It referred to the solid work ethic our players exhibited. That was instilled by Tortorella. A demanding in your face coach who challenged Henrik Lundqvist to be better. He went from good to great. Most would have you believe Hank was elite long before then. His level the past two years is unlike anything we saw the first five seasons. Ironically, the same goalie who carried the Rangers to a division title, the East’s best record and a Conference Finals appearance- wasn’t satisfied. Julius Caesar was done in by his henchmen. That’s exactly what played out yesterday.

Good coaches never keep jobs. Admittedly, I was an advocate of Tort due to his desire to make our team better, which they were. As often happens with strong personalities, they wear out quickly. It was bound to happen. Lundqvist didn’t think our team performed up to expectations. His criticism on post break up day read loud and clear. He felt they underachieved and was disappointed as was Ryan Callahan. Maybe management saw his statement and panicked. What if Hank leaves next year?

Brad Richards’ benching and Tortorella’s criticism following the second round series defeat to a better Bruins team might’ve been the turning point. These days, it doesn’t take much for a coach to go. Even one as well respected as Tort despite the lunacy of our fans. They’d have you believe that this roster Glen Sather put together was as good or better than the four remaining teams. Pittsburgh, Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles are on a different level. They’re much more talented and boast quality depth which our roster lacks. Amazingly, Lundqvist thinks differently.

I get his frustration. His seventh year has come and gone. The Rangers again won only a round. Rick Nash underachieved more than anyone this postseason yet felt his performance was ‘good.‘ In what world? If Nash doesn’t perform, there’s not enough talent to go deep. Whether that changes in a year remains to be seen. What’s the plan exactly? Throw a recycled coach into a dysfunctional organization fixes nothing. I swear. If I see Ruff, Crawford or Vigneault, I’m gonna lose it.

With a year left on virtually everyone, the idea of bringing in a vet coach is about as appealing as Amanda Bynes. Yeah. I went there. That Slats still has a job is too exhausting to comprehend. I don’t have anything else to add. Anyone expecting this team to suddenly win a Cup next year are in for a rude awakening.