Devils can’t contain excitement over Jack Hughes

Posted on May 7, 2019 by Derek

The World Championships haven’t officially started yet. They’re still in the exhibition stages. However, that hasn’t stopped the Devils from showing their enthusiasm for a certain American prospect wearing a number six Team USA jersey.

https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/1125835697376641024?s=19

Jack Hughes had a sweet primary assist on a James van Riemsdyk power play goal that put USA ahead 4-2 on Germany. They can’t contain their excitement over the future of the franchise because let’s face it. They’re going to take Hughes with the first pick in next month’s NHL Draft.

He’s got world class skill. Interestingly, Adam Fox picked up the secondary assist on the power play goal by feeding Hughes, who drove towards the net and threaded a perfect backhand pass for an easy van Riemsdyk finish. It’s good to see the recently signed Rangers defense prospect representing America overseas.

There’s sure to be a lot of fanfare over this tournament. Especially when both Hughes and Kaapo Kakko are representing their countries. Kakko for Finland. Those are the top two picks. What makes it better is it involves the Hudson Rivalry. Devil and Ranger fans are salivating.

Save the Artemi Panarin talk for the summer.

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Torts Guarantee

Posted on May 6, 2019 by Derek

Tonight, there are two games. Both are Game Sixes. You have the Blue Jackets looking to stay alive at home against the Bruins. In what’s been one of the most competitive and physical series in recent years, it’s Boston with a chance to closeout Columbus on NBCSN.

This has been the most entertaining hockey of the second round. You’ve had the first two games require overtime with each team winning in sudden death for a split. You’ve had twists and turns featuring bone crushing hits, big saves and momentum shifting goals. You now have the one and only John Tortorella guaranteeing a Game Seven which would be back in Boston on Wednesday.

“Things happen for a reason. And I truly believe that. We’ll be back here for a Game Seven,” Tortorella told reporters following a tough 4-3 loss in Game Six that saw his team come within a goalpost of forcing sudden death.

David Pastrnak scored the winner with 1:28 left on a gorgeous feed from who else but Brad Marchand. The play never should’ve happened. Artemi Panarin had a brutal moment turning over the puck in the Bruins zone and failing to get back on Pastrnak’s goal. He was victimized twice in the pivotal Game Five. It was a foolish puck decision on his part. The Bread Man and defense will never be in the same sentence. He’s a great offensive player who can dominate puck possession.

The question entering Game Six later is how will the Blue Jackets respond to losing two straight with their backs to the wall. Panarin has provided offense with six points in five games. Matt Duchene has a pair of goals including the game-winner in Game Two. Seth Jones has been good.

Columbus needs more out of Pierre-Luc Dubois, Cam Atkinson, Josh Anderson, Oliver Bjorkstrand and Zach Werenski. They’ve done very little. How about scoring a goal? That would be a welcome change.

As much criticism as he’s taken, Tuukka Rask has outplayed Sergei Bobrovsky. He brings a 2.02 GAA and .936 save percentage into tonight. That’s how good he’s been in the series, responding with consecutive clutch performances to put Boston on the verge of the Eastern Conference Final where Carolina awaits.

Should Torts be confident in his team? Absolutely. They’ve been resilient this Spring, battling to make the postseason. They’re a scrappy group with enough skill and grit to force a deciding seventh game. They’ve also played well on home ice losing only once this Spring. They must erase Game Four by playing their best hockey. It’s do or die.

The Sharks look to finish off the Avalanche in the night cap. San Jose got two goals from emerging star Tomas Hertl in their 2-1 win the other night at the Shark Tank. Hertl redirected a point shot for a huge power play goal to tie Game Five late in the second period. He deposited a rebound for the winner in the third. San Jose got splendid goaltending from a rejuvenated Martin Jones, and did a great job defensively protecting the one goal lead for the win.

The series has finally gotten nasty. There have been some scrums and words exchanged. That should make for an intriguing Game Six in Colorado. The Avalanche will look for a big night from superstar Nathan MacKinnon, who was blanketed the other night. As he goes, so do the Avs. He and Mikko Rantanen are the keys to forcing a Game Seven.

Either two more series will end or we’ll get the best theatre in sports.

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Lundqvist interview Lost In Translation?

Posted on May 6, 2019 by Derek

News travels quickly. With so much available on the internet and social media, it doesn’t take long for rumors to start up. The latest coming from an article in a Swedish paper pertaining to Henrik Lundqvist’s future.

If you go by the English translation, it indicates that Lundqvist is no longer sure he will remain a Ranger for his entire career. But anytime these interview stories come out in Europe, always proceed with extreme caution. Maybe it’s true or maybe it’s not.

It could very well be lost in translation. You never know. What I do realize is at age 37, Lundqvist has two years remaining on a contract that pays him an average cap hit of $8.5 million through 2021. By the time it expires, the Rangers franchise leader in wins (449), shutouts (63), games played (857) and total minutes (50221) will be 39 and unrestricted.

His future is cloudy. Something most loyal Blueshirt fans don’t want to acknowledge. As superb as his 14-year NHL career has been on Broadway, it remains empty minus a Stanley Cup. The best opportunities have come and gone. Deep runs in 2012, ’14 and ’15 feel like ancient history. It’s a sad way to look at it, but also realistic.

Especially considering where the Rangers organization currently is. Fully committed to a rebuild that could get sped up by the potential additions of Kaapo Kakko and big name free agent Artemi Panarin, youth will continue to be served in the Big Apple. Whether Panarin decides to come or not, the Rangers are set up well for the future. Either Kakko or Jack Hughes will be drafted with the second pick depending on the Hudson rival Devils. Along with Russian imports Vitali Kravtsov and Igor Shesterkin, plus former Hobey Baker finalist Adam Fox, there’s cause for optimism.

In regards to the goalie situation, the Rangers have Alexandar Georgiev in reserve ‘if’ Lundqvist changes his mind after the World Championships. If it’s a smokescreen, which most articles overseas are, then King Henrik returns for Year 15 as the starter with Georgiev a capable backup coming off a good rookie season.

Throw in top goalie prospect Shesterkin and they have a lot to look forward to. He and Georgiev are both 23. Adam Huska got into nine games with Hartford after signing out of UConn. He’s 22 and a former 2015 seventh round pick. There’s also Tyler Wall, who bounced back with a good junior year for UMass-Lowell. Olaf Lindbom was taken in the second round last year.

The Blueshirts boast plenty of goalie depth. Obviously, not every netminder is gonna make it. Some could wind up elsewhere while others never see the NHL. You can never have enough goalies.

Given how disappointing ’18-19 was for Lundqvist, he understands the situation. The writing is on the wall. Whether he stays or goes, it’s not going to change GM Jeff Gorton’s long-term plan. He’s proven that already by making difficult decisions on Mats Zuccarello, Kevin Hayes, Ryan McDonagh, J.T. Miller, Derek Stepan and Derick Brassard. All correct moves with the best one stealing Mika Zibanejad from Ottawa for Brassard.

It makes representing his home country Sweden in the Worlds important. If he can perform well, Lundqvist can use the tournament as a positive step for ’19-20. That along with how the season goes could help him determine what’s best for him.

Don’t jump to conclusions just yet. Let’s wait and see.

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Stars, Zuccarello have one more shot

Posted on May 6, 2019 by Derek

Mats Zuccarello (above congratulating Tyler Seguin) and the Stars have one more chance to make the Conference Finals against the Blues and help the Rangers. AP Photo via Getty Images.

With a golden opportunity to advance to the Western Conference Final, the Stars lost at home 4-1 to the Blues in Game Six yesterday. For Mats Zuccarello and his new team, they have one more shot tomorrow night in St. Louis.

Zuccarello has seven assists in the second round series. He recorded number seven on Tyler Seguin’s power play goal that tied Sunday’s game. But after the first period, Dallas was outscored 3-0 by a desperate St. Louis.

David Perron notched the game decider on a one-timer that beat Ben Bishop short side with 4:36 left in period two. Oskar Sundqvist made the perfect pass across for Perron’s winner. The third line center is a good player for interim coach Craig Berube. He has been all year following missing time due to the cheap shot he took from Brad Marchand in preseason. He was robbed by Bishop in the third period of Game Five of the potential tying goal. The Pens gave him away for Ryan Reaves with a first round pick for Reaves and a second round pick in 2017. Hard to believe.

In the third period yesterday, the Blues tacked on two goals including a strange one from Blues leading finisher Jaden Schwartz that made it 3-1. He scored his eighth of the postseason while Bishop was down in pain from a hard Colton Parayko shot he stopped. Unable to get to his feet, Bishop could only watch as Alex Steen passed for a Schwartz redirection that gave the Blues a key insurance marker with 12:23 remaining.

Of course, some wondered if the play should’ve been blown dead. However, Bishop was able to continue. He did give up a breakaway goal to Sammy Blais 33 seconds later before exiting the game for backup Anton Khudobin. Had Parayko’s shot hit Bishop in the mask, it would’ve been an automatic stoppage. It hit him in the upper chest.

So, a very good series will need seven to decide who advances to the Final Four. It’s definitely been the type of series any hockey fan can appreciate. If Bishop is healthy for Game Seven, I believe he can steal it. He stole Game Five with 38 saves. The road team has fared well. It should be interesting to see who prevails.

As it pertains to the Rangers, they’ll have an interest in tomorrow’s result. A Stars victory would guarantee them a first round pick from Dallas due to the conditions of the Zuccarello trade. It was a conditional second round pick this Draft and a conditional third next year. Dallas has to win two rounds in order for the conditional second to become a first.

Zucc has certainly done his part. He’s been a tremendous addition for the Stars. He’s been the same playmaker who’s brought experience to a team that hasn’t had much recent postseason success. You have to go back to 2008 for the last time the Stars made the Conference Finals. A guy by the name of Brad Richards was on that club. He would later sign a contract with the Rangers and help lead them to two Conference Final appearances and a Stanley Cup Final in three years.

The Rangers already own two first round picks in June. A Dallas win tomorrow can make it three. Considering that GM Jeff Gorton used one of his second round picks to acquire and sign defenseman Adam Fox, it would be nice to recoup another first round pick. That way he can consider using it and the Winnipeg first to move into the top 10 and try to grab American finisher Cole Caufield.

Either way, we shall see what happens.

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HARD HITS: Bunch of Jerks prove winning division overrated

Posted on May 4, 2019 by Derek

Justin Williams celebrates his goal in Game Four as the Hurricanes eliminated the Islanders to reach the Conference Finals. AP Photo via Getty Images.

By show of hands, how many of you had the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final? Unless you live in Raleigh or maybe even Hartford, I’m guessing the answer is no.

The thing about underdogs like the Hurricanes and Blue Jackets- who look to take back momentum in a crucial Game Five in Boston following the Kentucky Derby- is they have less pressure. When you fight hard just to get in the playoffs, you’ve been playing the right way all along. There’s nothing to lose.

Maybe that explains the unpredictable postseason. Sometimes, overwhelming favorites don’t win at this time of year. The hockey playoffs are a lot different than the NBA where even the casual observer can predict the Warriors in the Finals. Even that is a bit more interesting than past years due to new blood.

Having new teams vying for the Stanley Cup is good. It can’t always be the same tired script. So, you get the world beater Lightning swept by the Blue Jackets in the first round. A team that people forgot went all in this Spring by rolling the dice on Matt Duchene. He’s delivered along with current stars Artemi Panarin and Sergei Bobrovsky. We’ll see how John Tortorella’s club responds in enemy territory tonight. If they prevail, you’re a game away from an All Wildcard Conference Final. I think it’s going seven.

The Islanders thought after sweeping Sidney Crosby and the Pens that they would face Barry Trotz’s former club. Instead, those Bunch of Jerks had other ideas. After trailing 2-0 in a dramatic first round series, the Hurricanes came back to win four of five to stun the defending champion Caps.

They did it by being resilient. Carolina won all three games on home ice including a do or die Game Six that had a little controversy. Alexander Ovechkin had a goal wiped out that would’ve tied the score. Instead, the Canes scored roughly a minute later to ice it.

It’s worth noting they still had to dig deep in the deciding Game Seven by rallying from 2-0 and 3-1 deficits to force sudden death. Jordan Staal scored the same goal older brother Eric did 10 years ago in another Game Seven situation. That’s one Devil fans would like to forget. The similarities are uncanny. The big difference being it took overtime for captain Justin Williams to hustle to a loose puck and send it in front for a Brock McGinn tip in past Braden Holtby to send the Canes to the big upset.

Known as Mr. Game Seven, Williams continues to lead the Canes, who are in their first Conference Final since 2009. Ironically the last time they were in the playoffs. He scored the crusher in last night’s 5-2 clincher over the Islanders. It was his 100th career postseason point. Asked by former teammate Brian Boucher if he ever expected them to sweep a good team in the Isles, he said, “No.” However, the very confident veteran added that he expected to win the second round series, which drew cheers from the home crowd.

Williams is one of those players who understands what it takes to win these big games. A three-time Stanley Cup winner who happened to be a key piece of the Hurricanes when they won it all in ’06, he once played with current coach Rod Brind’Amour. It’s fitting that it’s the former emotional leader of that championship team behind the bench with Williams as the current leader.

They never should’ve traded him. Sometimes, the best trades are the ones you don’t make. The ’03 Devils were this close to having Scott Gomez become a San Jose Shark at the trade deadline. But it was too late. Gomez helped them win the Cup. Williams was dealt by Carolina in ’09 to the Kings for Patrick O’Sullivan and a second round pick that became current Pens defenseman Brian Dumoulin. Even though the Canes went far that Spring thanks to the heroics of Jussi Jokinen and Eric Staal along with Cam Ward, they never saw the postseason again. O’Sullivan later revealed off ice issues that damaged his career. Williams became successful with the Kings winning two Cups and a Conn Smythe.

After a good stint with the Caps, Williams returned to what must feel like home. It was in Carolina that he blossomed by posting consecutive 30-goal seasons following the lockout. He had 18 points during the Cup run. It’s hard to believe the Flyers gave him away for Danny Markov. I knew what kind of player he was. So did Boucher.

Having that kind of veteran in the locker room is important. Especially when you haven’t had much success. But also replacing Bill Peters, who left for Calgary, with playoff hero Brind’Amour was a brilliant move by the organization. If you watch how they play, it’s like the career the former Selke winner had. They’re very well schooled defensively with their sticks down in the lanes. Something Trotz alluded to in why his team didn’t have success.

The Hurricanes outscored the Islanders 13-5 in the four games. The scores were as follows:

Game One: Hurricanes 1 Islanders 0 (Staal OT)

Game Two: Hurricanes 2 Islanders 1 (Foegle, Niederreiter in 3rd)

Game Three: Islanders 2 Hurricanes 5 (Williams GWG, Slavin assist, McElhinney 28 saves)

Game Four: Islanders 2 Hurricanes 5 (Teravainen/Aho: goal and assist each, Svechnikov goal, Faulk 2 assists)

In the four game sweep, the Islanders only scored twice at five-on-five. They led for only 29:14. Jordan Eberle and Anders Lee were held without a goal. Brock Nelson got his first with over a minute left when his wrist shot snuck past McElhinney. Josh Bailey had a goal and assist in Game Three, but was shutout in the other three games. Mat Barzal notched two power play goals, but had no even strength points in the series.

Even after losing starter Petr Mrazek to injury, the Canes got timely saves from 35-year old veteran McElhinney. His performance in relief of Mrazek during Game Two was crucial, stopping all 17 Islander shots to preserve a 2-1 comeback win. He made several clutch stops including robbing Bailey and Casey Cizikas in the clincher.

It was Carolina’s attention to detail that allowed them to win the series in four straight. In particular, the performance of young defenseman Jaccob Slavin stood out. A former fourth round pick in 2012, he’s been the Canes’ constant force pacing them with 11 assists in two rounds.

A very good skater, the left defenseman defends well and makes smart decisions with the puck. He’s not only good at breaking up plays in his end, but a good passer that can find open teammates. His speed allows Carolina to transition quickly. It’s astonishing that he wasn’t picked higher. Brady Skjei was a first round pick that same draft. They’re the same age and make similar money. Who would you rather have?

Slavin has plenty of help from Dougie Hamilton, Justin Faulk and the overlooked Brett Pesce. All are good skaters who can jump up into the play. Hamilton isn’t the best defensively, but Slavin covers for him. Faulk was seen as an afterthought due to Hamilton coming over with Micheal Ferland from Calgary for Elias Lindholm and Noah Hanifin. Almost everyone viewed that as a better trade for the Flames, who finished atop the West with the number one seed. Lindholm struggled and Hanifin didn’t establish himself in a first round loss to Colorado. They also turned Adam Fox into a second round pick and conditional third after dealing him to the Rangers. He was never signing with Carolina.

The Canes are doing it with contributions throughout their lineup. It’s not only stars Sebastian Aho or Teuvo Teravainen, who they stole from the Blackhawks. The veteran leadership from Williams and Jordan Staal have been instrumental. They’ve scored and set up big goals on a cohesive second line with Niederreiter, who got some revenge on his former team with three points. With Svechnikov back healthy and scoring the coup de grace last night, it gives Brind’Amour more balance. This is a lineup that’s managed to continue winning despite missing Svechnikov, Ferland, Trevor van Riemsdyk and Mrazek for some time. Only Svechnikov recently returned.

When they can get contributions from the fourth line with Greg McKegg scoring a huge goal on a rebound to chase Isles starter Robin Lehner, it speaks volumes.

They’re a total team. That’s why they are where they are awaiting the Columbus/Boston winner. The way that’s going, it might go to double overtime in a seventh game with the teams beating each other up.

The irony this Spring is all four division winners were eliminated in Round One. With the exception of Tampa, none of the other three were overwhelming. Even the Caps needed to squeeze out some wins late to seal the Metro Division, edging out the Isles.

Calgary won with offense by outscoring opponents. They didn’t play much D, which proved to be the biggest explanation for why Mike Smith had a bad year. All you had to do was watch his performance in that first round series to see why. I foolishly took them out of the West to face the Lightning in a ’04 Cup rematch. Oops.

Maybe this postseason is proof that you don’t have to win your division. Just finding a way in and playing well at the right time can go a long way. Home ice doesn’t mean a whole lot. Just ask Washington, Nashville and Winnipeg. It didn’t help the Blues on Friday night in what amounted to a tough 2-1 Game Five defeat to the Stars due to Ben Bishop.

When you have evenly matched teams, anything can happen. I won’t be shocked to see St. Louis go into Dallas and win tomorrow. The Sharks better hold serve tonight against the dangerous Avs.

BODY CHECKS

Jack Hughes came within a point of tying Nikita Kucherov’s record for the U18 World Junior Championship. Despite Team USA disappointing by losing to Russia in a big semifinal upset, they recovered to take bronze in a convincing 5-1 domination of Canada. Hughes and rising finisher Cole Caufield were brilliant.

As many as five players from that team could go in the top 10. That includes Alex Turcotte, Trevor Zegras and defenseman Cam York. The pool of American talent is the best it’s ever been.

So, who will the Devils take? Hughes or Kaapo Kakko. I still think it has to be Hughes, who is so fast and creative that he has the potential to put up 90 points. Size isn’t as important as high end skill and speed. Today’s rules make it easier for smaller players to have an impact.

Caufield reminds me of current Blackhawk 40-goal man Alex DeBrincat. They’re the same size (5-7). The only difference is Caufield will go in the top 10. Not slip to the second round like DeBrincat, who went number 39 in 2016. Players that went ahead of him in Round One include Alex Nylander, Logan Brown, Mike McLeod, Riley Tufte and Trent Frederic. In case you’re wondering, Tampa grabbed current Ranger Brett Howden at number 27.

One more Dallas victory and the Rangers pick up another first round pick in the upcoming Draft. It was a conditional second and conditional third for Mats Zuccarello, who has six assists against the Blues. Zucc hasn’t missed a beat. He is 3-6-9 so far in 11 games. Expect him to re-sign as the Stars are a great fit.

Jason Spezza has three goals for the Stars versus the Blues in a fourth line role under coach Jim Montgomery. Give Spezza credit.

Has there been a more physical series than the Blue Jackets and Bruins in recent years? These teams are going at it physically during play and scrums. The hitting is ferocious. It’s last man standing.

I wasn’t a proponent of signing Panarin. But his postseason has proven he’s worth the risk if the Rangers convince him to come. A puck possession beast, the gifted playmaking Russian is a smart offensive player who knows how to create space for his linemates. He makes everyone better and has been clutch. They’ll need some more from him to advance.

If Panarin and Bobrovsky leave, what happens with Duchene? He definitely fits in well under Torts. But would you re-up if your best teammates go?

Speaking of Bobrovsky, I think he’s erased his bad reputation that he can’t perform in the Spring. He was unbelievable against the Lightning and continues to make big saves against the Bruins. Look how long it took Patrice Bergeron, David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand to get going.

The Isles should make Lehner top priority. He’s gonna win the Masterton Trophy and finish in the top three for Vezina. He didn’t even make $2 million. What a bargain. Get him done and then concentrate on key UFA’s Lee, Nelson and Eberle. I think they’ll re-sign Lee and Lehner with Nelson 50/50. Eberle will leave. His playoff showing helped him.

If they want to build on this year, GM Lou Lamoriello needs to spend the money. He should be in on Jeff Skinner, who can finish some of the plays the Isles couldn’t convert on. Maybe even take a gander at Duchene. But that’s a long shot.

According to Elliotte Friedman, the Pens are expected to explore trade options with big names Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Phil Kessel possibly available. I would keep Letang, who’s so valuable to that blueline. He’s a top six defenseman who could be up for the Norris. They all had bad playoffs including Sidney Crosby. The problem with moving guys like Malkin and Kessel are how much they’re still owed. Plus the unenviable NTC. It’s not like they’re gonna rebuild with Crosby. You can’t.

What I said regarding Skjei in the post above compared to Slavin is more than fair. Skjei has a similar skill set. Starting this October, it’s time for him to show it. He’s being counted on by the Rangers. His play took a step in the right direction after the trade deadline. It’s about finding consistency. His skating is good enough to become a 30-35 point player who can affect more play in all three zones. We’ll see if he delivers.

If Slavin has raised eyebrows with his postseason, so has Seth Jones. The unquestioned anchor of the Columbus back end, he logs big minutes and an play in any situation and do it well on both sides of the puck. The more the trade of him for Ryan Johansen goes by, the better it looks for CBJ. No disrespect to Johansen, who had a big 2017 playoffs to help Nashville reach the Stanley Cup Final.

It would mean everything to see Joe Thornton play for the Stanley Cup. This could be his last chance. San Jose lost to Pittsburgh in 2016. Jumbo Joe is one of the classiest and best players the game has seen. He is someone to root for.

Nobody goes from Point A to Point B like Nathan MacKinnon. He is so fast in transition, it’s scary. What makes him even more daunting is his uncanny ability to maneuver around D and fire that magic bullet of a shot past goalies. Yikes.

Count me in as one of the few who think Marchand deserved to be included for the Hart Trophy. Nothing against Connor McDavid. But his team didn’t make the playoffs and Leon Draisaitl hit 50 goals and also 100 points. Marchand hit the century mark for the first time in his career and accomplished it with Pastrnak and Bergeron missing games. Say what you will about The Rat’s antics. He got hosed.

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Rangers sign Fox, Kravtsov and Shesterkin

Posted on May 4, 2019 by Derek

Adam Fox is one of three top prospects who signed with the Rangers. AP Photo via Getty Images.

Over the past two days, Rangers GM Jeff Gorton has been busy. He took care of business by getting Adam Fox, Vitali Kravtsov and Igor Shesterkin signed to entry level contracts.

In signing all three prospects, Gorton guaranteed that next training camp will be exciting for the team and its fans. Both Kravtsov and Shesterkin made it official yesterday by putting their John Hancock’s on contracts. The KHL phase of their careers are over. Now comes the next step in the developmental process.

The Rangers selected Kravtsov ninth overall in the 2018 NHL Draft. A strong showing in the Under 20 World Junior Championship for Russia saw the 19-year old forward shift to center the top line. He fared well by posting two goals and four assists in the tournament. He helped Russia take bronze.

Shesterkin is a few years older. Selected by the Rangers in the 2014 NHL Draft in the fourth round number 118, the 23-year old top goalie prospect starred for St. Petersburg SKA in the KHL. He’s put up astonishing numbers for one of Russia’s best clubs.

Between ’16-17 and ’18-19, Shesterkin has won a combined 71 games while posting 25 shutouts over those three seasons. This past year, he went 24-4-0 with a miniscule 1.11 GAA, .953 save percentage and 10 shutouts. He split time in the SKA net with Magnus Hellberg, who put up similar numbers on a talented team that featured Pavel Datsyuk, Nikita Gusev, Nail Yakupov and Anton Belov.

Considered the heir apparent to Henrik Lundqvist, Shesterkin will finally get a chance to show what he can do. It’ll be interesting to follow his progress. He will have some stiff competition this Fall with current backup Alexandar Georgiev turning in a good rookie season. Also 23, he went 14-13-4 with a 2.91 GAA, .914 save percentage and two shutouts.

If Shesterkin needs some seasoning, he can go to Hartford and develop. Something that should be a strong consideration given how well Georgiev performed. In a perfect world, you would have both young netminders on the NHL roster. But Lundqvist enters the second to last year on his contract. He’s 37 and will play for Sweden in the World Championships. That starts up in six days.

On Thursday, the Rangers reached agreement on a ELC with Fox. After acquiring him from the Hurricanes in exchange for a 2019 second round pick and a 2020 conditional third, Gorton got the 21-year old D prospect signed. Originally a Flames third round draft pick in 2016, he played the last three seasons for Harvard in the ECAC.

The Jericho, NY native grew up rooting for the Rangers as a kid. One of his father’s favorite players was Brian Leetch. In fact, his first Rangers jersey was a Leetch Number 2 as a birthday present. His family had season tickets. So, he’s quite familiar with recent team history that included a lot of success in the postseason.

Fox had a great junior year for the Crimson. The right defenseman paced Harvard with 48 points including 39 assists and a plus-23 rating in 33 games. His performance made him a finalist for the Hobey Baker that was won by current Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar. If Fox can have a similar impact to how Makar has done in helping Colorado even their second round series with San Jose, there’ll be cause for excitement.

Of course, the first thing he’ll have to do is make the roster out of camp. Even though he’s not the biggest, the 5-10, 185 pound offensive defenseman is a superb skater with good instincts. If it works out well, he could find himself in the top six with power play time. But it might not be right away due to Kevin Shattenkirk and Tony DeAngelo, who’s a key restricted free agent this summer.

So too is Neal Pionk, who might be the odd man out. Even though he put up 26 points in his first full season, the 23-year old struggled defensively. He also is a Group II free agent. If you assume Shattenkirk and DeAngelo are on the top two pairs, that leaves one spot on the third pair for Pionk to compete with Fox for.

Don’t forget promising youngsters Libor Hajek and Ryan Lindgren. With K’Andre Miller and Nils Lundkvist a year away, the Blueshirts’ back end will have a totally different look in the future.

Fox was added to the Team USA roster for the worlds. That will give him a chance to be teammates with current Rangers Chris Kreider and Brady Skjei. A unique opportunity. There’s definitely a reason to follow the tournament. Especially with young players like Fox part of it. It all starts on May 10.

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Rangers acquire the rights to Adam Fox

Posted on April 30, 2019 by Derek

Earlier today, the Rangers acquired the rights to Adam Fox. The 21-year old defenseman who was up for the Hobey Baker following his junior year with Harvard, can either sign an entry level contract this summer or return for his senior year with the Crimson.

The cost was steep. Rangers GM Jeff Gorton coughed up a 2019 second round pick along with a conditional third in the deal with the Hurricanes. Carolina is currently focused on the second round of the NHL Playoffs. They followed up a 1-0 overtime win in Game One by scoring twice in a 48-second span early in the third period to stun the Islanders 2-1 on Sunday to take a two games to none lead in the Metropolitan Division Final. Game Three is tomorrow night in Raleigh.

With a slew of draft picks, Gorton decided not to wait on Fox, who could’ve played out his senior year and become an unrestricted free agent the following summer. Instead, a young defense prospect the Rangers coveted since he was included in a trade with Calgary last year could sign with the area local he was reportedly interested in.

A Jericho, New York native, Fox represented Team USA twice at the Under 20 World Junior Championship in 2017 and 2018. In 33 games during his junior season for Harvard, he posted nine goals with 39 assists totaling 48 points that paced the Crimson. Originally a Calgary third round pick in the 2016 NHL Draft taken 66th, the right defenseman is already with his third organization before having played a NHL game.

A good skating offensive defenseman, the 5-10, 185 pound Fox could become a fixture on the power play. That’s assuming he signs as TSN insider Bob McKenzie is reporting. If he foregoes his senior year, Fox immediately becomes part of the conversation.

The current status of the right side of the Rangers defense includes veteran Kevin Shattenkirk, restricted free agents Tony DeAngelo and Neal Pionk. Of the three, DeAngelo is the one with the most upside. In a career high 61 games, he posted four goals with a career best 26 assists, 30 points and 77 penalty minutes. The 23-year old, who was acquired from the Coyotes with Lias Andersson (2017 seventh overall pick) for Derek Stepan and Antti Raanta, established himself as a top four defenseman under new coach David Quinn. It’ll be interesting to see if they bridge him.

Shattenkirk has two years remaining on a contract that pays him an AAV of $6.65 million. The 30-year old veteran has to be better than the 28 points (2-26-28) he put up in Year Two as a Blueshirt. Expected to be their power play quarterback, injuries and inconsistency have prevented Shattenkirk from being that player.

As for Pionk, most of his six goals and 26 points came before the new calendar year where his play regressed due in part to an injury. If Fox signs on the dotted line, Pionk likely becomes an extra D who could be the odd man out. Especially with Libor Hajek and Ryan Lindgren possibly part of the NHL roster. Don’t forget K’Andre Miller, who’s likely to sign next year following his sophomore year at Wisconsin.

While adding Fox is a good move, the Rangers could’ve waited for him to become totally unrestricted in 2020. Instead, the total cost could be a pair if second round picks. If he plays at least 30 NHL games in ’19-20, then the conditional third becomes a second in 2020. A nice return for Carolina considering he was never signing.

The Rangers just became more interesting. They already were when they won the Draft Lottery by moving from number six to picking second behind the Devils, who must decide between highly rated Jack Hughes and Kaapo Kakko. Whoever they don’t select will be a nice consolation prize for the Blueshirts.

With Russian prospects Vitali Kravtsov and Igor Shestyorkin signed, training camp will be one for Ranger fans to follow closely. There should be plenty of excitement.

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Devils and Rangers have fun on Twitter

Posted on April 27, 2019 by Derek

It’s rare that the Devils and Rangers have something in common. But with both local teams having the first two picks in the upcoming NHL Draft, their attention is focused on June 20 along with fans.

New Jersey has the number one overall pick followed by New York at two. It’s really up to the Devils here. Who do they prefer? Top rated American prospect Jack Hughes, or top ranked European prospect Kaapo Kakko from Finland. Will they go for the smaller center in Hughes or the bigger right wing in Kakko?

Earlier this week, Kakko made a no look feed that set up a goal for Finland in a game against Sweden. It has been replayed over and over on Twitter by everyone. The Devils social media account got in on the fun. So did the Rangers with a sarcastic response.

https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/1121808639667339266?s=19

It’s one of those odd times where both fan bases can agree on something. Fans are drooling over each prospect for good reason. They are potential franchise players that can change each rivals’ course.

I still believe the Devils will select Hughes number one. Nico Hischier is a good center who probably should become a 70-point player. Adding Hughes would give them a great 1-2 down the middle. Hughes has a higher ceiling. Unless Devils brass actually believes in Pavel Zacha, I would take the center. But they also can use the size and skill set of Kakko.

Kakko makes more sense for the Rangers. They already boast center depth with clear number one Mika Zibanejad setting career bests in goals (30), assists (44) and points (74). With a trio of promising pivots Lias Andersson, Filip Chytil and Brett Howden entering their second years, there’s no reason for the organization to add another pivot unless it’s a stop gap this summer.

The Devils have Zacha, veteran Travis Zajac and penalty killing ace Blake Coleman behind Hischier. Their hope lies in former MVP Taylor Hall to come back healthy. Hall, Hischier and Kyle Palmieri are the projected top line. That can change if they add Hughes, balancing out their roster.
The Rangers could enter ’19-20 with Zibanejad centering Chris Kreider (if he stays) and Pavel Buchnevich. They will have 2018 first round pick Vitali Kravtsov and in the fold. Either Hughes or Kakko included.

It’s a good time to be a fan of either Hudson rival. Things are looking up.

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Staal leads Hurricanes past Islanders in overtime

Posted on April 27, 2019 by Derek

Goals were hard to come by. Game One of the second round between the Islanders and Hurricanes was tightly contested at Barclays Center in downtown Brooklyn.

One goal was enough for the Hurricanes to edge the host Islanders 1-0 in overtime to steal home ice. Jordan Staal scored at 4:04 of sudden death to send the capacity crowd home silently. The veteran center was able to find enough room to send a Nino Niederreiter wide carom past an outstretched Robin Lehner to give Carolina a hard fought Game One victory.

The strange thing is Lehner nearly had it. But Staal’s rebound banked in off the Isles starter’s leg. He scored from a bad angle due to Niederreiter’s wide shot that took a favorable Hurricane carom for the game’s lone goal.

It could’ve been a different result for the Islanders. Hosting a second consecutive playoff series after sweeping the Pens in the first round, they had their chances against Carolina netminder Petr Mrazek. He got the better of Lehner in a old fashioned goaltender duel by stopping all 31 Islander shots for the shutout. Oddly enough, Lehner also had 31 saves with only the Staal shot on Carolina’s 32nd shot beating him.

The Isles’ best scoring chance came when Mathew Barzal thought he had a goal that would’ve put them ahead late in the second period. However, the refs waved it off immediately for goalie interference on captain Anders Lee. Replays showed that he was guided into Mrazek from behind with nowhere to go. Even though Mrazek was on the edge of his crease, Lee tried to avoid him. It wasn’t a penalty. But it was incidental contact which would’ve wiped out the goal anyway.

Brock Nelson got the best opportunities on the power play. Jordan Eberle twice had him set up for perfect one-timers. The Isles second line center misfired twice including a flub. He was very effective throughout the game.

In the third period, Islander fans thought they had a goal, but defenseman Ryan Pulock had his one-timer just miss. The goal horn went off. But the refs correctly ruled that the puck didn’t go in. Instead, Pulock’s shot landed on the outside of the net, making it look like it was in. Think John LeClair. Cue the angry Buffalo fans.

Both netminders were sharp. Mrazek made some acrobatic stops while also denying Josh Bailey on a breakaway. He also made a tough save on a high shot that he trapped between the top of his jersey and his mask.

Lehner was equally as good. He left few rebounds with the Islanders defense clearing the net front. He also stoned Greg McKegg on a breakaway by stacking the pad on his backhand attempt.

The Isles hit the Canes early and often. The fourth line of Matt Martin, Casey Cizikas and Cal Clutterbuck made their presence felt by delivering some big checks. But Carolina didn’t seem to mind. After a sluggish start following an emotional seven-game first round upset of the Capitals, they found their legs and started using their speed to attack the Isles.

Neither goalie cooperated in regulation. The whole third felt like overtime. There were few whistles with lots of skating and solid checking. It was next goal wins mentality.

The difference was a Clutterbuck mistake. On a three-on-two, he passed up a shooting opportunity. Instead, his pass resulted in a turnover that allowed Carolina to counter. Following a near miss from Niederreiter, Brett Pesce kept the play alive by finding an open Niederreiter in the slot. He sent another shot wide right to Staal, who ended the game.

Game Two is Sunday afternoon at 3 PM on NBC. It’s a must win for the Islanders.

Jumbo Joe! Joe Thornton is pumped up after tying Game One. His three points led the Sharks to a 5-2 over the Avalanche. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy Josie Lepe.

In the night cap, the Sharks scored the last four goals to take Game One over the Avalanche 5-2 at HP Pavilion. The turning point was a successful four-minute penalty kill with San Jose trailing 2-1 halfway through the second. Of course, the Sharks had some fun on Twitter at the Golden Knights’ expense.

Joe Thornton converted a two-on-one from Marcus Sorensen. Kevin Labanc continued his astonishing play by undressing Mikko Rantanen and then whipping a high laser past Philipp Grubauer. Brent Burns banked one in for a 4-2 lead. Timo Meier added an empty netter.

Nathan MacKinnon was held to one assist and finished a minus-three. Rantanen had a goal wiped out due to an illegal kick.

Game Two of the other two series is later today. The Stars look to even up their series against the Blues in St. Louis at 3 PM. In Game One, Vladimir Tarasenko scored twice including the game-winner in a 3-2 home victory.

The Bruins lead the Blue Jackets 1-0 entering tonight’s second game. Columbus rallied in the third period with two goals 13 seconds apart from Brandon Dubinsky and Pierre-Luc Dubois. But they couldn’t protect the lead for Sergei Bobrovsky, who was outstanding.

Charlie Coyle tied the game with a one-timer and won it in overtime. He’s becoming a folk hero. Game Two is at 8 PM.

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HARD HITS: A remarkable first round finishes with a stunning comeback and another shocker

Posted on April 25, 2019 by Derek

The Sharks celebrate their remarkable comeback win in a unreal Game Seven that’ll be remembered for many reasons. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy San Jose Sharks.

So, you thought you knew it all when it came to the hockey. Not when it came to the first round of these playoffs. A remarkable round concluded late Wednesday night. There’ll be no repeat.

Following the craziest third period comeback that included a double overtime winner from unlikely Sharks’ hero Barclay Goodrow, the pesky Hurricanes had other ideas in mind for the Capitals. A resilient hockey club, they twice rallied from two goal deficits to stun the 2018 Stanley Cup champs. This time, it was Brock McGinn who etched his name in playoff lore by tipping in a pass from Mr. Game Seven, Justin Williams to send Carolina to a stirring first round series upset in double overtime.

That’s the kind of unpredictable round it was. A year removed from the Caps winning their first championship over the surprising expansion Golden Knights, neither is still around. Alexander Ovechkin did everything that he could, but it wasn’t enough to keep his team alive. Six of last year’s eight Conference Semifinalists are home early. Only the Bruins and Sharks survived the first round madness.

Boston did it by breaking Maple Leaf hearts again with the fourth line doing Toronto in. San Jose did it in more unconventional fashion. Trailing Vegas 3-0 with less than 10 minutes remaining, they got a huge break when the officials erred by rewarding them with a five-minute major due to Cody Eakin injuring captain Joe Pavelski on a cross check off a face-off. It didn’t help that Paul Stastny accidentally shoved him resulting in a bad fall with Pavelski’s head hitting hard on the ice.

Suddenly with new life, the Sharks managed to do something that only had been done once in postseason history. They scored four times on the five-minute major to reverse a 3-0 deficit into a 4-3 lead. It happened so suddenly with Logan Couture starting the rally six seconds in. Before a minute expired, a Tomas Hertl redirection had cut it to one. A Couture laser through traffic tied the game to send the San Jose crowd into a frenzy. Still buzzing, they blew the roof off when Brooklyn, New York native Kevin Labanc fired a great shot far side past Marc-Andre Fleury.

As astonishing as the four goal barrage was, give the Golden Knights credit for showing composure by getting the wild Game Seven tied with Fleury pulled for an extra attacker. After just missing three times on a late power play with Labanc in the penalty box, they forced overtime when Jonathan Marchessault was just able to beat Martin Jones with 47 seconds left after burying a Reilly Smith pass from behind the net. The puck whizzed off Jones’ jersey and inside the post.

Even though Vegas overcame a bad call in a poorly officiated game that also counted their second goal by Alex Tuch even though replays seemed to indicate his stick was above the crossbar on his redirection, they ultimately couldn’t recover from the dreadful penalty killing that allowed the Sharks to score four times in five minutes. The twisted irony being that that same penalty kill had stifled the San Jose power play prior to the controversial Eakin major.

But as Max Pacioretty said in a quiet locker room, they had plenty of chances to win the craziest game in sudden death. It was the Sharks, who completed a comeback from a 3-1 series deficit. They were still alive thanks to Hertl beating Fleury with a stunning shorthanded goal that changed direction to fool the three-time Stanley Cup winner. He had told the Sharks fans in the postgame following Game Five that they would be back for a seventh game because they were the better team. That kind of belief was backed up by clutch goals from the man known to San Jose as Hertl Power. He was splendid in the series finishing with six goals and two assists. His big goals along with Couture and a four-point performance from Labanc on that memorable power play helped offset a big round from Pacioretty, Stastny and Mark Stone.

Ironically, it was a rare Stone turnover in the neutral zone to former Ottawa teammate Erik Karlsson that led to the former Senator defenseman leading Barclay Goodrow with a perfect pass that resulted in the unlikely San Jose hero faking around Fleury and finishing off a beautiful forehand deke into an open side with 1:41 remaining in the first overtime. HP Pavilion was a madhouse with fans, Sharks alumni and excited players celebrating the unbelievable win that exacted revenge on their newest rival.

It was the kinda intense hockey that makes the NHL Playoffs the best sport to watch. The hatred between the teams made it more fun. You even had the coaches trading words to the press prior to Game Seven. Too bad NBCSN didn’t pan to a shot of Vegas coach Gerard Gallant shaking hands with San Jose bench boss Pete DeBoer. I would’ve loved to seen that. We also didn’t see Ryan Reaves and Evander Kane during the traditional handshake. The legend of Muffin Man will only grow the next time Kane sees Reaves.

It’s hard to believe what happened. Maybe both the Blues and Stars winning their respective first rounds over the Jets and Predators wasn’t too surprising. Those were toss ups in a very competitive Central Division. But few predicted the Avalanche over the Flames and practically no one truly believed the Blue Jackets would sweep the Lightning. I don’t even think the biggest Islander fan had the Isles in four over the Penguins.

I went two for eight in the first round. The only two I got right were both the Bruins (5-1 winners over the predictable Leafs) and the Sharks (5-4 somehow in OT over the Knights) by a miracle. Even Mike Rupp mocked his first round picks on NHL Network last night following the Carolina 4-3 stunner to dethrone the Caps.

A Sebastian Aho shorthanded goal swung the momentum. It was one Braden Holtby would want back. Following Evgeny Kuznetsov finally getting on the board to restore a two-goal lead, Teuvo Teravainen was able to get to a loose puck in front and beat Holtby to make it 3-2 before the conclusion of the second period. Aho lifted the stick of Kuznetsov to allow Teravainen to score the big goal.

Jordan Staal tied it early in the third when the Canes caught the Caps in a line change. Jaccob Slavin made a good pass for Staal at the Washington blueline. He skated in and fired a wrist shot that beat Holtby far side. The Capitals goalie was off his angle to give Staal too much net to shoot at. The goal reminded me of another one once scored by older brother Eric in another time. Let’s just say Rupp still remembers it and leave it at that.

For some reason, the Hurricanes do well in deciding games. They are in their first postseason since 2009. But they have now won five consecutive Game Seven’s dating back to the ’06 Eastern Conference Final.

Having the veteran leadership of Williams and Staal helps along with first-year coach Rod Brind’Amour. McGinn said he would go through a brick wall for him in a interview on NHL Network. That is a very telling quote. It explains why that team fights so hard. I knew that would be a close series. I just didn’t envision the Caps losing a home Game Seven. Especially after leading 2-0 and 3-1. My score prediction was 5-2. It looked like it would happen. But the Hurricanes never quit.

It’s going to be fascinating to see what happens. Your four remaining series feature six new teams looking to make a name for themselves. What I like most is that three are still in search of their first Cup. The Blues, Sharks and Blue Jackets are those teams. I’ll be rooting for San Jose and Joe Thornton. I’m so glad they’re still in. One of my long time friends is a huge Sharks fan. I’m very excited for her. I would love to see them win.

All four match-ups are intriguing. The first two start up later tonight. At 7 PM, you have the Blue Jackets at the Bruins in Game One of the Atlantic Division Final. Boston had to go seven to beat Toronto while Columbus has been waiting around. Who’ll it benefit? I like how the Blue Jackets are playing.

At 9:30 PM, it’s the Stars and Blues from St. Louis. This should be a closely fought series. I think the Blues have a slight edge. You know I’ll be pulling for Mats Zuccarello and Dallas.

Friday night features the Hurricanes and Islanders from Brooklyn in the Metro Division Final. Just like everyone predicted at the beginning of the season. 😂 Barclays may not be Nassau Coliseum, but the Isles’ tenacious style under Barry Trotz will be tough for Carolina after such an emotional series.

Then, it’s the star laden Avalanche at the Sharks. My oh my. This shapes to be a good one. The goalies better be on their toes because there’s an awful lot of star power in this series. I’m leaning towards San Jose.

So,how will it all shake out? I have no clue. Let’s just sit back, relax and enjoy this wild and wacky postseason.

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