After reporting nothing following his first game back, two days later one of the emotional leaders of the Rangers is a late scratch for tonight’s crucial game. Steve Eminger goes back into the lineup. That alters John Tortorella’s plan. Staal allowed him to balance out the blueline. Neither Dan Girardi or Ryan McDonagh played over 23 minutes. With one of our top four D out, Tortorella will lean on his top tandem to neutralize a high flying attack led by Hart candidate Alex Ovechkin. It won’t be easy. 

They need Mike Del Zotto to lift his game. He had a poor outing, looking indecisive with the puck and getting beat outside. Del Zotto is an important part of the back end because he can shift to either side and log big minutes. If the Blueshirts are to get it done and send the series back to Washington even, he’ll need to step up along with Anton Stralman. John Moore has gained the coaching staff’s trust. Look for increased responsibility. Eminger must step up and play physical. Most of all, it will take a total team effort. Forechecking the Caps is essential and minimizing mistakes crucial. 

The Rangers do get Ryane Clowe back after missing the first three games of the first round. He replaces key penalty killer Darroll Powe. Clowe’s grit and intangibles should give the offense a boost. He’s good in the corners and gets the uniform dirty.