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
Lundqvist in.
ReplyDeleteNewbury in.
McCabe rumors intensify.
Must win game tonight.