Blueshirts stand up to Capitals in wild overtime loss

Posted on February 25, 2019 by Derek

A day following the first domino to fall in popular teammate Mats Zuccarello, the Rangers showed that they wouldn’t be bullied by the Capitals in a wild 6-5 overtime loss in DC. They could’ve rolled over a couple of different times, but refused to.

In what turned out to be a very entertaining game that featured a great third period, and a unbelievable three-on-three in extras, coach David Quinn had to like the passion and resilience his younger team showed. Twice, they rallied from two goal deficits to give the defending champs all they could handle.

It wasn’t for the faint of heart. This was in your face rock ’em sock ’em hockey that the old school fan could get into. Sure. The old Patrick rivals combined for 11 goals. So, there was plenty of offense. There also was nastiness as both teams played with an edge. There were scrums, penalties and rough stuff.

Playing for a second consecutive day in the afternoon, the Blueshirts proved that they’re not going to be an easy mark for opponents. With 20 games left in the regular season, they will more often than not make teams earn what they get. Even though they still commit too many mistakes, which is not uncommon for a rebuilding club.

It’s too bad they couldn’t pull it out for hard luck loser Henrik Lundqvist (6 GA on 35 shots). He can’t seem to catch a break and win two in a row. Since the All-Star break, he’s 1-4-2 in seven starts. It wasn’t that he was awful. However, an emotional Lundqvist lamented the fact he couldn’t come up with a couple of more saves.

Chris Kreider scored for a second straight game. In fact, the power forward tallied his 26th only 21 seconds into the first period. The new top line created early magic with Mika Zibanejad and Jimmy Vesey combining to set up Kreider for an early 1-0 lead.

For most of the period, they played well. However, a momentary lapse in concentration cost them at the conclusion. A great shot pass from John Carlson allowed crafty center Nicklas Backstrom enough time to redirect the puck in at 18:42 to tie the game. Twenty-one seconds later, Michael Kempny got behind the defense and beat Lundqvist through the wickets with 57 seconds left. It was one he should’ve had.

The second didn’t start much better. With Lias Andersson off for holding, a Tom Wilson power play goal made it three consecutive goals for the Caps. But as the period went on, there were more battles after whistles. Andersson and Kempny got into it for matching minors.

Following a Lars Eller slashing minor penalty that expired, Rangers defenseman Brady Skjei made a smart play to get his second goal in two games. On a good shift by the fourth line, Skjei took a Connor Brickley pass and skated to the point and took a innocent looking turnaround shot that had eyes, surprising Washington backup Pheonix Copley for his fifth with 1:42 remaining to cut it to 3-2. Andersson picked up a secondary assist for his first point since returning. That set the stage for a wacky third period.

Twenty-one was the lucky number for the Rangers. In the first, Kreider scored 21 seconds in for the lead. At the start of the third, this time it was Vesey who scored his 15th unassisted at 21 seconds to tie the score. The play was made possible by good sustained pressure. With the defense activated, Vesey stayed high to fill in. Sure enough, a failed Washington clear came to him at the point. He fired a shot that Copley never picked up to make it 3-3.

But before you knew it, the Caps once again struck quickly twice to restore a two-goal lead. First, Brooks Orpik pinched behind the net and had a loose puck bounce off Travis Boyd right to Nic Dowd, who outwaited Lundqvist for a backhand tuck at 2:25. Then, a misplay allowed Backstrom to score unassisted for his second of the game just 36 seconds later.

Playing up front on the fourth line again, Brendan Smith got a step on Carl Hagelin, drawing a hooking minor. Hagelin had just been acquired by the Caps from the Kings. He nearly was reacquired by the Pens, but now will play for their nemesis. With him off, Vladislav Namestnikov made things more interesting when he had a Neal Pionk shot deflect off his skate and in for his eighth on the power play to cut the deficit to 5-4 at 6:01. Tony DeAngelo started the play to earn an assist for the seventh straight game. He’s up to eight helpers over that span.

The nastiness boiled over on the following shift. Ryan Strome didn’t take too kindly to a Matt Niskanen hit he felt was high. That turned into a fracas with Strome dropping the gloves with Niskanen in a heated fight that saw him get the takedown. As that was unfolding, Wilson got into it with DeAngelo, who never shies away from the rough stuff. When all was said and done, Strome got five for fighting and two for roughing while Niskanen received five for fighting. DeAngelo got two for roughing and Wilson earned four minutes due to jumping in. He got two for roughing and two for unsportsmanlike conduct. There was no loss of man power.

In a period where plenty was happening including the score not changing since Vesey’s early tally, Orpik cross checked a prone Brickley from behind right in the neck with 3:43 remaining. Upset with the cheap shot, Brickley went back at Orpik in another intense battle. It initially looked like they weren’t going to call Orpik for the original cross check. But after getting together with the linesmen, they got it right, giving the Rangers a power play. But the Caps did a good job killing it off by not giving the man-advantage any set up time.

A couple of rushes from Zibanejad resulted in near misses from Kreider and Vesey. The timing was just a little off. With time winding down, it looked like they would lose in regulation. However, the newest scoring sensation Skjei had other ideas. After breaking a 27-game drought on Saturday, he continued his surprising offense when he had a one-timer change direction off Hagelin for the tying goal at 19:29. That gave him three goals in two games. Kevin Shattenkirk and Zibanejad set up the emotional tying marker. They sure deserved it.

If the third period wasn’t enough entertainment, the overtime was even crazier. Both teams looked to end it in the three-on-three madness. It really looked like Namestnikov would get the winner when he went to a backhand in tight on Copley. But the backup was able to stone him. There was another close call where I thought Pavel Buchnevich had the winner with an open side. But he couldn’t find the puck.

Instead, the Caps’ dynamic duo of Alexander Ovechkin and Evgeny Kuznetsov with Dmitry Orlov tired Zibanejad and Kreider out with Skjei. With Ovechkin all set up to fire away on Lundqvist, he shocked everyone by passing down low for Kuznetsov, whose stuff in try was initially stopped by a sliding Lundqvist. But he never had the rebound, allowing both Ovechkin and Kuznetsov to poke it loose with the Washington center the last to put home the OT winner.

All in all, it was a fun game to watch. Even though they fell short of getting the ‘W,’ I liked what I saw. Of course, Quinn talked about how he’d like the defense to improve. He’s right. They fought the good fight. Now, it’s onto the league best Lightning on Wednesday following today’s fireworks. Where will Kevin Hayes and Adam McQuaid wind up? Stay tuned until 3 PM. I’ll have you covered.

BONY 3 STARS:

3rd 🌟 Jimmy Vesey, NYR (15th of season plus a helper giving him 2-2-4 since moving to top line, career high 17 assists and 32 points)

2nd 🌟 Brady Skjei, NYR (2 goals for #’s 5 & 6 giving him 3 over the past 2 games, 5 shots, +1 in 21:17)

1st 🌟 Nicklas Backstrom, WSH (2 goals for #’s 14 & 15 in 22:33)

Notes: Fifteen Caps had at least a point. Ten Rangers got on the score sheet lead by Vesey (1-1-2) and Zibanejad (2 assists). … After going 10 games without a point, Namestnikov is 4-2-6 with a plus-three over his last six. There could be some interest today. … With a helper, Shattenkirk has six assists over the past seven games. He’s up to 20 points (2-18-20). … Zibanejad recorded four points (all assists) this weekend, giving him a career high 36 along with 62 points in 62 games. … With a goal for the second game in a row, Kreider is up to 26. He’s two off his career high of 28 established in ’16-17. … The Rangers will host the Caps at MSG in a week.

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#ForeverZucc Saying goodbye and good luck to Zuccarello

Posted on February 24, 2019 by Derek

“It’s so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.”-Boyz II Men

How do you say goodbye to someone you love and admire? Many of us are dealing with that the best way we know how. By saluting what Mats Zuccarello brought to the New York Rangers for seven years.

The day of Gotham’s reckoning came yesterday when the man forever known by everyone as Zucc was dealt to the Stars for second and third round round picks. Both are conditional picks that can become number ones if the following happens:

A.The Stars advance to the Western Conference Final with help from Zuccarello. It’s a long shot. But I have no clue what’ll happen out West.

B.Zuccarello re-ups with Dallas this summer. This is more possible. Who knows what will happen in two months as a rental.

Let’s forget the overreaction to what GM Jeff Gorton got back in return. It’s time to let things play out and see what happens. He still has some work left with plenty of phone calls the next two days involving Kevin Hayes and Adam McQuaid.

This post isn’t gonna be about either player or any crazy scenario when we have no idea on anything. It’s that simple. Someone had Hayes traded to Nashville Friday night. So yeah. I’m not going to get into all that. We will get a definitive answer soon. Be patient.

What I do know is how I feel about Zuccarello. A prideful small big man who brought everything to the table over the past half a dozen seasons. What I love most is no matter how much smaller he was than much larger opponents, he never backed down from anyone.

That’s a good quality New Yorkers identify with. It’s why we all chanted “Zuuuucccc” when he did something. Whether it be a big goal, assist, hit, block or getting in someone’s face, his willingness to get dirty is what we loved most. We’ve seen him go after Zdeno Chara and nose to nose with former pugilist George Parros. He didn’t care. That’s why he earned respect. They knew he wouldn’t take any crap. I can’t wait to see what he adds to a vanilla Dallas club that badly needs his creativity, determination and grit.

Zuccarello is scrappy as well as skilled. He is the classic overachiever who has done more than anyone thought he was capable of. Discovered during the 2012 Winter Games, the talented Norwegian right wing chose Manhattan when he came to the NHL. At first, he had to make former coach John Tortorella notice the ability he had. He liked what Zucc brought to the power play. An area of exasperation for every Ranger fan during the 2012 Playoffs. He definitely could’ve helped what became known as the power kill during a run to the Eastern Conference Final they lost to the hated Devils.

His time would come under former bench boss Alain Vigneault. For all the gripes about how close they got and the lack of communication at the end, Vigneault knew how to utilize Zuccarello. That became apparent during the 2014 run to the Stanley Cup Final. Without that key ingredient number 36 added to the very effective forechecking line of Derick Brassard and Benoit Pouliot, there is no comeback from 3-1 down against the Penguins in the second round. That third line was so dominant in the offensive zone that they gave the Pens fits. They were a perfect third line that followed the top two which featured the likes of Brad Richards, Martin St. Louis, Carl Hagelin, Derek Stepan, Chris Kreider and Rick Nash. Don’t forget that Brian Boyle combined with Dominic Moore and Derek Dorsett/Daniel Carcillo to form a tough fourth line. Jesper Fast was a rookie who only got into three games.

The unbelievable balance and depth that roster possessed allowed them to advance in seven games past the Flyers and then rally around St. Louis and stun the Penguins, thanks in large part due to Henrik Lundqvist. He never played better. Although you could argue his virtuoso performance in the second round 3-1 comeback versus Braden Holtby and the Ovechkin Capitals the following year in the same round. Wow. What a time to be a Rangers fan. It’s hard to believe only four players are left from 2015. That’s how fast things can change.

Zuccarello was a huge part of those teams. Whether it was in a supporting role like ’13-14 when he put up 13 points (5-8-13) on that cohesive line with Big Game Brass (6-6-12) and Pouliot (5-5-10), or as a top six forward who led the team in scoring four different times, you always knew you could count on him.

I’m still astonished he came all the way back from a career threatening brain contusion and fracture sustained when he took a Ryan McDonagh shot to the helmet knocking him out for the remainder of the 2015 Playoffs. He lost his speech for a few days. It really is crazy how lucky he was. Thank God.

In 509 games as a Blueshirt, he finishes with 113 goals with 239 assists for 352 points and 215 penalty minutes. Like I said, he is scrappy as well as skilled. The fact that he’s 5-8 (ha) and listed at 184 pounds doesn’t stop him from winning battles he has no business winning. More often than not, he comes out with the puck and makes something happen. His former teammates would certainly agree. Look at how he turned his year around by producing 22 points (7-15-22) over a 14 game span to wind up with 37 points in 46 games despite missing time due to a groin strain.

It’s not just what he does on the score sheet. It’s his impact on the bench and in the locker room. For this team, he was like another coach due to his experience and intensity. He understands how to play the game. Hopefully, that’ll rub off on his new Stars teammates. It’s crazy to think the Rangers will actually see him for the first time as an opponent when they visit Dallas on March 5. It’ll be here before you know it.

What will it be like for former teammates, coaches, beat writers and fans? Will we be conflicted? I won’t. But of course I will be rooting for him to score a goal. Imagine if it’s on good pal Lundqvist, who paid tribute to him. Emotions will be running high.

We all are a little sad right now 😢. That’s okay. Zucc is one of our own. It’ll be strange to see him in Stars colors. Just picturing it is weird. That’s the tough part of sports. In the blink of an eye, you’re rooting for your favorite player. The next moment, they’re gone and you’re left wondering where the time went. What happened? It was the same reaction for me with Mark Messier, Alexei Kovalev, Adam Graves, Brian Leetch and Ryan Callahan.

It doesn’t get easier. That doesn’t mean you stop following your favorite player. I own a Kovalev road Pens alternate with an ‘A’ and the familiar number 27. I even wore it once to a game and got interesting comments. Both positive and negative. I never wore it to another game. I’ve also worn a old ’98-99 home white Pens Jaromir Jagr with the number 68. That was before he became a Ranger. I only received compliments and well wishes about if we had him. That era was pretty memorable. At age 47, Jagr is back playing in his home country with Tomas Plekanec. Happy 46th birthday to Kovalev! It is February 24.

I’m sure many of us will be pulling hard for Zucc as a Dallas Star. Just to get the better draft pick alone, it’s worth it. But I’m not expecting it. I will root for him because I love No. 36. I hope he can make magic with Jason Spezza. Maybe he can rub off on the very talented rookie blueliner Miro Heiskanen. I’m sure Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin and Alexander Radulov are excited to have him. Ben Bishop will no longer have to deal with him being a pest in front of the net.

Now, we’ll learn what it’s like to be his opponent. Circle March 5th on your calendar. Maybe if we’re lucky, it’ll go to three-on-three overtime with chaos ensuing. What if it goes to a shootout? Zucc was our Ace in the hole. He was money with his fancy footwork and splendid deke followed by sweet finishes.

I’ll miss him. We all will. He has the heart 💓 of a lion. One you can only love. No matter where he winds up this summer, I’ll always be a big fan of him.

Thank you Mats “Zuuuucccc” Zuccarello for the honest effort and even better person you are away from the rink. Good luck in Dallas!

#ForeverZucc

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On emotional day, Rangers show resolve in convincing win over Devils as Zuccarello says goodbye

Posted on February 24, 2019 by Derek

It’s never easy to say goodbye. Especially to a few teammates you share a locker room and go into battle with. That was clearly the case to everyone during Saturday’s match against the Devils. Aware of the circumstances surrounding Mats Zuccarello, Kevin Hayes and Adam McQuaid, the Rangers showed plenty of resolve in posting a convincing 5-2 win over their blood rival.

Without those key players with one relocating to Dallas for the rest of the season, coach David Quinn was very pleased with his team’s performance. He should be. They came out ready to go scoring three times in a dominant first period that saw them outshoot an unprepared Devils 15-4.

Rearranging the lines, Quinn moved Jimmy Vesey up to the top line with Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider. Ryan Strome centered the second line with Vladislav Namestnikov and Jesper Fast. Lias Andersson centered the Kids Line with Filip Chytil and Pavel Buchnevich. The fourth line was Boo Nieves in the middle flanked by Connor Brickley and forward Brendan Smith. The D pairs were Brady Skjei with Neal Pionk, Marc Staal and Tony DeAngelo, and Fredrik Claesson with Kevin Shattenkirk.

Just about every change worked out. The new top line combined for six points. Both Kreider and Vesey had a goal and assist while Zibanejad tallied two helpers. Strome scored twice with both Namestnikov and Fast each recording an assist. Buchnevich continued his improvement by adding two apples. DeAngelo continued his good run with an assist to extend his point scoring streak to six (0-7-7). Skjei scored his first goal since Dec. 16. Shattenkirk assisted on a goal.

It’s so rare for everything to work out that way in a game. That they did it in such smooth fashion without three regulars who in all likelihood played their final games, shows a lot of mental fortitude.

They laid it all out there against a opponent that clearly was overwhelmed in the early part. Vesey got the scoring started as a power play expired when he steered in a Buchnevich feed past Cory Schneider at 4:48. DeAngelo helped set it up to continue his strong play. He’s really come into his own since Quinn benched him. That trade no longer looks bad anymore.

Penalties really hurt the Devils. Brett Seney was just leaving the penalty box when Vesey got his 14th. A Drew Stafford tripping minor negated a Devil power play. Eventually, it led to Strome tallying a power play goal thanks to a brilliant pass from Kreider. Buchnevich started the play followed by Kreider, who made a no look centering feed that Strome buried for his eighth as a Blueshirt. He would add a empty netter. Since coming over from Edmonton for Ryan Spooner, Strome has scored nine of his 10 goals on Broadway.

On a dominant shift, Kreider snapped an eight game drought with his 25th from Zibanejad and Vesey for a 3-0 lead at 14:23. It was his best game in a while. The best part is it looks like he’s staying put. You need a gritty power forward like Kreider for any rebuild. It took him a while to become a complete player.

Signed through next year, I hope the plan is to extend him this summer. I’d love nothing better than seeing Kreider as the next captain before the ’19-20 season opener. He does so many things well. Just ask Schneider about being unable to pick up a Skjei point shot in the second due to Kreider battling Eric Gryba in front. Schneider mentioned it during his postgame while expressing frustration with the way the Devils played.

Prior to Skjei putting the Rangers back up by three during the third, newcomer Kenny Agostino scored his first goal as a Devil. Claimed off waivers from Montreal, the 26-year old local kid from Morristown was able to beat Alexandar Georgiev with a quick wrist shot from the slot unassisted at 2:20.

https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/1099405923628527616?s=19

Following the dreadful start, the Devils played the Rangers on even terms the final two periods. Shots favored the Garden hosts by a slim 19-17 margin. There was no scoring in a second that was even in shots (8-8). Kurtis Gabriel took a unnecessary penalty for cross checking Brickley in the number for no reason. It was senseless. Back in the first, Gabriel fought Smith.

Shattenkirk tripped up Blake Coleman, who had a step and was denied by Georgiev in tight. Not much else happened. Both goalies made the saves to keep it 3-0.

Following Agostino tallying for New Jersey, a great shift by Kreider resulted in Skjei ending a long 27 game drought. On a sustained forecheck, the top line pinned the Devils in. Eventually, Zibanejad and Shattenkirk combine to work the puck over to an open Skjei, who let go of a wrist shot from the point that beat Schneider. As it went in, Gryba cross checked Kreider down in frustration. They had a good battle with Kreider staying just clear of Schneider, who was distracted on the goal. Afterwards, Kreider went back at Gryba resulting in matching roughing minors at 11:08.

A desperate John Hynes challenged for goaltender interference, but it was an easy decision for the officials. The goal was upheld.

Less than two minutes later, Devils captain Andy Greene got a rare goal when he converted a two-on-one from Kyle Palmieri and Nico Hischier at 12:59 to cut the deficit to 4-2. On the play, he got behind Marc Staal to jump into the rush and beat Georgiev for his fourth upstairs.

https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/1099407201507176448?s=19

That was as close as the Devils got. With Schneider on the bench for an extra attacker, a hard working play started by Fast got the puck to Namestnikov in the neutral zone. He made the unselfish pass over to Strome for the exclamation mark with 19 seconds remaining.

BONY 3 STARS:

3rd 🌟 Jimmy Vesey, NYR (14th of season, assist, +2 in 20:45)

2nd 🌟 Chris Kreider, NYR (goal for 25th of season, assist, 5 shots, +2 in 19:56)

1st 🌟 Ryan Strome, NYR (2 goals for #’s 8 & 9, 9-and-4 on draws, +2 in 19:09)

Notes: After the game, the Rangers traded Mats Zuccarello to the Stars for a conditional second and conditional third round pick. See the previous post for more on the move that sent the fan favorite to Dallas. … Kevin Hayes and Adam McQuaid remain with the club for now. Neither will play in today’s afternoon match at Washington. … For similar reasons, Marcus Johansson was a healthy scratch for the Devils, who are likely to move him before Monday’s 3 PM deadline. Pavel Zacha and newest Devil Connor Carrick sat out. … The loss snapped a personal three-game winning streak for Schneider, who made 31 saves in defeat. Georgiev only had to stop 19 to pick up his 10th win. He’s won four of his last five decisions.

… In other trade news, Ottawa dealt scoring winger Ryan Dzingel to the Blue Jackets, who are all in. They sent one time Blueshirt Anthony Duclair to the Senators along with second round picks in 2020 and 2021. It’s already the fifth organization for the 23-year old Duclair, who once was packaged by the Blueshirts for Keith Yandle. Columbus also received a seventh round pick.

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Disappointing return for heart and soul Zuccarello won’t satisfy fans

Posted on February 23, 2019 by Derek

Following a well deserved 5-2 home win by the Rangers over an unprepared Devils, cult hero Mats Zuccarello exited Madison Square Garden for the last time in his car waving to fans. Unsurprisingly, the man known to all as “Zuuuucccc” was one of three healthy scratches due to being on the block two days before the deadline.

As expected, the popular 31-year old from Norway who gave the Blueshirts his heart and soul, was dealt later in the day. No. It wasn’t a team that was expected such as Calgary or Nashville. Instead, Rangers GM Jeff Gorton agreed to trade Zuccarello to the Dallas Stars in exchange for two conditional picks that for now are a second and third. Let’s delve more into it.

Getting a second round pick for Zucc was highly anticipated based on his season. However, I’m in the same camp as many confused Garden Faithful who can’t understand why Gorton didn’t get a prospect from Dallas with the second round pick that can become a first if the Stars win two rounds. There’s a better chance of hell freezing over.

Even with the additions of Zuccarello and former Devil Ben Lovejoy, the Stars are still going to be hard pressed to squeak into the playoffs. With 65 points and 30 ROW (regulation + overtime wins), they’re still in the first wildcard despite the Avalanche shutting out the Predators to tie them in points. Colorado has 27 ROW and one less game left. So, they’re the second wildcard in a very weak West where virtually a dozen teams are still alive for the final two spots.

The stipulation on the third round conditional pick is that if Zuccarello decides to re-sign in Big D, that would become a first. The whole thing is puzzling. Is that really the best the Rangers could’ve done for a skilled veteran who brings plenty of grit to the table for a contender capable of making a run? Color me unimpressed.

I highly doubt Zuccarello will stay in Dallas. I don’t feel they’re good enough to seriously compete. Tyler Seguin is the only top forward out of Jamie Been and Alexander Radulov to play up to his potential. The Stars have two good defensemen in John Klingberg and promising rookie Miro Heiskanen, who’ll challenge for the Norris in the future. Unless Ben Bishop can stay healthy, they have no chance of doing anything. Bishop has battled injuries most of the season, which sums up his career. A very good goalie who can steal games, it’s all about being right.

Zuccarello can certainly aid a team that isn’t deep offensively. After Seguin, who paces them with 26 goals and 57 points, Radulov is nearly a point-per-game with 47 points in 50 games. Benn has slowed down with a modest 21-20-41 thus far. After that, the drop off is significant. Klingberg (29 points), Esa Lindell (28) and Heiskanen (26) rank fourth through sixth. They’ll hope Zuccarello can find some chemistry with declining vet Jason Spezza. Hopefully, he does well as a Star. Although I gotta admit I cannot picture our beloved Zucc wearing that number 36 in Stars colors.

It’ll take some getting used to. The question is for how long. For as much as he struggled with the groin strain and then the cold reality that he would no longer be a Blueshirt, Zuccarello came clean and then proved why he was so revered by fans. The strong response in mid-January turned his season around. In his last 16 games as a Ranger, he registered seven goals and 15 assists totaling 22 points. That included a dominant nine-game point scoring streak in which he had 15 points (5-10-15). In fact, all 22 points came over a 14-game run between Jan. 12 thru Feb. 17. Even though he didn’t pick up a point over the final two games, the effort was there. So was the trust from coach David Quinn, who heaped high praise on his now former player.

It’s always sad when a fan favorite leaves. Gorton had little choice with the organization committed to a rebuild that began last year with the auctioning off of Ryan McDonagh, J.T. Miller, Rick Nash and Michael Grabner for a combination of prospects and draft picks. The previous summer, former playoff hero Derek Stepan and Antti Raanta were traded to Arizona for Tony DeAngelo and the 2017 seventh overall pick that became Lias Andersson. So, the proverbial writing on the wall really started back then.

As loyal as Zuccarello was to the only NHL team he’d known, he still wanted five years from the Rangers when Gorton tried to negotiate. It’s understandable. He believes he’s got plenty of good hockey left. He was a bargain making $4.5 million on average. That’ll change this July. Much like former captain Ryan Callahan, he’s entitled to that one payday when the weather heats up. That’s why he had to go. Unless he was willing to take less term, there was no realistic chance of keeping him. The same will be echoed of soon to be gone two-way center Kevin Hayes, who’ll likely command between six to seven years at between six to seven million.

What’s so disappointing is that Gorton took the Dallas offer for the two picks. You’re telling me they couldn’t do better? I was under the impression they would go for a prospect and a second round draft pick.

I’m not going to pretend to be a GM or hockey executive here. That’s their job. I don’t know what was offered. The perception was that they couldn’t get a first back for Zuccarello. Unless the Stars have a miracle run in them, that will remain true. Maybe they can sway him into staying. That would be nice. Just don’t expect it.

As much as I would’ve loved for Gorton to add American prospect Jason Robertson, who helped Team USA win a silver medal at the World Junior Championship, he probably wasn’t available for a potential rental in Zucc. That’s the nature of the business. Maybe a few of us got our hopes up for nothing. When it comes to following this team, Ranger fans can be very unrealistic. I just wish I felt differently about the return.

The good news is Hayes should definitely bring back a good prospect and first round pick. I don’t care if it’s the 31st overall. If he helps say a Calgary, Nashville, or Winnipeg win a Stanley Cup, even better. Especially if it means one of those conditions being met, which most of us expect.

You never know. Don’t forget Mark Stone hasn’t been moved yet. He’ll bring back a bigger return to Ottawa than Hayes. We’ll see what happens over the final 40 hours.

I didn’t watch this video tribute until now. I have tears. I will really miss Mats Zuccarello. I think we can all truly say we love ❤️ you Zucc! Best of luck in Dallas. Thank you No. 36!!!!!

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Deadline day is upon us

Posted on February 23, 2019 by hasan4978

No recap from my end today, for starters I didn’t watch most of the game. First time I turned on Hartford vs. Binghamton it was the middle of the second period, saw 3-0 and laughed – then turned it off again. I only turned it back on in the third period when the Devils finally started playing and got it to 3-1 with ten good minutes before sagging again. Typically when two teams are playing out the string, the team that wanted the game more got it. This afternoon it was the Rangers. I’m sure Derek’ll like doing that recap anyway.

Can’t even blame us trading/sitting everyone since the Rangers did the same thing with their outgoing deadline rentals. For some reason I don’t remember outright scratching players before the deadline as a major deal in prior years. Maybe cause teams either did their business when they could or let things play out. I don’t remember too many cases of guys getting hurt before the deadline costing their teams a big return. Admittedly I did fear that with Marcus Johansson which is why I haven’t minded him sitting the last two games.

With defenseman Ben Lovejoy, he only had to sit one game before finding out his fate – traded to Dallas this morning for a 3rd round pick and defenseman Connor Carrick. Carrick sounds like a depth defenseman, my buddy Rudy called him a Lovejoy-in-training. For the crap Lovejoy got from Devils fans, that would be a good career outcome but he’s an RFA at the end of the season so he’s likely on an audition along with most of the other young guys and role players here down the stretch.

There aren’t a lot of highlight videos of guys like Lovejoy to go back on and remember, he wasn’t a highlight reel type of guy obviously. His impact was more with the guys in the room and on being one of the leaders of a young team. I do remember his seeing eye empty-netter in Game 3 of the playoffs last year to help sew up our lone win against Tampa Bay. While I do want him to have success, the Stars missing the playoffs only helps the value of our third-rounder. I’m not as invested in Lovejoy as I would be in say, Brian Boyle. Who also has a better chance at winning in Nashville anyway.

With two days to go before the deadline GM Ray Shero’s arguably done 2/3 of the heavy lifting (Lovejoy, Boyle) and only Johansson is still in limbo waiting to find out his destination. If I had a prediction I’d say he fetches a 2 and a 4 or a 2 and a meh prospect. Which is actually more than I thought he’d get a month ago before he surged. I still don’t think he gets a first-rounder back though. Centers and defensemen get first rounders back. Maybe the occasional goalie like Dwayne Roloson, which turned out to be a good deadline deal for the Oilers in 2006. Playmaking wingers don’t generally fetch firsts though. It does sound like there’s a lot of interest in MarJo. Too bad he only got going as a Devil after the team fell out of things this year, but at least he got it going soon enough to up his value a little more.

Other than the aformentioned big three there aren’t any other big UFA’s likely to be dealt. Clearly whatever value Keith Kinkaid might have had a couple months ago has evaporated in a string of goals allowed. Might as well keep the emoji-master and have him as a sacrificial lamb to play when Cory Schneider doesn’t, and just keep Mackenzie Blackwood in the minors. Perhaps Shero pulls a rabbit out of a hat and deals someone who’s not a UFA to change things up. Nobody saw the Adam Henrique for Sami Vatanen trade coming last year, and that was back in November. Arguably that trade’s been a draw so far, with both players helping their new teams to the playoffs last year, but falling on hard times this year either struggling (Henrique) or hurt (Vatanen) for teams under the bubble.

Personally I’m hoping Johansson’s traded tonight so I don’t have to pay any more attention to the deadline during work on Monday than need be. Of course I say that and Shero’ll throw something else down the pike at the last minute. Obviously at least ‘something’ (MarJo) will be done then or before, especially judging by John Hynes comment in the wake of the Lovejoy deal hinting that hopefully more was to come. He certainly wasn’t talking about buying for a team that’s nine thousand points out of the playoffs, although with all the picks Shero’s accumulating maybe there’ll be some draft-day buying using those picks as currency at least.

Might just comment on what else happens with the Devils at the deadline during the post-Monday game recap, assuming there’s enough to actually write about after we play the Habs at home in front of about ten thousand people. For those of you that subscribe to the Athletic, they have a couple of nice insider pieces on what goes into the deadline, one of them talking with Devil players that have been traded before to get the player perspective and another talking with a handful of NHL GM’s into what negotiating and prep work goes on behind the scenes before and during the deadline. I swore for months I’d never pay for news, but tried a subscription half off for a year and it’s worth it just for the hockey content considering the lack of hockey news (especially Devils-related) in the mainstream media these days.

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Gorton must hit it out of the park with Hayes and Zuccarello

Posted on February 23, 2019 by Derek

Saturday, February 23, 2018

As we draw nearer to the conclusion of Monday’s trade deadline, more rumors are circulating about where players could wind up. From a Rangers perspective, fans continue to follow reliable sources on Twitter to find out the latest on Kevin Hayes and Mats Zuccarello.

By reliable, I mean any hockey media professional with a blue check mark next to their name. It’s pretty obvious who I mean. I don’t have to spell it out. My advice to anyone who is locked in on the hot rumors is be careful who you believe. There are a lot of fake accounts spreading false propaganda to draw attention. Why I have no idea.

It’s almost like all the goofiness starts a few weeks before April Fool’s Day. Too bad the NHL continues to push up the deadline. Believe it or not, it used to be in late March. Poetically, Stephane Matteau and Brian Noonan were acquired from the Blackhawks for Tony Amonte and the rights to Matt Oates (who?) on Mar. 21, 1994. They each played a dozen games while fitting in seamlessly. While everyone can point to MATTEAU MATTEAU MATTEAU, it’s worth noting his clutch tying goal in the closing seconds at Calgary on a backhand rebound in his Rangers debut on 3/22/94. That was a pretty big moment that left Sam Rosen and John Davidson speechless.

I only reference it due to the organization paying tribute to the 25th Year Anniversary of that special championship team. That was every bit as memorable for all fans including the younger generation who never got to truly experience that Stanley Cup.

Here’s something else. When current Team President Glen Sather brought in Martin St. Louis in the only captain for captain deadline trade with Tampa for Ryan Callahan, while sacrificing two first round picks and a seventh for a second, the blockbuster move came on Mar. 5, 2014. We all know how that turned out.

Don’t forget St. Louis struggled only scoring one goal with seven assists in his first 19 games. What followed was truly inspirational with an emotional St. Louis showing unbelievable heart and resilience following his Mom’s death. Who didn’t go nuts when he scored that first goal on Mother’s Day to lead the Blueshirts to a huge Game Six win? The Garden was rocking. It was unreal. They never trailed after the Game Four humiliation that resulted in St. Louis, Brad Richards and Henrik Lundqvist calling a players only meeting to send the message that the series wasn’t over. It’s fitting that all three locker room leaders played crucial roles in the franchise’s first ever comeback from 3-1 down against the hated Penguins, who they had never beaten in a series.

The point is I don’t get the rush to have the deadline before the end of February. Of course, it’s very exciting and gets everyone talking, which is positive for the NHL. They want good PR. It’s a heck of a lot better than listening to NBC’s Pierre McGuire describe every fine detail of “Kris-to-fer Le-tang.” Nobody cares what high school he went to. FYI I am glad that puck didn’t hit McGuire because it could’ve seriously injured him. In this day of social media, there are way too many bad seeds who say the wrong thing after such incidents. Especially given how most fans feel about McGuire. Regardless of that, he’s still a knowledgeable hockey reporter, whose passion comes out between the benches. Look how many broadcasts copied NBC. You can get a lot of juicy information on what’s going on.

So, what does all this have to do with the original topic? Only that the trade drama is a lot of fun, anxiety and entertainment for everyone. Whether your team is buying or selling, you want them to be involved. It’s eerily similar to July 1. A date most hockey fans have circled on their calendars. Truth be told, we live for this stuff. The big trade, signing or extension gets our juices flowing. I’m ready. Are you?

The latest rumor involves Hayes going to Nashville for a package featuring 19-year old Finnish prospect Eeli Tolvanen. The only question I have is, is the source right?

https://twitter.com/NHLRumorsDaily/status/1099191220063088640?s=19

If they are, full credit obviously. Everyone wants to be first in this business. However, let’s say it’s true. Why have the Predators done an about face on Tolvanen? Only a year ago, he was one of the hottest prospects in the game who was deemed untouchable.

What happened? As it turns out, the former Predators 2017 first round pick taken number 30 overall, hasn’t had a strong first year in North America. In 38 games for AHL affiliate Milwaukee, Tolvanen has scored just nine goals while adding 10 assists for a total of 19 points with a minus-10 rating. Hardly what was expected.

Not only has he been a disappointment. He wasn’t that noticeable during Finland’s gold medal victory at the 2019 Under-20 World Junior Championship. He didn’t score a goal and had four helpers in seven games. The four points tied for seventh on the team. He didn’t stand out like top European 2019 NHL Draft prospect Kaapo Kakko. Aleksi Heponiemi, Aarne Talvitie, Jesse Ylonen, Henri Jokiharju and Rasmus Kupari were more impressive.

It was a surprising tournament for Tolvanen. It could just be an off year for a kid who doesn’t turn 20 until the Spring. That happens. Rangers’ seventh overall pick Lias Andersson has been inconsistent in his first full professional year in North America. In 36 games with Hartford, he went 6-14-20 with an alarming minus-24 rating. However, part of that is the Wolf Pack are a bad team. His ’19-20 has been handled questionably from an organization that doesn’t have the best track record with first round picks.

But Andersson is back up with the Rangers and played a good first game in Thursday’s 4-1 home defeat to Minnesota. If you combine the seven NHL games he got into last season and the 22 this year, he has a combined six points (2-4-6) over 29 games. He isn’t a top nine forward yet. Interestingly, Filip Chytil is on the fourth line for the time being. Despite showing glimpses of talent with a few highlight reel goals, the 19-year old rookie who the team grabbed with at number 21 in the same draft as Andersson, he’s still learning.

There’s nothing wrong with that. Developing young players takes time and patience. Look at how first-year coach David Quinn has handled Pavel Buchnevich and Tony DeAngelo. Both had NHL experience and have responded well to the discipline Quinn Bin. DeAngelo enters today’s afternoon match with the Devils on a five-game point streak (six assists). Buchnevich has played his way back into the top six on a second line with the much rumored Hayes and Jimmy Vesey. He scored the lone goal the other day on the power play. Six of his 12 goals have come via the man-advantage. An area he excels at. It’s continuing to evolve at five-on-five where Quinn believes there can be improvement. I concur.

In a rebuild like the one the Blueshirts are fully committed to, they can’t afford a misstep. Current GM Jeff Gorton has to be right on both trades he makes involving Hayes and Zuccarello. The same for Chris Kreider if he’s really considering moving the very valuable power forward. Highly risky unless they hit it out of the park. That’s precisely what Gorton must do. The future depends on it.

Battle of New York’s Derek Felix can be followed on Twitter or at New York Puck on Facebook.

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The plot thickens for Zuccarello and Hayes

Posted on February 22, 2019 by Derek

A day after losing streak home to Minnesota 4-1, the Rangers are gearing up to trade two of their best players. With Monday’s trade deadline at 3 PM fast approaching, it could happen anytime between now and then. That leaves a window of less than 72 hours for GM Jeff Gorton to finalize deals for Mats Zuccarello and Kevin Hayes.

With Columbus deciding to acquire former Senator Matt Duchene for a package of two top prospects along with two conditional first round picks, that’s one less big name available for contenders. Here is the breakdown of the blockbuster trade between the Blue Jackets and the Senators.

It’s hard to believe Ottawa gave up so much last year for Duchene, who either could re-sign with Columbus, or go to unrestricted free agency on July 1. With the league’s fewest points, the Senators didn’t protect the lottery pick they gave up to Colorado. That means the Avalanche are poised to potentially win the lottery and possibly get either Jack Hughes or Kaapo Kakko this June. Yikes. At least the Senators got a good return for Duchene.

What it could mean for Mark Stone nobody knows. If the Sens are truly committed to a full rebuild, then expect Stone to go next. However, he’s interested in staying. For what price and term I have no idea. He would be a great addition to any playoff contender. We’ll see what happens.

As far as the latest news with Zuccarello and Hayes, they both played last night along with Adam McQuaid, who left the game with an “upper body” injury. Though coach David Quinn said it was precautionary and he could’ve returned. That’s the risk you take by playing rumored players who are expected to be moved.

In all likelihood, they played their final game as Rangers. Even with Quinn continuing to tell reporters that he’ll play a full lineup if the players are still around, he can now use extras Boo Nieves, Brendan Smith and Fredrik Claesson as replacements for Hayes, Zuccarello and McQuaid. Nieves was a healthy scratch due to 2017 number seven overall pick Lias Andersson coming back up from Hartford to play yesterday. Quinn was pleased with his game, which is more than you can say for most of the roster that didn’t do enough against the struggling Wild.

Only a power play goal from the resurgent Pavel Buchnevich (sixth PPG) prevented Devan Dubnyk from a shutout. Quinn even broke up the top line by flipping Jimmy Vesey with a slumping Chris Kreider, who is without a goal in eight straight entering Saturday’s match against the Devils. He took turns with Hayes and Buchnevich while Vesey worked with Zuccarello and Mika Zibanejad the final period. It didn’t matter. They were unable to help Henrik Lundqvist get a second consecutive win.

When the Devils visit the Garden tomorrow afternoon, it’ll be Alexandar Georgiev in net. The only question is what happens with Zuccarello, Hayes and McQuaid. It sure sounds like Zucc could be the first to go.

Zuccarello is attracting a lot of interest. Who knows where he will wind up? It could be Calgary or Nashville. The best case scenario rather than seeing him play for a team in the Eastern Conference. With Boston deciding to risk the future by parting with Ryan Donato in a trade for Charlie Coyle from the Wild, they probably are out on both Zuccarello and Hayes. The Bruins decided to give up a good prospect and only a fifth round pick to rent a good player in Coyle, who’s underperformed. He should help them in a secondary role.

It’s also worth noting that McQuaid did practice. So, it looks like he’s okay. Regarding Zuccarello not speaking to the press following his on ice chat with Quinn, I don’t blame him. How would you feel? He’s given his heart and soul to this team the past six years.

Don’t forget how hard the journey has been. He went from an afterthought under former coach John Tortorella due to an injury in 2012, to a key piece who became an emotional leader for those teams in ’14 and ’15. The 2015 run still stings. Not just for how bitterly it ended. But for nearly seeing the end of Zuccarello’s career following taking a Ryan McDonagh shot off the helmet that caused a skull fracture and a brain contusion, leaving him unable to speak for several days. It’s still amazing that he made a full recovery, making a successful return to the sport. What if they had him against Tampa? Do they win Game Seven and then defeat the Blackhawks for the Stanley Cup? I still believe they could have. We will never definitely know the answer.

When the trade comes down either this weekend or Monday, it won’t be easy for Blueshirt fans. It never is when you come to love a player, who’s played with so much emotion, grit and determination. Not much different from former captain Ryan Callahan, who MSG vilified for wanting his and getting it with Tampa.

The only difference is Callahan was traded for Martin St. Louis. A Hockey Hall of Famer who in his brief time, became an inspirational leader following the tragic death of Mom France during the 2014 NHL Playoffs. The team rallied around St. Louis to come back and beat the Penguins in seven during the second round. They defeated the Canadiens in six before losing to the hated Kings for the Cup.

If only then GM Glen Sather hadn’t parted with so many first round picks. He did similar when he traded for Keith Yandle, who was underused by Alain Vigneault. The same coach who didn’t know what to do with Eric Staal.

The glory days are over. It’s been over for a while ever since that agonizing Game Six loss to Ottawa two years ago. It started with the trade of Derek Stepan and Antti Raanta to the Coyotes for Tony DeAngelo (extended point streak to five) and that 2017 first round pick that became Andersson. They waited a year too long to fire Vigneault. But that’s all in the past.

Now, here we are 60 games into a rebuilding season knowing the end is near for Zuccarello and Hayes. Two good players who should fetch nice returns. A combination of prospects and high draft picks is expected. But that’ll be for the future.

No matter what you feel, it’s the end of an era. We’ve seen Stepan, Ryan McDonagh and J.T. Miller go along with Michael Grabner and now retired Rick Nash. Once Zuccarello and Hayes go, only Lundqvist, Marc Staal, Jesper Fast and Chris Kreider will remain from those runs. That’s if they don’t unload Kreider too which would probably not be wise unless it’s overwhelming.

The only player they got back who performed well in the 2017 Playoffs is top center Mika Zibanejad. Stolen from Ottawa for Derick Brassard, Zibanejad is now the best player they have left. Already with 26 goals and career bests in assists (32) and points (58), he continues to be on pace for over 30 goals and 70 points. He’ll remain the top pivot they build around hopefully with Kreider extended and named the new captain.

Young prospects Filip Chytil, Andersson, Brett Howden, Vitali Kravtsov, K’Andre Miller, Igor Shestyorkin, Ryan Lindgren and hopefully Libor Hajek are some of the players that should be a big part of the club moving forward.

Who will be added over the next three days? The answer will be filled in.

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Game #61: Triple Thursday – Devils 4, Senators 0

Posted on February 22, 2019 by hasan4978

In a season full of bad goaltending, ironically enough two of the best stories surrounding this season’s Devils revolve around positives in net. First, it was Mackenzie Blackwood’s debut – which to this point has been nothing short of a success with a 2.37 GAA and .926 save percentage in 13 games played. When Blackwood was sent back down to Binghamton to get more experience (and perhaps stay away from the dumpster fire here), it was to make room for the returning Cory Schneider, who at that point was persona non grata with Devil fans after going more than a calendar year without a single regular season win.

However, since Cory finally got off the schneid in the win column in Minnesota last Friday the tide’s finally turned back in a positive direction for the embattled goalie. A strong game in a victory against the Sabres on Sunday was followed by a shutout yesterday against a hapless Senators team (Cory’s first since 2017), who continued their tank that’ll only benefit Colorado in terms of draft position in the first round. After having seen Cory’s career low point against Vegas in December and another checkered game against the Wild just before the losing streak ended, I would have liked to have been there last night for the latest chapter of Cory’s Magical Redemption Tour.

For whatever criticisms I’ve had of Cory as a goalie in the last year or so, you couldn’t have seen what happened against Vegas in December and not feel good for him finally getting back in the good graces of the fans and earning confidence back from his team. Especially with the high class Cory’s shown in the face of all that’s been thrown at him in this last year or so, from his surgery to the losing streak and the criticism it’s engendered. He’s never finger-pointed or lashed out at the media.

Really Cory’s tenure has been checkered here from the outset, which was to be expected to a degree when replacing an all-time legend. Despite good play he was the goalie that couldn’t win games in Martin Brodeur’s last season here, then won just enough while playing well to damage the Devils’ draft position during the dark years transitioning from Lou Lamoriello to Ray Shero. Of course last year when the team finally was good for a minute and a half it was backup Keith Kinkaid and not Cory that was getting all the big wins down the stretch to get the team in the playoffs.

It’s too early to say that this recent stretch is a harbinger of things to come but in the back of my mind I’ve thought all along it would be nice to see what happened when Cory finally got the gorilla off his back of the losing streak. So far the returns have been splendid. Of course last night it helped facing one of the few (if not the only) teams worse than the Devils right now. Especially when coach John Hynes scratched Marcus Johansson and Ben Lovejoy for ‘precautionary reasons’ – re: the impending trade deadline. Of course the Senators did the same thing with Mark Stone and the now-traded Matt Duchene.

With essentially Belleville playing Binghamton last night, it was some of the lesser-name Devils that helped put the game on ice early on. After Travis Zajac opened the scoring at 11:45 of the first with his 14th goal, unlikely first goals of the season from stay-at-home defenseman Steven Santini and enforcer Kurtis Gabriel turned the game into an early laugher after twenty-four minutes. Especially after a first period where the Devils dominated, outshooting Guy Boucher’s troubled unit 14-4. Miles Wood padded the lead to four later in the second period giving the team further insurance, although Wood himself would later have to leave the contest due to injury. For the rest of the night Ottawa did give Cory some work, registering twenty-six shots in the last two periods – but the goaltender already had all the offense he needed to relax and play another outstanding game.

With one more game before the deadline it’s likely we’ve already seen the last game of Johansson and Lovejoy as Devils. That’ll provide more of an opportunity for guys like Santini – who’s trended downward since early last season but should finally get some extended run in the lineup to grow. Ironically they play the Rangers tomorrow afternoon, a game that’s normally highly anticipated but with both teams out of contention and more concerned with working the phones before Monday’s deadline, there couldn’t be more of a meh feeling for a Devil-Ranger game. Assuming Cory plays it’ll be nice if the team (whoever draws into the lineup) actually shows up tomorrow and maybe he can somehow keep this roll going.

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Game #60: Throwback Tuesday – Penguins 4, Devils 3

Posted on February 20, 2019 by hasan4978

As has been the case so often with the 2018-19 Devils, looking backwards has been more fun than looking at the present. That was the case again last night when the Devils had ’90’s night at the Prudential Center, which was similar to last month’s ’80’s night in that they had the CAA-style scoreboard, the CAA goal horn with throwback music and references sprinkled throughout from a cover band playing ’90’s hits during intermission to the commemorative David Puddy bobblehead fans got walking into the arena, complete with facepaint.

If you’re a Seinfeld fan, a Devils fan or both you know who David Puddy is – a character that was one of Elaine’s boyfriends who had to ‘support the team’ by dressing in facepaint and lettering his chest, among other things. Funny how one half-hour episode twenty-five years ago can still have such resonance and actor Patrick Warburton (who played the one-off role on the show) is a cult hero with fans even today, making frequent appearances including during the team’s first Stanley Cup banner raising at the old CAA.

Even though I was not a big Seinfeld fan I’ve seen the episode multiple times and I couldn’t help but smile at those particular references, the bobblehead or even the actor himself faceplanting by the Devils bench, perhaps intentionally (after all the dude is an actor). Yet my favorite part of last night was the well-done five-minute intro video before Puddy’s on-ice appearance dropping the puck, which really hit on a lot of what I knew growing up.

https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/1097911193338040321?s=20

I won’t spoil it – I’d rather everyone just take a look at the video first after reading the blog, but suffice it to say it was very creative and will appeal especially to computer and video game users, which entails a vast majority of us who grew up in the ’90’s. And it also had a nice musical score at the end, which is a fitting callback for all hockey fans.

Of course as was the case on ’80’s night and the throwback jersey games this year, the ancilary stuff was terrific and the game wasn’t. Suffice it to say, we’ve lost all the throwback jersey games this year as well as on ’90’s night and ’80’s night. Perhaps we were due to lose to a Penguins team that we’d pretty well owned this season (3-0 before last night), a rare bright spot in a dissapointing year. Early on, I was hoping for a you can’t beat us chant by the end of the game as we took the lead twice in the first period – only to give it up twice, and things didn’t improve after that.

Pittsburgh dominated the second period, scored a soft goal on Keith Kinkaid to get a lead they wouldn’t relinquish, and while the Devils put sixteen shots on Matt Murray in the Penguin net during the third I demand to see video evidence of half of them. Really, the last two periods were a snorefest until Murray allowed his own ridiculously soft goal to Miles Wood with five minutes left to pull the Devils back to within 4-3, but Blake Coleman’s costly late penalty eschewed just about any shot of a comeback.

So much for putting together a sustained winning streak. At least Marcus Johansson helped his increasing value at the deadline with a spectacular strip of Phil Kessel and quick goal in front to give the Devils their second goal of the night in the first period. With only two games left before Monday’s deadline time is getting short for GM Ray Shero to solicit offers on Johansson and defenseman Ben Lovejoy – our two most high-profile UFA’s remaining now that Brian Boyle’s already been dealt to Nashville.

There is the chance Shero could sign Johansson to an extension before the deadline as well but any kind of long-term deal would be a risk given Johansson’s injury issues the last couple of years. It’s more likely he’d be dealt for a solid return and just take the chance you could either re-sign him if need be or get another depth winger elsewhere before next season. Pretty much everything will be on Shero’s offseason shopping list at this point – defensive help, forward depth, possibly a goalie although Cory Schneider’s recent streak provides a glimmer of hope maybe, just maybe he’ll be a viable option next season along with promising Mackenzie Blackwood.

Whatever happens, I doubt it’ll be as wild as the 2003 deadline where then-GM Lou Lamoriello dealt for depth guys like Pascal Rheaume, Grant Marshall and Richard Smehlik while rumors were flying over a potential Scott Gomez for Teemu Selanne deal that got nixed. Even hours after the deadline when Gomez and defenseman Oleg Tverdovsky were mysteriously scrached there was speculation it was part of a late-announced deal or at least precautionary in case both players did get dealt. As is the case with a lot of Lou stuff, we’ll never know the full truth. Just like we’ll never know what the ending of the Sopranos really meant.

Typically fans were up in arms over Lou acquiring nothing but plugs – and losing 4-2 to a terrible Thrashers team that night only added to the fan angst – but typically Lou knew best then and now, as those plugs helped the team to their third Cup in nine years while Selanne had to wait another several years before finally winning one of his own in Anaheim, ironically due to some help from ex-Devil Scott Niedermayer (who recently got his number retired in Anaheim). It’s hard to see anything Shero doing in the next few days leading to a Cup anytime soon but you have to start somewhere I suppose.

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Game #59: Lundqvist carries determined Blueshirts to 2-1 victory over Hurricanes

Posted on February 20, 2019 by Derek

https://twitter.com/4BNYRGameday/status/1098049096705814529?s=19

Stop me if you’ve heard this before. The Blueshirts won a game thanks to Henrik Lundqvist. For the affable 36-year old veteran, it was payback. Facing the same opponent that spoiled the fun following the 25 Year Anniversary celebration of the ’93-94 Stanley Cup team, he turned back the clock with a vintage performance by making 43 saves to carry the Rangers past the Hurricanes 2-1 in Raleigh. Take a look at the two save sequence to deny Justin Williams above.

Wow. With Curtis McElhinney pulled, it sure looked like a desperate Carolina team was about to force overtime. Only Lundqvist prevented it with two straight acrobatic stops by stacking the pads like Johnny Bower. None were bigger. In his 41st game, he had to stop 18 Canes shots in a busy third period with many following Vladislav Namestnikov’s game-winner at 6:10 after a power play expired. It was his 17th victory of the season, moving his goals-against-average under 3.00 (2.97 GAA). Win number 448 moved him within six of Curtis Joseph for fifth all-time.

This was his fifth start in February. Previously, he went 0-3-1 with a 3.04 GAA and .900 save percentage, allowing 12 goals on 120 shots. His last win came on Jan. 31 when he had 19 saves at New Jersey. If you went off the previous meeting versus Carolina on that special Friday, 2/8, he certainly was good enough in making 30 saves. But the Rangers were shutout 2-0 by Petr Mrazek.

The thing about both our goalies is they often have to stand on their heads for this team to win hockey games. Sometimes, their best isn’t enough. Alexandar Georgiev found that out on Sunday at Pittsburgh in a wild and crazy 6-5 loss. He made 35 saves, but allowed six to the likes of Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang.

I think when you look at Lundqvist’s impressive record and statistics throughout his career when he makes 40-or-more saves in the regular season, it speaks volumes. What a great goalie he’s been for this franchise. It still is sad that the team hasn’t won a Cup with him. But he certainly gave them their best chance three different times.

I have no idea what will happen when his contract expires in 2021. He’ll be 39 by then and a free agent. I do expect him to re-up for at least two more years. He’s loyal to the Rangers sweater, and takes good care of himself. Nobody can predict a future that’ll include top Russian goalie prospect Igor Shestyorkin (Shesterkin). He’s expected to finally sign an entry level contract following the conclusion of the St. Petersburg SKA season. Who knows if he’ll be here right away due to Georgiev proving he’s fully capable of backing up. The team also has college prospects Tyler Wall and Adam Huska. I don’t know anything about Olof Lindbom. The Swedish netminder they took in the second round last year.

For now, let’s enjoy these kind of games from Lundqvist while we still can. If only he could get a shutout. This was the sixth time he allowed one goal this season. In those starts, he’s now 5-1-0 with a 1.00 GAA while stopping 192 of 198 shots (.970 save percentage).

My favorite part of his reaction was referring to the last two minutes as, “Organized chaos.” Classic Henrik! 🙂

It’s true they got the ‘W’ due to his brilliant play. But also, how about the two goals they got from grinders Connor Brickley and Namestnikov? Both drove hard to the net and were rewarded for their grunt work. Brickley got his first as a Blueshirt by hustling to the front of the net and putting in a rebound past McElhinney from Filip Chytil and Tony DeAngelo.

Referee Wes McCauley made the mistake of waving it off due to thinking it was put in illegally. However, the replay clarified that it was a good goal. A great response to Jordan Martinook getting the Canes on the board 47 seconds earlier in the second period.

Namestnikov’s winner came just after a power play expired with 13:50 left in the third. Following a brutal shift by the top unit, out came the second unit for the remainder. Like they’ve been doing lately, they moved the puck around quickly and got something set up. Finally, Pavel Buchnevich had a low shot leak out to Jimmy Vesey, whose rebound also wasn’t controlled by McElhinney. That allowed Namestnikov to deposit the loose change for his seventh (third in three games). A good all around play by not only those three, but also from DeAngelo and Ryan Strome.

Despite some undisciplined Carolina penalties including a Brock McGinn trip on DeAngelo that gave the Rangers a 41-second two-man advantage, they couldn’t capitalize. The first unit was again not up to speed. Mika Zibanejad was on the wrong side. By the time he switched places with Kevin Shattenkirk, it was too late. Shattenkirk had a shot blocked and cleared down by the diligent Carolina penalty killers. It was a opportunity wasted.

They also failed on a Justin Faulk delay of game. Even in a strange period that saw Chris Kreider called for interference with Mats Zuccarello having a goal correctly disallowed for pushing McElhinney into the net, they still were ahead one due to the end of their first power play.

Secondary scoring has been a issue throughout the season. So, it was nice to see different players come through for a second time in the last three games. In the 6-2 win at Buffalo, you had Namestnikov getting a pair along with goals from Vesey, Buchnevich, Jesper Fast and Boo Nieves. It can’t always be the same guys scoring. Zibanejad and Zuccarello had help for a change. So too did a snake bit Kreider, who’s without a goal in seven straight despite four assists. Maybe he’s pressing with 30 goals within reach. Hopefully, he gets off the schneid next game against the Wild.

This was a good win. One that highlighted the Rangers brightest star.

BONY 3 STARS:

3rd 🌟 Tony DeAngelo, NYR (picked up an assist giving him points in four straight totaling 5 assists, played well in 22:05)

2nd 🌟 Vladislav Namestnikov, NYR (scored the game-winner for his 3rd goal over 3, has quietly increased his value if he’s traded)

1st 🌟 Henrik Lundqvist, NYR (43 saves on 44 shots including the key sequence on Williams late to preserve his 448th career win)

Notes: As expected, Brady Skjei returned to the lineup after missing the Pittsburgh game. He was solid overall pairing with Adam McQuaid, logging 21:47 including 2:29 shorthanded with two shots on goal. … Even though he was kept off the score sheet due to having a goal wiped out, Zuccarello led all NYR skaters with 22:57. Zibanejad got 22:02 and Kreider received 21:25 as David Quinn rode his horses. … Even though he picked up a helper on the Brickley goal, Chytil finished with a team low 7:18 on the fourth line. The point gave him 20 as a rookie. He’s the first teenager to register 20 points as a Blueshirt since Alexei Kovalev back in ’92-93. The only difference is Kovalev turned 20 on Feb. 24 that season when he finished with 20 goals and 38 points. Chytil doesn’t turn 20 until Sep. 5.

… With Quinn able to play Fast after he was absent Sunday due to the flu, he went with the more traditional 12 F and 6 D. Fredrik Claesson was a healthy scratch. Neal Pionk was held out again for precautionary. … In defeat, McElhinney turned aside 24 of 26 shots. … Shot attempts were 93-50 Canes. The Blueshirts blocked 23 shots and Carolina missed the net 26 times. DeAngelo blocked a game high five. … Face-offs were 27-25 NYR with Kevin Hayes 8-and-3 while Nieves went 6-and-3. For Carolina, Greg McKegg was 5-and-1 while top scorer Sebastian Aho went 9-and-8.

… Rangers (26-25-8) are up to 60 points with 23 games to go. They have home games against the Wild and Devils Thursday and Saturday with one of those two likely the final one for Hayes and Zuccarello. Prior to Monday’s trade deadline, they visit Washington on Sunday for a third game over four days. Both weekend games are matinees. … With Montreal winning and Columbus losing, the Canes remain a point out for the second wildcard with 68 points.

WILDCARD RACE

1.Canadiens 60 GP 71 Pts 30 ROW

2.Blue Jackets 59 GP 69 Pts 33 ROW

3.Hurricanes 60 GP 68 Pts 30 ROW

4.Sabres 59 GP 63 Pts 24 ROW

5.Flyers 60 GP 63 Pts 26 ROW

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