other hand is far more complicated. This guy just had the year of his life, and there is no way Chicago wants to watch him walk. At the same time, we have seen Chicago make moves solely to free up salary cap space, and with guys like Seabrook Keith Toews Kane and Hossa locked up long term, they may be looking at some more cap issues come next off season. Sharp is definitely due a raise from his $3.9 mil he is currently at, and Chicago may not be able to fork up the doe to pay him. If you look at the core of the Chicago defense, they really are not deep beyond Seabrook and Keith (yeah they have Hjalmersson and Montador), but they could use that solid defensive defenseman to help out their young goalie Crawford. It's time to trade Girardi and either a young guy like WOlski or Krieder to Chicago and bring in Sharp in return. There is no way Sharp won't resign with the Rangers if he is playing top line minutes with Gaborik and Richards.
This team can fucking do it. Not just yet, but in the very near future. One thing that people really overlook is the fact that we have the best goalie in the NHL between the pipes. With the added offensive support that Richards (and whoever is added to the top line) will bring, he won't have to be spectacular just for us to have a shot.
If you can think of a better suggestion for the top line LW position, please, feel free to let me know, because I want this team to make a push for Patrick Sharp.
One of the big things Richards was pushing for when looking to sign a contract was not only the commitment of of a team to years and $$$$ but a real plan for the team to finalize a roster that would compete for the Stanley cup. Well, we didn't max out the salary like Calgary offered according to Bobby M, nor did we try to court this guy to NY, and yet BRAD RICHARDS IS A FUCKING RANGER. This guy would not just sign here. Sather must have a plan up his sleeve for the remainder of the off season.
With this being one of the weakest free agent classes available, it's now time to speculate what happens next. Richards wants a LW to play alongside him and Gaborik, and there is no way that LW is going to be Wolski (sorry dude but you're just not proven yet). He wants someone who will solidify that line as an avg of over 75 pts per player. Anyone have any ideas who Sather may be giong after?
There are really only 2 names that I can think of right now that make any sort of sense to me (and that may just be bc of the alcohol). Patrick Sharp and Dustin Penner. Dustin Penner currently makes $4.25 mil a season with 1 year left on his contract before he is an UFA. Patrick Sharp currently makes $3.9 mil and is also an UFA next summer. Out of the two I think it goes without saying that Sharp is the man we want to have, but Penner also has some talent, and with only 1 year left on his contract and the Kings right up against the cap, it wouldn't surprise me if they try to unload him in order to sign Doughty. Keep in mind, LA just signed Gagne to a 2 yr $7 mil contract, meaning gagne is now the top line guy in place of Penner.
Sharp on the other hand is far more complicated. This guy just had the year of his life, and there is no way Chicago wants to watch him walk. At the same time, we have seen Chicago make moves solely to free up salary cap space, and with guys like Seabrook Keith Toews Kane and Hossa locked up long term, they may be looking at some more cap issues come next off season. Sharp is definitely due a raise from his $3.9 mil he is currently at, and Chicago may not be able to fork up the doe to pay him. If you look at the core of the Chicago defense, they really are not deep beyond Seabrook and Keith (yeah they have Hjalmersson and Montador), but they could use that solid defensive defenseman to help out their young goalie Crawford. It's time to trade Girardi and either a young guy like WOlski or Krieder to Chicago and bring in Sharp in return. There is no way Sharp won't resign with the Rangers if he is playing top line minutes with Gaborik and Richards.
This team can fucking do it. Not just yet, but in the very near future. One thing that people really overlook is the fact that we have the best goalie in the NHL between the pipes. With the added offensive support that Richards (and whoever is added to the top line) will bring, he won't have to be spectacular just for us to have a shot.
If you can think of a better suggestion for the top line LW position, please, feel free to let me know, because I want this team to make a push for Patrick Sharp.
Friday, July 1, 2011
7/1 down, How's it feeling?
So it's over with. The much anticipated first day of free agency has finally come to a close with the Rangers having made 2 moves, Rupp and Fedotenko. Riddle me this, where exactly is Rupp going to fit into this team? Why do we need both Rupp AND Fedotenko? Not that any of this matters. The real story is the one that hasn't come to an end yet. Of course, I'm talking about Brad Richards.
Lets be serious right now. The Rangers are offering what is speculated to be the least amount of money to Brad, he's still has not made a decision, and we are still considered a significant competitor in this ultimate sweepstakes. At the end of the day, that's got to feel pretty good doesn't it? With teams like Calgary offering Richards more than $7 million a year I truly find comfort in the fact that he hasn't made his decision yet.
If it was all about the money, Richards would not consider NYR an option in any way shape or form. This guy WANTS to wear the NYR Blue, and hopefully he chooses with his heart and not his wallet... I guess we will see how it all plays out, but for the time being I haven't given up any hope that Richards will still be our top line center next year.
Richards has openly said he doesn't want to sign a contract anywhere without a team not only committing to a long term deal, but that particular team having a real plan for winning the cup. If Richards has still not ruled out the Rangers as an option, you have to believe Sather has a move or two up his sleeve to bring in some more offensive firepower before next year's trade deadline. Like I previously stated a few days ago, it's time to give up some defensive depth and a prospect for a proven top line player (and as long as Richards has not ruled out NYR I will not rule out the possibility of trading for Patrick Sharp before he is an UFA). Maybe it seems like a bit of a reach, but Richards centering Gaborik and Sharp, Anisimov with Callahan and Dubisnky on the second line, and the young guys on the third line (and this guy Lundqvist ((?)) in net), now that is a team that can compete for the cup.
Give me a reason to get the champagne flowing baby.
... Fuck you Jagr. I loved you your entire career but to go from being the captain of a franchise who worshiped you to signing with one of our top rivals just because you got an extra 1 million dollars? Go to hell. I would have had much more respect for you if you went to the Penguins you piece of trash.
Lets be serious right now. The Rangers are offering what is speculated to be the least amount of money to Brad, he's still has not made a decision, and we are still considered a significant competitor in this ultimate sweepstakes. At the end of the day, that's got to feel pretty good doesn't it? With teams like Calgary offering Richards more than $7 million a year I truly find comfort in the fact that he hasn't made his decision yet.
If it was all about the money, Richards would not consider NYR an option in any way shape or form. This guy WANTS to wear the NYR Blue, and hopefully he chooses with his heart and not his wallet... I guess we will see how it all plays out, but for the time being I haven't given up any hope that Richards will still be our top line center next year.
Richards has openly said he doesn't want to sign a contract anywhere without a team not only committing to a long term deal, but that particular team having a real plan for winning the cup. If Richards has still not ruled out the Rangers as an option, you have to believe Sather has a move or two up his sleeve to bring in some more offensive firepower before next year's trade deadline. Like I previously stated a few days ago, it's time to give up some defensive depth and a prospect for a proven top line player (and as long as Richards has not ruled out NYR I will not rule out the possibility of trading for Patrick Sharp before he is an UFA). Maybe it seems like a bit of a reach, but Richards centering Gaborik and Sharp, Anisimov with Callahan and Dubisnky on the second line, and the young guys on the third line (and this guy Lundqvist ((?)) in net), now that is a team that can compete for the cup.
Give me a reason to get the champagne flowing baby.
... Fuck you Jagr. I loved you your entire career but to go from being the captain of a franchise who worshiped you to signing with one of our top rivals just because you got an extra 1 million dollars? Go to hell. I would have had much more respect for you if you went to the Penguins you piece of trash.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
The Richards Suitors
Free Agent Frenzy is almost upon us and Brad Richards is the biggest prize. The Rangers have been interested in acquiring Richards for nearly a year at this point and tomorrow they will have to opportunity to land him without giving up any assets.
But it's no guarantee Brad will be wearing Ranger Blue come October; Richard's agent expects to receive offers from up to 20 teams, although many of them will not meet many of Richards' demands. The team that Brad will end up on will be in a strong hockey market with a chance to go deep in the playoffs; Brad wants to win. He also believes this will be his final contract, therefore he wants to cash in and have the deal take him up until the day he retires.
Clearly not every team can provide Brad with his wishes, therefore there are a limited amount of players who will do their best to entice Brad tomorrow. Many believe these "players" include the Rangers, Leafs, Red Wings, Sabres and Lightning. Some of them seem to have exactly what Brad wants, others may have more of a certain wish of Brad's rather than all of them. Obviously this is a Rangers blog and we like to believe that we, with the help of Richards, can contend for the cup in a few years. That's yet to be seen, but what the Rangers do have going for them is this is a (fairly) strong hockey market and we have a young and up-and-coming team (another of Brad's desires). The problem is, Toronto and Buffalo share this in common, and they both will have more cap space than the Rangers. Toronto's young players may be a bit more far off than the Rangers' , but it's still something to consider.
Many insiders say that Brad's heart is still in Tampa, but will they have enough money to resign Stamkos this year, Hedman next year plus add Richards? And will the owners be willing to flip the bill to push the Bolts up to the max-salary tier the Rangers and Toronto are in? It's all yet to be seen, but I believe the bridges have been burned with Richards and Tampa and financially they cannot support his contract. Then there's Detroit. After the retirement of Rafalski the Wings have a little bit of money to play with. Obviously they will be contenders for the Cup, but it seems as if they would rather use that extra money to find a replacement for Rafalski than sign another center. Also from Richards' point of view, it's somewhat up in the air what this team might look like in the future with Lidstrom and Datsyuk getting older, that could be a turn off for him.
Richards will milk every team he can to get what he wants and I do not think he signs anywhere tomorrow, but if he does, you can bet he will get what he wants. The teams I've discussed all appear to be loading up for tomorrow and all of them will be strong suitors. It will come down to what Brad feels is the best overall situation for him, his career and his family. Despite what Larry Brooks of the New York Post said the other day, that Brad is telling those around him that he will be a Ranger come Friday, many others (including myself) believe the Rangers will be in a dogfight over #91.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Drury Bought Out/ How Certain Are You About Richards?
What started out as a potential nightmare for the Rangers has finally come to an end, and the 25th Captain has accepted a buy out to clear cap space for this upcoming free agency. Now before we all rejoice about all the money we now have available, and the fact that we don't have a 4th liner making $7 million a year, lets examine the facts.
Drury's cap hit was set at just over $5 million heading into the season, and it had already been predetermined he wasn't going to play. He was set to file for medical exception, which would have (at least for the time being) kept his cap hit on the team. This money would have been guarenteed, and Drury wouldn't have had to do anything except sign a piece of paper. Instead, like a real captain, he declined the medical exception, and accepted the buyout from the Rangers, and now his cap it is almost cut in half. If nothing else, this is what I will remember about his tenure in New York.
At this point, the Rangers are now in the top 8 (1 million short of #5) in the NHL as far as available cap space. Before you get too ahead of yourselves and declare Brad Richards a Ranger, remember that we must sign Callahan, Dubinsky, Anisimov, Boyle, Sauer (and quite possibly Prospal and Fedotenko). That being said, we should still have sufficient room to bring in the only real offensive threat in this seasons free agent class.
Let me ask you this before you cream your pants at the thought of Brad Richards feeding Marian Gaborik the puck on the top line as well as the powerplay; how badly do you really want Brad Richards? It's common knowledge that he wants this to be his last NHL contract, and only wants to go to a team that has a real chance to be a cup contender. He also wants anywhere from 7-8 years and will require top dollar. Far and away, Brad Richards would be the best top line center we've had since Nylander (Nylander Staka Jagr... fuck you haters), but by the time his contract is up he would be almost 39 years old. Even if we sign Brad Richards on July 1st, does anyone truly believe we are an instant cup contender? Sure, it'd be swell to make it out of the first round, but look at what the Flyers did last year. I'd rather get my shit handed to me right off the bat than go out in the manner in which they did.
Don't think that I don't (or even won't) support Richards if he comes to New York. Brad Richards is one of the best centers in the game right now. This will not be the typical Glen Sather signing where we blow our load on guys who won't produce in NY (Gomez, Drury, Redden, Kasper, Holik, yeah you get it), but in my mind this is a guy whose already peaked, and won't be able to play at this high level for the entirety of his contract. Even if he comes in and puts up 80 points in 2 straight years, you think he's going to be doing this when hes 34, 35, 36? I'd truly be amazed.
On the flip side, we really have something going on with this team. Callahan, Dubinsky, Anisimov get better and better every year, and now with Stepan and hopefully Zuccarello and (barring a likely trade) Krieder, we could have a really solid team here. Prust, Boyle and Avery on the 4th line sounds like a dream if Boyle would stop being such a giant pussy.
We have the best defensive depth in the NHL. It's only a matter of time before we unload some of it to bring in some talent up front. If Krieder refuses to play in NY, which it looks like he may, I'm all for shipping him in a package (say him and Del Zotto or Girardi) to Chicago for Patrick Sharp whose a UFA next season. Sharp-Richards-Gaborik and lock down Sharp before he hits the free agent market, then we will be looking at a real cup contender.
Like I said before, there is every argument in the world you can make for or against signing Brad Richards, and I think no matter what happens on July 1st Ranger fans will have something to smile about.
One last thing to think about: Tomas Fleischmann really seems to be developing into a decent player. If we can't bring in Richards, I'm all for giving him a shot with Stepan or Gaborik.
Drury's cap hit was set at just over $5 million heading into the season, and it had already been predetermined he wasn't going to play. He was set to file for medical exception, which would have (at least for the time being) kept his cap hit on the team. This money would have been guarenteed, and Drury wouldn't have had to do anything except sign a piece of paper. Instead, like a real captain, he declined the medical exception, and accepted the buyout from the Rangers, and now his cap it is almost cut in half. If nothing else, this is what I will remember about his tenure in New York.
At this point, the Rangers are now in the top 8 (1 million short of #5) in the NHL as far as available cap space. Before you get too ahead of yourselves and declare Brad Richards a Ranger, remember that we must sign Callahan, Dubinsky, Anisimov, Boyle, Sauer (and quite possibly Prospal and Fedotenko). That being said, we should still have sufficient room to bring in the only real offensive threat in this seasons free agent class.
Let me ask you this before you cream your pants at the thought of Brad Richards feeding Marian Gaborik the puck on the top line as well as the powerplay; how badly do you really want Brad Richards? It's common knowledge that he wants this to be his last NHL contract, and only wants to go to a team that has a real chance to be a cup contender. He also wants anywhere from 7-8 years and will require top dollar. Far and away, Brad Richards would be the best top line center we've had since Nylander (Nylander Staka Jagr... fuck you haters), but by the time his contract is up he would be almost 39 years old. Even if we sign Brad Richards on July 1st, does anyone truly believe we are an instant cup contender? Sure, it'd be swell to make it out of the first round, but look at what the Flyers did last year. I'd rather get my shit handed to me right off the bat than go out in the manner in which they did.
Don't think that I don't (or even won't) support Richards if he comes to New York. Brad Richards is one of the best centers in the game right now. This will not be the typical Glen Sather signing where we blow our load on guys who won't produce in NY (Gomez, Drury, Redden, Kasper, Holik, yeah you get it), but in my mind this is a guy whose already peaked, and won't be able to play at this high level for the entirety of his contract. Even if he comes in and puts up 80 points in 2 straight years, you think he's going to be doing this when hes 34, 35, 36? I'd truly be amazed.
On the flip side, we really have something going on with this team. Callahan, Dubinsky, Anisimov get better and better every year, and now with Stepan and hopefully Zuccarello and (barring a likely trade) Krieder, we could have a really solid team here. Prust, Boyle and Avery on the 4th line sounds like a dream if Boyle would stop being such a giant pussy.
We have the best defensive depth in the NHL. It's only a matter of time before we unload some of it to bring in some talent up front. If Krieder refuses to play in NY, which it looks like he may, I'm all for shipping him in a package (say him and Del Zotto or Girardi) to Chicago for Patrick Sharp whose a UFA next season. Sharp-Richards-Gaborik and lock down Sharp before he hits the free agent market, then we will be looking at a real cup contender.
Like I said before, there is every argument in the world you can make for or against signing Brad Richards, and I think no matter what happens on July 1st Ranger fans will have something to smile about.
One last thing to think about: Tomas Fleischmann really seems to be developing into a decent player. If we can't bring in Richards, I'm all for giving him a shot with Stepan or Gaborik.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
ECQF: Game 3 Preview
Corey Masisak from NHL.com is reporting that Bruce Boudreau has flip flopped his top 2 line centers for game 3, moving big Jason Arnott between Alex Ovechkin and Mike Knuble on the top line. This move intern drops Niklas Backstrom to the 2nd line, where he will be skating between Alex Semin and possibly Marco Strum. No matter who the 3rd player is on this line, this will likely be the move that puts the Washington Capitals over the top.
"The great 8" has burned the Rangers in this series in just about every way possible. Ovi has hurt them on the scoreboard, with his physical play, and just being the emotional leader the Capitals need him to be. In game 1, Ovechkin brought the puck down the left one 2 on 2, simply lowered his shoulder, and knocked Dan Girardi right off his feet. This play eventually lead to the game tying goal with less than 6 minutes remaining, a lead the Rangers are not used to giving up that late in a game. In Game 2, Ovi was back at it, taking runs at players such as Fedotenko, Prust, Girardi, Staal, and Boyle. The only one who was able to withstand an Ovechkin hit was Boyle, as the 6'7" center simply shrugged off the 6'2" Ovechkin.
With Ovechkin and the Capitals already dominating the physical game against the Rangers top defensive unit, the addition of Arnott with make it even more difficult to defend this gigantic unit with Knuble on the opposite wing.
The other aspect of this move is dropping Backstrom to the second line to play with Alex Semin. Now the Rangers will have a decision to make; do Staal and Girardi play against Ovechkin Knuble and Arnott where they have already been ineffective, or drop them to match up with the smaller more finesse styles of play Semin and Backstrom bring to the table. Keep in mind, the other defense pairs have their own issues. While McDonough and Sauer have played fairly well, they are both still rookies and don't have that real playoff experience. The third pair leaves you with McCabe and Gilroy, where McCabe is clearly not the skater he used to be and would likely not put up much of a fight for the speed and strength of Ovechkin.
The only real chance the Rangers will have to get back into this series in game 3 will be if they can somehow carry the offensive play much more than they have in the first 2 games. While Avery brought a lot of life in the lineup, Tortorella has not seemed to be able to find the right line combination to get his only offensive threats going. Marian Gaborik and Brandon Dubinsky must be better in game 3, and the Rangers must also find a way to win a few more faceoffs throughout the course of the game.
While Lundqvist has been superb, it is clear the Rangers will not sneak by the Capitals with his brilliance alone. If the Rangers have a slow start on home ice in game 3, this young inexperienced team may end up out of the run for the Stanley Cup far sooner than anticipated.
"The great 8" has burned the Rangers in this series in just about every way possible. Ovi has hurt them on the scoreboard, with his physical play, and just being the emotional leader the Capitals need him to be. In game 1, Ovechkin brought the puck down the left one 2 on 2, simply lowered his shoulder, and knocked Dan Girardi right off his feet. This play eventually lead to the game tying goal with less than 6 minutes remaining, a lead the Rangers are not used to giving up that late in a game. In Game 2, Ovi was back at it, taking runs at players such as Fedotenko, Prust, Girardi, Staal, and Boyle. The only one who was able to withstand an Ovechkin hit was Boyle, as the 6'7" center simply shrugged off the 6'2" Ovechkin.
With Ovechkin and the Capitals already dominating the physical game against the Rangers top defensive unit, the addition of Arnott with make it even more difficult to defend this gigantic unit with Knuble on the opposite wing.
The other aspect of this move is dropping Backstrom to the second line to play with Alex Semin. Now the Rangers will have a decision to make; do Staal and Girardi play against Ovechkin Knuble and Arnott where they have already been ineffective, or drop them to match up with the smaller more finesse styles of play Semin and Backstrom bring to the table. Keep in mind, the other defense pairs have their own issues. While McDonough and Sauer have played fairly well, they are both still rookies and don't have that real playoff experience. The third pair leaves you with McCabe and Gilroy, where McCabe is clearly not the skater he used to be and would likely not put up much of a fight for the speed and strength of Ovechkin.
The only real chance the Rangers will have to get back into this series in game 3 will be if they can somehow carry the offensive play much more than they have in the first 2 games. While Avery brought a lot of life in the lineup, Tortorella has not seemed to be able to find the right line combination to get his only offensive threats going. Marian Gaborik and Brandon Dubinsky must be better in game 3, and the Rangers must also find a way to win a few more faceoffs throughout the course of the game.
While Lundqvist has been superb, it is clear the Rangers will not sneak by the Capitals with his brilliance alone. If the Rangers have a slow start on home ice in game 3, this young inexperienced team may end up out of the run for the Stanley Cup far sooner than anticipated.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Post Game: ECQF Game 1
Last night the Rangers opened up their 2011 playoff campaign against the top seeded Washington Capitals. It's safe to say the Rangers came out looking like the eight seed, and can you blame them? The Verizon Center was rocking and the Rangers are a young team; a recipe for disaster. But that wasn't entirely the case. Lundqvist looked as sharp as he has the past 30 games and was the reason the Rangers were able to come out of the first period tied up, despite enormous pressure from the Caps.
The second period was different. the Rangers came out strong. They tightened up their defense and started getting the puck deep into Washington's end. Although they couldn't convert (Gaborik wide open in front comes to mind), you could tell that they were still in it and had a shot at taking game one.
The Rangers continued early in the third and finally buried one thanks to Brandon Prust's pursuit of the puck behind the enemy net. After winning the battle he kicked it over to Wolski who threw it in front to a wide open, pinching Gilroy who buried it.
With less than ten minutes reaming the Caps got it back. The initial shot was stopped by Lundqvist but the pressure the Caps applied in hopes of a rebound were too much. Ovechkin's stick knocked the semi-loose puck into the back of the net, and following video review, the official's call on the ice stood.
On to overtime, and here we saw a tired Rangers squad. A few early opportunities removed, the rangers applied basically no offense and it was obvious it was only a matter of time before the Caps penetrated Lundqvist to take game 1. It came off an outstanding play by Arnott on the boards to knock down Staal's clearing attempt which lead to a Semin one timer which Lundqvist had no shot at.
Now if you ask me, this was a good game for the Rangers. I saw a young team come out very shaky in the first and turn it around with a strong, defensibly responsible second period which showed that they could indeed make this an interesting series. It's obvious the team misses Callahan, but that's hockey. Drury and Prust were excellent. Prust was a beast along the boards while Drury also did his part in the corners, but more importantly, he went 6 for 8 in the faceoff circle. Dubinsky was invisible; it's obvious he misses Callahan. If i were Torts, Anisimov would be skating with Dubinsky in game 2, and Boyle would pivot for Prospal and Gaborik on the first line.
One thing I've noticed is the abuse Staal is getting for the overtime winner. I ask why? Staal was deep in his end, with no forwards available for a breakout pass, so what does one do when this occurs? Send it high off the glass. What did Staal do? Sent it high off the glass, but Arnott made a great play to keep it in just before Semin blasted a shot nobody would have saved. Staal made the right play, Arnott made the better play, that's hockey, I thought most would know that by now.
The second period was different. the Rangers came out strong. They tightened up their defense and started getting the puck deep into Washington's end. Although they couldn't convert (Gaborik wide open in front comes to mind), you could tell that they were still in it and had a shot at taking game one.
The Rangers continued early in the third and finally buried one thanks to Brandon Prust's pursuit of the puck behind the enemy net. After winning the battle he kicked it over to Wolski who threw it in front to a wide open, pinching Gilroy who buried it.
With less than ten minutes reaming the Caps got it back. The initial shot was stopped by Lundqvist but the pressure the Caps applied in hopes of a rebound were too much. Ovechkin's stick knocked the semi-loose puck into the back of the net, and following video review, the official's call on the ice stood.
On to overtime, and here we saw a tired Rangers squad. A few early opportunities removed, the rangers applied basically no offense and it was obvious it was only a matter of time before the Caps penetrated Lundqvist to take game 1. It came off an outstanding play by Arnott on the boards to knock down Staal's clearing attempt which lead to a Semin one timer which Lundqvist had no shot at.
Now if you ask me, this was a good game for the Rangers. I saw a young team come out very shaky in the first and turn it around with a strong, defensibly responsible second period which showed that they could indeed make this an interesting series. It's obvious the team misses Callahan, but that's hockey. Drury and Prust were excellent. Prust was a beast along the boards while Drury also did his part in the corners, but more importantly, he went 6 for 8 in the faceoff circle. Dubinsky was invisible; it's obvious he misses Callahan. If i were Torts, Anisimov would be skating with Dubinsky in game 2, and Boyle would pivot for Prospal and Gaborik on the first line.
One thing I've noticed is the abuse Staal is getting for the overtime winner. I ask why? Staal was deep in his end, with no forwards available for a breakout pass, so what does one do when this occurs? Send it high off the glass. What did Staal do? Sent it high off the glass, but Arnott made a great play to keep it in just before Semin blasted a shot nobody would have saved. Staal made the right play, Arnott made the better play, that's hockey, I thought most would know that by now.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Round 1 Game 1
2 huge topics here: Fundamentals and Officiating.
Where was the whistle? How long does Lundqvist need to freeze the puck before we blow the play dead? How many fucking times are we going to let Ovechkin swipe at that puck? And how the fuck does Alex Semin get an assist on a goal that is jammed in? Awful officiating.
All that aside, the game wasn't over. We can't cash in on our opportunities but how the fuck do you lose on a fundamental error. Fucking pathetic. You weren't out of the game by any means and you handed the Caps game 1 on a platter.
Where was the whistle? How long does Lundqvist need to freeze the puck before we blow the play dead? How many fucking times are we going to let Ovechkin swipe at that puck? And how the fuck does Alex Semin get an assist on a goal that is jammed in? Awful officiating.
All that aside, the game wasn't over. We can't cash in on our opportunities but how the fuck do you lose on a fundamental error. Fucking pathetic. You weren't out of the game by any means and you handed the Caps game 1 on a platter.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
It's a whole new game now
With the win today over the Devils and a truly unbelievable absolute gem of a game by Mike Smith, the Rangers drew the Capitals in the first round of the playoffs. Fucking unreal. What a season you could have easily counted this team out 2-3 times and they pull the perfect 1st round matchup.
As I'm sure most of you remember, the Rangers took 3/4 from the Capitals. The series began back in November with a 5-3 loss on Garden ice, a game in which they blew a 3-2 lead in the second. These teams met again a little of a month later where Callahan Dubinsky and Anisimov combined for 4 goals in a game that saw the Rangers put a 7 spot on the scoreboard while being perfect defensively, an incredible feet they managed to do 3 times this year (Toronto and Philadelphia being the others).
The Rangers took the remaining two games in Washington. The first was a Ranger come from behind shootout victory where believe it or not, but GABORIK had the game tying goal in the third. They proceeded to once again stomp out the Capitals, this time a 6-0 game that Eric Christensen had 2 goals and 2 assists for 4 points.
With the way this team has played defensively all season long, it wouldn't be too hard to envision a team very similar to Montreal in the playoffs. Losing Callahan was a huge blow, but this team has shown time and time again they will not quit on you. With Lundqvist in net, the Rangers match up perfectly with the Capitals. I'm sure no one has forgotten that series loss to the Capitals a few years ago, so maybe with a little better coaching the Rangers can pull off the upset.
What an amazing first round pull. This is the playoffs, and anything can happen now. This site will be up the entire playoffs as long as the Rangers are in it, and I will personally see to it that for every game there will be plenty of discussion if any other Ranger fans pumped for the playoffs want to talk about the best possible first round matchup they could have drawn.
As I'm sure most of you remember, the Rangers took 3/4 from the Capitals. The series began back in November with a 5-3 loss on Garden ice, a game in which they blew a 3-2 lead in the second. These teams met again a little of a month later where Callahan Dubinsky and Anisimov combined for 4 goals in a game that saw the Rangers put a 7 spot on the scoreboard while being perfect defensively, an incredible feet they managed to do 3 times this year (Toronto and Philadelphia being the others).
The Rangers took the remaining two games in Washington. The first was a Ranger come from behind shootout victory where believe it or not, but GABORIK had the game tying goal in the third. They proceeded to once again stomp out the Capitals, this time a 6-0 game that Eric Christensen had 2 goals and 2 assists for 4 points.
With the way this team has played defensively all season long, it wouldn't be too hard to envision a team very similar to Montreal in the playoffs. Losing Callahan was a huge blow, but this team has shown time and time again they will not quit on you. With Lundqvist in net, the Rangers match up perfectly with the Capitals. I'm sure no one has forgotten that series loss to the Capitals a few years ago, so maybe with a little better coaching the Rangers can pull off the upset.
What an amazing first round pull. This is the playoffs, and anything can happen now. This site will be up the entire playoffs as long as the Rangers are in it, and I will personally see to it that for every game there will be plenty of discussion if any other Ranger fans pumped for the playoffs want to talk about the best possible first round matchup they could have drawn.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
The future is here
For anyone who hasn't been listening to reports from around the league, there is not a single team in the Eastern Conference who wants to play the New York Rangers in the playoffs (prior to the most recent Callahan injury). If the playoffs started today, the Rangers would be facing the Washington Capitals, a team that New York has already taken 3/4 from, and a team that is currently without Alexander Semin. If Washington happens to top Philadelphia for the top seed in the East, the Rangers could draw the ailing Flyers in the first round. Living in Philadelphia, I can tel you the entire city is in disarray. Without Pronger, the Flyers are not as strong defensively, have a powerplay that makes the Rangers powerplay look like the best one in the league, and goaltending that is mediocre at best (and it shows with them recalling Leighton right before the playoffs). Had Callahan not suffered a broken leg by playing his game and laying out infront of a 100mph Zdeno Chara slapshot, the Rangers could not only pull out a first round upset, but really do some damage in an Eastern Conference that no one seems to want to run away with.
Last nights game vs the 3rd seeded Bruins was a defining moment for the New York Rangers franchise. 14 of the last 16 games against Boston have been 1 goal games (or 2 including an empty net) and it appeared for the first 30 minutes that this game would not be characteristic of these two teams. Vinny Prospal earned the first star of the game by jump starting the Rangers comeback and tallied twice in the 2nd period to pull the Rangers within 1. From that point on, every New York Ranger fan believed that this team would find a way to pull it out, especially earning a powerplay in the first 2 minutes of the third. When they didn't cash in, things began to look bleak as minutes seemed to just fall off the clock.
That's when the "future" leaders on this team took control and elevated their game. Callahan Anisimov and Dubinsky spent a good minute in the offensive zone before Callahan spun a beautiful backhand pass to Dubinsky infront of the net who buried it behind Thomas to tie the game. The once shell-shocked crowd erupted, and everyone in the Garden believed it would happen. Sure enough, Sauer cashed in less than 2 mintues later, and Stepan added an empty netter to seal the most remarkable win of the season.
Unfortunately, Callahan plays the way he does and it came back to bite the Rangers in the ass. Fearless and willing to do anything he must to propel his team to victory, Callahan blocked a Zdeno Chara slapshot and suffered a fractured ankle and is now out indefinitely. Although this is a major loss for the Blueshirts, maybe it is just what this team needs to develop into the resilient playoff contender we all hope they will. After such an inspiring performance by the heart and soul of this team, Callahan's departure leaves an opening for a handful of players to step up and become real impact players on this team.
Without Callahan I think we can all agree that the Rangers playoff run will not be as great as we all expected moments after the final horn sounded at the Garden last night. This team has 4 outstanding young rookies on it, and a solid core of young players who will all gain a lot from this experience. Come next season, barring any major injury, expect the Rangers to make a real run deep into the post season. Especially if Sather is able to land the rumored superstar brad Richards. Richards would finally give Gaborik the support he needs, and will keep the other teams top defensive pair off Anisimov Callahan and Dubinsky. With a little more freedom for that unit, don't be shocked when Callahan and Dubinsky break the 60 point mark, and Anisimov tops 50, all setting career highs.
At this point, (and I never thought I'd say this) pray the Rangers draw the Flyers in the first round. Briere is out of the lineup, Pronger's return is uncertain, and the Flyers goaltending is atrocious. Even without Callahan, the Rangers uptempo style of play and superb defensive play SHOULD be able to hold Philadelphia's dynamic offense at bay.
One more thing to note. Dan Girardi is the most underrated defensive defenseman in the NHL. He as well as Callahan jumped in front of a Zdeno Chara slapshot and was shaken up. Girardi and Callahan bring that intangibles to the Rangers' game, and this team CAN AND WILL make a real playoff run in the very near future.
Last nights game vs the 3rd seeded Bruins was a defining moment for the New York Rangers franchise. 14 of the last 16 games against Boston have been 1 goal games (or 2 including an empty net) and it appeared for the first 30 minutes that this game would not be characteristic of these two teams. Vinny Prospal earned the first star of the game by jump starting the Rangers comeback and tallied twice in the 2nd period to pull the Rangers within 1. From that point on, every New York Ranger fan believed that this team would find a way to pull it out, especially earning a powerplay in the first 2 minutes of the third. When they didn't cash in, things began to look bleak as minutes seemed to just fall off the clock.
That's when the "future" leaders on this team took control and elevated their game. Callahan Anisimov and Dubinsky spent a good minute in the offensive zone before Callahan spun a beautiful backhand pass to Dubinsky infront of the net who buried it behind Thomas to tie the game. The once shell-shocked crowd erupted, and everyone in the Garden believed it would happen. Sure enough, Sauer cashed in less than 2 mintues later, and Stepan added an empty netter to seal the most remarkable win of the season.
Unfortunately, Callahan plays the way he does and it came back to bite the Rangers in the ass. Fearless and willing to do anything he must to propel his team to victory, Callahan blocked a Zdeno Chara slapshot and suffered a fractured ankle and is now out indefinitely. Although this is a major loss for the Blueshirts, maybe it is just what this team needs to develop into the resilient playoff contender we all hope they will. After such an inspiring performance by the heart and soul of this team, Callahan's departure leaves an opening for a handful of players to step up and become real impact players on this team.
Without Callahan I think we can all agree that the Rangers playoff run will not be as great as we all expected moments after the final horn sounded at the Garden last night. This team has 4 outstanding young rookies on it, and a solid core of young players who will all gain a lot from this experience. Come next season, barring any major injury, expect the Rangers to make a real run deep into the post season. Especially if Sather is able to land the rumored superstar brad Richards. Richards would finally give Gaborik the support he needs, and will keep the other teams top defensive pair off Anisimov Callahan and Dubinsky. With a little more freedom for that unit, don't be shocked when Callahan and Dubinsky break the 60 point mark, and Anisimov tops 50, all setting career highs.
At this point, (and I never thought I'd say this) pray the Rangers draw the Flyers in the first round. Briere is out of the lineup, Pronger's return is uncertain, and the Flyers goaltending is atrocious. Even without Callahan, the Rangers uptempo style of play and superb defensive play SHOULD be able to hold Philadelphia's dynamic offense at bay.
One more thing to note. Dan Girardi is the most underrated defensive defenseman in the NHL. He as well as Callahan jumped in front of a Zdeno Chara slapshot and was shaken up. Girardi and Callahan bring that intangibles to the Rangers' game, and this team CAN AND WILL make a real playoff run in the very near future.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Fuck all you non believers
If you are a Ranger fan, how can you not be absolutely in love with this team? Amongst the youngest teams in the NHL, the leaders on this team are not even 27 yet. Their allstar goalie is back to his old self come the playoff push, and guys are finally finding their place in the lineup.
I have been bashing Anisimov all season waiting for him to break out, and it finally looks like he is there. Anisimov now has 3 2pt games in the last 6 overall, and in 9 games this month has 10 points (5 goals 5 assists). He is not being pushed off the puck, he is in on the forecheck, and he is finally showing that chemistry with Callahan and Dubinsky.
And for all you people who don't like Vinny Prospal, go fuck yourself. You see what having him back in the lineup does for Marian Gaborik? Prospal now has 17 points in 20 games since returning to the lineup, and with the 'top line' actually producing, this takes the other teams top checking units and defense pairs off of the Callahan Dubinsky Anisimov line. As long as Gaborik is a Ranger, I am perfectly content with Prospal being on his opposite wing. Once the Rangers (hopefully) bring in Brad Richards, Sather should absolutely sign Prospal to another 1 year contract. Prospal and Richards played together under Torts in Tampa Bay and won a cup, and that combination with Gaborik on the other wing is absolutely deadly.
The biggest problem for this team (other than consistency) is what to do defensively. Lets look ahead to next season for a moment. Assume McCabe isn't resigned like he shouldn't be. Staal Girardi your top D pair. Sauer and McDunough are definitely making the team again next season. This leaves Eminger Gilroy Del Zotto and Dylan Mcilrath. A top prospect in the system, you have to assume he is going to be in consideration for a spot on the roster next season. As much as I have enjoyed Gilroy this season, I cannot justify giving him a contract this off season. The Rangers have a very talented young defensive core and Gilroy just does not have a future with this team. Steve Eminger. Honestly, I am a huge Eminger fan. He plays a tough game, and unfortunately he may not have a place on this team either come next season.
The Rangers have now won 6 of their last 7 including beating the Penguins on the road where we all know the Rangers get royally fucked by the refs. Fuck you Cindy Crosby. If the Rangers can finish the season in the 7th spot and draw the Capitals, we have a real shot to make a playoff run. The Rangers match up well with the Caps, having a 3-1 record against them this season.
Anyone else have the playoff beard going? You know I do.
I have been bashing Anisimov all season waiting for him to break out, and it finally looks like he is there. Anisimov now has 3 2pt games in the last 6 overall, and in 9 games this month has 10 points (5 goals 5 assists). He is not being pushed off the puck, he is in on the forecheck, and he is finally showing that chemistry with Callahan and Dubinsky.
And for all you people who don't like Vinny Prospal, go fuck yourself. You see what having him back in the lineup does for Marian Gaborik? Prospal now has 17 points in 20 games since returning to the lineup, and with the 'top line' actually producing, this takes the other teams top checking units and defense pairs off of the Callahan Dubinsky Anisimov line. As long as Gaborik is a Ranger, I am perfectly content with Prospal being on his opposite wing. Once the Rangers (hopefully) bring in Brad Richards, Sather should absolutely sign Prospal to another 1 year contract. Prospal and Richards played together under Torts in Tampa Bay and won a cup, and that combination with Gaborik on the other wing is absolutely deadly.
The biggest problem for this team (other than consistency) is what to do defensively. Lets look ahead to next season for a moment. Assume McCabe isn't resigned like he shouldn't be. Staal Girardi your top D pair. Sauer and McDunough are definitely making the team again next season. This leaves Eminger Gilroy Del Zotto and Dylan Mcilrath. A top prospect in the system, you have to assume he is going to be in consideration for a spot on the roster next season. As much as I have enjoyed Gilroy this season, I cannot justify giving him a contract this off season. The Rangers have a very talented young defensive core and Gilroy just does not have a future with this team. Steve Eminger. Honestly, I am a huge Eminger fan. He plays a tough game, and unfortunately he may not have a place on this team either come next season.
The Rangers have now won 6 of their last 7 including beating the Penguins on the road where we all know the Rangers get royally fucked by the refs. Fuck you Cindy Crosby. If the Rangers can finish the season in the 7th spot and draw the Capitals, we have a real shot to make a playoff run. The Rangers match up well with the Caps, having a 3-1 record against them this season.
Anyone else have the playoff beard going? You know I do.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Rangers clinging to 7th in East with shootout victory over San Jose
In a game that no one was giving the Rangers any odds, the blueshirts pulled out an impressive 3-2 shootout victory against another one of the West's red hot teams. Henrik Lundqvist was finally back to being the king in net, and backstopped the Rangers with 31 saves on 33 shots while San Jose carried the play for most of the game.
While this game is a story within itself, lets explore the big picture right now. With this win, the Rangers are back in 7th in the east with 76 points. Buffalo, after a devastating loss last night in Toronto, sits in 8th with 74 points but has 2 games in hand. Carolina has found it difficult to get points of late, posting a 3-5-2 record in their 10 contests. After a crushing 3-2 loss at the hands of the Blue Jackets, the Canes have fallen even further out of the 8th and final playoff spot. Carolina now has 72 points in 69 games and no longer controls their own destiny.
_______________________________________________________GR__ W_____ L___ OT___ PTS
While the Rangers have posted a 7-10-1 record since the Allstar break, their overall play has not been of concern. The Rangers have been a hard working grind it out team all season, and last night's victory over the San Jose Sharks not only proves that the Rangers can play with any team in the NHL, but you cannot count this team out of the playoffs just yet.
The biggest concern for the New York Rangers right now should be the New Jersey Devils. The Devils have left everyone flabbergasted by posting a 22-3-2 since Jan. 9th to put themselves in position to make a real run at the 8th and final playoff spot. If Zach Parise finds himself healthy enough to play even 5 of the Devils remaining 14 games, the Rangers will have to watch their heals. It is shaping up to be a very interesting matchup on the final day of the season, where the Rangers host the Devils at the Garden in a game that will most likely have playoff implications riding on it similar to last year's crushing defeat at the hands of the Flyers.
The Rangers control their own destiny at this point. If they can continue to keep up the intensity and the emotion that they have been playing with of late, don't be surprised if the Rangers not only make the playoffs, but play a very good series against the #1 or #2 seed in the East.
While this game is a story within itself, lets explore the big picture right now. With this win, the Rangers are back in 7th in the east with 76 points. Buffalo, after a devastating loss last night in Toronto, sits in 8th with 74 points but has 2 games in hand. Carolina has found it difficult to get points of late, posting a 3-5-2 record in their 10 contests. After a crushing 3-2 loss at the hands of the Blue Jackets, the Canes have fallen even further out of the 8th and final playoff spot. Carolina now has 72 points in 69 games and no longer controls their own destiny.
_______________________________________________________GR__ W_____ L___ OT___ PTS
| 5 | SE | 69 | 38 | 22 | 9 | 85 | ||||||||||
| 6 | NE | 69 | 38 | 24 | 7 | 83 | ||||||||||
| 7 | ATL | 70 | 36 | 30 | 4 | 76 | ||||||||||
| 8 | NE | 68 | 33 | 27 | 8 | 74 | ||||||||||
| 9 | SE | 69 | 31 | 28 | 10 | 72 | ||||||||||
| 10 | NE | 69 | 30 | 29 | 10 | 70 | ||||||||||
| 11 | SE | 69 | 29 | 28 | 12 | 70 | ||||||||||
| 12 | ATL | 68 | 32 | 32 | 4 | 68 |
While the Rangers have posted a 7-10-1 record since the Allstar break, their overall play has not been of concern. The Rangers have been a hard working grind it out team all season, and last night's victory over the San Jose Sharks not only proves that the Rangers can play with any team in the NHL, but you cannot count this team out of the playoffs just yet.
The biggest concern for the New York Rangers right now should be the New Jersey Devils. The Devils have left everyone flabbergasted by posting a 22-3-2 since Jan. 9th to put themselves in position to make a real run at the 8th and final playoff spot. If Zach Parise finds himself healthy enough to play even 5 of the Devils remaining 14 games, the Rangers will have to watch their heals. It is shaping up to be a very interesting matchup on the final day of the season, where the Rangers host the Devils at the Garden in a game that will most likely have playoff implications riding on it similar to last year's crushing defeat at the hands of the Flyers.
The Rangers control their own destiny at this point. If they can continue to keep up the intensity and the emotion that they have been playing with of late, don't be surprised if the Rangers not only make the playoffs, but play a very good series against the #1 or #2 seed in the East.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Playoffs?
I'm finally coming around. This team isn't making the playoffs. The fact that they can't win on home ice has really become a problem. An under 500 record at the Garden is just not acceptable anymore. Until this inexperienced Ranger team can learn to win at the Garden, the Rangers will continue to be in a fight for their playoff lives.
Look at 7-11 in the East. Would anyone honestly be surprised at this point if the fucking Devils make the playoffs? Especially with the word that Parise is skating again. If he gets back in that Devil lineup, they are making the fucking playoffs.
Buffalo played a fairly good game at the Garden last night. I would still say the Rangers lost that game rather than the Sabres win it, but somehow they walked away with 2 points at the Garden while we ended up with nothing. Rangers made Miller look like a fucking god in net, and if this team continues to be hot Buffalo could easily surpass the Rangers. They have 3 games in hand and are 3 points back.
As if that wasn't bad enough, you still have to worry about Carolina sitting in 8th. Cam Ward won that team a cup, and he can very easily catch fire. Paul Maurice already said publicly that Cam Ward enjoys playing back to back games. Eric Staal is having an awesome season, and if Skinner continues to put up points like he did in the first half, the Rangers will really have their hands full.
Thankfully Sather was able to do one thing right this deadline. Brad Richards was not worth the rental. At this point the Rangers have to be considered the front runner to land him on July 1st. Why trade away anything when you can sign him in a few months? Brian McCabe has also been a pleasant surprise. Although his defensive game may not be as good anymore, it is relieving to see someone who can handle the puck on the blueline for a change. With Staal's offensive game beginning to show this season, the Rangers could have a #1 powerplay pair. Defense hasn't been the problem for the Rangers so bringing in McCabe wasn't the worst move.
Marty Biron was a fucking disaster. If the Rangers do have any shot at making the playoffs now, Lundqvist is going to have to be unbeatable. Lundqvist will have to play every game, and we need to hope that the games he did get off during the season will be enough of a rest for him. He always seems to step his game up right before the playoffs, so I wouldn't be shocked if the Rangers were alright in net.
Living in Philadelphia fucking sucks. Flyers fans don't know shit about hockey. They all believe that Bobrovsky is the answer (or Boucher for that matter). While he has played well for a rookie, lets just be happy that Flyers didn't look to unload some depth for Tomas Vokoun. With all the moves that Florida made, it's rather odd that Vokoun wasn't moved. He probably has the most value on that Panther team. If the Flyers ever do solve that goaltending problem, they could be very difficult to beat, as if it wasn't hard enough already.
Also, take a look. If you could, rank your top 10 goalies in the nhl overall and name a few who didnt make the cut. Be realistic, I'm curious to hear how you view impact goalies around the league.
Look at 7-11 in the East. Would anyone honestly be surprised at this point if the fucking Devils make the playoffs? Especially with the word that Parise is skating again. If he gets back in that Devil lineup, they are making the fucking playoffs.
Buffalo played a fairly good game at the Garden last night. I would still say the Rangers lost that game rather than the Sabres win it, but somehow they walked away with 2 points at the Garden while we ended up with nothing. Rangers made Miller look like a fucking god in net, and if this team continues to be hot Buffalo could easily surpass the Rangers. They have 3 games in hand and are 3 points back.
As if that wasn't bad enough, you still have to worry about Carolina sitting in 8th. Cam Ward won that team a cup, and he can very easily catch fire. Paul Maurice already said publicly that Cam Ward enjoys playing back to back games. Eric Staal is having an awesome season, and if Skinner continues to put up points like he did in the first half, the Rangers will really have their hands full.
Thankfully Sather was able to do one thing right this deadline. Brad Richards was not worth the rental. At this point the Rangers have to be considered the front runner to land him on July 1st. Why trade away anything when you can sign him in a few months? Brian McCabe has also been a pleasant surprise. Although his defensive game may not be as good anymore, it is relieving to see someone who can handle the puck on the blueline for a change. With Staal's offensive game beginning to show this season, the Rangers could have a #1 powerplay pair. Defense hasn't been the problem for the Rangers so bringing in McCabe wasn't the worst move.
Marty Biron was a fucking disaster. If the Rangers do have any shot at making the playoffs now, Lundqvist is going to have to be unbeatable. Lundqvist will have to play every game, and we need to hope that the games he did get off during the season will be enough of a rest for him. He always seems to step his game up right before the playoffs, so I wouldn't be shocked if the Rangers were alright in net.
Living in Philadelphia fucking sucks. Flyers fans don't know shit about hockey. They all believe that Bobrovsky is the answer (or Boucher for that matter). While he has played well for a rookie, lets just be happy that Flyers didn't look to unload some depth for Tomas Vokoun. With all the moves that Florida made, it's rather odd that Vokoun wasn't moved. He probably has the most value on that Panther team. If the Flyers ever do solve that goaltending problem, they could be very difficult to beat, as if it wasn't hard enough already.
Also, take a look. If you could, rank your top 10 goalies in the nhl overall and name a few who didnt make the cut. Be realistic, I'm curious to hear how you view impact goalies around the league.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
McCabe was a steal
Anyone else agree that a guy on the point who can actually handle the puck is so nice to see? McCabe may not be what he once was, but the guy can really run a powerplay. They definitely still need to move the puck faster and Prospal cannot take a 1 timer to save his life, but it's an improvement. Maybe when Staal is healthy we can actually have a #1 pair on the powerplay.
3/1 Pregame: Buffalo Sabres Vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers 33-27-4 70 pts 7th in East
Buffalo Sabres 29-25-7 65 pts 9th in East
18 games remaining in the regular season for the Rangers and it's easy to say the Rangers playoff hopes rely solely on the shoulders of one man: Henrik Lundqvist. Rangers backup goalie Marty Biron suffered a broken collarbone during practice, so the Rangers have recalled Cam Talbot to back up Lundqvist the rest of the way. With Sather not having picked up a goalie prior to the trade deadline at 3PM yesterday, the Rangers will have to rely heavily on the King and if they want to have any chance of making the playoffs he will need to continue to be the Vezina trophy candidate he has become year in and year out.
At the deadline, Buffalo waived their captain Craig Rivet in order to clear cap and make room in the lineup for a much younger defense core, and also brought in Brad Boyes from St. Louis in exchange for a 2nd round pick. Boyes might just be one of the missing pieces for the Sabres, but the Rangers can dampen their playoff dreams tonight at the Garden with a big win.
Rangers are currently 2-0 this season against Buffalo with a 3-2 win at the Garden and who can forgot Stepan's opening night hat trick in the Rangers 6-3 victory in Buffalo.
More roster updates to come throughout the day.
Buffalo Sabres 29-25-7 65 pts 9th in East
18 games remaining in the regular season for the Rangers and it's easy to say the Rangers playoff hopes rely solely on the shoulders of one man: Henrik Lundqvist. Rangers backup goalie Marty Biron suffered a broken collarbone during practice, so the Rangers have recalled Cam Talbot to back up Lundqvist the rest of the way. With Sather not having picked up a goalie prior to the trade deadline at 3PM yesterday, the Rangers will have to rely heavily on the King and if they want to have any chance of making the playoffs he will need to continue to be the Vezina trophy candidate he has become year in and year out.
At the deadline, Buffalo waived their captain Craig Rivet in order to clear cap and make room in the lineup for a much younger defense core, and also brought in Brad Boyes from St. Louis in exchange for a 2nd round pick. Boyes might just be one of the missing pieces for the Sabres, but the Rangers can dampen their playoff dreams tonight at the Garden with a big win.
Rangers are currently 2-0 this season against Buffalo with a 3-2 win at the Garden and who can forgot Stepan's opening night hat trick in the Rangers 6-3 victory in Buffalo.
More roster updates to come throughout the day.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Biron Out Indefinitely
Rangers back-up goalie Martin Biron suffered a fractured collarbone today in practice and is expected to be out indefinitely. Cam Talbot recalled to replace him.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
REPORT: Rangers acquire McCabe
Bob McKenzie is reporting the Rangers have acquired Bryan McCabe from the Panthers for Tim Kennedy and a 3rd round pick. More to come.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Another disappointing deadline
Another promising season going down the fucking drain? There is definitely not a more frustrating organization in all of sports. Glenn Sather is a fucking moron adn we all know it. Appears to be another trade deadline where he does nothing but a minor move only a few days before the deadline at best.
Anyone happen to read the article on NHL.com about Neil Smith today? One of the best pieces I've read about anything having to do with this organization in years. Smith was able to unload some talented players in order to build a perfect cup contending team. Sometimes it's not about having the best players or the best lineup, but having the right role players in your organization.
So with all the moves made this deadline, is there anything you can think of that you would have done differently thus far? Granted there are still 3 days remaining before we reach the deadline, but here's a look at what I would have done if I was Glenn Sather....
1) Made a bigger push for Cory Stillman. Yes, he's aged. But lets face facts, the Rangers cannot score goals. Stillman would have added some much needed experience up front and could have found a place in the lineup next to Vinny Prospal, and hopefully Marian Gaborik. Stillman is a UFA at the end of the season, so having him as a rental really could not have hurt this team anymore than having another unproductive forward upfront.
2) I know a lot of you are going to disagree with this, and rightfully so, but I would have claimed Zherdev off waivers when the Flyers decided they didn't need him anymore. Face it, this guy just has flatout talent. His problem has always been motivation, and that's definitely a huge folly but what would have happened if we put him with guys like Gaborik and Prospal? That's a pretty fucking talented line right there, and one that would probably find a way to produce. Prospal has looked excellent since returning from his knee injury, if only Gaborik wasn't a piece of fucking glass. Yet again, Zherdev is a UFA at the end of the season, so there is absolutely no pressure to sign him if it doesn't pan out.
3) Are you honestly going to tell me that with all the depth the Rangers have with defensive prospects (Gilroy Del Zotto Sauer McDonough not to mention Eminger who in my opinion has been one of the best defenseman for the Rangers this season) the Rangers couldn't make a move to get some experience back there? This team needs an experienced defenseman to man the blueline for them and run the powerplay.
4) Which leads me into my final point. Bring in McCabe. McCabe throughout his career has shown he can handle being the pointman on the top powerplay unit. It's not too late, and for the third time, he is a UFA at the end of the season.
Bottom line, I am so fucking frustrated with Sather. He's been fucking terrible his entire tenure in New York, and with teams like Carolina Buffalo Atlanta all making some sort of moves to add depth, don't be surprised when the Rangers fall out of a playoff spot for the second season in a row.
.... And fuck the New Jersey Devils. I am so fucking sick of this franchise. I was beginning to think Parise would opt out of Jersey at the end of this season, and Kovalchuk seems to have found his game. Every fucking season with this team
For more about how much Sather fucking sucks, I found this link entertaining. Take a look.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/313510-top-10-worst-glen-sather-moves-of-the-past-decade
Anyone happen to read the article on NHL.com about Neil Smith today? One of the best pieces I've read about anything having to do with this organization in years. Smith was able to unload some talented players in order to build a perfect cup contending team. Sometimes it's not about having the best players or the best lineup, but having the right role players in your organization.
So with all the moves made this deadline, is there anything you can think of that you would have done differently thus far? Granted there are still 3 days remaining before we reach the deadline, but here's a look at what I would have done if I was Glenn Sather....
1) Made a bigger push for Cory Stillman. Yes, he's aged. But lets face facts, the Rangers cannot score goals. Stillman would have added some much needed experience up front and could have found a place in the lineup next to Vinny Prospal, and hopefully Marian Gaborik. Stillman is a UFA at the end of the season, so having him as a rental really could not have hurt this team anymore than having another unproductive forward upfront.
2) I know a lot of you are going to disagree with this, and rightfully so, but I would have claimed Zherdev off waivers when the Flyers decided they didn't need him anymore. Face it, this guy just has flatout talent. His problem has always been motivation, and that's definitely a huge folly but what would have happened if we put him with guys like Gaborik and Prospal? That's a pretty fucking talented line right there, and one that would probably find a way to produce. Prospal has looked excellent since returning from his knee injury, if only Gaborik wasn't a piece of fucking glass. Yet again, Zherdev is a UFA at the end of the season, so there is absolutely no pressure to sign him if it doesn't pan out.
3) Are you honestly going to tell me that with all the depth the Rangers have with defensive prospects (Gilroy Del Zotto Sauer McDonough not to mention Eminger who in my opinion has been one of the best defenseman for the Rangers this season) the Rangers couldn't make a move to get some experience back there? This team needs an experienced defenseman to man the blueline for them and run the powerplay.
4) Which leads me into my final point. Bring in McCabe. McCabe throughout his career has shown he can handle being the pointman on the top powerplay unit. It's not too late, and for the third time, he is a UFA at the end of the season.
Bottom line, I am so fucking frustrated with Sather. He's been fucking terrible his entire tenure in New York, and with teams like Carolina Buffalo Atlanta all making some sort of moves to add depth, don't be surprised when the Rangers fall out of a playoff spot for the second season in a row.
.... And fuck the New Jersey Devils. I am so fucking sick of this franchise. I was beginning to think Parise would opt out of Jersey at the end of this season, and Kovalchuk seems to have found his game. Every fucking season with this team
For more about how much Sather fucking sucks, I found this link entertaining. Take a look.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/313510-top-10-worst-glen-sather-moves-of-the-past-decade
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
2/22 Pregame: New York Rangers Vs Carolina Hurricanes
New York Rangers 31-26-4 66 pts 7th in East
Carolina Hurricanes 28-24-8 64 pts 8th in East
I really am getting tired of saying this is another must win for the Rangers. With only 21 games remaining, the Rangers must accrue as many points as possible. With surging teams behind them like the Buffalo Sabres and, I hate to say it, but the New Jersey Devils, the Rangers cannot allow any points to slip away, especially to a team that is directly behind them in the standings.
The Rangers come into this game with a 2-7-1 mark in their last 10, and not a whole lot of confidence to boot. Frustration is apparent on the faces of the disgruntled Rangers' faces, and it has begun to show in their play. The biggest key to tonight's matchup with the 'Canes... get on the scoresheet first. The Rangers have scored first just 1 time in their last 8 games, and although they lead the NHL in points when trailing after 2 periods (17), a lead would take much of the pressure away from a Ranger team that is having confidence issues.
Tonight's matchup is the perfect opportunity to put some distance between them and the 'Canes, as the 'Canes are just 3-5-2 in their last 10. The 'Canes have owned the Rangers thus far this season, posting a 2-0-1 mark against them in 3 matchups. If the Rangers can keep captain Eric Staal at bay, they will have a good chance to take 2 points from Carolina.
Lundqvist was the first goalie off the ice during the morning skate, so we can expect to see him trying to fight off a storm tonight in Carolina. Expect to see an Allstar duel in goal tonight.
As the deadline approaches, it's yet to be seen whether or not the Rangers will make any moves. While rumors around Gaborik continue to swirl, Sather has yet to improve this Ranger team for a playoff push, and maybe that is for the better. The Rangers are not a cup contender this season, and are better off holding onto their assets and signing Brad Richards this off season.
Key Notes: Marian Gaborik did not make the trip with the Rangers
Carolina Hurricanes 28-24-8 64 pts 8th in East
I really am getting tired of saying this is another must win for the Rangers. With only 21 games remaining, the Rangers must accrue as many points as possible. With surging teams behind them like the Buffalo Sabres and, I hate to say it, but the New Jersey Devils, the Rangers cannot allow any points to slip away, especially to a team that is directly behind them in the standings.
The Rangers come into this game with a 2-7-1 mark in their last 10, and not a whole lot of confidence to boot. Frustration is apparent on the faces of the disgruntled Rangers' faces, and it has begun to show in their play. The biggest key to tonight's matchup with the 'Canes... get on the scoresheet first. The Rangers have scored first just 1 time in their last 8 games, and although they lead the NHL in points when trailing after 2 periods (17), a lead would take much of the pressure away from a Ranger team that is having confidence issues.
Tonight's matchup is the perfect opportunity to put some distance between them and the 'Canes, as the 'Canes are just 3-5-2 in their last 10. The 'Canes have owned the Rangers thus far this season, posting a 2-0-1 mark against them in 3 matchups. If the Rangers can keep captain Eric Staal at bay, they will have a good chance to take 2 points from Carolina.
Lundqvist was the first goalie off the ice during the morning skate, so we can expect to see him trying to fight off a storm tonight in Carolina. Expect to see an Allstar duel in goal tonight.
As the deadline approaches, it's yet to be seen whether or not the Rangers will make any moves. While rumors around Gaborik continue to swirl, Sather has yet to improve this Ranger team for a playoff push, and maybe that is for the better. The Rangers are not a cup contender this season, and are better off holding onto their assets and signing Brad Richards this off season.
Key Notes: Marian Gaborik did not make the trip with the Rangers
Saturday, February 19, 2011
12/20 Pregame: Philadelphia Flyers Vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers 31-25-4 66 pts 7th in East
Philadelphia Flyers 38-15-5 81 pts 1st in East
There is not a single team in the NHL I despise as much as the Philadelphia Flyers. Having lived in Philadelphia for the last 4 years, I can tell all of you that there is not a city in the world that has more bandwagon fans. The better the Flyers do, the more fans they have. Fuck this fucking team. You want to know how hard it is to have an intelligent conversation with a Flyer fan? Not possible.
The Flyers have recently brought in Kris Versteeg from Toronto in exchange for a 1st round and 3rd round draft pick. Clearly this team is all or nothing this year. Anything short of the Stanley Cup is a disappointment for a Flyer team that had the easiest road to the cup finals last season. Nothing seems to slow down this team, and it will take an extraordinary effort on behalf of the Broadway Blueshirts to shut down this dynamic offensive team.
The last time these two teams met, the Flyers took an early 3-0 lead on the Rangers, only to hold on for dear life in a game that saw the Rangers put forth a pitiful effort until the 3rd period. At that point, the Rangers were a mere 6 points out of 1st place in the East. Now, the Flyers and Rangers have gone different directions as the Rangers are struggling for playoff life.
The Rangers may have a bit of luck on their side, as Flyers captain Mike Richards missed Friday night's game with flu-like symptoms. With any luck, Richards will miss out on Sunday;s matinee at the Garden. It's still up in the air as to who will start Tuesday's matchup, I would expect to see Marty Biron between the pipes. Although Lundqvist appears to have snapped out of his recent funk, Biron has played well enough to earn a start against one of his former teams, and with the Rangers fighting to keep their heads above water Lundqvist will need to start most of hte Rangers' remaining games.
AGAIN, LUNDQVIST BETWEEN THE PIPES FOR THIS GAME. TORTORELLA ISN'T TAKING ANY CHANCES
What are the chances the Rangers are going to walk away with the 2 points? Only time will tell. The Rangers have proven time and time again that they are not a team that should be counted out, while at the same time have not played well enough to say they are amongst the elite of the NHL.
Philadelphia Flyers 38-15-5 81 pts 1st in East
There is not a single team in the NHL I despise as much as the Philadelphia Flyers. Having lived in Philadelphia for the last 4 years, I can tell all of you that there is not a city in the world that has more bandwagon fans. The better the Flyers do, the more fans they have. Fuck this fucking team. You want to know how hard it is to have an intelligent conversation with a Flyer fan? Not possible.
The Flyers have recently brought in Kris Versteeg from Toronto in exchange for a 1st round and 3rd round draft pick. Clearly this team is all or nothing this year. Anything short of the Stanley Cup is a disappointment for a Flyer team that had the easiest road to the cup finals last season. Nothing seems to slow down this team, and it will take an extraordinary effort on behalf of the Broadway Blueshirts to shut down this dynamic offensive team.
The last time these two teams met, the Flyers took an early 3-0 lead on the Rangers, only to hold on for dear life in a game that saw the Rangers put forth a pitiful effort until the 3rd period. At that point, the Rangers were a mere 6 points out of 1st place in the East. Now, the Flyers and Rangers have gone different directions as the Rangers are struggling for playoff life.
The Rangers may have a bit of luck on their side, as Flyers captain Mike Richards missed Friday night's game with flu-like symptoms. With any luck, Richards will miss out on Sunday;s matinee at the Garden. It's still up in the air as to who will start Tuesday's matchup, I would expect to see Marty Biron between the pipes. Although Lundqvist appears to have snapped out of his recent funk, Biron has played well enough to earn a start against one of his former teams, and with the Rangers fighting to keep their heads above water Lundqvist will need to start most of hte Rangers' remaining games.
AGAIN, LUNDQVIST BETWEEN THE PIPES FOR THIS GAME. TORTORELLA ISN'T TAKING ANY CHANCES
What are the chances the Rangers are going to walk away with the 2 points? Only time will tell. The Rangers have proven time and time again that they are not a team that should be counted out, while at the same time have not played well enough to say they are amongst the elite of the NHL.
Friday, February 18, 2011
2/18 Pregame: New York Rangers Vs New Jersey Devils
New York Rangers 31-24-4 66 pts 7th in east
New Jersey Devils 23-30-4 50 pts 13th in east
Don't let the records fool you. Tonight's matchup in at the Prudential Center in Newark will be no cake walk for the struggling Rangers. The Devils come into this game with an impressive 8-1-1 mark in their last 10, and have been getting it done without the likes of Martin Brodeur. On the flip side, the Rangers have won 2 in a row after dropping 6 straight and look to continue their stellar play on the road this season.
The Rangers come into this game having won two straight on home ice, and look to carry their success with them to Newark. Although clearly not the way coach Tortorella scripted it, the Rangers managed to pull out a gritty 4-3 shootout victory over the red hot LA Kings. For the second time this season, a team on a tear has come into the Garden only to walk away baffled and disappointed (Rangers defeated Vancouver 1-0 when Vancouver was on a 14-0-3 run back on January 13th). Last night's victory saw the Rangers blow 2 1 goal third period leads in a matter of minutes, a blown 4 on 3 powerplay in overtime, and a mix of some fantastic goaltending to some terribly soft goals.
Just when it appeared Henrik Lundqvist was back on his game after making multiple big saves in the first, the king was tagged for 3 pitiful goals and the Rangers needed a shootout to prevail over the Kings' backup goaltender.
Seeing as Lundqvist got the nod last night, expect to see Marty Biron in net tonight in Newark. Biron has been very solid of late, and was one of the only bright spots for the Rangers when they were in a 6 game losing skid. On the flip side, Ilya Kovalchuk seems to have found his place in the New Jersey lineup. Although unlikely he will net 40 this season (first time since 02-03) he has been very hot of late, and the Rangers will have to keep a very close eye on him.
LATEST REPORT: LUNDQVIST IN NET TONIGHT AGAINST THE DEVILS
With a win tonight, the Rangers would find themselves only 1 point out of 6th in the Eastern Conference. Seeing as the Rangers don't match up particularly well with the #1 seeded Flyers and #2 seeded Lightning, it is imperative that they make a push for 6th and likely draw the Bruins, or it could be another 1 and done playoffs for the Rangers.
New Jersey Devils 23-30-4 50 pts 13th in east
Don't let the records fool you. Tonight's matchup in at the Prudential Center in Newark will be no cake walk for the struggling Rangers. The Devils come into this game with an impressive 8-1-1 mark in their last 10, and have been getting it done without the likes of Martin Brodeur. On the flip side, the Rangers have won 2 in a row after dropping 6 straight and look to continue their stellar play on the road this season.
The Rangers come into this game having won two straight on home ice, and look to carry their success with them to Newark. Although clearly not the way coach Tortorella scripted it, the Rangers managed to pull out a gritty 4-3 shootout victory over the red hot LA Kings. For the second time this season, a team on a tear has come into the Garden only to walk away baffled and disappointed (Rangers defeated Vancouver 1-0 when Vancouver was on a 14-0-3 run back on January 13th). Last night's victory saw the Rangers blow 2 1 goal third period leads in a matter of minutes, a blown 4 on 3 powerplay in overtime, and a mix of some fantastic goaltending to some terribly soft goals.
Just when it appeared Henrik Lundqvist was back on his game after making multiple big saves in the first, the king was tagged for 3 pitiful goals and the Rangers needed a shootout to prevail over the Kings' backup goaltender.
Seeing as Lundqvist got the nod last night, expect to see Marty Biron in net tonight in Newark. Biron has been very solid of late, and was one of the only bright spots for the Rangers when they were in a 6 game losing skid. On the flip side, Ilya Kovalchuk seems to have found his place in the New Jersey lineup. Although unlikely he will net 40 this season (first time since 02-03) he has been very hot of late, and the Rangers will have to keep a very close eye on him.
LATEST REPORT: LUNDQVIST IN NET TONIGHT AGAINST THE DEVILS
With a win tonight, the Rangers would find themselves only 1 point out of 6th in the Eastern Conference. Seeing as the Rangers don't match up particularly well with the #1 seeded Flyers and #2 seeded Lightning, it is imperative that they make a push for 6th and likely draw the Bruins, or it could be another 1 and done playoffs for the Rangers.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
2/17 Pregame: Los Angeles Kings Vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers 30-24-4 64 points 7th in East
Los Angeles Kings 32-22-3 67 points 9th in West
Another big game at the Garden tonight as the Rangers look to build off their 5-3 victory over an extremely hot Los Angeles Kings team. Don't be fooled by the Kings being in 9th place as the West is very competitive. The Kings are in 5th place in the Pacific division, but are only 2 points out of the division lead.
With only 24 games remaining in the regular season, it goes without saying that the Rangers must take the 2 points tonight, and this will be no easy task against a Kings team that has come away with points in 10 straight (8-0-2). The Kings have been able to get it done without the production of one of the most talented centers in the game, as Anze Kopitar has only 2 goals in his last 22 games.
The Rangers should have the edge in net tonight. This is assuming of course that the king is the king. Henrik Lundqvist will be between the pipes tonight looking down at Jonathan Bernier 200ft away. Lundqvist has been very shaky of late, and will need to be back in playoff form tonight against a very skilled Kings team.
The Kings come into the Garden after a hard fought battle with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where they came away with the Win in the shootout. The Rangers will need to avoid that usual slow start or this game could be over before it even begins. If they can come out with a high energy game, it is very likely they will give the 9th place Kings a run for their money.
Los Angeles Kings 32-22-3 67 points 9th in West
Another big game at the Garden tonight as the Rangers look to build off their 5-3 victory over an extremely hot Los Angeles Kings team. Don't be fooled by the Kings being in 9th place as the West is very competitive. The Kings are in 5th place in the Pacific division, but are only 2 points out of the division lead.
With only 24 games remaining in the regular season, it goes without saying that the Rangers must take the 2 points tonight, and this will be no easy task against a Kings team that has come away with points in 10 straight (8-0-2). The Kings have been able to get it done without the production of one of the most talented centers in the game, as Anze Kopitar has only 2 goals in his last 22 games.
The Rangers should have the edge in net tonight. This is assuming of course that the king is the king. Henrik Lundqvist will be between the pipes tonight looking down at Jonathan Bernier 200ft away. Lundqvist has been very shaky of late, and will need to be back in playoff form tonight against a very skilled Kings team.
The Kings come into the Garden after a hard fought battle with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where they came away with the Win in the shootout. The Rangers will need to avoid that usual slow start or this game could be over before it even begins. If they can come out with a high energy game, it is very likely they will give the 9th place Kings a run for their money.
REALISTIC Deadline Options
Alright so I think it's time for some trade possibilities that aren't completely outlandish. The Rangers aren't trading Gaborik and they aren't getting Stastny, but I think there are a few guys the Rangers could (and possibly should) be looking at. Steve Zipay has reported that Sather is willing to part with a prospect and one of two second round picks currently in the Ranger's possession if a deal comes around that addresses the Rangers current issues and does not compromise the core of the team. Lets take a look at a few possible remedies.
Ian White
There have been rumblings for says now that he is on the outs in Carolina already. He was even excluded from the team's morning skate yesterday and in a statement the team suggested that they may trade him if they get the deal they're looking for. That should be the Rangers cue. White is a solid puck-moving defenseman who could definitely improve the team's anemic powerplay. He's bounced around a bit, and that may have something to do with his small stature, but the guy can shoot the puck and make plays from the back; something the Rangers have lacked since Del Zotto has fallen off the face of the earth.
Now some of you may be saying what about Kaberle, he's available and highly talented, plus hes a UFA at the seasons end, but there are several reasons why Kaberle is NOT the best option. The biggest thing with Kaberle is that he is going to be very expensive. At the deadline, offensive defenseman are a HOT commodity, and Kaberle is an excellent talent that the Leafs are going to sell very high. Second off, he brings no physicality to the table. The Rangers have become a hard working, physical team, and if a player your bringing in can't play that way, then stay away. Lastly, he has no shot from the point. The man is all assists, and while that may complement some teams (Bruins for example, Kaberle feeding Chara on the point on the powerplay is a scary thought), the Rangers need a guy who can blast it from the point. White can do both, and I have a feeling he wont be too expensive, certainly not anywhere near the price of Kaberle.
Stephen Weiss
A first line center. No, not a premier, all-star center, but a damn good one indeed. Florida is probably going to have a fire-sale this deadline and Stephen Weiss looks like he may be on the move. He's a great passer of the puck and a solid two-way guy who could bring some spring back to Gaborik's step. He though is also not very physical, but if he would connect with Gaborik and they could get solid offensive chemistry going, I don't think his lack fof physicality is going to play too much of a role.
Weiss also has two years left on his contract. This could be a problem if the Rangers actually do have intentions of signing Brad Richards this off-season. But if they don't and the price is right, Weiss is a good option up the middle that could give the team the closest thing to a first line center since Michael Nylander.
Cory Stillman
Yes, he is an old man now, but he can still play. Stillman has also won the Cup with the Hurricanes and Lightening (with Torts) in back-to-back years. A crafty vet may help the Rangers offense, especially come playoff time. The guy knows how to get it down in a grueling playoff series and he would provide some much needed leadership; leadership that Drury has failed to provide for this team.
I think he will come cheap. I mean the dude is 37 years old. I can't imagine much more than a 3rd round pick will be requested of him. He is a UFA at the end of the season, but he is also a winger. We don't REALLY need another winger, but injuries happen and maybe Dubinsky will find himself at center again before the season is through, possibly opening up a spot for Stillman on left wing. If the Rangers don't grab him, somebody will. He has too much experience and skill to not be moved.
The Rangers always seem to do something come deadline day, and with there being several issues that need addressing (1st line center, puck-moving D-man), and several options available its hard to see the Rangers sitting pat. My first choice would be White, simply because we need a puck moving guy in the back and because I want Brad Richards, and if we acquire Weiss we wont have cap space. So Glenn if you're reading this: White is available, get it done.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
What's the peak for Dubi?
As a Ranger fan there are two guys we cannot get enough of, Ryan Callahan and Brandon Dubinsky. While neither of them have ever eclipsed the 45 point mark in their 4 years in the NHL, both of them are having what appears to be a breakout season, as Dubinsky has 19 goals and 23 assits for 42 points in 53 games, and Callahan has 14 goals and 14 assists for 28 points in 38 games. If these two continue to produce, neither of them should have any problem reaching the 45 point plateau.
But just how good is Brandon Dubinsky? In this his 4th pro season (he played 6 games in 06-07 so im neglecting that), Dubi is about to reach 20 goals for the second time in his career. Still only 24, Dubi can only and will only get better. While he may be more skilled than a player like Ryan Callahan, they both play a similar style of game; they both get in the corners take the body block shots and work hard to put up points. In my opinion, these two need to stay on the same line as they seem to be a perfect complement to each other.
Had Dubinsky played the entire 82 game season this year and not missed any time with injury, he would be on pace for 65 points in 82 games. Clearly, a very big breakout season for a guy whose former career high was 44 points. Dubi has become a pivotal role player on this very young Ranger team, and will very likely receive either an A or the C when Drury is gone in 1 year, and he deserves it. Whether its playing big minutes on the penalty kill, or fighting the Flyers captain Mike Richards, Dubi is going to be one hell of a leader in this organization.
But where does his potential become a reality? At what point can we say, "okay, Dubi put up ___ points this year, your typical Dubi productive season?" I think his growth has much more to do with the players around him than with Dubinsky himself.
In my mind, the ideal line for Dubinsky is playing the wing with Anisimov up the middle and Callahan on the other wing. While this line has struggled of late, I cannot put this blame on Dubinsky. I put it ALL on Anisimov. The 22 year old Russian is in his second season with the Rangers. Putting up 28 points his rookie campaign in 82 games, Anisimov has already surpassed this total with 12 goals and 17 assists for 29 points in 58 games. If this pace continues, Anisimov should end up right around the 40 point mark for the season. Sounds awfully familiar to Dubinsky. At 6' 4" and only 197lbs, Anisimov needs to bulk up and start playing with more confidence, and he will easily produce at the same rate Dubinsky is producing.
Dubi and Anisimov
So if you have a guy like Anisimov able to produce steadily, isn't it safe to say Dubi (along w Callahan) will easily eclipse the 65 point mark every season? Hopefully by the time Anisimov has developed into the player we all hope he can be, he will be a big rugged center w/ superb hands, and will fit in perfectly between Callahan and Dubinsky.
I hate to say it, but I truly feel that Dubinsky's progress is beyond his control. Over the years he has been put with guys like Jagr and Gaborik, and while it may have worked in brief stints, there has been no consistency there. I just get the feeling that his place is on the wing with Anisimov and Callahan, and in a few years every guy on this line could easily be putting up 70+ points.
But just how good is Brandon Dubinsky? In this his 4th pro season (he played 6 games in 06-07 so im neglecting that), Dubi is about to reach 20 goals for the second time in his career. Still only 24, Dubi can only and will only get better. While he may be more skilled than a player like Ryan Callahan, they both play a similar style of game; they both get in the corners take the body block shots and work hard to put up points. In my opinion, these two need to stay on the same line as they seem to be a perfect complement to each other.
Had Dubinsky played the entire 82 game season this year and not missed any time with injury, he would be on pace for 65 points in 82 games. Clearly, a very big breakout season for a guy whose former career high was 44 points. Dubi has become a pivotal role player on this very young Ranger team, and will very likely receive either an A or the C when Drury is gone in 1 year, and he deserves it. Whether its playing big minutes on the penalty kill, or fighting the Flyers captain Mike Richards, Dubi is going to be one hell of a leader in this organization.
But where does his potential become a reality? At what point can we say, "okay, Dubi put up ___ points this year, your typical Dubi productive season?" I think his growth has much more to do with the players around him than with Dubinsky himself.
In my mind, the ideal line for Dubinsky is playing the wing with Anisimov up the middle and Callahan on the other wing. While this line has struggled of late, I cannot put this blame on Dubinsky. I put it ALL on Anisimov. The 22 year old Russian is in his second season with the Rangers. Putting up 28 points his rookie campaign in 82 games, Anisimov has already surpassed this total with 12 goals and 17 assists for 29 points in 58 games. If this pace continues, Anisimov should end up right around the 40 point mark for the season. Sounds awfully familiar to Dubinsky. At 6' 4" and only 197lbs, Anisimov needs to bulk up and start playing with more confidence, and he will easily produce at the same rate Dubinsky is producing.
Dubi and Anisimov
So if you have a guy like Anisimov able to produce steadily, isn't it safe to say Dubi (along w Callahan) will easily eclipse the 65 point mark every season? Hopefully by the time Anisimov has developed into the player we all hope he can be, he will be a big rugged center w/ superb hands, and will fit in perfectly between Callahan and Dubinsky.
I hate to say it, but I truly feel that Dubinsky's progress is beyond his control. Over the years he has been put with guys like Jagr and Gaborik, and while it may have worked in brief stints, there has been no consistency there. I just get the feeling that his place is on the wing with Anisimov and Callahan, and in a few years every guy on this line could easily be putting up 70+ points.
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