Avery Hospitalized

Sean Avery was hospitalized last night after suffering a lacerated spleen in last night's loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. He is reported to be in stable condition. The team has stated that the reports by The Daily News that Avery was unconscious and had to be transported to the hospital are completely false. According to team representatives, Avery walked into the hospital under his own power.

Supposedly, Avery suffered this injury after being hit in the first period of last night's game, and played the rest of the game in an enormous amount of pain. Avery is out for the remainder of the season (however short that may be), but should be ready for the beginning of next season.

Our hearts are all with Sean, hoping he can make a full recovery...

More later about game 4...

Game 3 Thoughts

It's sometime after the game is over and I think I only feel worse. I look back on the three games so far and I see so many opportunities that the Rangers missed out on. Today I think was the worst so far though. The Rangers had 4 straight penalties called and they didn't score once. A playoff team doesn't do that. The Rangers had problems during the season with their powerplay and it didn't look that bad against the Devils. Now it just looks horrendous. They couldn't get a real good chance during any of the powerplays they had and that really didn't help us much. The Pens have been taking advantage of their powerplays and that’s why they are up 3-0.

Another reason the Rangers are in this hole is because they haven't played a complete game this whole series. The first game the offense was on and the defense gave up the lead. The second game the Rangers played great defense and Henrik played spectacular. In that game the offense couldn't get a single goal. Now in the third game, the offense is on fire and playing with such determination but the defense completely falls apart. There were so many turnovers tonight and just overall bad decisions. I could go through them all but there is no point. Everyone that watched the game knows exactly what I am talking about. They made stupid mistakes and paid for them.

Now the offense wasn't perfect tonight to say the least. They were very determined and played physically and made a good comeback. They had so many missed opportunities as well though. Straka missed an open net and the puck flew through the front of the net plenty of times with no goal. That is the key; the Rangers have not capitalized on their opportunities or any Pens mistakes. The Pens have made every advantage count.

As for Henrik tonight, I don't know what to say. Some of those shots didn't seem very possible to save but he just didn't look that good. There was no crazy save or anything very impressive. I am not blaming him at all because the defense was worse and the offense had plenty of opportunities to win the game. He really just wasn't on tonight it seemed and unfortunately it was at the worst time possible.

Now of course this series isn't actually over. It’s possible that we could win 4 straight games, its been done before in hockey and other sports. This team just doesn't seem to be a team that can do it. They have to play a more complete game and hope the Pens start messing up a little bit. If the offense plays like they did tonight, and the defense like they did in Game 2 then yea maybe we have a chance. I'm not going to give up till they are done and buried so let's make history and make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. I still have hope and I hope every other Rangers fan does.

Game 3 - Post Game Thoughts

I will post this for now and I will say more later when I can collect my thoughts. The Rangers through everything they had at the Pens and they couldn't win. With the way the Pens are playing, you can only hope the Rangers don't get swept. Obviously anything can happen in sports, and that’s the last little bit of hope I am clinging on to. Everyone better start praying or else our season is over. This really sucks.

Game 3 - Second Period Thoughts

What a period. That was amazing play by the Rangers to tie the game up. We need to capitalize on the powerplay if we get another chance in the third. The Rangers couldn't get anything going on the powerplay and that would've been a big boost for them. They need to continue the physical play and pressure Fleury. This is the most important period of the series so far and the Rangers, all of them, really need to step it up to win this game. No stupid penalties, Ryan Hollweg, and people have to step up because Drury and Betts are hurt and I don't know if they are coming back. This period is really going to show how far this team can go.

Game 3 - First Period Thoughts

That was crushing. The Rangers were playing so well, peppering Fleury with shots, playing physical and playing determined to win this game. We have just had some serious defensive mistakes. There have been way too many turnovers in our defensive zone and on the goals they just don't seem to be in the right places. The first goal was a nice bounce that went in the Pens favor but the second and third ones could've been stopped by the defense. The Rangers can't get down on themselves because they are playing hard and determined. Fleury has been making good saves and the Rangers have been missing some serious opportunities. Straka had a wide open net and completely blew it.

The Rangers have to play tighter defensively and Henrik needs to step it up a little. He looks a little shaky right now. The Rangers need to get the puck to Jagr because he is playing like a man possessed right now. He is very intense and is all over the ice and I have a good feeling he is going to get something going. I can't believe he was put in the box after being literally attacked for no reason. The Rangers need to play smart get some quality chances and not mess them up. We are still in this game.

Game 3 - Pregame

With about an hour till game time, I am both nervous but confident. The Pens have really shown something in the first two games. They made a great comeback in Game 1 and beat us at our own game in Game 2. That’s what makes me feel a little nervous. But the Rangers have had the opportunity to win both games and have played solid hockey so far in the series. That is what makes me confident. And of course being at home makes me feel a little more comfortable. This is a must win game. Either we make it a series or we go into the biggest hole possible.

Tonight's game is going to be intense. The Pens are trying to basically end it and the Rangers are trying to make it a series. Let's not forget how the last game ended as well. That scuffle got intense with Jagr throwing punches and Avery getting jumped. That was the only time I really saw the Pens get affected by Avery's antics. By the way I don't know if you have heard but Avery supposedly slashed at Crosby's wrist twice, connecting once but missing with the harder second slash. They have been good so far at not focusing on Avery's antics and such. I think some of that fire is going to carry over from Game 2 into Game 3. The Rangers will be fired up being at home and knowing they have to win.

Some lineup changes for tonight's game. Prucha is out and Hollweg is back in. Also, according to Renney, the lines will be a little mixed up tonight to allow for more forechecking. Maybe some lineup changes will be good for the offense after Game 2 where they couldn't get anything going. We will have to wait and see.

Game 2 - Post Game Thoughts

That was some fight at the end but that means nothing. The Rangers during the whole game could not take advantage of their opportunities. They had plenty of chances 5 on 5 and also on the powerplay. The Rangers had the game at their pace and they still couldn't win. This is devastating. You could see how frustrated and disappointed the Rangers were at the end of the game. They need to get their heads up because if they lose Game 3 the series is over. Henrik played well and the defense was great too. The Rangers offense, which got us through the first round, needs to get the pucks in the net. We got screwed by the whistle and we blew another game, it's that simple.

Game 2 - Second Period Thoughts

It was only a matter of time before either team got a goal. Unfortunately it was the Pens. There was nothing Henrik could do there. It was a great pass and great stick handling and shot by Staal to score. The Pens took advantage of their powerplay, something the Rangers have not been able to do. The Rangers have had their chances they just can’t put one in. They have to keep on pressuring the net and playing solid defensive hockey. Its only one goal and the pace is in the Rangers favor. As long as Henrik continues to be a brick wall then the Rangers have a chance. If the Rangers don’t score first in this period the Rangers could be in trouble. Scoring early and first is key so we can get this game on an even playing field and not let the Pens get any momentum.

Game 2 - First Period Thoughts

That was some period for both teams. They both played well but no team could put one in. The Rangers had their chances and just missed a few times and Henrik really shut down the Pens with some excellent saves. The Rangers have had some chances with some powerplays but they haven't capitalized. They need to continue the play and continue to put people in front of the net. They have been doing it well so far and if they keep putting the pressure on Fleury it will go in. The defense needs to keep up the play; they are shutting down the Pens very well. Henrik also has to keep his play up because you know the Pens have good offensive players and they aren't going to stop challenging him

Game 2 - News

So we blew Game 1, plain and simple. Now we have to do what Philly did. They deserved to win Game 1 and blew it. They stepped up in Game 2 and won the game. Prucha will be in today to help out. I like his speed to help the Rangers out. Other than that everything is the same as Game 1.

One More Day of Waiting

Yes we must wait one more day to see hockey. It's weird how the teams that went through Game 7's get to play on the first day and the teams that have been waiting the longest out of all the teams still in the playoffs have to wait another day. I can't take it anymore, I need some hockey. Nothing else to report. Get excited, it's the NHL playoffs Round 2.

Second Round Preview

Finally the second round is upon us and thank god. Now we get into some serious battles as teams fight for the right to make it to their respective conference finals. The four series around the NHL should all be excellent series, especially the Rangers-Penguins series. The NHL may have not gotten their Crosby-Ovechkin matchup but they got their most popular young star against a major market team. It is going to be one hell of a series and anything could happen between these two Atlantic Division rivals. Here is how I feel the second round will go.

Rangers vs. Penguins
Let's start with the most important series to all of us, and probably the most exciting in the second round. The Rangers will get another Atlantic Division rival in the playoffs and a team that they played pretty well against in the regular season going 5-3. The regular season record at this point means absolutely nothing so I am not going to focus on how well the Rangers faired in the regular season but more the fact that they played each other 8 times. They know each other well and how the other team plays. I am going to go through some different aspects of the game and who has the advantage.

Offense
Yes the Rangers have been playing well offensively in the playoffs so far but it's hard to beat a team with players like Crosby, Malkin and Hossa. They are an offensive juggernaut and are playing great hockey. The Rangers have the stars to keep up but you have to give the slight edge to the Penguins.
Edge: Penguins

Defense
This is where the Rangers gain an edge. Their game has focused around playing solid defense and they have been doing that well all season. Young players like Staal, Girardi and Tyutin have stepped up and Rozsival is playing like a top defender. The Pens have been a little shaky on the blue line but still have some talented players back there like Gonchar, Orpik and Whitney. The Rangers have the more difficult task shutting down Crosby and Co. but I feel that they are up to it and are an overall better defensive unit than the Penguins
Edge: Rangers

Goaltending
There are two great goalies in this series. Fleury played great against Ottawa and really showed he could be a top notch goalie. Luckily we have King Henrik on our side who has been playing great hockey all season. Henrik played great against the Devils and I look for him to continue that and outplay Fleury. Fleury did play well against Ottawa but they were a team that limped into the playoffs and their offense was not where it should have been. You have to wonder how good he is going to be against a team with much better offensive talent.
Edge: Rangers

Depth
Both teams have some serious depth and that is what has gotten them to this point. The Pens are deep at center with Crosby, Malkin, Staal and Talbot. The Rangers are deep at center as well with Gomez, Drury, Dubinsky and Betts. Both teams are also deep at the wings and defense. I feel that the Rangers have more overall depth than the Pens. When you look at the lines for each team you see more balance with the Rangers amongst all their lines. The ability to score is there almost equally with the top three lines for the Rangers and there fourth line has the ability to score a goal with Sjostrom and Betts. The Penguins have good top lines but the scoring ability really falls off as you go deeper into their lineups. Same thing goes for the defensive units.
Edge: Rangers

Momentum
Both teams are confident right now. They finished off their first round opponents quickly and convincingly and have both been playing some of the best hockey of the season. There is no real advantage for either team when it comes to momentum. They both have it and it shouldn't affect the series. The only thing you can think of is that the Pens played a team that limped into the playoffs in Ottawa so how ready will they really be for a much better Rangers team.
Edge: Even

X-Factor
Two words here: Sean Avery. If he could get into the head of such a veteran like Marty, what could he do to a young Fleury who only played 35 games this season and is experiencing the playoffs for the first time? Avery got into the heads of the entire Devils team and got them out of their game. Forget about the whole dancing thing he did, by the end of the series the Devils were shooting for him and not playing their hockey. That was an experienced team and the Pens are a young team with little to no playoff experience. I think he could really get the Pens off their game and truly affect this series. Also the Rangers have the serious edge in experience for this series which should come into play when a team is down on the road or in a hole in the series.
Edge: Rangers

Overall I think this is going to be a great series. They are rivals and the best two teams in the East right now. They are both playing their games perfectly. I think the rest the Pens got and playing a weak Ottawa team will affect them a little to start this series. I think the Rangers could definitely win Game 1 because of this. Stealing a game on the road to start the series would be huge. I think Henrik is a big key to this series and limiting the mistakes. Mistakes gave the Devils a lot of chances and kept them in that series. The Penguins are a better offensive team and could crush us if we make those mistakes. The Rangers are ready for this and will use their experience, their defensive game, and Henrik to win this series. I expect Avery to play a huge role too.
Prediction: Rangers in 6

Now for the rest of the NHL including the Western Conference

Canadiens vs. Flyers
Both of these teams had to go the distance to advance to this point so neither is more rested than the other. The Canadiens had some serious troubles with a team they dominated all season long and the Flyers stepped their game up to beat a team many thought were going to win. The goalies are key to this series. Biron played great and was the key to the Flyers winning Game 7. Price was also the reason that the Habs advanced. Both are young with little experience so who knows if they will continue to play like this. Montreal is a great offensive team and I think they will use that to win this series. Expect the Flyers to hang around though if Biron continues to play the way he did against the Caps.
Prediction: Canadiens in 6

Red Wings vs. Avalanche
What a great series this is. These two teams have so much history between them and I think this is only going to add to that history. The Red Wings are a talented team but they always seem to have problems in the playoffs. They win the Presidents trophy every year it seems but never really play to their potential in the playoffs. At least they finally got their goalie situation corrected by putting Osgood in net. I liked the way the Avs played against the Wild and I think the Red Wings will falter again in a tough fought and long series.
Prediction: Avs in 7

Sharks vs. Stars
Here is another great series. The Sharks were a lot of people's Stanley Cup favorite and they almost got eliminated by Calgary. The Stars beat another one of people's Stanley Cup favorites in the Ducks. I like Nabokov to out duel Turco and the overall depth and firepower that the Sharks have should allow them to prevail. I do expect this series to go the distance though. The Stars are playing well and could find some falters in the Sharks game that were revealed during their first round series.
Prediction: Sharks in 7

There ya go, my extremely extensive analysis of the second round of the NHL playoffs. Let's see if my picks are all correct again like the first round. I sure hope so.

Game 1 Friday on Versus

Game 1 of the round 2 series between the Rangers and the Penguins will be aired Friday at 7:00 PM EST exclusively on Versus TV, channel 408 for you New Yorkers (and channel 65 for anyone watching along with me in North Easton, Massachusetts, not that I think anyone is). I personally love watching the games on Versus, not that I don't love listening to Sam and Joe call the game, but Versus is all over NHL Playoff Hockey. Between their intermission analysis and their interviews with the coach right there on the bench, there is no way to get a more full experience of the game.

We Are Going to Pittsburgh

The Flyers won a great OT game. That means they get Montreal and we get Pittsburgh. I will have some predictions and analysis tomorrow as well as the schedule as soon as possible.

P.S. - By the way I picked all the winners correctly in the first round. Just a note.

Say Hello to the Steel City

Well, game 7 between the Capitals and the Flyers has just concluded with a Flyers win. What does this mean for the Rangers? It means that the Rangers reseed as the 3 seed, and play the 2 seed, the Pittsburgh Penguins. Game 1 will be in Pittsburgh, more later on when the game will take place.

Who's it Gonna Be?

It has felt like an eternity since the Rangers last played a hockey game but finally tonight we will know where we are going. Either we go to Montreal or we go to Pittsburgh. If Washington wins then we go to Montreal and if the Flyers win then we go to Pittsburgh. I have mentioned this before, both teams are good and it will be a tough series regardless. We had a winning record against both teams during the season and they are both playing well right now.

Pittsburgh played a team in Ottawa that everyone knew was not playing well at all and it was no surprise that they swept them. Montreal played a team that they dominated the whole season and had some problems but ended up blowing them out in Game 7. They are both solid offensive teams with goalies that are playing great and sound defensive hockey. The thing is that the Rangers have been playing solid as well. There offense has been playing like we expected them to since the beginning of the season. Our star players are stepping up and Henrik has been outstanding. To win against either team we are going to have to limit our mistakes and continue our excellent offensive play that we saw in the series against the Devils. Regardless of who we play, we are going to have to play a solid defensive game and Henrik is going to have to play some of the best hockey of his career. I think we have a chance against either team and I personally just want the second round to start already.

The King

As the Rangers continue to wait for their second round opponent, which I will discuss later, Henrik Lundqvist has been announced as a Vezina Award Finalist for the third straight year. He has been a finalist so far in every season he has been in the NHL. Not only does it show how great of a goalie he has been, but it also shows how consistent he has been. He absolutely deserves to be a finalist but I don't think he will win the award. I personally think he should because I know that without him the Rangers are nothing this season. Henrik's great play made up for our lack of offense for the season and got us where we are right now. I feel Nabokov will win but it should be close. Imagine if Henrik's midseason problems never happened.

Tonight could be the night the first round is officially over for the Eastern Conference. The Flyers try and close out the Caps at home in Game 6 and Boston tries to continue their comeback and win Game 7 in Montreal. I would love if those two things happen tonight. That would leave the Rangers playing the Flyers in the next round. We will have to wait and see but I think the Flyers end it tonight and Montreal uses home ice to win their series.

Rangers Advance

With their 5-3 win over the Devils the Rangers have won their first round series in 5 games. The Rangers have now won 4 out of the 5 playoff series between these two teams. You have to love the play of everyone on this team from each rookie, veteran, and especially Henrik. The Rangers next opponent has not been determined as of yet. Best case scenario is that the Bruins and Flyers both win their series which means that the Rangers would open up at home against the Flyers. Enjoy the time off.

Game 5 - First Period Thoughts

How much is there to say about that period. We came out firing so that we could end this series and we outplayed the Devils and have a great 2 goal lead. Now we just have to keep it up so we can advance to the next round.

Let's End This Thing

I don't know about you but I can't help to think into the second round with the Rangers only one win away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Obviously I shouldn't be since we haven't actually advanced yet but sorry I can't help it.

Tomorrow night's game is absolutely huge not because we don't want to let the Devils get one game closer, but because the Rangers need some rest before they have to play either Montreal or Pittsburgh. Those are two very good teams. They are hot right now and are playing solid hockey. Yea the Rangers went 3-0-1 against the Canadiens and 5-3-0 against the Pens, but that means nothing come playoff time. The Rangers are going to need to rest after this physical series so they can get ready for either opponent. Montreal could be done tonight and the Pens are already resting and getting ready for the next round. I personally don't care who we play because both series are going to be a challenge. First I want to make it to the next round as soon as possible, and that is what makes Game 5 so huge.

Game 4 - Post Game Thoughts

I can't express how happy I am that we won that game. Any hockey fan, even Devils fans, could see that the refs wanted to give that game to the Devils. Anyone that doesn't agree is ignorant and stupid. But I vented about the refs enough. The Rangers won that game because their offense is absolutely on fire right now.

The Rangers played a great game offensively. They did what the Devils did in Game 3. They turned defensive zone turnovers by the Devils into 2 goals. The Devils did the same thing in Game 3 and that’s why they won. They constantly had to regain the lead this game and they never got down on themselves and fought hard and they deserved to win this game. It was one hell of a game to watch. I am just going to give the three stars of the game to the entire offense. The entire offensive unit and Henrik were the main reasons for this win.

One problem I had with this game, besides the officiating and Marty "the Pansy" Brodeur, was the Rangers defense late in the game. They gave the Devils plenty of opportunities to win this game but luckily Henrik shut them down. They played very well in the first and second but seemed to just get frustrated in the third. They didn't play bad because there were plenty of times they stole the puck or had a good check, they just gave the Devils too many chances. Luckily we have Henrik and the Devils are a terrible offensive team.

Now we have a commanding lead on the Devils and will look to end this series in Newark on Friday. You know the Devils have to be disappointed because they got themselves back in this game numerous times but the Rangers did a better job regaining the lead. The Rangers already won 2 games there this series and you know that Rangers fans will make some noise at the Rock. We have to hope the Rangers great play offensively, defensively and great goaltending can lead to ending this series on Friday. I think the Rangers have some serious momentum and the Devils are deflated. I would love to see this series end on Friday and I think it is going to.

Refs

I couldn't help but chime in right now but who the hell is paying these refs. Avery got held down for a good 15 seconds, they got called for an non-existent offside and Parise knocks the stick out of Henrik's hand and nothing is called. This is really screwing the Rangers who are playing great hockey. I can't stand this and I hope the NHL takes a look at these games and never lets these refs ever work another game in the NHL.

Game 4 - Second Period Thoughts

The Rangers are playing good hockey but I am getting really sick and tired of these refs. The fact that the Devils didn't get too many men on the ice, called for tripping on Gomez and Sjostrom got called for goaltender interference is absolutely ludicrous. Thankfully those calls didn't really affect this game because if they did I would be a whole lot more upset. These calls have become truly out of control. Now let me get to Marty.

If anyone has ever wondered why Rangers fans hate Marty Brodeur, just watch that period. He is an absolute pansy and a whole lot more words that I can't use. He dove twice and thankfully they called him on it once. When Jagr drove the net Uncle Daddy dove, and even tried to sell it by taking his mask off. Everyone in the arena and on the ice knew he was fine. He should've been called for a penalty again because that was an obvious dive to get a whistle. I absolutely can not stand Marty and that period just made me hate him more. I wish I could jump on the ice and just hit him. The only way to get back at him now is to score goals and I hope we score 10 and rub it in his face.

Now for the actual game itself. The Devils first goal was a lucky bounce and Henrik let up a softie for the second goal. Luckily this Rangers offense is playing their best hockey of the year at the perfect time. Tonight's goals have been absolutely beautiful goals. I have no idea how Drury got a stick on the puck for his deflection but that was spectacular. Straka's goal was also a great goal off a great pass and a well placed shot. The Rangers need to continue to go at the net and play like they are right now on offense. They need to keep the D sharp and Henrik just needs to be Henrik. The Rangers have done a great job of getting themselves back in the lead after a Devils goal. They have the momentum and the crowd behind them and they need to end this game quick with an early third period goal. One thing they can't do in the third is take any form of penalties. The Devils have capitalized once on a powerplay and this game could be tied with one dumb penalty in the third period.

I hate Marty "Uncle Daddy" Brodeur!!

Game 4 - First Period Thoughts

This was by far the best period the Rangers have played this whole series. That was the most sound and complete hockey I have seen played by the Rangers in a while. They controlled the puck so well and really took some heat off the defense and Henrik. Henrik made the saves he had to but he didn't face much pressure because of great offensive play and solid defense. The Rangers are absolutely dominating this game and if not for Marty, this score could be a lot higher. That was almost as good as a period as we could've had.

The goal was a thing of beauty. The passing was perfect throughout the period and on that play. Gomez put the puck right into the open net and you could really see the true emotion when he scored. He had to have felt great to score such a big goal against his former team. Let's hope he can put in one more this game and really put the Devils in a hole.

Game 4 - News

So far home ice hasn't been too friendly to either team. We have to hope that changes tonight or else this turns into a best of 3 series. Tonight’s game is monumental to say the least. We could almost put the series away or like I said, turn it into a best of 3 series. The Devils got lucky last game and got some favorable calls and some lucky bounces and there is nothing the Rangers could have done about that. They have had 2 days off to rest and get ready for Game 4.

One big thing that has to be changed tonight is the sloppy play and the mistakes, especially in the Rangers defensive zone. Mistakes in our own defensive zone cost us 2 goals last game and sloppy play really didn't help our offensive or defensive play. You could say it was because they were playing at home for the first time in the playoffs or because they were frustrated from the bad calls called against them. Regardless of why it happened, it has to stop. The Rangers are a far better team than the Devils and Marty is not playing as he usually does and we have to take advantage of that. The Rangers have to play sound hockey, watch the dumb penalties and play their game. They also have to just throw pucks at the net because Marty has been giving up some bad rebounds and the Rangers could get a garbage goal from those. If this happens tonight, and the refs call an even game, the Rangers should be up 3 games to 1.

No More Dancing in Front of the Net for Avery

Last night Sean Avery did something I have never seen before. He screened the goalie but instead of having his back to him, he faced Marty and stared him right in the eye and danced around. I found it at as an excellent attempt to screen the goalie and was very comical at the same time. I think he really got into Marty's head too because he seemed pretty upset. Unfortunately the NHL didn't find it as comical and excellent as I did. Here is there statement regarding the incident:

National Hockey League Senior Executive Vice President and Director of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell today issued the following advisory on the interpretation of Rule 75 – Unsportsmanlike Conduct: “An unsportsmanlike conduct minor penalty (Rule 75) will be interpreted and applied, effective immediately, to a situation when an offensive player positions himself facing the opposition goaltender and engages in actions such as waving his arms or stick in front of the goaltender’s face, for the purpose of improperly interfering with and/or distracting the goaltender as opposed to positioning himself to try to make a play.”

So we just saw the first and last time a player will ever do that. It's unfortunate because I liked it. The goalie got angry and couldn't see. No word on how Avery feels about the NHL's decision but I bet you he thinks he did nothing wrong, and I agree.

If you want to see the “Avery Dance” click here.

Now We Have to Move On

When I look back on last night's game, I can't really find much good. The Rangers played sloppy and the Devils wanted the game more. Dumb penalties, whether they were actually penatlies or not doesn't matter, really killed us. The Devils played very well on the powerplay and used it to get back in the game. They took advantage of mistakes on the powerplay and made us pay. They outplayed us last night, made less mistakes and they finally got a break with the game-winning goal.

Now the Rangers just have to move on and get ready for a huge Game 4; they even get an extra day of rest for it with the game not being until Wednesday for some reason. This is now a series and that is no question, but I don't feel that the series has completely turned yet. The Rangers still hold the lead in the series and still have one more game at the Garden before heading back to Newark to play. If the Rangers play like they did last night, especially with the Devils having some life, we could be in big trouble. The Devils have the momentum with their win but they don't have a hold on the series yet. They just got back into it.

The Rangers need to focus for Game 4 and limit the sloppy play. The Devils are a team known to sit back and wait for a mistake by their opponent to strike. They did exactly that last night. If the Rangers can limit their mistakes, then they limit the opportunities that the Devils offense gets. Marty is not going to win this series for the Devils with his play in the last 3 games. He has made some great saves but he also looked very vulnerable at times. We have obviously found a way to score on him with 9 goals in 3 games. Limiting the mistakes will really put a strangle on the Devils offense and the scoring chances they want. Without some lucky bounces on 3 of the 4 goals they don't even win Game 3. I still feel confident about this series because I feel the Rangers are a better team than the Devils in all aspects of the game right now and that loss was a kick in the rear end. I think they will be back for Game 4 with some serious energy and good, focused play and hopefully put this series at 3-1, not 2-2.

Game 3 - Post Game Thoughts

They got a lucky goal from a weird angle. The Rangers were not playing well in the overtime and I wasn't suprised that we lost. Now this is a series. We lose Game 4 and the series is all tied up. We win we can really end the series and not have to worry about the first situation. We are going to have to play better than that though. This really sucks.

Game 3 - Third Period Thoughts

This game is heading into overtime and this could take a while the way these two goalies are playing. They were both on their game in the third period, when their teams needed it the most. The one exception was Marty on the goal.

Speaking of the goal. When that happened I thought we would absolutely win that game. We tied the game early and got huge momentum. Unfortunately we could not put one in and we have to play a nerve wrecking overtime period.

Game 2 - Second Period Thoughts

Due to some internet thing I don't understand and thanks to friend and reader Doug, I was able to watch the second period but it was quite disgusting. Both the refs and the Rangers really messed up that period.

First lets discuss the zebras. They were absolutely horrendous in that period. They have cost the Rangers to basically constantly play on the penalty kill. A good team like the Devils will thrive on those opportunities. The Devils are known for capitalizing on mistakes. They did that period, they capitalized on the powerplay because of the ref’s stupid mistakes.

Now let’s discuss the Rangers play. They were playing well on the penalty kill and getting in the shooting lanes but a turnover to the middle of the zone gave the Devils a nice shot and Elias made a great shot. The second goal was just Henrik out of place and being a man short left Parise wide open for goal.

The Rangers need to stop taking penalties, I put that more on the refs though. They need to play their game, feed off the crowd and continue to play physical. The Devils have had problems closing the games out in the third period in the first two games of this series and we can only hope that continues. They need to put pucks on Marty because he hasn't been great. Maybe Avery should continue dancing in front of Marty while staring right at him. Its funny and it has to get Marty pretty pissed off.

Game 3 - First Period Thoughts

Unfortunately, due to some stupid connection problem with Comcast cable, the Rangers-Devils game is blacked out in Pennsylvania. For some reason, 3 hours away from New York City, my cable thinks I am getting a New York broadcast and I can’t watch a nationally televised game. They say they are trying to fix it but I am sure they won't. So I had to listen to the first period, so I haven't exactly seen everything that has happened. I have seen absolutely nothing to be exact. I have been watching bull riding hoping that the problem will be fixed.

The Rangers seemed to have some problems to start the game and I personally am going to say they were because of some playoff jitters playing on home ice with all that energy and noise. Unfortunately it cost us since the Devils took advantage of our mistakes and scored. After the goal, the Rangers settled down and played some quality hockey. They were able to tie the game back up and possess the puck more. Tying the game was huge. It got the fans back into the game and took away any momentum the Devils had by scoring so early.

As I said before, I have to listen to the game for now and from the sound of the radio broadcasters it sounded like Avery's penalty seemed like nonsense. Figures, since Marty gets any call he wants just by doing a little bit of acting out there, especially when it’s Avery in front. Luckily the Rangers got a call right off the faceoff so they won't have to worry about killing a powerplay.

Game 3 - News

Playoff hockey as returned to the world's greatest arena and if your not excited then you don't have a pulse. I wish I could just be in NYC for tonight's game. Unfortunately I am stuck in Philly at school but that won't stop me from going crazy. Tonight's game could put the nail in the coffin for the Devils and end any chance of them coming back. As for the lineups, there is of course no change. Everything will still be the same; the only difference is they will be wearing their blue jerseys tonight.

The only aspect of the game that will be different for the Rangers tonight is obviously that they are home. There is no doubt that the Garden will be literally shaking an hour before the game even starts and throughout the whole game. The Rangers need to feed off this energy but they have to do it correctly. Shanny said it best yesterday when he talked about the atmosphere for the Garden, "We've got to harness that emotion and use it correctly, not go running all over the ice. But we should feed off of our fans' emotion." He is a veteran and knows exactly what to do, especially after playing in Detroit for so long. Hopefully the young players and those that haven’t experienced playoff hockey in the Garden can keep their composure. The Rangers just can't get carried away with the energy and get away from their game and what has been helping them win these past two games. One thing is for sure, it is going to be one hell of a game again.

Game 2 - News

Tonight there will be no changes in the lineups or anything. No real suprise there. Tonight should be another high energy, physical game with a lot of great goaltending on display. Hopefully the Rangers have gotten over their playoff jitters and won't come out sloppy like they did last game. If they come out tonight the way they played in the 3rd period of Game 1, then the Rangers should win this game and I feel that if they win this game the series could be over. Taking a 2-0 lead back to the Garden, where the Rangers had the second best home record in the East, would really put the pressure on the Devils. Not to mention, you know the Garden crowd will be going nuts and looking for some payback after what the Devils did to us last time in the playoffs.

Game 1 - Post Game Thoughts

That was the greatest period of hockey I have seen in a long time. That was an overall complete game and a great game by the entire Rangers team. The defense and Henrik were the key to this game. The defensive play was solid and Henrik was an absolute wall. The beginning of the game was sloppy to say the least. I credit that to just some playoff jitters. There is no other reason for all the turnovers. After the first the Rangers were a whole lot better and cleaner. The penalty kill was the best I have seen in a long time. They were solid, aggressive and kept the Rangers in the lead. There in not much more you could ask for from the Rangers.

Three Stars:
1) King Henrik - If you watched the game then you know why he is the first star. He made saves no human should ever be able to make. He kept the game close when they were tied and stayed solid when the Rangers gained the lead. He out dueled Marty, who seemed to have a little senior moment out there on the shorthanded goal., poor old Marty. Henrik was at is best tonight and the King was the biggest reason why we won this game.

2) Scott Gomez - After the first period, I thought one of his mishaps was going to cost us the game. He got over the jitters and the boos and composed himself to end with a great game. He assisted on 3 of the 4 goals tonight and was great on the penalty kill both defensively and offensively. He skated very well in the 2nd and 3rd period and made great plays on both Callahan's goal and Avery's goal. It was nice to see him really burn his old team when it really mattered.

3) Ryan Callahan - As I mentioned before, Marty seemed to have senior brain fart out there on Callahan's goal. That was some serious hustle to stop the Devils, get down the ice and follow up his own shot. Before that play the Rangers had no shots on goal in the third, and that goal really seemed to relax the team a little bit and give us a whole lot of momentum. Without his hustle the game could've been a lot different.

Notables: Shanny - A great goal and what a great hockey player letting Dawes record his first playoff goal. That was something.

The entire defensive unit - I will say once and I will say it again, the Rangers defense was great tonight. The forwards came back and helped but the entire defensive unit played very well, blocked shots and got their sticks in to steal some pucks. With defense like that the Rangers can go very far.

So we now have the momentum in the series as we captured the first game and take a 1-0 lead in the series. That’s a big momentum boost to win the first one on the road and not have to worry about going back to the Garden down 2-0. If they can play the entire game like they played the third period in Game 2, I expect the Rangers to take it back to the Garden up 2 games to none.

Game 1 - Second Period Thoughts

That was another hell of a period. Both teams are continuing their high energy play and both goalies are on display. Henrik made some great saves to keep this game tied. I thought the Devils had at least 2 or 3 goals that Henrik just absolutely brilliant in making the tough saves. Marty has been pretty good too, he is letting up a lot of rebounds though and one weird bounce in front of the net and the Rangers could get another goal. Just some great play all around by both teams.

I dont know who this powerplay is but it is actually playing great. They are firing pucks like crazy and one of those is going to go in if we get another chance. We have to keep firing pucks and playing like we are on the powerplay.

As for the goal given up, what are you gonna do. The Rangers did a great job keeping it away from the net with their blocks and the Devils just kept on firing. If you asked Henrik he would most likely say he could've stopped that but there was not much more the Rangers defense, which has been very good, could really do. The Rangers have to keep up the great defensive play and just look for a rebound off Marty because he has let up plenty of them so far. This is one hell of a game and its only the Game 1. Love the playoffs man.

Game 1 - First Period Thoughts

Man do I love playoff hockey. This game is high energy and fast moving right now. Everyone is hitting everyone and people are skating. I like that the Rangers are coming out with good energy and they are skating well. Some big problems are the turnovers. There have been way to many for the Rangers and a team like the Devils will jump on a mistake, thats their game. The Rangers need to play smoother and handle the puck better. The Devils played better than us that period but Henrik and some good defense has kept it at 0-0.

The Rangers have had some good chances. Jagr hitting the post was the closest. The Rangers have to have traffic in front of the net to get a goal. The Devils had some problems dealing with traffic, especially at the end of the period when they got called for a penalty. The first goal of this game is going to be huge. It will really give either team some serious momentum. We'll see what happens.

Game 1 News

The Rangers went very easy in the morning skate today. They didn't do any drills that hinted at lines or anything. Not really that suprising as Tom is trying to hide his philosophy from the Devils (we have played them 8 times so I think they know what the Rangers are going to do.) My feeling is that Shanny won't be on the fourth line and as for defense, many reporters seem to be hinting that Malik is not playing. One thing is for sure, Henrik is in net. We will have to wait till the start of the game to see what the lines are going to be. I don't expect any crazy changes.

Let the Playoffs Begin

It's one of the greatest times of the year. The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin tonight and today is the last day to shave. I am very excited for these playoffs as a general hockey fan. The league was very tight during the season and I think the playoff series will show this. There should be some very exciting games and some great series. Below I have my predictions:

First, the preview that matters the most.
New Jersey vs New York
If your looking for goals then you are looking at the wrong series. This series should be low scoring and full of defense. Both teams have great goalies and play solid defense. The edge comes offensively. The Rangers have more fire power than the Devils. The key to this series is going to be the first goal of the game. If the Devils score first, they can drop back like they always do and play good enough D to win the game. I feel the lack of depth in firepower for the Devils will allow the Rangers to win the series. The Rangers have three solid lines that can score and that kind of depth is dangerous in the playoffs. We don't have to worry about one line scoring and if one line is off we still have 2 lines to go to for goals. Not to mention our 4th line could put a goal or two in during the series. Expect Henrik to out duel Marty and lead the Rangers to the second round against the Pens.
Rangers in six

Montreal vs Boston
This is a great Original 6 mathcup right here. These division rivals played 8 times this year so they know all about each other. With the injury to Bergeron and all the young players, I can't see the Bruins hanging with the offensive powerhouse that is Montreal
Montreal in five

Pittsburgh vs Ottawa
The Sens have had some serious problems through the second half of the season. They looked like a lock to be the #1 seed months back, but they seem to have completely lost it. The Pens are a balanced team, and Sid has some playoff experience now. I expect the Sens to get themselves together a little bit but I see the Pens getting some revenge on the Sens.
Pittsburgh in five

Washington vs Philadelphia
I think this is going to be a great series. The Flyers are hot but the Capitals are hotter. Both teams have been playing well as of late so both are confident. I like the Flyers to win this series because they are more tested coming from the Atlantic Division. They have some good defense to stop Ovechkin and if you can do that you can stop the Capitals.
Flyers in six

New York Rangers Clinch 3rd Straight Playoff Berth

I would first like to apologize for the recent lack of activity on the blog. It has been slow but we will be ready to go in the upcoming weeks.

Tonight on the Island the Rangers clinched their third straight spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I don't care what kind of expectations this team had, it is quite an accomplishment. Not that it was unexpected but one of the goals every year is to make the playoffs. After years of futility in the late 90's and early 2000's we all know how precious that playoff spot is. Three straight playoff berths is no small feet and credit should be given to Jaromir Jagr, Henrik Lundqvist, and Tom Renney for bringing this franchise from the bottom of the league to a legitimate Cup contender over these past three seasons.

Great win tonight, there was no better way in my mind to clinch the spot. 10th shutout of the season from Henrik along with 2 goals from the captain...this team is ready to go. I would definitely like to see some players rested at least for tomorrow night including Scott Gomez, Henrik, and maybe a defenseman or two.

Let's talk about seeding for a little bit. The Rangers are virtually locked into that number 5 spot. If the Rangers split the next 2 games (seems realistic) they are guaranteed that position. 1 win would put them ahead of Ottawa for good and a lose would but the Devils out of reach. So we're probably headed to Jersey next week...more on that later.

A word about some other potential matchups...how about a 1-8 matchup of Crosby vs. Ovechkin. Not only would that be a great story but also a huge boost for the NHL in terms of TV ratings and popularity. I'm rooting for it. With the Rangers virtually a lock to play the Devils and a potential Boston-Montreal inter-division matchup the first round is shaping up to be pretty exciting.

What more can you say about this Rangers team. It was a slow start but they've really gelled together. A healthy mixture of young players with a veteran presence and strong goaltending is the formula for a cup run. We have a experience, we have toughness, we have skill and we have Henrik. The New York Rangers can make a run at Lord Stanley's Cup. However, still 2 more "preseason" games to go. Here's to no injuries and the healthy return of Blair Betts.