What on God's green Earth was that?!
In case some of you were lucky enough to not know the Rangers were playing today, I'll quickly recap what went down. To break things down, the Rangers played their ugliest game of this season, losing to the Islanders 6-2. I, myself, personally shut the game off after the third goal because I was not about to watch some half-assed effort to try and stay in the playoffs.
The Rangers scored the first goal of the game, but then slowly but surely collapsed before my very eyes. To put things into perspective, Trevor Gillies scored. The man why has missed 20+ games this year due to suspension, scored a goal. That alone stands to testify how badly the Rangers played tonight.
Now, the Rangers are even closer to having last years atrocity at the end of the season repeat itself again. Right at the worst possible time, the Rangers, after going on quite a stretch of wins, are starting to lose when everyone else around them in the standings is picking up their play.
What the hell is wrong with these guys? Did someone not tell them this game is very, very important for their chances at a playoff spot? I don't understand how this team, knowing how dire the consequences can be if they don't win, can go out and play the worst game of the season. It's not even one individuals fault, it's an entire team failing as one, and it blows my mind.
I was really looking forward to making a happy celebratory post for my 100th post on here, but unfortunately, that isn't going to happen. Unless the Rangers go on some kind of run winning all five of their last games, its going to be a really tough end of a season to watch as a Rangers fan.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
3/31/11 Rangers vs. Islanders
Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.The final saga between the Rangers and Islanders will take place tonight on Long Island as the Rangers look to provide some more cushion to a potential playoff spot (which they will get). The Rangers took a tough loss to Buffalo yesterday, but it did not seem like the Rangers looked like they had any serious issues to overcome in that game. Give credit to Buffalo for shutting down the Rangers throughout the game, supplying backup Jhonas Enroth with quite a bit of protection. But tonight, the Rangers are going to have to take full control of the reigns against the Islanders. The Rangers have had trouble putting the puck in the net as of recent, but have also done a good job of keeping a lot of pucks out of their own net. The Rangers have had some great success against the Islanders this season, winning four out of their five meetings, all four consecutively. Marian Gaborik has scored six goals against the Islanders so far this season. Him being big factor in tonights game is a must for the Rangers success. The Rangers are currently tied with the Buffalo Sabres, and the Carolina Hurricanes are right below them. A win tonight will tie the Rangers with the Montreal Canadiens, and put them ahead of the Sabres who are off tonight.
The Islanders are in the midst of a three game losing streak, the longest streak of losses it seems since they changed coaches to Jack Capuano. The Islanders are mathematically eliminated, but that will not be a reason for them to just roll over and lose tonight. The Islanders sent out ex-Rangers goalie prospect Al Montoya between the pipes last time these two teams met. After a dismal two periods, the Islanders replaced him with Nathan Lawson, the fourth goalie to face the Rangers for the Islanders this season. Along with that, the Islanders are missing some key players in captain Doug Weight, Milan Jurcina and Bruno Gervais. Jurcina and Gervais are both defensemen, which means the defense is lacking some depth, something the Rangers would want to try and exploit.
My Diagnosis
The Rangers are lucky to have three days of rest, because they're schedule is really picking up now that its over. Despite playing a game 24 hours ago, the Rangers are going to need to be alert, and not try to make the fancy play. the grinding game has worked for the Rangers so far this season against the Islanders, and swaying from that now would be a terrible mistake. Throw pucks at the net, fore-check, and takeaway the neutral zone. If they can execute that well enough, they have a good shot of taking these two points from the Islanders tonight.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
3/30/10 Rangers vs. Sabres
Buckle up, y'all.
Rangers against the Buffalo Sabres.
First off, I apologize for the lack of content these past three days. This has been the longest time I haven't posted anything, mainly because there was literally NOTHING going on in the Rangers universe this week. But now were back, and I like it. Tonight is a very big night for the Rangers, as they face the 8th place Sabres, who are just two points behind the Rangers in the Eastern Conference. The Rangers have performed well against the Sabres so far this season, taking two out of the three games already played. The Rangers have been on fire as of late, and hopefully carry that intensity over into tonights game, because they are going to need it. None of the teams below the Rangers are giving up easily on the season. Carolina won last night in a shootout against Washington, to keep them hanging around the standings. The Rangers need to keep their foot on the gas until they have mathematically clinched a spot.
The Sabres have also been doing very well heading down the home stretch, going 6-3-1 in their last ten games. A win for them tonight will pull them even with the Rangers, and give them the 7th seed, for they will have more regulation wins than the Rangers. The Sabres will be without key members of their lineup in Derek Roy and Jordan Leopold, who won't be returning until next season. However, despite those significant injuries, the Sabres have managed to perform exceptionally well, and should not be taken lightly tonight by the Rangers.
My Diagnosis
The Rangers need to carry that physical edge that shined in the Boston game last Saturday. Blocking shots, and hitting are are going to be the key to beating the Sabres tonight. That has been the key to this 8-1-1 run the Rangers are currently on, and it will continue to propel them if they stick to the game plan. Along with that, the Rangers have been well rested. More importantly, Henrik Lundqvist has been well rested these past three days, after a much needed break after starting 20 consecutive games. If the Rangers can stick to their game plan, they can walk away with a victory tonight.
My Predictions
Since the past two games between these teams have ended in a score of 3-2, I'm feeling that might happen once again.
Rangers win 3-2.
Ryan Callahan will get the initial goal for the Rangers half way through the 1st.
Thomas Vanek will get the first goal for the Sabres also in the 1st,
Derek Stepan will get the second goal for the Rangers early in the 2nd to jump ahead.
Marian Gaborik will follow up promptly with a goal of his own to make it 3-1.
And finally, Tim Connolly will get the final goal for the Sabres late in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Rangers against the Buffalo Sabres.
First off, I apologize for the lack of content these past three days. This has been the longest time I haven't posted anything, mainly because there was literally NOTHING going on in the Rangers universe this week. But now were back, and I like it. Tonight is a very big night for the Rangers, as they face the 8th place Sabres, who are just two points behind the Rangers in the Eastern Conference. The Rangers have performed well against the Sabres so far this season, taking two out of the three games already played. The Rangers have been on fire as of late, and hopefully carry that intensity over into tonights game, because they are going to need it. None of the teams below the Rangers are giving up easily on the season. Carolina won last night in a shootout against Washington, to keep them hanging around the standings. The Rangers need to keep their foot on the gas until they have mathematically clinched a spot.The Sabres have also been doing very well heading down the home stretch, going 6-3-1 in their last ten games. A win for them tonight will pull them even with the Rangers, and give them the 7th seed, for they will have more regulation wins than the Rangers. The Sabres will be without key members of their lineup in Derek Roy and Jordan Leopold, who won't be returning until next season. However, despite those significant injuries, the Sabres have managed to perform exceptionally well, and should not be taken lightly tonight by the Rangers.
My Diagnosis
The Rangers need to carry that physical edge that shined in the Boston game last Saturday. Blocking shots, and hitting are are going to be the key to beating the Sabres tonight. That has been the key to this 8-1-1 run the Rangers are currently on, and it will continue to propel them if they stick to the game plan. Along with that, the Rangers have been well rested. More importantly, Henrik Lundqvist has been well rested these past three days, after a much needed break after starting 20 consecutive games. If the Rangers can stick to their game plan, they can walk away with a victory tonight.
My Predictions
Since the past two games between these teams have ended in a score of 3-2, I'm feeling that might happen once again.
Rangers win 3-2.
Ryan Callahan will get the initial goal for the Rangers half way through the 1st.
Thomas Vanek will get the first goal for the Sabres also in the 1st,
Derek Stepan will get the second goal for the Rangers early in the 2nd to jump ahead.
Marian Gaborik will follow up promptly with a goal of his own to make it 3-1.
And finally, Tim Connolly will get the final goal for the Sabres late in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Recapping the Rangers/Bruins 3/26/11
The Rangers managed to stand tall in the face of adversity once again, shutting out the Boston Bruins on away ice. The Rangers scored a lone goal once again, coming off of a face off deflection by Derek Stepan in the 1st period.
The Rangers were superb defensively throughout the first two periods, doing a wonderful job of fore-checking and getting takeaways in the neutral zone.
Sean Avery returned to the lineup today, subbing out Mats Zuccarello. Avery threw some punches with Gregory Campbell early in the 1st, and helped out quite a bit on the defensive side of the puck. Despite being sat the past six games, I feel that this was a good idea to sup bout Zuccarello with Avery. Not to say that Zuccarello doesn't have skill to play in this league, but the Bruins are a massive MASSIVE team, and putting Zuccarello out on the ice against players like Zdeno Chara and Milan Lucic would have been kamikaze for Zuccarello.
One thing the Rangers really performed well in was they were blocking shots from ever getting to Henrik Lundqvist, who recorded his eleventh career shutout, a new career best, in his 400th NHL game. Lundqvist performed well through the shots he faced through the first two periods, and then really turned on the jets when the barrage of shots came in the 3rd to hold the shutout in tact.
In all, it was a good bounce-back win to keep the playoff push going for the Rangers. The Rangers are now currently tied with Montreal in the standings, and if the Rangers manage to overtake the Canadiens, there is a good possibility of the Rangers having to play Boston in the first round of the playoffs. Hold tight, things are about to get really interesting in the Eastern Conference.
The Rangers were superb defensively throughout the first two periods, doing a wonderful job of fore-checking and getting takeaways in the neutral zone.Sean Avery returned to the lineup today, subbing out Mats Zuccarello. Avery threw some punches with Gregory Campbell early in the 1st, and helped out quite a bit on the defensive side of the puck. Despite being sat the past six games, I feel that this was a good idea to sup bout Zuccarello with Avery. Not to say that Zuccarello doesn't have skill to play in this league, but the Bruins are a massive MASSIVE team, and putting Zuccarello out on the ice against players like Zdeno Chara and Milan Lucic would have been kamikaze for Zuccarello.
One thing the Rangers really performed well in was they were blocking shots from ever getting to Henrik Lundqvist, who recorded his eleventh career shutout, a new career best, in his 400th NHL game. Lundqvist performed well through the shots he faced through the first two periods, and then really turned on the jets when the barrage of shots came in the 3rd to hold the shutout in tact.
In all, it was a good bounce-back win to keep the playoff push going for the Rangers. The Rangers are now currently tied with Montreal in the standings, and if the Rangers manage to overtake the Canadiens, there is a good possibility of the Rangers having to play Boston in the first round of the playoffs. Hold tight, things are about to get really interesting in the Eastern Conference.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
3/24/11 Rangers vs. Senators
Teach me how to Dubi, teach me, teach me how to Dubi.Rangers against the Ottawa Senators.
For the first time this season, the Rangers are in the midst of a five game winning streak. And boy, did they choose the right time to do it. the Rangers have had a persistent following from the Carolina Hurricanes and Buffalo Sabres as each of them looks to stay in contention for the playoffs. The Rangers have a little bit of a cushion, but nothing one that should make them feel too comfortable for too long. Henrik Lundqvist recorded his tenth shutout of the season against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers did a fine job of holding the neutral zone for a majority of that game, and that will be a key for another victory tonight against the Senators. Another bit of good news is that Marc Staal, who has sat for the Rangers for the past two games with an undisclosed injury, has a possibility of returning to the lineup tonight at MSG. One thing I did notice watching the Florida game that troubled me was the lack of shots taken during the one power-play that the Rangers got. Despite being stood up on the blue line a few times, when the puck entered the zone, not a lot of shots were even considered at good opportunities. Craig Anderson, goalie for the Senators, is returning to the pipes tonight, and the best way to welcome him back would be to test him as much as possible.
Despite being at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, the Senators have not lied down yet. The Senators are 6-4-0 in their last ten games, and are looking to fight until the end of the season despite being mathematically eliminated from the playoffs already. The Senators will be without a lot of players tonight. Captain Daniel Alfredsson, Matt Carkner, Peter Regin, and Milan Michalek will all sit tonight. However, Jason Spezza has been lighting the lamp for the Senators during these injury trials, scoring 4 goals and getting 6 assists in his last seven games. Make no mistake, the Senators will not just roll over for tonights game.
My Diagnosis
Neither Buffalo nor Carolina are playing tonight, which makes perfect sense why the Rangers should be amped up beyond their normal levels for tonights game. Tonight is their chance to get a little bit of a jump on those two teams to give them some more breathing room in the standings, and potentially move closer to the Montreal Canadiens, who are currently three points ahead of the Rangers. I'm anticipating a big game from Brandon Dubinsky as well. Dubinsky, the only goal scorer in the game against Florida, has looked very well over the past few games, and I believe that will carry over into tonights game.
Mt Predictions
Rangers win 4-2
Brandon Dubinsky will get the initial goal for the Rangers in the 1st.
Jason Spezza will tie it up to end the 1st.
Brian Boyle will tally a goal for the Rangers early in the 2nd.
Derek Stepan will pot another for the Rangers also in the 2nd.
Eric Condra will pull the Senators within one goal late in the 2nd.
And finally, Wojtek Wolski will get the final gol for the Rangers in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
3/22/11 Rangers vs. Panthers
Rangers against the Florida Panthers.
For the final time this season, the Rangers and Panthers will meet at MSG. The Rangers are currently in the midst of a four game win steak, their first since December of 2009. The Rangers have turned on the jets at the most opportune time to separate themselves from the 9th place Carolina Hurricanes. The Rangers managed to face down adversity in the form of an nasty illegal elbow dealt to defenseman Ryan McDonagh from Penguins forward Matt Cooke, as well as giving up a shorthanded goal to the Penguins shortly after to pull out a decisive 5-2 victory over the Pens two days ago. The Rangers were without defenseman Marc Staal for that game, and it's been reported that he did not practice after that game either due to a knee injury. Along with him, Matt Cooke elbow recipient Ryan McDonagh also did not practice on Monday. Both defenseman are questionable for tonights game. However, watch for Bryan McCabe to be a factor in the Rangers' game tonight. the former captain of the Panthers who came over o the Rangers at the trade deadline will probably inform the team of a few in's and out's of his former team.
The Panthers have managed to beat the Rangers twice so far this season. Tomas Vokoun has played strong against the Rangers in the wins for the Panthers, and tonight might not be any different. However, the Panthers are down quite a few players. Scott Timmins, Rostislav Olesz, Jack Skille, Shawn Matthias, and Alexander Sulzer are all out for the Panthers. Many of those players are forwards, so that may prove to be a big weak spot in the scoring department for the Panthers.
My Diagnosis
Tonight is a crucial game for both of these teams. The Rangers need this win in order to stay head of Buffalo and Carolina who both play tonight, and the Panthers need this win in order to keep themselves in the playof hunt, for they are not mathematically eliminated yet. However, I believe this game will head in the Rangers favor tonight because of the relentless pressure they have been putting on lately, and the injured lineup of the Panthers will have a hard time containing that.
My Predictions
Rangers win 3-1
Ryan Callahan will get the initial goal for the Rangers half way through the 1st period.
Stephen Weiss will tie the game also in the 1st.
Erik Christensen will pull the Rangers ahead early in the 2nd.
And Brian Boyle will cap the game off in the 2nd as well.
Enjoy the game!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Matt Cooke Suspended 14+ Games
Ladies and gentlemen, justice has been brought to to the wicked.Matt Cooke, long time NHL forward, agitator, and cheap shot artist has been suspended for the remainder of the regular season, which consists of ten more games for the Penguins, as well as the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Cooke will also be losing $219,512.20 in salary from the games he misses.
Cooke, who had been suspended once already this season, was up to his normal antics in New York when he delivered a blindside elbow to the head of Rangers defenseman Ryan McDonagh. McDonagh was not seriously injured, but Cooke was escorted off the ice and given a 5-minute game-misconduct penalty. At the time of the elbow, the game was tied 1-1. The Penguins managed to score shorthanded, but the Rangers quickly used Cooke's actions as motivation and scored four goals in the 3rd period to win the game 5-2. (video below)
Cooke's track record more than likely played a part in his suspension, for he has been suspended multiple times throughout his years he's been in the NHL. Earlier this season, Cooke was suspended after delivering a similar elbow to the head of Bruins center Marc Savard. Savard suffered a serious concussion and was pronounced to not be able to return to the lineup for the remainder of this season, and possibly longer considering Marc Savard's history with concussions. To see more of Matt Cooke's cheap shots throughout the year, check out his history of violence, provided by Tolensky.com.
A question that is going to be brewing among the NHL fan base is going to be: is Cooke's suspension going to be enough? Will Matt Cooke learn from this harsh punishment and never throw another elbow in his career? The answer is: probably not.
Cooke has been in the league since 1998. Clearly, throughout countless reprimands from the league, teams, and Evander Kane, Matt Cooke has still not learned his lesson. It's hard to believe that after such a long stretch of aggression, Cooke is finally going to be born again and be some hockey saint after this incident. My only hopes as a hockey fan are that Cooke gets scratched from more and more games so that he can no longer potentially deliver any more blows like this to another player ever again.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Recapping the Rangers/Penguins 3/20/11
First off, my apologies for not providing a pre-game post like normal. Today is my final day of spring break, and I wanted to enjoy the sleep.
Defense was solid during the first half of the game by the Rangers, allowing one goal on a miscommunication between Girardi and Eminger. Jordin Staal broke free from the pack and tied the game after Anisimov's tip-in in front of the net earlier. The second period was not very eventful, for these teams were saving it all for the third.
The drama began with Matt Cooke being, well, his normal dirty self by throwing an elbow to the head of Ryan McDonagh. Cooke received a five-minute game-misconduct penalty. During that penalty kill, Chris Kunitz managed to break free short-handed, and rifled it by Lundqvist. Following that, Matt Niskanen found himself taking a high sticking penalty after hitting soon-to-be captain Ryan Callahan on the bridge of the nose, bloodying him. Niskanen received a four-minute double minor for this event.
Marian Gaborik managed to find the back of the net for the Rangers after a hard-fought battle in-front of Marc-Andre Fleury. And promptly eleven seconds later, Ryan Callahan came in on a bad angle and sneaked one by the shoulder of Fleury, top shelf where momma hides the cookies to take the lead back.
Later on in the period, Ryan McDonagh managed to draw a tripping call to himself. The Rangers managed to kill of the penalty, and cleared it perfectly to when McDonagh was getting out of the box. McDonagh missed on the breakaway, but rookie Derek Stepan followed up and tucked it home for McDonagh.
The game was decided by the score of 5-2 coming off of a Brandon Dubinsky empty-net goal. Lundqvist stopped 38 of 40 shots faced, despite some neck soreness suffered by a collision during the Montreal game.
As for Matt Cooke, my guess will be he will be suspended, but not for very long. I took the liberty of spinning the "Wheel of Justice" for the NHL (at http://www.nhlwheelofjustice.com/) and it was determined that Cooke's play is a "hockey play". However, since Matt Cooke is a repeat offender, I see 1-3 games being missed by him, just on his track record.
Enjoy your Sunday everyone!
Friday, March 18, 2011
3/18/11 Rangers vs. Canadiens
Don't call it a comeback, they've been here for years.
Rangers against the Montreal Canadiens.
Its been arduous for the Rangers against the Canadiens this season, coming up short on all three of their previous meetings. The Rangers have picked up their play as of recently, beating both San Jose and the Islanders. The Rangers are keeping their hopes for the playoffs alive, and tonight will be no different. A win against the Canadiens will move the Rangers further away from the 9th seed Carolina Hurricanes, who play the Islanders tonight.
Tonight will be another game where the Rangers need Marian Gaborik to really step up and make the big play. He has improved after slumping when he came back from injury. the Islanders game showed that he seems to be at optimal performance now, and hopefully, that adrenaline can carry over into tonights game. Along with that, Erik Christensen, who has taken some flack from Rangers fans about his inconsistency has scored 5 goals and gotten four assists since being scratched seven games ago.
The Canadiens have won seven of their past nine games, and look to further their hot streak tonight as well. However, they will be without some help along the way tonight. Max Pacioretty is still out, along with defensemen Hal Gill and Brent Sopel. Along with that, forwards Jeff Halpern and Tomas Plekanec will sit tonight as well. This could be the break in the armor that the Rangers need tonight. The injured lineup of the Canadiens could be a big enough chink in the armor of the Habs for the Rangers to exploit, considering Carey Price does not play phenomenally like he has been for the majority of this season.
My Predictions
Rangers win 3-2
Brandon Dubinsky will get the first goal for the Rangers early in the 1st.
Marian Gaborik will get the second goal coming in the 2nd period.
Nigel Dawes will get the first goal for the Canadiens (because thats just how ex-Rangers do it) also in the 2nd.
Erik Christensen will get the Rangers their final goal early in the 3rd.
And finally, James Wisnewski will get the final goal for the Habs late in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Rangers against the Montreal Canadiens.
Its been arduous for the Rangers against the Canadiens this season, coming up short on all three of their previous meetings. The Rangers have picked up their play as of recently, beating both San Jose and the Islanders. The Rangers are keeping their hopes for the playoffs alive, and tonight will be no different. A win against the Canadiens will move the Rangers further away from the 9th seed Carolina Hurricanes, who play the Islanders tonight.
Tonight will be another game where the Rangers need Marian Gaborik to really step up and make the big play. He has improved after slumping when he came back from injury. the Islanders game showed that he seems to be at optimal performance now, and hopefully, that adrenaline can carry over into tonights game. Along with that, Erik Christensen, who has taken some flack from Rangers fans about his inconsistency has scored 5 goals and gotten four assists since being scratched seven games ago.
The Canadiens have won seven of their past nine games, and look to further their hot streak tonight as well. However, they will be without some help along the way tonight. Max Pacioretty is still out, along with defensemen Hal Gill and Brent Sopel. Along with that, forwards Jeff Halpern and Tomas Plekanec will sit tonight as well. This could be the break in the armor that the Rangers need tonight. The injured lineup of the Canadiens could be a big enough chink in the armor of the Habs for the Rangers to exploit, considering Carey Price does not play phenomenally like he has been for the majority of this season.
My Predictions
Rangers win 3-2
Brandon Dubinsky will get the first goal for the Rangers early in the 1st.
Marian Gaborik will get the second goal coming in the 2nd period.
Nigel Dawes will get the first goal for the Canadiens (because thats just how ex-Rangers do it) also in the 2nd.
Erik Christensen will get the Rangers their final goal early in the 3rd.
And finally, James Wisnewski will get the final goal for the Habs late in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
3/15/11 Rangers vs. Islanders
I cant think of a single witty line to say.
Rangers against the New York Islanders.
The Rangers took two points from the Sharks that managed to tie them up with Buffalo at the 7th and 8th seed with 76 points. The Rangers have managed to compose themselves after the drubbing they took in Anaheim, and look to jump out ahead back home in MSG tonight. The Rangers have beaten the Islanders in their last three meetings, giving up only two goals in the last two games against the Islanders. The Islanders have been a team that Marian Gaborik has played like his old self this season. He has four goals against the Islanders this season, and three assists. In order for the Rangers to dominate this game tonight, Gaborik will have to be working as hard as possible every time he gets on the ice tonight. Plus, the Rangers will be going up against one of the former draft picks by the Rangers in-between the pipes tonight: Al Montoya. Montoya has played fairly well for the Islanders, subbing out for Rick DiPietro while his face heals. This can go either one of two ways for the Rangers. Either they find someone who knows a lot about Montoya in the organization and get the scouting report on his weaknesses, or Montoya has a career night against the Rangers, which seems like every unsung goaltender in the NHL seems to do these days.
My Diagnosis
Like nearly every game down this stretch, the Rangers need to win. Buffalo and Carolina are playing one another tonight, and in order to stay ahead of the pack, the Rangers need two points tonight. Since the Rangers have had more time off, I believe things are going to go in the Rangers favor tonight. Just please, PLEASE stop deflecting pucks past Henrik would you kindly?
My Predictions
Rangers win 4-2
Brian Boyle will open the scoring early in the 1st period for the Rangers.
Michael Grabner will tie the game shortly after Boyle's goal.
Marian Gaborik will pot another for the Rangers late in the 1st.
Brandon Dubinsky will get another for the Rangers half way through the 2nd.
Blake Comeau will get the final goal for the Islanders to start the 3rd.
And finally, Marc Staal will get the final goal for he Rangers, and empty netter.
Enjoy the game!
Rangers against the New York Islanders.
The Rangers took two points from the Sharks that managed to tie them up with Buffalo at the 7th and 8th seed with 76 points. The Rangers have managed to compose themselves after the drubbing they took in Anaheim, and look to jump out ahead back home in MSG tonight. The Rangers have beaten the Islanders in their last three meetings, giving up only two goals in the last two games against the Islanders. The Islanders have been a team that Marian Gaborik has played like his old self this season. He has four goals against the Islanders this season, and three assists. In order for the Rangers to dominate this game tonight, Gaborik will have to be working as hard as possible every time he gets on the ice tonight. Plus, the Rangers will be going up against one of the former draft picks by the Rangers in-between the pipes tonight: Al Montoya. Montoya has played fairly well for the Islanders, subbing out for Rick DiPietro while his face heals. This can go either one of two ways for the Rangers. Either they find someone who knows a lot about Montoya in the organization and get the scouting report on his weaknesses, or Montoya has a career night against the Rangers, which seems like every unsung goaltender in the NHL seems to do these days.
My Diagnosis
Like nearly every game down this stretch, the Rangers need to win. Buffalo and Carolina are playing one another tonight, and in order to stay ahead of the pack, the Rangers need two points tonight. Since the Rangers have had more time off, I believe things are going to go in the Rangers favor tonight. Just please, PLEASE stop deflecting pucks past Henrik would you kindly?
My Predictions
Rangers win 4-2
Brian Boyle will open the scoring early in the 1st period for the Rangers.
Michael Grabner will tie the game shortly after Boyle's goal.
Marian Gaborik will pot another for the Rangers late in the 1st.
Brandon Dubinsky will get another for the Rangers half way through the 2nd.
Blake Comeau will get the final goal for the Islanders to start the 3rd.
And finally, Marc Staal will get the final goal for he Rangers, and empty netter.
Enjoy the game!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
3/12/11 Rangers vs. Sharks
Road trip!
Rangers against the San Jose Sharks.
The Rangers failed to get the jump on Anaheim three days ago, which has left them in limbo as far as the standings go. They are now in 8th place, but a win can jump them back to 7th tonight. However, they have a very formidable foe in the San Jose Sharks. Last time these two teams met was in October of 2009, and it wound up with the Sharks blitzing the Rangers 7-3. The Sharks have four 20-goal scorers so far and have won eight of their last ten games. Needless to say, a victory tonight is going to be very tough for the Rangers going up against a very tough team, but stranger things have happened to this team this season.
My Diagnosis
Defense. Defense, defense, defense, defense, defense. The Rangers need to ram this thought through their head and follow up on it. Do not go for half blocked shots, go for the entire puck. Stop it from ever getting to the net. If that can happen, the Rangers can win.
My Predictions
Sharks win 2-0.
Dany Heatley will score one of the two in the 2nd.
And Devin Setoguchi will get the second goal.
Enjoy the game!
Rangers against the San Jose Sharks.
The Rangers failed to get the jump on Anaheim three days ago, which has left them in limbo as far as the standings go. They are now in 8th place, but a win can jump them back to 7th tonight. However, they have a very formidable foe in the San Jose Sharks. Last time these two teams met was in October of 2009, and it wound up with the Sharks blitzing the Rangers 7-3. The Sharks have four 20-goal scorers so far and have won eight of their last ten games. Needless to say, a victory tonight is going to be very tough for the Rangers going up against a very tough team, but stranger things have happened to this team this season.
My Diagnosis
Defense. Defense, defense, defense, defense, defense. The Rangers need to ram this thought through their head and follow up on it. Do not go for half blocked shots, go for the entire puck. Stop it from ever getting to the net. If that can happen, the Rangers can win.
My Predictions
Sharks win 2-0.
Dany Heatley will score one of the two in the 2nd.
And Devin Setoguchi will get the second goal.
Enjoy the game!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
My Analysis on the Chara/Pacioretty Hit
I know this does not involve the Rangers in any way, but I feel it needs to be addressed.
On March 8th, 2011, Zdeno Chara took out Max Pacioretty along the boards against the glass between the benches. Pacioretty went face first into the glass, and was carted off the ice on a stretcher and brought to the hospital. He suffered a concussion, and a fractured vertebrae in his spine. The only punishment given out to Chara was a 5-minute game misconduct penalty. Recently, he has come under scrutiny from the media that it was a dirty hit, and rumors have circulated that the police might even get involved. Here is my opinion on the entire matter.
The play has been called a "hockey play" by much of the media, and they are right. Chara cannot be blamed for being a lot bigger than Pacioretty, or stronger for that matter. And Chara has a lot more to think about when he's on the ice; he cannot be expected to know exactly where the pane of glass is at all times. But was the play dirty? A little of yes, and a little of no.
The reason I say no is because like I said before, it is a hockey play. Chara was just finishing his check, and that is normally encouraged among hockey players. His hit just happened to come in the worst position on the ice, which is not his fault either. What I feel was dirty about it was the timing of the hit. If you watch the video, you will see the hit happen near center ice. At the time of the hit, you can see the puck is clearly past the blue line. That to me signals a late hit, which would give it the title of a dirty hit. Along with that, and this is a stretch but not out of the realm of possibility, perhaps Chara felt he was going to get beaten to the puck, and just tried to interfere with Pacioretty's progress. But, if that is the case, it is still a dirty hit, because the puck was still past the blue line when the hit occurred. However, I can not confirm that because I cannot tell what Chara was thinking at that moment. And, I am not trying to call Chara a dirty player either.
Do I believe Chara is a dirty player? No I do not. Was the play a dirty hit? Some aspects were, but overall, thats the sport of hockey. Should there be a harsher penalty for Chara? Absolutely not.
Chara was merely playing the game the way it is suppose to be played: physically. Chara has no track record of being a dirty player in the entirety of his 13-year career in the NHL. I do not believe that there was any intention by Chara to hurt Pacioretty, and the punishment of a 5-minute game misconduct penalty is the appropriate penalty that should be given to Chara. The idea of this hit being looked at as a crime is absurd, and the police and NHL should not waste their time investigating anything.
I wish Max Pacioretty a speedy recovery so he can hopefully return this season. If that is not possible, next season I hope to see him back to top performance.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
3/9/11 Rangers vs. Ducks
Stayin' up late tonight.
Rangers against the Anaheim Ducks.
The Rangers got the best of fortune last night when most of the teams they needed to be defeated were. Now, they have a chance to really pull away from the pack. Coming off a 7-0 bludgeoning of the Philadelphia Flyers, the Rangers are looking prime for the playoffs, which the WILL make. Ryan Callahan had four goals in that game, and Mats Zuccarello had two. The Rangers have become aware of the urgency of their playoff situation and turned on the jets when needed most last game. Not to mention, it seems the cohesiveness that made this team so dangerous before half the lineup went down due to injuries has returned. Nearly everyone in the lineup is looking healthy and working as hard as they can.
The Ducks are dead even with the Rangers in most categories. However, they have had some goaltending issues as of late. In order to solve those problems, the Ducks have called up Ray Emery from the AHL, who will more than likely be in-between the pipes tonight. Along with that, they have had some good scorers come from everywhere on the ice. Corey Perry, Bobby Ryan, and Teemu Selanne have all eclipsed 20 goals so far this season.
My Diagnosis
The Rangers are going to have to play very tightly on defense. With veteran Bryan McCabe now in the lineup, that shouldn't be such a daunting task to this young defensive core. Along with that, the Rangers are going to need scoring from Marian Gaborik tonight in order to come out on top. The Ducks have a lot of firepower, so the only option for the Rangers is to fight fire with a lot more fire.
My Predictions
Rangers win 3-1
Ryan Getzlaf will get the opening goal for the Ducks early in the 1st period.
Derek Stepan will tie the game up late in the 1st.
Marian Gaborik will pick up a goal as well coming in the 2nd period.
And finally, Bryan McCabe will get his first goal as a Ranger late in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Rangers against the Anaheim Ducks.
The Rangers got the best of fortune last night when most of the teams they needed to be defeated were. Now, they have a chance to really pull away from the pack. Coming off a 7-0 bludgeoning of the Philadelphia Flyers, the Rangers are looking prime for the playoffs, which the WILL make. Ryan Callahan had four goals in that game, and Mats Zuccarello had two. The Rangers have become aware of the urgency of their playoff situation and turned on the jets when needed most last game. Not to mention, it seems the cohesiveness that made this team so dangerous before half the lineup went down due to injuries has returned. Nearly everyone in the lineup is looking healthy and working as hard as they can.
The Ducks are dead even with the Rangers in most categories. However, they have had some goaltending issues as of late. In order to solve those problems, the Ducks have called up Ray Emery from the AHL, who will more than likely be in-between the pipes tonight. Along with that, they have had some good scorers come from everywhere on the ice. Corey Perry, Bobby Ryan, and Teemu Selanne have all eclipsed 20 goals so far this season.
My Diagnosis
The Rangers are going to have to play very tightly on defense. With veteran Bryan McCabe now in the lineup, that shouldn't be such a daunting task to this young defensive core. Along with that, the Rangers are going to need scoring from Marian Gaborik tonight in order to come out on top. The Ducks have a lot of firepower, so the only option for the Rangers is to fight fire with a lot more fire.
My Predictions
Rangers win 3-1
Ryan Getzlaf will get the opening goal for the Ducks early in the 1st period.
Derek Stepan will tie the game up late in the 1st.
Marian Gaborik will pick up a goal as well coming in the 2nd period.
And finally, Bryan McCabe will get his first goal as a Ranger late in the 3rd.
Enjoy the game!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Why Ryan Callahan Should Be Made Captain
Now let the record show, I'm not going off one day of performance on my selection. I believe I touched on this in the article where I announced Drury's latest injury.
However, this is something that I feel needs to happen for the good of the team. I do not wish to bash Chris Drury's captaincy abilities, but I believe that his ship has sailed, and the team needs a fresh leader. This team has showed that they are on the brink of being a very good hockey team. One thing missing from their credentials however, is a captain who embodies the teams personality. The Rangers have grown into a full -blown "blue collar" team, that works for every goal, every possession, and you can just tell leaves everything on the ice when the game is done. Ryan Callahan has exhibited that persona from day one of this season.
A captain is someone who can be looked upon as a centerpiece, and a threat when other teams look at the team. Thats something that Chris Drury's zero goals and four assists on this season will not accomplish ever. Ever since his overtime winner in Pittsburgh, Ryan Callahan has exhibited poise, maturity, and skill in every game he has played. He has matured before the Gardens eyes, and its time he earned the prestige that comes with all of his hard work.
In my opinion, Drury's should be relieved as the captain for the Rangers before the playoffs start, which the Rangers WILL make. this shake up in the leadership could serve as a catalyst for the opposing team, as well as bolster and encourage the rest of the Rangers lineup.
However, my dreams are very unlikely, and Drury will probably remain in his captaincy for the rest of the season. But come next October, Callahan will be wearing the 'C' on his jersey, mark my words.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Recapping the Rangers/Flyers
I wish I would have woke up early enough to write my pre-game post.
Big, big win for the New York Rangers today, as they wore their away jerseys at home against the Philadelphia Flyers. Rangers scored seven goals, while the Flyers scored zero. Four of those goals came from someone who I believe will be the future captain of the New York Rangers, Ryan Callahan. Callahan tallied his first career hat-trick in the second period, and added one more for good measure. Along with that, Mats Zuccarello got his first two-goal game for the Rangers as well, scoring the 3rd and 7th goal of the night. Artem Anisimov also capitalized on being left completely in the open by the Flyers to pour some more sauce on at MSG.
Big, big win for the New York Rangers today, as they wore their away jerseys at home against the Philadelphia Flyers. Rangers scored seven goals, while the Flyers scored zero. Four of those goals came from someone who I believe will be the future captain of the New York Rangers, Ryan Callahan. Callahan tallied his first career hat-trick in the second period, and added one more for good measure. Along with that, Mats Zuccarello got his first two-goal game for the Rangers as well, scoring the 3rd and 7th goal of the night. Artem Anisimov also capitalized on being left completely in the open by the Flyers to pour some more sauce on at MSG.
And ALONG with all of that good news, Brandon Dubinsky and Mike Richards got acquainted again in the second period. It was a good scrap, and Dubinsky managed to bloody Mike Richards on the bridge of his nose a little, despite his flimsy visor. Check out the link above to see the bout.
This was a big win for the Rangers, as it gives them a little room between them and the Hurricanes/Sabres. The Rangers do not have another game until Wednesday. Until then, I will keep you updated as best I can.
GO RANGERS!
Saturday, March 5, 2011
I'm Still Alive!
Sorry about the lack of post yesterday, I was a little downtrodden about the Wild game, and was also too busy channeling my inner Patrick Roy at my rec-centers hockey rink.
The Rangers finally managed to get some separation between them and that Sabres. Although Carolina is right up against them, that separation from the 9th place is big right now. As I am writing this, Philly is beating them 2-0. And, as much as I hate rooting for Philadelphia, I'm very happy that they are winning. Although, that will not be the case come Sunday when the Rangers face them for the final time.
I'll be ready with my pre-game post on Sunday. Don't you fret!
The Rangers finally managed to get some separation between them and that Sabres. Although Carolina is right up against them, that separation from the 9th place is big right now. As I am writing this, Philly is beating them 2-0. And, as much as I hate rooting for Philadelphia, I'm very happy that they are winning. Although, that will not be the case come Sunday when the Rangers face them for the final time.
I'll be ready with my pre-game post on Sunday. Don't you fret!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
3/3/11 Rangers vs. Wild
Get back to where you once belong.
Rangers against the Minnesota Wild.
The second and final meeting between these two teams will take place at MSG tonight. Tonight is just one more big game that the Rangers need to pull out a victory to keep them in the race. Why is tonight so important? Because 8th place Carolina and 9th place Buffalo are playing each other. Either outcome of that game will put strain on the Rangers if they do not come out with a win tonight against the Wild. The Rangers have managed to fare some of the storm, and there are bright points in their game. For one, goals are going in for the Rangers. The problem exists on defense. The Rangers have had the most trouble keeping it out of their own net. The blame is widespread too; not one player is to be blamed for it. Its been an all out disaster for the Rangers in their own zone. The main key for the Rangers to come out victorious tonight will be to get back to that ultra-grind game they've perfected since the start of the season. The Minnesota Wild is not a team that likes to hit or take blocks. Therefore, taking them off their game by doing those things can help throw them off.
My Predictions
I've become a victim of trend here. Unfortunately, I do not see the Rangers coming out on top tonight. No matter how much I hate to admit it, I feel like they are going to drop this very important game.
Wild win 2-1
Martin Havlat will get the first goal for the Wild early in the 1st.
Derek Stepan will get the goal for the Rangers in the 2nd.
and finally, Kyle Brodziak will get the final goal for the Wild.
Rangers against the Minnesota Wild.
The second and final meeting between these two teams will take place at MSG tonight. Tonight is just one more big game that the Rangers need to pull out a victory to keep them in the race. Why is tonight so important? Because 8th place Carolina and 9th place Buffalo are playing each other. Either outcome of that game will put strain on the Rangers if they do not come out with a win tonight against the Wild. The Rangers have managed to fare some of the storm, and there are bright points in their game. For one, goals are going in for the Rangers. The problem exists on defense. The Rangers have had the most trouble keeping it out of their own net. The blame is widespread too; not one player is to be blamed for it. Its been an all out disaster for the Rangers in their own zone. The main key for the Rangers to come out victorious tonight will be to get back to that ultra-grind game they've perfected since the start of the season. The Minnesota Wild is not a team that likes to hit or take blocks. Therefore, taking them off their game by doing those things can help throw them off.
My Predictions
I've become a victim of trend here. Unfortunately, I do not see the Rangers coming out on top tonight. No matter how much I hate to admit it, I feel like they are going to drop this very important game.
Wild win 2-1
Martin Havlat will get the first goal for the Wild early in the 1st.
Derek Stepan will get the goal for the Rangers in the 2nd.
and finally, Kyle Brodziak will get the final goal for the Wild.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Recapping the Rangers/Sabres
Tough loss tonight on Free Pancake Day at Ihop for the Rangers.
The Buffalo Sabres came out hungry tonight, and did not hesitate when given an open opportunity. Early penalty troubles got the Rangers into a deep hole, that made it much harder for them to come back.
In the Sabres defense, Ryan Miller was exceptional. Stopping Zuccarello late in the 3rd period might have been the highlight to end all highlight reels of him this season.
With the Carolina Hurricanes also winning tonight, the lower portion of the Eastern Conference is tighter than ever. It is going to be very interesting to see what happens down the stretch for the Rangers, and the rest of the Eastern Conference as the games wind down in the final month of regular season for the NHL.
The Buffalo Sabres came out hungry tonight, and did not hesitate when given an open opportunity. Early penalty troubles got the Rangers into a deep hole, that made it much harder for them to come back.
In the Sabres defense, Ryan Miller was exceptional. Stopping Zuccarello late in the 3rd period might have been the highlight to end all highlight reels of him this season.
With the Carolina Hurricanes also winning tonight, the lower portion of the Eastern Conference is tighter than ever. It is going to be very interesting to see what happens down the stretch for the Rangers, and the rest of the Eastern Conference as the games wind down in the final month of regular season for the NHL.
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