Pen-manship: Rangers Search For Answers After 2 Losses

With 8-3 and 5-2 losses to hang their heads on, the Rangers forge on. With back-to-back losses to the Pittsburgh Penguins in ugly fashion, the New York Rangers find themselves in a tumultuous situation.

Their record over the past 19 games is something to feel rather disgusted at (6-12-1), considering the team started out 7-1. Yet, despite the effort being adequate, the team has gaping holes in every part of the lineup.

For starters, the goaltending has not been up to par. Backup Steven Valiquette, whose been a journeyman throughout his career and found a home with the New York Rangers, started the 1^st game of a back-to-back with Pittsburgh and gave up 8 goals with the team around him playing very loose defensively. Henrik Lundqvist must share the blame as well. Although solid for the majority of the year and constantly making brilliant saves to keep the Rangers close, too many times Lundqvist has let a soft goal go in or not made the big save when needed.

The defense is becoming more and more exposed each game. Rookies Michael Del Zotto and Matt Gilroy have provided much needed offensive flair yet they’re young and inexperienced. Veterans like Michal Rosival and Wade Redden are supposed to provide veteran leadership.

While Redden has been steady so far this season, Rosival has been mediocre at best and him, combined with Redden, take up nearly $12 million in salary cap space. Marc Staal and Dan Girardi, the team’s number 1 D-pair, have been inconsistent at best, blowing a good number of defensive coverage’s each game.

Aside from Marian Gaborik, who has been an absolute savior, and Vinny Prospal, arguably the best off-season acquisition in Glen Sather’s tenure, secondary scoring has been non-existent. Christopher Higgins, part of the trade that sent Scott Gomez to Montreal, only has 2 goals. Captain Chris Drury, back in the lineup after suffering a concussion, has not provided enough offense for the amount of money he makes. Ales Kotalik, who started off hot and brought a revival to the Rangers’ power play, has fizzled lately and found himself in John Tortorella’s doghouse along with winger Enver Lisin, Tortorella’s apparent whipping boy.

The back-to-back series with the Penguins exposed the glaring weaknesses with the Rangers team this season. Management must have shared the same sentiment, executing some personnel moves this week with the team being off until Saturday’s match-up against Buffalo. The Rangers waived goalie Steve Valiquette and recalled net minder Chad “not Ocho Cinco” Johnson and claimed center Erik Christensen off waivers.

With Dubinsky still out with a broken bone in his hand, the Rangers are hoping Christensen, 25, can provide some offensive ability in his absence. The Rangers are hoping for an abundance of things at this point, some consistent hockey would be a starting point.

Tortorella’s Team Terrible in Coach’s Return to Tampa

Post-Game Thoughts:

• This is one of those games you want to forget as quickly as possible. Burn the tapes and pretend it never happened. Good thing the Rangers play tomorrow night.
• With Wade Redden out, rookie D Bobby Sanguinetti made his NHL debut. Trenton’s own has a good amount of work still left to do to be a mainstay in the NHL.
• Marian Gaborik and Vinny Prospal were held scoreless.
• Maybe Marty St. Louis is the answer the Rangers’ offensive woes? I’m sure John Tortorella would make the case as the star LW had a 3 assist night and looked phenomenal.
• Speaking of phenomenal, Steven Stamkos is the real deal and a future star in the NHL.
• Henrik Lundqvist was pulled in this game after the 4th Tampa Bay goal. No need to subject him to further humiliation and potential runs from the opposition.
• The only positive to take from this game is that Ryan Callahan scored his 1st goal in 8 games on a pretty feed from Artem Anisimov. Hopefully, this can kick start his offensive game.

Next Game: Right back at it Saturday 7:30pm in Pittsburgh to start a home-and-home.

Turkey Day

...Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Enjoy the company of your families and celebrate the best, and certainly most delicious, holiday there is!

Rangers Come Hungry, Leave Happy

Post-Game Thoughts:

• These are the types of wins that get teams to become a little bit more united for the cause. The Rangers lost D Wade Redden for most of the game with an injury and D Matt Gilroy for 17 mins in penalties. Playing with only 4 D is a tough task and the Rangers performed brilliantly.
• Marc Staal, taken aside by Tortorella in the last practice to discuss his inconsistent play, played 30:24 of ice-time. Think he had something to prove?
• Speaking of Gilroy, I’m thoroughly impressed SOMEONE had the fortitude on this team to step up for their teammates in this game and fight someone who was taking runs at people. Now he just needs some fighting lessons (x-mas gift maybe?)
• Donald Brashear may not win a fight till St. Patrick’s Day.
• I felt the Rangers played a really sound defensive game tonight. Aside from finishing checks, they had their sticks in the passing and shooting lanes all night, thwarting any kind of offensive attack by Florida.
• The Captain Chris Drury returned and had a decent return, showing no ill effects from the concussion he suffered. He looked good in Kotalik’s spot on the point on the 1st PP unit.
• Does it honestly surprise you to see that Marian Gaborik had the goal that put the Rangers on the board in this game? A brilliant deflection off a Chris Drury pass I might add.
• Does it honestly surprise you that Christopher Higgins hit 2 more posts?
• P.A. Parenteau is quickly becoming a shootout specialist. I think his overall game is coming around as he gets more and more comfortable and the points should follow.
• I’m sure Henrik Lundqvist wanted the shutout, yet he shut the door big time in the shootout, denying all 3 Panthers’ skaters.

Next Game: Friday 11/27 7:30pm @ Tampa Bay against John Tortorella’s former team the Lightning.

Jacket-less: Rangers Explode in 7-4 Drubbing of Columbus

Post-Game Thoughts:

• Who are you and what did you do with the real Rangers? A 7 goal outburst? It may seem like impostors since Rangers’ fans are not used to so much offense in one night.
• The same question can be asked for the Blue Jackets who, after getting a 2-0 lead, gave up 7 unanswered. Although, this is the same team last lost to Detroit 9-1 a couple weeks back.
• Say what you want but John Tortorella called the timeout at the perfect time in this game. Had he not, the Rangers could have sunken even further. The :30 second break plus Gaborik’s goal ignited the team.
• Nice to see Sean Avery pot 2 goals. Hopefully it’ll inspire the “Grate One’ to return to full form.
• With Brian Leetch in attendance, both Matt Gilroy and Michael Del Zotto scored Leetch-like goals, putting a smile on the Hall of Famer’s face. The future back line of the Rangers looks very bright.
• Lost in the shuffle; Artem Anisimov 1g 2a and P.A. Parenteau 2a (including a nifty backhand soft pass to open ice, springing Gilroy for his breakway goal). But, Parenteau’s has to bury his breakaway chance and not whiff on the shot.
• Rangers’ defensive zone breakdowns in coverage are still a cause for concern.
• Christopher Higgins might have found a home on the 1st line with Gaborik and Prospal.

Next Game: Beginning of a 3-game road trip Wednesday night in Florida against the Panthers 7:30pm start.

Panthers Speed Past Rangers 3-2

** Sorry again for another extended absence, between not having Versus and work I haven’t been able to watch many games.

Post-Game Thoughts:

• This is not your father’s Panthers team. They’re young, quick, aggressive, and a well rounded team throughout the roster. They may not have the star power, but they will outwork you for 60 minutes.
• You would think the Rangers, having 3 days off in between games, would’ve been the more energetic team. Not the team playing its 3rd game in 4 nights, that’s impossible…
• This loss means the Blueshirts are 4-9-1 in their last 14 after starting out 7-1. Thank god it’s only November, right?
• Also of note, the Rangers are 1-4 since losing both Chris Drury and Brandon Dubinsky to injury.
• The experiment to see who can play with Prospal and Gaborik’s line continues. Ales Kotalik got the call in this game and was absolutely dreadful. So much so that Tortorella publicly said after the game that he was taking him off there. Not good.
• Donald Brashear has no business being in the NHL anymore, let alone anywhere near the Rangers. His paychecks should go to charity.
• A backhand flip from the point that somehow made its way through Henrik Lundqvist’s legs was the difference in this game. Really Hank? Really?
• Marian Gaborik continues to show a “touch of clutch” if you will, scoring a 3rd period goal to make it a 3-2 game. It was his 1st shot of the game. However, his turnover at the blueline lead to Florida’s goal by Nathan Horton to make it 3-1.

Next Game: Tonight 7:00pm @ MSG against the Columbus Blue Jackets

Shanny Says Goodbye

Via TSN.ca, 8-time All Star Brendan Shanahan has announced his retirement today from the NHL. He played 21 seasons and will finish his career 11th all-time in Goals.

Thoughts:

• Shanny will go down as one of the greats. I really enjoyed his brief time on the Rangers (his fight with Brashear is a classic). If not for that concussion with Mike Knuble back in 2007, we could have seen great things from Shanahan. Congratulations on a stellar career. 

Videos For Your Viewing Pleasure

• Tortorella's Post-Game News Conference (11-12-09)

• Game Highlights: Atlanta vs New York (11-12-09)

Rangers Receive a Thrashing in MSG Return

*I wasn't able to watch the game, I only caught the game highlights online.
Post-Game Thoughts:

• Fans got to see 2 world class offensive talents on display in this game in Ilya Kovalchuk and Marian Gaborik. It was very entertaining, extremely sloppy but entertaining nonetheless.
• Michal Rosival might need a walker to help aide him walk: Evander Kane basically blew right past him to set up Colby Armstrong's goal :19 seconds. Not the way to start a game.
• Michael Del Zotto continues an impressive rookie campaign, collecting 2 more assists and increasing his numbers to 4 goals and 11 assists
• I wonder if Marian Gaborik has the quickest release in the NHL. The pass he received from Del Zotto was in his skates a bit, yet, was able to fire a hard shot past G Johan Hedberg to tie the game at 2 a piece. Unbelievable.
• Henrik Lundqvist cannot be fully blamed for this loss. Sure, his dreadful clear attempt directly led to the 4th Thrasher goal by Evander Kane. However, for most of the game, Lundqvist got no support from his teammates as the opposition were basically allowed to roam free. If not for some keys saves, the score would have been more lopsided.
• Rich Peverley has been the best move by Thrashers GM Don Waddell by far. Picking him up off of Nashville's scrap heap last season, Peverley has nearly averaged a point per game in his time in Atlanta, collecting 8 goals and 12 assists so far this year. He also had a PP goal and 2 assists in this game.
• Good to see the hard working Brian Boyle get himself on the stat sheet with a goal. I had my doubts about him in the pre-season but, so far, he's been a welcomed addition.
• I think its imperative the Rangers either make a move or call up a center from Hartford. Vinny Prospal and Marian Gaborik cannot play nearly 28 minutes a game and expect to be useful in the long run.

Next Game: Saturday 2:00pm in Ontario against the Ottawa Senators.

Brian Leetch Talks About HOF Induction

...Will probably go down as the best Rangers D & on the best American born D of all time. I really hope he comes back in some capacity with the Rangers. The young D could certainly benefit from his tutelage.

Blueshirts Feel The Burn in Calgary

Post-Game Thoughts:

• This is exactly what was expected from Calgary; a tough, physical hockey game. What wasn't expected were cheap shots missed by the referees. An ominous tone was set :49 seconds in when Curtis Glencross blindsided Chris Drury,who was nowhere near the puck, giving him a concussion.
• Brandon Dubinsky was also injured, taking a shot off of what appaeared to be either his wrist or hand. If there's a broken bone(s), expect him to be out long-term. That would put New York down 2 top centers for an undisclosed amount of time.
• It's a bit different when you play a team that actually pressures the puck carrier and plays aggressively and takes the body.
• Despite the injuries, the Rangers played outstanding considering the circumstances. They matched Calgary's physicality and Mikka Kiprusoff, arguably the best goaltender in the league, was the difference in this game.
• Nice to see Dan Girardi score a goal, his 1st in 12 games. Unfortunately, you don't want it to be the only goal scored in the game.
• Chris Higgins looks like a brand new person, and I have to say, I like what I'm seeing. His offensive game will continue to flourish if he's at ease.
• Steve Valliquette was pressed into action for the 2nd straight night to give Lundqvist some more rest and, unfortunately, didn't play well enough. Daymond Langkow's goal, I feel, is one Lundqvist doesn't let by.
• Nigel Dawes seems to have found a bit of a niche in Calgary, notching 3 assists and sent a beautiful pass to Jarome Iginla on his goal. Freddy Sjostrom played a solid game as well.

Next Game: Thursday 11/12 @ MSG against Atlanta.

Rangers Strike Oil in Edmonton

Post-Game Thoughts:

• This is the team Rangers' fans can get used to and, at the outset of the season, were seeing for a period of time.
• The only "5 in the picture" I saw in this game were the Rangers having free access to the slot. Edmonton played so passively I'm surprised I even saw them on the ice. Associate coach Tom Renney couldn't have been happy with his team's defensive effort.
• Rangers' PP was huge in this game scoring 3 goals. Contribute most of that to Edmonton's extremely passive play, not pressuring the puck carrier or point men. Yet, Gaborik, Del Zotto, and Kotalik had exceptional games.
• Nice to see Ryan Callahan get rewarded for his constant effort and consistent play with a beautiful re-direction for a goal.
• Matt Gilroy's game is improving as he gets more comfortable. His give and go with Higgins was a welcomed sight.
• The passing was very crisp in this game, great movement and a lot were tape-to-tape. I bet the Rangers wish they had this ice at MSG.
• Chris Higgins notches another goal. He's on fire ladies and gentlemen!
• Steve Valiquette had an adequate game in relief of Lundqvist. I'm sure he'd like to have back Vishnovski's back hander.
• Aaron Voros must love getting reprimanded by Tortorella as he took 2 more penalties that could have been avoiced

Next Game: Saturday night in Calgary 10:00pm start. It will be Sean Avery's 1st game in Calgary since his infamous "sloppy seconds" comment.

Prospal Talks About Getting The "A"

*****
- Tortorella said he was content with having Ryan Callahan be the lone alternate captain all year, however, Prospal makes an excellent 2nd alternate. No one plays with more passion than he does, knows Tortorella's system better, and his goal celebrations are a delight to watch.

Canucks Stifle Rangers' Attack

** Sorry for not blogging lately, I didn't get a chance to watch either the Minnesota or Boston games of this past week.

Post-Game Thoughts:

• Even without their star goalie Roberto Luongo, the Canucks are still a very solid team, especially defensively. They executed a near perfect game-plan to stymie the Rangers all night. Rangers are now 3-4-1 on the road.
• Willie Mitchell (Gaborik's former teammate in Minnesota) might have had a hand in that, shadowing the sniper all evening. It's only the 2nd game that Gaborik hasn't registered a point.
• For the most part, the Rangers played well except for a couple of major mistakes (Sean Avery was completely lost on the Rypien goal) that lead to goals.
• I could feel the pressure just melting off Chris Higgins last night has he scored his long awaited 1st goal as a Ranger. Congrats to him and I hope this springboards him into a torrid hot streak.
• Vinny Prospal was named the 2nd alternate captain before the game and I couldn't agree more on the decision. He's been nothing short of spectacular early on, playing with passion, and has been a vocal leader on and off the ice.
• Rookie of the Month winner Michael Del Zotto, despite being out there for a goal against, had a decent game. Although his rookie counterpart Matt Gilroy stole a bit of his thunder with a nifty spin-o-rama move to set up a shot.
• Henrik Lundqvist had another great night in net that's marred with the score put up by Vancouver. It could have been over in the 2nd if not for some key saves.
• Ryan Kesler is one heck of a hockey player. He had 3 assists last night, played a sound 2-way game, and will make Team USA proud in the 2010 Winter Olympics coming up. Maybe Brandon Dubinsky can pick his brain a bit on how to play more consistently.
• The 3rd period melee brought back memories of 1970's hockey. It was amazing it didn't get out of hand more than it did.

Next Game: Thursday night 9:30pm @ Edmonton to face former head coach Tom Renney's new squad.

Hard-Working Isles Edge Rangers

Post-Game Thoughts:

• Rangers came out flat and stayed that way throughout this entire contest. They seemed to be disengaged all night, made very sloppy passes, didn't win enough puck battles and were not able to sustain any offensive pressure most of the game. 
• Give credit where credit is due; The Islanders worked hard for 60 minutes and were very aggressive against the Rangers, which seemed to disrupt them all game. The Isles' record (2-4-5) doesn't reflect how well they've played at times.
• Dwaye Roloson was not tested very much all night. However, he owes the post & crossbar a steak dinner: 5 posts hit by the Rangers which could have been goals and a different game altogether. 
• Congrats to P.A. Parenteau getting his 1st NHL goal tonight. He subbed in adequately for Marian Gaborik.
• Enver Lisin made a lot of Rangers fans frustrated tonight, ringing a shot off the crossbar and whiffing on some quality scoring chances. 
• One of the few games this season were the Rangers PP was ineffective.
• Sean Avery won't be able to sleep good tonight, failing to bury a tap-in goal late in the 3rd. While he's tossing and turning, he should figure out how to be an effective, in-your-face player again.
• Allowing the opposing team to win 36 face-offs is not a recipe for a win. 

Next Game: NYR will be in Minnesota Friday night 8:00pm start.

Rangers Prove Wily Against Coyotes

Post-Game Thoughts:

• Just what the doctor ordered to get off the 3-game snide. The Rangers got back to basics and it paid off tremendously for them.
• Marian Gaborik notched another 2 goals, tying Anze Kopitar for the league lead with 10. However, you must hold your breath until we find out why Gaborik limped off in the 3rd to the locker room and did not return.
• King Henrik showed no ill effects to the slight foot injury he suffered in Montreal on Saturday, allowing only 2 goals.
• Brandon Dubinsky nearly made up for his mediocre game in Montreal with his great set-up for Gaborik’s 1st goal. Nearly.
• The Young Guns (Enver Lisin, Artem Anisimov) both got on the score sheet with goals. It has to especially feel good for Lisin to score against the team that traded him away. If you’re keeping score, Lisin has 8 points so far (3 goals, 5 assists) and Lauri Korpikoski (the player sent to Phoenix for Lisin) has 0 points. Steal?
• Michael Del Zotto is a godsend to the Rangers PP. 2 more assists puts him at 11 points, leading all rookies in scoring.
• Christopher Higgins had an encouraging game tonight in response to his lackluster game plus benching in Montreal. You can almost feel how close he is to getting his 1st goal.
• How long before we see the real Chris Drury? I understand he is the captain and that, while his defensive game has been solid, he has shown barely any offense. If Tortorella wants to stay true to his word, Drury needs to have his time reduced until he finds his game.
• Think there’s any correlation between Donald Brashear’s absence and the Rangers 3-game losing streak? Despite his play not being up to par while in the lineup, the Rangers broke their losing streak with his return to the lineup.

Next Game: NYR heads to Nassau to face the Islanders Wed. night 7:00pm

Rangers Miss the Point Against Canadiens

Post-Game Thoughts:

• John Tortorella will have plenty to bark about (21 giveaways to boot) at the Rangers in the days that follow. This might have been the sloppiest defensive effort for the Blueshirts so far this season and were lucky to even walk away with a point.
• Both Brandon Dubinsky and Christopher Higgins were benched for the entire 3rd period, Dubinsky for his turnover that directly led to Dagostini's goal and Higgins for his lack of hustle on Cammalleri goal right before the 2nd period ended. If you're not going to play hard, you shouldn't play.
• Adding to the last point, Christopher Higgins has to be absolutely frustrated with himself. Not only is he mired in a deep scoring funk, but he gets benched against his former team in a losing effort.
• The line of Gionta (2 assists)-Gomez (2 assists)-Cammalleri (Hat Trick, 1 assist) is certainly dangerous and one of the top lines in the league.
• The Rangers snapped their streak of 8 straight games with a PP goal.
• You're lying if you didn't hold your breath when you saw Henrik Lundqvist down in pain. The running in to Lundqvist has to cease immediately or we won't be saying how he dodged another bullet.
• Good to see Artem Anisimov score. He was one of the few bright spots in the game, as he was pressed into service with Dubinsky and Higgins being benched.
• Marian Gaborik scored a beauty of a goal of a nifty deke. However, he doesn't get a full pass and could have easily been benched by Tortorella. Gaborik was also on the ice for Cammalleri's OT winner.

Next Game: Monday night @ MSG against Phoenix

Rangers Allow Devils to Exorcise MSG Demons; lose 4-2

*Excuse my absence after the San Jose game. Not only was I not able to watch the game, I was too ashamed to even write about what I did see.

Post-Game Thoughts:

• It’s very rare to watch a Rangers Devils matchup and not see a competitive, exciting game. This was no exception. A physical edge, end-to-end action etc.
• The stud pairing of Dan Girardi-Marc Staal did not have a good game at all. Staal’s neutral zone turnover lead to Bergfors’ goal and Girardi’s passiveness allowed Zubrus to walk in front of Lundqvist and deflect the game-winning goal for New Jersey. Despite putting points up, Girardi has not been his consistent, reliable self early on this season. Tortorella called Girardi out after the preseason, saying he didn’t have a great camp and called him out again after the game last night, saying his play was “average.”
• Brashear was a healthy scratch for this game and I’m OK with that. In fact, let him ride the pine for a while. I think he’s better used sparingly and should only be used in games against overly physical teams.
• We saw John Tortorella mix up the lines quite a bit in this game, something he likes to use if he feels the lines have become stale or is trying to jump start players (Callahan, Higgins). Good to see Enver Lisin get some 1st line time along side Prospal and Gaborik.
• The 3 Million Dollar Man a.k.a Ales Kotalik scored a beauty of a goal to tie the game at 2. If not for a brilliant save by Marty Broduer in the 2nd period, Kotalik would have had 2 goals.
• I was very impressed with New Jersey’s extra effort tonight, especially on defensive plays they didn’t give up on. Colin White’s diving poke check on Ryan Callahan late in the game is a prime example as the Devils did this multiple times tonight.
• 8 straight games now with the New York scoring a PP goal. Somewhere, Perry Pearn is sulking.
• I cannot fully blame Lundqvist for the game winning goal because, if not for some spectacular saves, this game would have been out of reach. However, I thought Henrik could have been a bit more aggressive on that 3rd goal. Even he would agree he could have.

Next game: Saturday in Montreal 7:00pm start

Mitchell Lowers the Boom on Toews

...Gotta keep your head up, Johnny

Brashear’s Dreadful Play Not Helping To Quiet “Mistake” Talk

With the New York Rangers going in a different direction in the offseason, management decided to let FW Colton Orr, considered to be the “enforcer” of the team, walk as a unrestricted Free Agent – allowing the Toronto Maple Leafs to sign Orr to a multi-year contract for around $1 million per. The hole created was quickly filled with the acquisition of UFA Donald Brashear, a long-time veteran and seasoned “tough guy.” To say the signing of Brashear was not only received poorly by fans, but, viewed as a mistake by them as well is a slight underestimation.

Brashear draws the ire of Ranger fans not just for his abrasive and, at some times, reckless play over the years as members of the Philadelphia Flyers or Washington Capitals (considered a “goon” by some people) but more so for his blind-side head shot of former Ranger Blair Betts in Game 6 during last season’s Easter Conference Quarterfinals. The hit, which was not penalized, caused Betts to suffer a concussion – missing the rest of the playoffs as the Rangers went on to lose the series in Game 7. Blair Betts was not signed in the offseason and walked as a free agent. Currently, Blair Betts is healthy to play but remains unsigned.

Coach John Tortorella has defended the acquisition of Donald Brashear on numerous occasions early in the season, saying the reason Brashear was chosen instead of re-signing Colton Orr is the coach feels Brashear is an overall better hockey player; having more of an offensive game and is a better skater. Through 9 games so far, it would seem the opposite is true. Brashear has not recorded a point, is a -3 (he was on the ice for 3 goals against San Jose), has taken some deflating penalties, and in his 2 fights has looked like a shell of his former self. At 37, you have to question if Donald Brashear is still capable of being an effective hockey player.

* Post-Script: My biggest problem with Brashear so far has been the fact opposing teams, mainly the Toronto Maple Leafs, have taken runs at Henrik Lundqvist with no response by him or any other player. Part of playing the “enforcer” role on a hockey club is to stick up for teammates and, if needed, send a message that messing with our top players will not be tolerated. Brashear has not come close to fulfilling that obligation and that is an ugly string of words.

Vally In For Shark Attack

Steve Zipay over at Blue Notes reports that backup Steve Valiquette will get the start against San Jose tonight @ MSG. Valliquette's last start came came against the Anaheim Ducks, shutting them out 3-0.

Thoughts:
- Tortorella is playing the gambling man here. I understand the reasoning of the move (Western Conference team, Lundqvist needs rest for contests against Devils, Canadiens later in the week) and Vally did look good against Anaheim.  Yet, San Jose is no joke - best in the NHL so far and have a lethal offense. I hope his hunch pays off here.

Leaf Blowers: Rangers Leave Toronto with 7th Straight Win

 Post-Game Thoughts:

- Break em’ up! The Rangers are on a roll right now, notching their 7th win a row making this the longest win streak since the 06-07 season. New York simply outworked a Toronto team very shaky and in search of answers early on. They’re off to their worst start (0-6-1) since 1990-91 and appear to have no end in sight.

- Finally, a better played 2nd period, with 2 goals early on. I’ve mentioned lately that the 2nd period has been sort of a road block for NY early in the year but were able to play a great 20 minutes.

- I do understand the struggles of the Maple Leafs, however, that doesn’t excuse them for their reckless behavior and disregard for G Henrik Lundqvist. There’s a fine line between driving hard to the net and intentionally trying to run a goaltender and, in the 2 games these teams have played, Toronto has crossed that line. Now, it would be nice if someone on this Rangers team sent a clear message to not mess with their franchise goalie.

- A welcomed sight seeing Marc Staal score a beauty of a wraparound goal, showing more of a willingness to get involved offensively. Every D-man, except Girardi, was on the scoresheet tonight. Through 8 games, New York leads in the NHL in goals by defensemen with 9.

- Marian Gaborik didn’t display any 3rd period heroics on this night; he didn’t need to. He did, however, notch 2 more assists. Best off-season acquisition?

- 14-3 outscoring of the opposition in the 3rd period. Awfully tough to beat.

- Pretty quiet game for Sean Avery. That’s not something the Rangers want to hear more often this season.

- Among all the positives for the Rangers in this game and so far this season there is one glaring negative; team discipline. John Tortorella addressed it prior to the game, yet New York took 6 more penalties. Even though the penalty kill has been outstanding (8th best in the NHL entering the game); it won’t last and some team will exploit it. San Jose (NY’s next opponent) could be a candidate.

Next Game: Mon 10/19 @MSG vs. San Jose

Kotalik Could Be Rewarded; Practices on 3rd Line

Andrew Gross over at Ranger Rants observed Rangers practice today and noted that Ales Kotalik, playing on the 4th line of late, was practicing with Sean Avery and Artem Anisimov on the 3rd line. The head coach has said numerous times he will find a spot for Kotalik to log more minutes if he plays well.

Also, Donald Brashear, scratched last game with general soreness, was participating in practice and skated with Brian Boyle and either Aaron Voros or Enver Lisin; indicating either one of those 2 forwards will be a scratched for Saturday's game in Toronto.

Here's what the lines looked like:

Prospal-Dubinsky-Gaborik

Higgins-Drury-Callahan

Avery-Anisimov-Kotalik

Brashear-Boyle-Voros/Lisin

Defensive pairs stayed the same as in recent games.

Thoughts:

- Kotalik has been nothing short of superb so far for the Rangers. He, along with the emergence of Michael Del Zotto as a legitimate PP QB, has been the reason why the Rangers power play is a threat every time out. Plus, it doesn't hurt to have a howitzer for a shot as well. If Kotalik continues to put up points, and Chris Higgins struggles to score, look for Tortorella to slot Kotalik along side former Sabre teammate Chris Dury on the 2nd line (which, in turn, could jump start the offensively challenged Drury, whom Kotalik had chemistry with).

- Who sits against Toronto will depend on whether Tortorella wants another big body (Voros) or to give the 4th line some speed and a touch of offense (Lisin). I'd sit Voros simply because Lisin has been playing well of late.

King Henrik Reigns Supreme, NY wins 4-2

Post-Game Thoughts:

- The Rangers are getting the breaks and are rolling now. 6 in a row, a 4-0-0 start at MSG and, dating back to last season, are 12-0-1 in their last 13 regular season games.

- It seems to me the Rangers have good 1st periods, excellent 3rd periods, and sloppy 2nd’s (no pun intended, Sean). All kidding aside, nearly every game this season so far the Rangers are outplayed in the 2nd frame. Something to keep an eye on.

- Ales Kotalik and Michael Del Zotto are becoming quite the tandem at the points on the PP. Kotalik now has a 5 game point scoring streak (3 goals, 4 assists) and Del Zotto is leading all rookies in scoring and 2nd in the NHL in points for a defenseman with 7 (2 goals, 5 assists).

- Expanding on the Rangers’ PP, 7 games into the young season and it’s become a legitimate threat to score; something that was desperately lacking last season. After going 0-9 in the 1st 2 games, New York has gone 9-25 and has scored 2 PPG’s in 3 straight games.

- I think Gaborik in Czech means clutch. Every one of his goals (6 now on the year) have been scored in the 3rd period. The Rangers had only 1 shot on goal in the 3rd period and it was Gaborik’s blistering wrist shot that gave them the 4-2 outright.

- Congratulations to Brian Boyle for getting his 1st goal of the season last night against his former teammates. While we’re congratulating, hats off to Vinny Prospal for notching his 200th NHL goal.

- Ryan Smyth showed us why he may have some of the best hands in the NHL, deflecting a great shot, top corner, over Lundqvist for LA’s 1st goal. However, something tells me Tortorella will have something to say, as the Rangers blew their defensive coverage down low, allowing Smyth to simply skate in front of Lundqvist unfettered.

Next Game: Sat. @ Toronto 7:00pm

"T-Bone" Hungry to Impress

Over at Newsday, Steve Zipay has a sort of get-to-know-him piece on Rangers C Brian Boyle, whom the Rangers traded a 3rd-round pick to the LA Kings to acquire him. Here’s an excerpt:

“I know the situation here,” said Boyle, 24, who was chosen 26th overall in the 2003 NHL draft but believes he didn’t get a fair shot in Southern California, where he totaled eight goals and two assists in 36 games for the Kings the last two seasons. “I know I can score, I’ve done it all my career at other levels,” said the former Boston College captain. “It was frustrating in Los Angeles, so I was happy with the trade.”

Since winning the fourth-line job in training camp, Boyle has played limited minutes in the first six games, but his ice time has been increasing. He played 11:26 against the Leafs on Monday, including a rare 1:05 on the power play. “It’s a bit of a boost to earn some trust,” said Boyle, who has yet to register a point.”

Thoughts:

- After a somewhat shaky and rather lackluster preseason, Brian Boyle has played steady over the first 6 games and looks comfortable in his role as his ice-time increases. He was brought in to replace Blair Betts as the 4th line center and, while one can argue that Betts is one of the best defensive centers in the NHL, Boyle has gradually gotten better each game and on the penalty kill too. If he could net some goals as well that will only impress John Tortorella & the Rangers even more.

Avery & Co. put a hurting on Toronto, Rangers win 7-2

The New York Rangers scored a decisive win over the Toronto Maple Leafs by a score of 7-2. For full game recaps, stats, and highlights visit Rangers.NHL.com

Quick Hits:

- Well, so much for my theory that this game was a trap for the Rangers. Not only did they outplay the Leafs in ever facet of the game, they made it look like Toronto belongs in the AHL.

- Expanding on that point, I’m calling out Ron Wilson and his minions. On 2 separate occasions, Jamal Mayers and Jason Blake skated into Lundqvist’s crease, without stopping, and knocked him over. Only Blake was penalized. That’s the type of undisciplined play that could injure someone and needs to be monitored.

- Sean Avery followed up a good game on Sunday against Anaheim with an even better game tonight with a 2 goal effort.

- Colton Orr made his return to MSG tonight since he signed with Toronto in the offseason and squared off against Brashear, his replacement. I’ll give Brashear the slight edge in their 1st fight of the season.

- Is it possible the Rangers are becoming a legitimate threat to score on the PP?? 2 more goals tonight and PP goals in 4 straight games.

- Goals came from everywhere tonight. Dan Girardi had his 1st career 2-goal game. Wade Redden earned 2nd star status with his 3 point effort (1 goal, 2 assists).

- Even on his backside, Marian Gaborik finds a way to score. I’m intrigued to see what his encore to that is.

- I was impressed with the Kids (Del Zotto & Gilroy) in the defensive zone tonight. They made the little plays that go unnoticed.

- The Rangers are quickly becoming one of the best 3rd period teams in the NHL. They’ve outscored their opponents 12-3 in the final frame.

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Next game is Wednesday night against the LA Kings @ MSG 7:00pm

Toronto a Potential Trap?

Steve Zipay from Newsday had a chance to speak to Henrik Lundqvist after the Rangers practice today and asked him about their opponent tonight the Toronto Maple Leafs. Here’s an excerpt:

“They’re gonna come in desperate,” the Rangers No. 1 goaltender said a few minutes ago after a half-hour optional practice at Madison Square Garden. “They don’t have the same skill (as trhe Ducks), but they’ll be desperate, so sometimes that’s tougher to defend. We have to be ready.”

My Thoughts:

- I could not agree more with the King Henrik. The Rangers have to be weary of this Toronto team who, besides having a 3 game winning streak against the Rangers, are much more physical from last year’s team and eager to shake off their early season woes. Vesa Toskala, Toronto’s starting goalie, has a 5-0-2 record with a 1.37GAA in his last 7 against Broadway. Don’t be surprised at a loss tonight.

Rangers Dominate Ducks 3-0

The New York Rangers were able to shut out the Anaheim Ducks by a score of 3-0. For full game recaps and stats check out Rangers.NHL.com

Quick Hits:

- Very defensive game, especially in the 1st period for the Rangers. Anaheim could only muster 1 shot in the 1st frame. Hats off to Steven Valiquette for coming, playing a team he's never faced before, and shutting them down.

- It's nice to see the Sean Avery of old; finishing checks, distracting the opposition, goading them into penalties and his offensive talents. He showed a quick release on shots. Who knows, we could see "The Great One" more than "The Grate one."

- It's funny how things work sometimes. Last year, you couldn't bank on the Rangers getting 2 PPG's to help them win a hockey game and would effectively lose any game under those circumstances. This season, they seem to have a better time of it scoring on the PP than 5-on-5. 

- Del Zotto continues to impress as the PP QB. A 4 game point streak (2 goals, 3 assists) has him 2nd on the team in points only behind Marian Gaborik. 

- Michael Rosival had a bounce back effort. Essentially, he needs to if he wants to play. Which is a god send to hear that players will play based on performance, not on paychecks.

- Christopher Higgins is on the cusp. Another game where he had shots on net (4) and had quality scoring chances and was robbed. It's only a matter of time.

- There was a laughable sequence in the 1st period with Chris Drury where, on a 3-on-2, he passed it way behind Marc Staal, who was rushing to the net. Then in the same play, Drury got a pass right in the slot and fell down attempting to shoot. $5.5 million dollar follies are always exciting to watch.

- Congrats to Artem Anisimov on his first ever NHL goal. He looked good doing it, showing off once again a quick release in front of the net. Sounds like a theme this year....

Rangers are right back at it tonight 7:00pm against the Toronto Maple Leafs

Valiquette, Avery Probables For Ducks

Over at Blue Notes, Steve Zipay informs us that it looks as if backup Steve Valiquette will get his first start of the season against the Anaheim Ducks and Sean Avery looks to be healthy enough to make it in to the lineup for the 1st time all season. Here are some excerpts:

"Sean Avery, who wore a yellow No. 27 jersey, looked solid on the ice, including scoring three straight on Lundqvist in one drill, said there was nothing he wouldn't be able to do on Sunday, "except play goal."  

"Playing on the fourth line with Brian Boyle and Donald Brashear would mean limited minutes for Avery in his first game since spraining the MCL in his right knee on Sept. 21, which makes sense. Coach John Tortorella, who changes things up during almost every game, also could employ Avery on other lines or the PK.  Whether or not Avery plays against Toronto the following night is the question."

My Thoughts:

- Valiquette starting is to be expected as the Rangers have back to back games against Anaheim and Toronto. Although, I thought Vally would get the start against Toronto since he's had success against them in his career. We'll see.

- As for Avery, where ever he plays he will be effective if he can throw his opponents off their game. 1st line or 4th line it doesnt matter.

Gaborik, Rangers KO Caps

The New York Rangers were able to edge the Washington Capitals 4-3 on Thursday night. For full game recaps check out Rangers.NHL.com

My Thoughts:

- Unfortunately, due to work, I missed all the 1st period and most of the 2nd so I will try to blog to the best of my abilities as to what I actually did see.

- What can be said about Marian Gaborik that hasn't been said already; simply a world-class talent. 2 crucial goals to lift the Rangers to a win they more than likely would not have gotten last season.

- Ryan Callahan is what every hockey player should strive to be in terms of character. After being questionable to play because of a injury in practice, Callahan gutted it out and scored a goal purely on hard-work and determination. What a player the Rangers have. 

- If not for some quick, acrobatic saves by Jose Theodore, the Rangers could have had another 3 goals easily....mainly Christopher Higgins, who had a offensive epiphany of sorts.

- The Capitals are extremely dangerous. They are always difficult to play against simply because they have an abundance of YOUNG offensive weapons.

- I'm still shaking my head at the Backstrom goal Lundqvist let in. It was a fluke and I'm sure Henrik will make sure it never happens again.

- 4 games in to the season, Michael Del Zotto looks more and more like a keeper.

- Memo to the Rangers: do NOT take stupid penalties or Tortorella will speak to you about. Ask Aaron Voros.

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Next game is Sunday 5:00pm home against the Anaheim Ducks

Callahan Questionable; Grachev Called Up

According to Steve Zipay at Blue Notes, Ryan Callahan injured himself at practice today and is questionable for the game tonight vs Capitals.

The Rangers have recalled F Evgeny Grachev as insurance in case Callahan cannot go tonight.


...Not the best news you can hear before a pivotal early season match-up against the red-hot Capitals. Hopefully it's nothing too serious, as Callahan is a very important Ranger to not have in the line-up

Rangers Practice Patience

Brett Cyrgalis of the NY Post writes today about the difficult decision head coach John Tortorella has when Sean Avery returns from injury and who will sit in his favor. Here's an excerpt:

"The guys are playing well," Avery said yesterday after a close-to-full practice. "It's not to say that I'm not effective at 85-90 percent, but I think it's unfair to the team, and I don't think it's fair to myself, to [come back] this early. "

One of the main reasons the Rangers are 2-1-0 without Avery -- and carrying confidence into this matchup with the team that knocked them out in the first round of playoffs last year -- is a direct result of the stellar play from the guys who are most expendable."

...I like Sean's diligence with his injury. Rather than come back too soon he's taking his time and making sure he's as close to 100% as possible. It's a shame someone has to come out of the lineup (considering they're playing well) but you're adding more quality and more grit with Avery. It'll be just fine.