11/6/11 Rangers vs. Winnipeg Jets

It's my happening baby, and it freaks me out.

Rangers against the Winnipeg Jets.

The Rangers meet the Jets again for the second time in two weeks, this time on MSG ice. The Rangers capped off a "scratch and claw" game yesterday against the Montreal Canadiens to the score of 5-3. Dan Girardi, Brad Richards, Michael Del Zotto, Ryan Callahan, and Erik Christensen all chipped in for the Rangers on their goals as the scoring for the Blueshirts is spreading onto all fronts and line.

The last time the Rangers played the Jets, Martin Biron was in net, and he lead the Rangers making 27 saves. Along with that, both the Rangers goals by Ruslan Fedotenko and Ryan Callahan wee scored on the powerplay. That is another good sign for the Rangers: their powerplay is clicking. That can be attributed to the addition of Brad Richards, who is undoubtedly in my mind, the smartest mind on the ice for the Rangers. His passing is smooth, and he has been able to chip in for the Rangers at times when it is needed.

The Jets are also gaining ground after a lame start to their season. They have not been completely left behind in the standings yet, but they failed to pull two points from New Jersey yesterday as they lost in overtime. Former Ranger Nik Antropov has done well for his team, as he leads the Jets with three goals and eight assists as the Jets look to do some consistent winning in this league.



The Diagnosis


Both of these teams played hard fought games yesterday, so the fatigue factor is fairly even. As an attendant to last nights game, I can say the Garden was rocking, and now that the Rangers are in the midst of a three-game win streak, it'll be just as loud tonight. If the Rangers can come out and be smart with the puck, they can take control of the game early on, and put two points up on the board for the Rangers in the standings.

The Prediction


Rangers win 2-1

Marian Gaborik will score the first goal late in the 1st period.
Michael Sauer will get the second goal for the Ranges coming late in the 2nd.
Nik Antropov will get the lone goal for the Jets half way through the 3rd.

Enjoy the game!