Devils head for high noon against Islanders

Posted on February 17, 2017 by hasan4978

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Just as I feared last week, the bye week break wasn’t kind to the Devils as they came out of their second long layover flat with desultory home losses to the Sharks and Senators sandwiching a sloppy, uninspired win over a pitful Avs team.  Of course it’s entirely possible the Devils would have lost those games anyway, but it is too bad our best run of play since early November ended so abruptly.  As a result, the team’s tenuous grip on staying alive in the playoff hunt – and what happens at the looming trade deadline – may hinge on this weekend’s home-and-home against the local rival Islanders.

Although it’s Toronto with 63 points in 56 games who currently has the second wild card spot, it’s the Isles with 62 points in 56 games that could blow the Devils’ chances completely out of the water this week with a sweep.  Currently the Devils are four points back of the Isles (and five of the Leafs) with one fewer game played, so the playoff lifeboat’s already springing leaks as it is.  However an Isles sweep would end the question once and for all, since it could put the Devils as much as eight points out of a spot with multiple teams to climb over.  Not that the Devils have much to do at the deadline even if they completely fall out of it – other than rentals P.A.Parenteau and Kyle Quincey who could fetch nominal returns at best, there probably won’t be a lot of action from GM Ray Shero at the deadline either way.

I wish I could get more excited about this weekend’s games but right now it just seems like an inevitable death march for a team that still hasn’t quite found the formula that worked early in the season (mostly good goaltending and a hot Taylor Hall, both of which have dissapeared since – though in Hall’s case he really can’t help it if our stonehands forwards can’t convert on some of his great feeds).  Especially considering the Isles have taken it to us for the most part in recent years, although with the way things are going maybe now’s when we beat them when they’re actually hot after their recent coaching change, while we’re awful.  In the past it was the other way around with the Isles frequently playing spoiler to good Devils teams, it’d be nice to return the favor a little at least.

Barring a sudden and dramatic revival, the next time we can get somewhat excited about the Devils is before the expansion draft when Shero may or may not be able to make a move with a couple of the seven picks in the first four rounds of next year’s draft to improve the roster’s current talentbase.  And as a season ticket holder who’s probably going to around ten more games before the end of the season – including two MSG 2.0 games – that annoys me to think about.  Oh sure it’ll be nice to watch some of the kids like Steve Santini and Pavel Zacha continue to improve down the stretch and others likely come up before the end of the season.  Maybe I’ll even get around to listening to some of the last AHL Devils games in Albany on the radio during the Calder Cup playoffs before they move shop to Binghamton next season.  To a degree it’s unfotunate personally given I’ve seen a handful of games there with a friend who used to go of games when they were still the River Rats, though it was probably an inevitable final disollution of the Albany-Devils relationship.

While it may not be the best thing to admit on a hockey blog, right now most of my attention is focused on baseball and the Mets, looking to make their third straight postseason and hopefully go farther than even the last two years.  Even my fantasy hockey team which was in first place comfortably for about half the season has gotten blown by mostly thanks to spotty goaltending, and I’ll probably finish in second place again in my 14-team roto league, for the fifth straight year…take that Buffalo Bills!   Of course I have won that league in the somewhat distant past and fantasy hockey’s still for fun, until it’s not.  I’ve only played one fantasy league for money overall – a fantasy football league last year where I put in $20 for an entry fee, and wound up winning $50 after ripping off two straight playoff wins to get to the finals of that league, but I came up short of the additional $100 grand prize, oh well.

I’m getting way off point now, but in a way that’s indiciative of how I feel at games these days.  I am looking forward to tomorrow if only cause I’m seeing a pair of friends who I haven’t seen in a few weeks, and another friend that’s going to the game.  These days usually seeing and hanging with other people are the highlight of the night at these dopey games.  As horrible as the Devils’ home record has been lately I have to admit, things CAN be worse:

Yep at least the Devils aren’t the Brooklyn Nets…yet.

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Zibanejad’s slump hurting Blueshirts

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Derek
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Mika Zibanejad must get going for the Rangers if they’re to be successful. AP Photo via Getty Images

Even when they won six in a row, the Rangers hadn’t been getting production from everyone. Now that the winning streak is over courtesy of who else but the rival Islanders, who prevailed 4-2 last night in Brooklyn, it’s time to take a closer look at one of the key forwards who has been mostly MIA lately.

Center Mika Zibanejad was brought in from Ottawa last summer in a cap cutting deal that sent popular Blueshirt Derick Brassard to the Senators before his no movement clause kicked in. The 23-year old Zibanejad got off to a good start on Broadway producing at nearly a point-per-game clip the first two months. In his first 19 games as a Ranger, he tallied five goals and 10 assists totaling 15 points before a broken leg sidetracked him two months.

The big right-handed pivot who remains the club’s most dependable in the face-off dot winning 52.1 percent of draws returned on Jan. 17 in a wild and crazy 7-6 home defeat to the Stars. In that game, he scored twice looking like he hadn’t missed a beat. At the time, coach Alain Vigneault reunited him with rookie Pavel Buchnevich and Rick Nash. But after a few games together, he broke it up.

Eventually, inseparable duo Chris Kreider and Mats Zuccarello wound up with Zibanejad. While chemistry has continued between Kreider and Zuccarello, who are near the top of the leader board on the Rangers, the same cannot be echoed for Zibanejad. Without a goal over his last dozen games, he’s only picked up four assists over that stretch. They all came within a five game stretch.

Zibanejad is without a point in the last three. It was okay because other teammates were coming through. Particularly the cohesive third unit of Michael Grabner, Kevin Hayes and J.T. Miller. They are the biggest reason the Rangers have hung tough in the Metro Division. Nash has played with Derek Stepan and rookie Jimmy Vesey, who scored in a second straight with him the team’s best skater.

The issue for the Swede is this. Consistency hasn’t been there since the injury. He’s totaled six points in 13 games. This is a talented player with a top heavy shot that can be a weapon. With the Rangers power play resembling the old Perry Pearn and Mike Sullivan days, it hasn’t helped that Zibanejad hasn’t been able to get off his lethal one-timer from the off side. He hasn’t been hitting the net as frequently.

Want proof? Here are his shot totals in the 12 games since his two-goal game against Dallas:

1/19 @ TOR 2

1/22 @ DET 1

1/23 vs LAK 0

1/25 vs PHI 1

1/31 vs CBJ 2

2/2 @ BUF 1

2/5 vs CGY 1

2/7 vs ANA 1

2/9 vs NSH 1

2/11 vs COL 0

2/13 @ CBJ 1

2/16 @ NYI 2

Total Shots: 13

It’s literally impossible for Zibanejad to only have totaled 13 shots over the last 12. Absurd. Even if he’s looking to set up Kreider and Zuccarello more, he’s not shooting enough. Whether it be some attempts missing completely or getting blocked, he needs to do a better job getting shots on goal.

How can Vigneault keep him with Kreider and Zuccarello? It’s not like Nash has been tearing it up either. He has spurts during shifts but still isn’t finishing enough. Even with missing 12 games, 16 goals in 45 isn’t the kind of production you expect from the team’s highest paid skater. It makes leaving him unprotected for the upcoming Las Vegas expansion draft a certainty. Especially with one year left and owed $8.2 million with a cap hit of $7.8 million.

It’s not a knock on Nash. He plays hard and has turned himself into a complete forward similar to what Marian Hossa is for the Blackhawks. As he enters his mid-30’s, that kind of two-way player still has value. Nash could still be capable of 25-30 goals if he finds the right fit. It’s clearly ending in 2017-18 here.

As for Zibanejad, he’s fully capable of more than seven goals in 32 games and none in the last 12. Even more mystifying, he has yet to score a power play goal. That seems far fetched. He has five power play assists. With a cap hit of $2.625 million and earning $3.25 million in the final year of his contract before turning restricted, he needs to finish strong.

General manager Jeff Gorton could penny pinch Zibanejad. Especially if he doesn’t improve. There’s still plenty of time left for that. With 25 games remaining in the regular season and the playoffs ahead, that’s where the former 2011 sixth overall pick of the Senators can earn his money.

Make no mistake. If the Rangers are to be successful, they need him to come through similar to Big Game Brass. The journey is just ahead.

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Surging Islanders halt Rangers’ win streak with 4-2 victory

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Derek
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John Tavares and the surging Islanders ended the Rangers win streak at six with a huge 4-2 home win to pull within a point of the Leafs for the second wildcard. They’re 9-3-2 under Doug Weight. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NYIslanders

A rivalry was renewed before a sellout crowd of 15,795 at Barclays Center in downtown Brooklyn. The third installment of the Battle of New York was won by the Islanders in the trenches. They halted the Rangers’ six-game win streak by posting a well earned 4-2 win on home ice.

It amounted to a big victory for the Islanders, who find themselves in a tight battle with the idle Maple Leafs for the second wildcard. In doubling up their Manhattan rivals, they pulled within one point of Toronto. Under interim coach Doug Weight, they improved to 9-3-2. With still 26 games remaining, they’re in much better shape to qualify for a second straight postseason.

Dating back to a 4-0 shutout at Boston on Jan. 16 in former coach Jack Capuano’s final game, they’re 10-3-2 for 22 of a possible 30 points. Making up so much ground allowed them to go from last in the East to ninth in very methodical fashion. Now, they have finally passed the fading Flyers for fifth in the ultra competitive Metro Division. Philadelphia was losing big to Edmonton. Their fall continues.

As for the wildcard chase, it appears the the Islanders and Leafs will be vying for the final spot in the East. Each team has 26 games left. Both are tied in ROW with 25 regulation/overtime wins. The Leafs’ blowout 7-1 rout of the Isles last time out is the difference. The season series went to the Islanders, who won once in regulation and once in overtime to finish 2-1-0.

Interestingly, no team is mathematically out of it. Even 15th Detroit remains nine points out with 25 left. But they are a long shot to keep their playoff streak alive. They only have 16 ROW and are without Jimmy Howard and Mike Green. The Lightning have 57 points with 26 remaining and only 22 ROW. Unless either Ben Bishop or Andrei Vasilevskiy gets hot, it’s unlikely they’ll make it despite only trailing by six. The Canes and Devils look like pretenders. Carolina has faded with 55 points despite 29 left and only 22 ROW. New Jersey had played better lately but were shut down by the boring Senators 3-0 and remain at 58 with 21 ROW and 25 to go.

So, that leaves the struggling Flyers, inconsistent Panthers and unpredictable Sabres. Florida is healthy finally. So, they could make a push. They’re at 60 with 27 left despite 22 ROW. Buffalo already played game 58 earning a 2-0 win over lowly Colorado to reach 60. They do have 24 ROW but fewer games remaining.

It really looks like the Islanders are gonna make it. For a long time, they didn’t have the look of a playoff team. But under Weight, things have changed. Led by captain John Tavares, who set up Nikolay Kulemin’s game-winning shorthanded goal and Andrew Ladd’s resurgence, here they are. Ladd scored twice including the empty netter to raise his goal total to 14.

Thomas Greiss overcame a shaky first to finish with 25 saves for his 18th win in his 31st start. He recovered from being pulled after allowing six to the Leafs. The Isles will go as far as the 31-year old German veteran will take them. With Jaroslav Halak no longer around and Jean-Francois Berube an unproven backup, it’s Greiss who’s the man in BK.

In the third meeting of four between bitter rivals, the Rangers drew first blood. Thanks to a good Brady Skjei outlet that trapped a couple of Islanders, a patient Mats Zuccarello waited before passing across for a wide open Nick Holden, who beat Greiss upstairs to convert a two-on-one for his ninth at 6:23. The former Avalanche defenseman had just emerged from the penalty box and got free where Zuccarello found him. Holden continues to be a big story for the Blueshirts.

The Rangers played without Kevin Klein, who was a late scratch. Extra defenseman Adam Clendening dressed in his place and paired mostly with Skjei. Alain Vigneault made a switch in the final part of the third period flipping Clendening with Marc Staal and Skjei up with Holden in search for more offense. It nearly worked.

Following a weird first period in which the teams combined for only a dozen shots, it was the Islanders who took control by outscoring the Rangers 2-0 in a much better second. They capitalized on Ranger mistakes. First, it was the dangerous top line of Tavares, Josh Bailey and leading sniper Anders Lee who got full advantage of a favorable match-up against the Rangers’ third pair and fourth line. The end result was Bailey feeding a vacated Lee in front for his 22nd tying the score at 2:43.

Another Ranger mistake resulted in the second straight Islander goal. This time Staal was victimized by an aggressive Stephen Gionta. The smaller forward with the big hard finished his check and took Staal off the puck. He then made a nice backhand feed for an open Ladd, who buried his first of the game past Henrik Lundqvist 3:41 later. It was an all out hustle play from a gritty vet. It was also the worst Staal has looked all season.

Despite the Rangers holding an 11-9 edge in shots, they didn’t get many grade A looks. One such chance from revelation Michael Grabner was thwarted by Greiss prior to Lee’s tying marker. He was perfectly set up by J.T. Miller in front but Greiss robbed the former Islander. That save was huge.

In the second half of the stanza, the Islanders got themselves into penalty trouble. Following an odd coincidental minor between Thomas Hickey for cross-checking and Rick Nash for goalie interference, Bailey took two bad penalties. The first was a hooking minor which the Isles’ penalty kill easily killed off. The Rangers power play has really had a rough go of it lately. It continued.

The second Bailey penalty was foolish. Going for a big hit on Ryan McDonagh in the neutral zone, he got his stick up and bloodied the Rangers captain earning a double minor with nine seconds left. Following a clean Tavares win and clear, that left the Rangers with 3:49 to work with for the start of the third.

Part one was awful. Full credit to an aggressive Islanders kill which pressured a sloppy Rangers power play unit of five. Tavares created one chance that missed. Then McDonagh turned the puck over and watched along with the other four Rangers as Tavares kept the play alive and slipped the puck in front to Kulemin for a shorthanded goal at 3:03 that made it 3-1. The other four Blueshirts were Miller, Kevin Hayes, Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, who had a very ineffective game except for one point blank opportunity late which Greiss snuffed out.

The most noticeable Ranger was resurgent rookie Jimmy Vesey, who answered Kulemin’s goal 43 seconds later for a power play goal that cut the Islander lead to 3-2 with 16:14 left. He was all over the ice coming close a couple of times before finally getting to a loose puck in front and beating Greiss, who was contacted by Nash due to a Johnny Boychuk cross check. Even though Weight protested and challenged, the video review confirmed that Nash’s stick made no contact with Greiss before Boychuk’s cross check which should’ve been a penalty.

Somewhat curiously, the Isles tried to kill their own goalie. Three separate times, Islanders shoved attacking Rangers into Greiss. Another instance came when Derek Stepan stole the puck and went hard to the net but was taken out by Dennis Seidenberg crashing into Greiss, who was annoyed.

Even with more pressure, the Rangers were unable to get the equalizer. Greiss stood tall turning aside 10 of 11 shots to backstop his resurgent team to its second victory in three meetings against their closest rival. The final meeting takes place on March 22 at MSG. It’s a shame they don’t play more. But that’s what the NHL wants.

Notes: The Islanders play the Devils twice in a classic home-and-home series on 2/18-19. They visit Newark on Saturday and then return home Sunday. After that, they hit the road for nine in a row. That road trip will go a long way to determining their playoff fate. … The Rangers get the next two days off before hosting NHL leader Washington for one of those annoying NBC 12:30 games. The Canadiens visit two days later with new coach Claude Julien. … As expected, Pavel Buchnevich sat out with Matt Puempel replacing him on the fourth line. He was effective creating a chance for Oscar Lindberg, who was denied by Greiss. But the line went minus-two and Puempel only played 7:58 in 10 shifts. … The Isles won 32 of 53 face-offs led by Casey Cizikas (10-and-2). Stepan went 12-and-5 for the Rangers. … The teams combined for 24 giveaways speaking to how sloppy it was. … Lundqvist finished with 20 saves in defeat but made some gems including denying Jason Chimera on a breakaway.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Andrew Ladd, NYI (2 goals-13th, 14th-continues to turn season around)

2nd Star-John Tavares, NYI (2 assists including great individual effort for Kulemin’s shorthanded winner)

1st Star-Thomas Greiss, NYI (25 saves incl. 21/22 last 2 periods)

 

 

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Buchnevich benching is not a big deal

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Derek
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Pavel Buchnevich will be a healthy scratch tonight in Brooklyn. Matt Puempel will replace him. Ranger fans have overreacted to the benching. AP Photo via Getty Images 

With a big rivalry game on the horizon tonight in Brooklyn, some Rangers pundits aren’t happy that rookie Pavel Buchnevich will be a healthy scratch against the Islanders. The gifted 21-year old Russian is in a slump.  He has just one point over the last 10 games.

When it comes to first-year players, most hit peaks and valleys. Even Toronto’s Auston Matthews went through a rough stretch following his hot start. Eventually, the 2016 number one overall pick got out of it. He leads all rookies in goals with 27. But trails teammate Mitch Marner in points (48) and 2016 second overall pick Patrik Laine (47). A fascinating Calder race that also involves Zach Werenski and Matt Murray.

For Buchnevich, the former 2013 Rangers’ third round selection (75th overall) has only played 24 games due to missing significant time with back spasms. Prior to his recent slump in which he’s gone from a top nine role to the fourth line, he was a point-per-game player. There’s no denying his talent. What it comes down to is the team he plays for.

Unlike the Leafs, the Rangers are much deeper. They aren’t as reliant on rookies. A good mix of vets and a young core that features Derek Stepan, Mats Zuccarello, Rick Nash, Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, J.T. Miller, Kevin Hayes and Michael Grabner makes it hard for first-year players to get consistent playing time.

Jimmy Vesey is a couple of years older than Buchnevich. Following a good start, he hit a rookie wall in December. Eleven of his 13 goals came earlier in the season. At one point, the former Hobey Baker winner found himself in a decreased role on the fourth line. The 23-year old was unable to get going. When Buchnevich returned last month, coach Alain Vigneault reunited him with Zibanejad and Nash. Initially, he picked up where he left off continuing to produce.

Eventually, he cooled off. That opened the door for Vesey. Finally picking up his game, Vigneault shifted him up to the top line with Stepan and Nash while sliding down dynamic duo Kreider and Zuccarello with Zibanejad. Combined with Hayes’ big return that’s resulted in the continued strong play of a cohesive third line with Miller and Grabner, that left Buchnevich out of the top nine. He has played in a reduced role on the fourth line with Oscar Lindberg and Jesper Fast.

To Vigneault’s credit, he was still giving Buchnevich power play time. So, the versatile Russian who can both pass and finish wasn’t penalized. However, he’s had a downturn. So, he won’t play at Barclays Center. Instead, ex-Senators first round pick Matt Puempel gets the call after sitting out the previous six. He’s had some success scoring six times in 18 contests since the Rangers claimed him. The biggest highlight coming at Arizona when he recorded his first career hat trick on New Year’s Eve.

There’s nothing wrong with the move. Puempel isn’t exactly a veteran. He’s also a young player still in the learning stages. He brings speed and a shot first mentality. So, there is little issue with him getting back in the lineup for Buchnevich.

Besides, sometimes letting a young player watch a game from above can help them. It really isn’t the big deal it’s being made out to be. What we are talking about is Buchnevich, who’s been cold. Vesey has regained his spot scoring the game-winner in a one-goal win at Columbus. A game where Vigneault moved him up replacing Buchnevich, who he feels can be better.

To the critics who want to point to the coach’s loyalty to veteran defensemen Dan Girardi and Kevin Klein, he’s managed them better. Particularly Girardi, who isn’t getting as many minutes these days. Neither is Klein, whose play has finally picked up. The notion that Adam Clendening should play over either is foolish. Clendening is a decent extra D with good possession skills. He’s shaky defensively. So, it’s not an upgrade.

Simply put, you can’t compare how the coach handles forwards to defense. It’s entirely two different things. I’ve also heard the argument how Vigneault never scratched Vesey. Part of the reason was the roster wasn’t entirely healthy. But Nash and Hayes returned. They’re now full strength. Had they been prior, I’d imagine Vesey would’ve sat out a game.

One thing about Vigneault, he’s consistent when it comes to handling young players. He hasn’t been afraid to bench Miller or Kreider when they commit mistakes. Both have been two of the club’s best players. They each responded well. At one critical point, Miller found himself on the fourth line. Since, he’s been the team’s most consistent performer leading them in scoring with 46 points.

As much as I have criticized the coach in the past for player usage and other situations, he’s done a good job. He has the team playing well. They enter play winners of six straight trailing Columbus and Pittsburgh by two points for second in the Metropolitan Division. With 26 games left including a busy 11 games in 19 day stretch, the Rangers have 75 points and 35 ROW. They’re comfortably in the first wildcard 12 points up on second wildcard Toronto and 14 points clear of Philadelphia.

Even with their improved play, the Islanders still sit on the outside of the playoffs with 60 points. They trail the Maple Leafs by three for the final spot. A 7-1 blowout loss at Toronto cost them a chance to move into eighth. They’ll have a chance to redeem themselves in downtown Brooklyn against their favorite nemesis.

The third match-up of four between the classic New York rivals should be interesting. Especially with Jason Chimera commenting on how much he hates the Rangers. That should add some juice to the rivalry.

As for Buchnevich, relax. It’s one game. He’ll be back. If Puempel plays well, maybe he stays in. But you know Vigneault wants to get Buchnevich back in and see how he responds. He has the brighter future.

That’s our perspective. Sit back. Relax. Enjoy the game.

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Canadiens fire Therrien and hire Julien

Posted on February 14, 2017 by Derek
Claude Julien

Claude Julien is returning to Montreal where he’ll replace fired Michel Therrien.

Well, it finally happened. The Canadiens had seen enough of Michel Therrien. Montreal has been in a terrible slump. Even with a healthy Carey Price and Max Pacioretty scoring at a great clip, the time had come for them to fire Therrien.

The move comes on the heels of an uncompetitive 4-0 shutout defeat to the Bruins. With the Habs in their bye week, it was a perfect situation. They have hired Claude Julien. It’ll be his second stint behind the Montreal bench. He’s been one of the best coaches in the league. He lasted a decade in Boston winning a Stanley Cup and coming close to winning another.

Eventually, Bruins clown Cam Neely won and got Julien axed. Everyone knew it was gonna happen. At least Boston has responded so far to new coach Bruce Cassidy winning their first three games to get within six of the slumping Canadiens. With the Senators also right there and having an extra five games to make up, the move makes plenty of sense.

Julien is a big upgrade over the predictable Therrien, whose odd line combinations and fights behind closed doors with personnel were hurting the team. Big acquisition Shea Weber has stopped scoring. They recently got back Brendan Gallagher. Alex Radulov has also cooled off. But most notably, the Habs stopped competing for Therrien. They went through the motions and watched Zdeno Chara score a shorthanded goal.

So, now Julien takes over in Montreal. A place he’s familiar with. It should be interesting to see how they respond. But also takes Julien’s name off potential coaching vacancies which could be in Florida, Brooklyn and Las Vegas. Too bad.

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The dilemma facing the Rangers

Posted on February 14, 2017 by Derek
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Dan Girardi speaks to MSG’s John Giannone between periods after scoring a shorthanded goal in the Rangers’ latest win. A 3-2 victory at Columbus. This year’s team is deeper and won’t be a pushover even if they draw a tough opponent in the first round. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NYRangers.

Last night, the Rangers won over Columbus 3-2 on rookie Jimmy Vesey’s wonderful game-winner. In winning for the sixth straight time, they now find themselves in a three-way tie in points (75) with the Penguins and Blue Jackets. Pittsburgh remains second by virtue of two fewer games played. They make up one tonight. Columbus is still third having played one less game than the Rangers. But they’ve been inconsistent since their 16-game winning streak.

Here are the Rangers playing very good hockey. Henrik Lundqvist finally got a night off after reaching 400 wins. Antti Raanta filled in admirably making 30 saves in his first start since getting hurt on Jan. 14 at Montreal. He went a long time between starts but it didn’t have any affect. It speaks to how good the valuable backup is and why Las Vegas should be zeroing in on him for expansion.

Dan Girardi returned and scored a shorthanded goal. Repeat. Dan Girardi returned and scored a shorthanded goal. Let that sink in. Girardi wasn’t overused playing just over 16 minutes. That’s a plus. Alain Vigneault has managed Girardi, Kevin Klein and Marc Staal better. None came close to 20 minutes yesterday. Both Ryan McDonagh and Nick Holden each were the workhorses with over 23. Brady Skjei received 16-plus.

I’ll say this and it might strike a nerve with some fans. Holden has been a better fit than Keith Yandle. While a superb offensive skating defenseman who had 47 points last season, he never was as complete as Holden, who is a year younger and a whole lot cheaper. Holden can be used in a shutdown role and still contribute offensively. His eight goals lead all Rangers blue liners and 26 points rank behind only McDonagh. Skjei has done well with 25 despite Vigneault managing his shifts.

At the moment, as much complaints as there are about the defense, it’s settled in. They’ve played better during this stretch. Players are coming back and protecting the house. There haven’t been as many breakdowns. Adam Clendening is a serviceable seventh defenseman who has filled in admirably. But the idea he should start over Girardi or Klein is silly. Over time, we’ve seen positives and negatives with him. They should continue to use Clendening as an extra D who can spot guys when necessary.

So much of why this team is successful is the brilliant play of Kevin Hayes, J.T. Miller and Michael Grabner. Hayes had a strong game scoring a beauty after stripping David Savard at center while deking Sergei Bobrovsky and going forehand. He and Miller also set up Girardi’s shorthanded goal. When it comes down to it, Hayes and Miller have been in the middle of everything. Their maturity and development is the biggest reason Vigneault got extended. Grabner remains the team’s leading goal scorer. A dangerous speedster who has rediscovered the magic he had with the Islanders, who are the Rangers’ next opponent in Brooklyn on Thursday. Considering how well they’ve played under Doug Weight, that should be quite the game.

The thing about where the Rangers find themselves in the standings could be the one drawback. They’re in position to overtake the fading Blue Jackets and wind up in the ultra tough 2 vs 3 first round match-up in the Metropolitan Division. Last year, they weren’t equipped to face a much deeper Pens team who dismantled them in five. As it turned out, the Pens with the addition of Carl Hagelin won the Stanley Cup.

If they do wind up facing the Pens for a third consecutive year in the first round, it’ll be a tall order. Pittsburgh does have players hurt. Evgeni Malkin may finally return tonight. Conor Sheary is on the shelf for about another month. There’s also the issue of Marc-Andre Fleury, who could finally be moved at the March 1 deadline. He has struggled in a backup role behind clear number one Matt Murray. The same goalie the Rangers could’ve solve last year.

With the Caps running away with the division, it looks like the old Patrick rivals are headed for another early showdown in the playoffs. If you go back to 2014 when the Rangers stunned the Pens in the second round by rallying from a 3-1 deficit for the first time in franchise history, they’ve met Pittsburgh the last three years. It’s looking like it’ll be year number four.

The one thing I can conclude is that the 2016-17 Rangers aren’t last year’s team. They’re deeper. They can roll four lines. Chris Kreider is having his best season with 22 goals and 39 points. Mats Zuccarello and Derek Stepan continue to be team leaders. Face-off leader Mika Zibanejad has fit in well replacing Derick Brassard. His scoring has been down since he returned. It would be nice to see the former Senator heat up. Make no mistake. His lethal right-handed shot is a weapon on the power play. Lately, they’ve struggled. It wouldn’t be the Rangers otherwise.

Vigneault has rotated Vesey and Pavel Buchnevich around based on their performance. Vesey was moved back up to Stepan and Rick Nash in the third last night and he scored a wonderful goal with 6:32 left for the game decider. His 13th. He hasn’t scored much in the second half. But his play has picked up. Buchnevich has gone cold. But his skill level makes him a threat. It’s why he is on the power play. The gifted Russian has the ability to finish and set up teammates.

There’s a lot to like about this team. Vigneault can use energizer Jesper Fast on the fourth line now that the lineup is healthy. Fast can also take shifts with other lines due to his determination and hustle. Nobody works harder. He is defensively responsible and is appreciated by teammates. Oscar Lindberg is evolving into a similar player. With Vigneault now committed to him as the fourth line center, the two-way Swede has paid dividends assisting on two goals in a recent comeback win over the Avalanche. He doesn’t get a lot of minutes. But is a consistent worker at even strength who can be trusted on face-offs.

At the moment, Brandon Pirri and Matt Puempel find themselves the odd men out. Both are capable if called upon. Pirri more in an offensive role playing power play. Puempel has some scoring touch. He recorded his first career hat trick in a road win over the Coyotes at the end of December.

As long as Lundqvist continues his upswing, you can’t count this team out. Obviously, the soon to be 35-year old Swede needs to perform for the Rangers to have any chance in the postseason. Especially if it’s the dangerous Pens led by Hart candidate Sidney Crosby, Malkin, Phil Kessel and Kris Letang. The two teams have a pair of games remaining. But not for a while. The last two times, the Pens destroyed the Rangers with their speed and skill. We’ll have a better gauge in late March and early April.

So, the question becomes this. Is this what the Rangers want? Another hefty challenge trying to overcome potentially the Pens and Caps just to make the Conference Final. Most observers would say they’re better off in the first wildcard drawing the bumbling Canadiens. A team they still have problems with in Montreal. The question up north is will Michel Therrien survive. They’re in desperate need of a change. The Habs are no longer a lock to win the Atlantic. Ottawa and Boston are climbing fast. Both are within six. But it’s the Senators who hold five games in hand with the Canadiens getting the silly bye week.

On paper, the Atlantic looks like the easier path. The Islanders were able to get their first series win by edging the Panthers in six games last year. But they were no match for the Lightning. So, it’s not guaranteed if you draw the Atlantic, you’ll win the first two rounds. Tampa has fallen off dramatically. They badly miss Steven Stamkos and are getting putrid goaltending from Ben Bishop, who’s not playing as much these days. Their defense is inconsistent yet they remain only four behind the Maple Leafs.

The Red Wings are going to miss the playoffs for the first time since my Bar Mitzvah. The Sabres look like they’re a year away. They have good moments and bad ones. The Panthers don’t have the look of a playoff team. But have played only 54 games. With Aleksander Barkov back and leading scorer Vincent Trocheck on fire, anything is possible.

It really comes down to the Leafs, Islanders and Flyers for that final spot. Toronto boasts enough talent in Calder front runners Mitch Marner and Auston Matthews with William Nylander not far behind. It’s gonna depend on the defense and Frederik Andersen. With four 40-point scorers including James van Riemsdyk and Nazem Kadri, they can score with anyone. Are they ready to lock down the playoffs in Mike Babcock’s second year?

It’s hard to take the Flyers seriously. They can’t seem to get out of their own way. But every now and then, Wayne Simmonds scores a clutch goal and Steve Mason has a big game. The mishandling of struggling sophomore Shayne Gostisbehere is inexplicable. Claude Giroux has under performed. Jakub Voracek has also cooled off. When you look at the plus/minuses of their top four scorers including Brayden Schenn, it borders on absurd. No team relies more on the power play than the Flyers. They’re also top heavy with not enough support.

The Islanders are looking much better since Weight took over. Ever since he declared that they’re a playoff team, they took off. It’s not just John Tavares anymore. Anders Lee leads them in goals with 21. Jason Chimera and Andrew Ladd are playing much better by scoring big goals. Even Ryan Strome is heating up. A player who never got along with Jack Capuano. Nick Leddy and Johnny Boychuk have carried the blue line minus injured Travis Hamonic. They’re getting contributions from everyone unlike the first half. Thomas Greiss continues to play well as the starter. The best part is they have only played 54 games and have proven they can beat quality teams besting the Caps, Habs and Jackets. The only question is will they hit a rough patch. At the moment, they look like the favorite to grab the final wildcard.

As for the Devils and Hurricanes, neither team has shown enough consistency to merit being taken seriously. It’s definitely interesting with every team still alive. A win streak can go a long way. The Islanders played themselves from one of the biggest disappointments into the team we expected.

What does it all mean? Only time will tell. For the Rangers, they should continue to play better fundamental hockey. Even if it means risking another early exit due to the awfulness of the new playoff format which is already growing tiresome (hello NHL committee), they aren’t a pushover. Whoever they draw, expect it to be a closely fought competitive series. I’ll take my chances.

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Pic of Day: Stick tap to Jack Eichel

Posted on February 12, 2017 by Derek

A picture is worth a thousand words or 1,000 words. Whichever way you prefer, sometimes a photo can mean everything to someone. We all have our own personal favorites that bring back good times and memories that won’t fade away.

How do you think this kid felt when he got to meet Buffalo Sabres center Jack Eichel between periods? He’ll never forget it as long as he lives. ❤

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AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy Buffalo Sabres. 

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King of New York wins number 400

Posted on February 11, 2017 by Derek
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King of New York! Henrik Lundqvist shows off the game puck of win number 400 while donning the Broadway Hat in a Rangers’ 4-2 win over the Avalanche at MSG. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NYRangers.

The moment was coming. It took a little longer than expected. But now Henrik Lundqvist finally has win number 400. The King of New York did it by making 32 saves in his 17th consecutive start. A come from behind 4-2 Rangers victory over the Avalanche at MSG before adoring fans who chanted, “Hen-rik! Hen-rik! Hen-rik!”

Ever since his rookie season in ’05-06, there was something special about the affable Swede the club took in the seventh round 205th overall of the 2000 NHL Draft. He had a flair and the personality that New York City identifies with. It was a match made in heaven. Who knew all this time later Lundqvist would hold franchise marks in games played (727), wins (400) and shutouts (61)?

There is the Swedish King who’s been the backbone of the Blueshirts for over a decade, carrying them to the postseason in 10 of his first 11 seasons. He’s won at least 30 in 10 of those 11 with only the shortened season of 2013 the lone exception. With win number 26 in what’s been a challenging 12th year, he’s inching closer to another season of 30 or more on Broadway.

In winning his 400th in game 727, Lundqvist is the fastest to 400 in NHL history. Helped of course by the post-tie era, he’s still a model of consistency. Without number 30, the Rangers wouldn’t have reached three Final Fours including a dramatic run to their first Stanley Cup appearance in 20 years. They wouldn’t have rallied back in consecutive postseasons from 3-1 series deficits to stun the Penguins and Capitals in unreal second rounds. They wouldn’t be the team we’ve appreciated.

Before Henrik, the Rangers were a laughingstock. They had missed the playoffs in seven straight seasons before the lockout canceled 2004-05. Then hockey returned and Jaromir Jagr guaranteed the playoffs when most panelists picked the team to finish 30th. Credit Tom Renney for changing the attitude behind the bench. Also credit Glen Sather, who made several key additions building the team around Jagr to turn them around. The glory days of Jagr, Martin Straka, Michael Nylander, Martin Rucinsky, Petr Prucha, Marek Malik and Michal Rozsival feel like a lifetime ago. With Renney behind the bench and other fan favorites Jed Ortmeyer and Dominic Moore, those teams were fun to root for. Credit Kevin Weekes for playing a key role in helping Lundqvist become the rock star in net.

An underdog rag tag group of Blueshirts nearly upset the Sabres in the 2007 Conference Semifinals before falling short in a compelling six-game series. After Renney fell out of favor, John Tortorella took over and turned the group into the Black and Blueshirts. A team that sacrificed life and limb by blocking shots led by current Rangers Dan Girardi and Marc Staal. Both who are still here along with captain Ryan McDonagh, who had a milestone of his own reaching 30 assists for the first time in a regular season.

The ’11-12 season remains a highlight for Lundqvist, who posted career bests in wins (39) goals-against-average (1.97) and save percentage (.930) with eight shutouts to win his only Vezina. That team of classic overachievers featuring Ryan Callahan, Brandon Dubinsky, Brad Richards, Marian Gaborik, Artem Anisimov along with Brian Boyle and Brandon Prust plus Michael Del Zotto wound up with the East’s best record. Backstopped by Lundqvist, they came back to defeat the Senators in seven and edged the Caps in seven to make their first Conference Final since ’97. They lost in six to the Devils.

After Tortorella lost the room, Alain Vigneault took over for the ’13-14 season. A more up tempo coach who emphasizes team speed, skill and transition, the French Canadian has fit in well recently winning his 600th game during the Rangers’ five-game winning streak. He gave the credit to the players he’s had. A core still featuring Lundqvist, McDonagh, Girardi, Staal along with a strong cast up front that includes Derek Stepan, Rick Nash, Chris Kreider, Mats Zuccarello, Kevin Hayes, J.T. Miller along with newcomers Mika Zibanejad, Michael Grabner, Pavel Buchnevich and Jimmy Vesey have the ’16-17 Rangers in good playoff position. A deeper team that also includes Nick Holden, Brady Skjei, Kevin Klein, Oscar Lindberg and Jesper Fast.

At the moment, it’s unknown where they’ll wind up. They have the unenviable task of playing in the league’s best division. Remarkably, the Rangers remain fourth behind Metro leader Washington with Columbus and Pittsburgh tied in points with 75 two up on the Rangers, who hold down the first wildcard. In other words, depending where they wind up could determine how far they could go. If they wind up with the first wildcard, they would get to go through the Atlantic which might be an advantage. If not, all bets are off.

However, make no mistake about it. This night is about one man. Someone who’s been there win or loss. No matter how tough the defeat, Lundqvist has always been accountable. He’s always answered questions from reporters. At 34 soon to be 35 in less than a month, will he ever bring a Stanley Cup back to Manhattan? It’s going to be a daunting task. Especially with the Pens and Caps looking very tough along with the Blue Jackets.

For once, the Rangers picked up their goalie after he let in a tough one to John Mitchell which put them down 2-1 after two periods to the NHL’s worst team. But in the third, his teammates showed resiliency on a Klein’s second of the night off some strong work from Fast and Lindberg to tie the score.

It was Nash who redirected home his 16th from Stepan, who made a bullet pass to the side that put them up for good a couple of minutes later. McDonagh started the play to pick up his 30th assist of the season. The first time he’s hit 30 in a single season. A nice achievement for the hard working captain who has so much responsibility anchoring the blue line.

To their credit, the Avalanche came hard. They didn’t mail it in. Instead, they attacked the Rangers forcing Lundqvist into some acrobatic saves. He stopped all 17 shots in a busy third to earn number 400.

A great defensive play from who else but Miller broke up a Matt Duchene pass across. He fed Grabner, who patiently held the puck before feeding an open Hayes for the insurance marker with 1:38 remaining. That line would come through defensively because they have been the one constant. So dependable. Give the trio the Steven McDonald Award. Let them share it. He would be proud.

What followed were a couple of more saves from Lundqvist to the familiar serenade of “Hen-rik! Hen–rik! Hen—rik!”

When the buzzer sounded, he pumped his fist in victory and saluted the crowd after coming out for the game’s first star, pointing to his heart as if to say, “I love you.”

The feeling is mutual.

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BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Oscar Lindberg, NYR (2 assists, 5-and-5 on face-offs, +2 in 11 even strength shifts-played well in 8:11 and solidified himself as fourth line center)

2nd Star-Kevin Klein, NYR (2 goals-2nd, 3rd inc. tying marker, 4 shots, 5 hits, +3 in 26 shifts-19:49)

1st Star-Henrik Lundqvist, NYR (32 saves incl. 17/17 in 3rd for win number 400-1st ever European goalie to reach milestone doing it in 727 games)

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Pic of Day: Jumbo Joe Thornton

Posted on February 10, 2017 by Derek

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Occasionally, I come across things on Twitter that really make me wonder in amazement. Any hockey fan who has followed Joe Thornton’s journey from the Bruins to Sharks knows about his metamorphosis. The former Hart winner who is six assists shy of 1,000 for a brilliant NHL career that includes a total 1375 points in 1422 games is a future Hall of Famer.

One of the best playmaking big centers in the game, Jumbo Joe is fun to watch. He’s definitely one of the best passers I’ve seen. He really can thread the needle. The cool aspect is he also is only 19 goals shy of 400. Thornton is a complete player. Since joining San Jose in a blockbuster trade that was awful for Boston, he’s plus-177 with 921 points. The breakdown is 212 goals and 709 assists for 921 points over 890 games in teal.

Thornton is still looking for that elusive Stanley Cup. He finally made the Final last year with the Sharks but they lost to the Penguins in six. The 37-year old former ’97 first overall pick remains one of the most underappreciated superstars. If he could ever hoist the Cup, that would end.

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A lucky Boston Bruins fan met both Joe Thornton and Brent Burns during Boston’s win over the Sharks. Photo by Struzz15 via Twitter.

What might not is Thornton’s insane beard. Between him and teammate Brent “Caveman” Burns, they have enough facial hair to donate for people who need it. You get the idea.

The Pic of Day is a comparison of a young Jumbo Joe with Boston clean shaven to the current one with the wild and crazy beard. It really is the same person. Amazing.

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Grabner, Hayes, Miller carrying red hot Blueshirts

Posted on February 10, 2017 by Derek
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The play of Michael Grabner, Kevin Hayes and J.T. Miller are the biggest reason for the Rangers’ success this season. That continued in a 4-3 win over Nashville Thursday night at MSG. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NYRangers.

What if I told you before the season that it wouldn’t be Henrik Lundqvist or Ryan McDonagh carrying this team? What if I said it wouldn’t be Derek Stepan or Rick Nash? What if we concluded that it would be Jeff Gorton’s brilliant free agent addition Michael Grabner, who is leading the Rangers in goals getting his 26th while cohesive linemates Kevin Hayes and J.T. Miller continued the third line’s dominance in a 4-3 home win over the Predators?

Through 54 games of an 82-game schedule, it’s the unreal chemistry between Grabner, Hayes and Miller that has this team where it is in the standings. In what’s been by far the most competitive division, the Rangers still sit fourth in the Metro with 71 points. They’ve pulled to within two of suddenly inconsistent Columbus, who were shutout on home ice by the Canucks. With the Penguins in second comfortably ahead of Colorado, they’ll move up to 76. Three up on the Blue Jackets and five ahead of the suddenly hot Blueshirts, who won for the fourth straight time.

The story is the consistent play of the third line. That line combined for six points on the night. Grabner scored his team-leading 26th and Miller tallied twice including the game-winner when he was in the right place at the right time with a Ryan McDonagh shot going off him past losing Nashville goalie Juuse Saros with four minutes left. Hayes only assisted on all three goals his line created.

Following a Roman Josi power play goal that made things interesting, the Rangers held on for a one-goal win before delighted fans at MSG. Henrik Lundqvist got a bit of puck luck when Mike Fisher just missed on a point blank chance with the Preds pressing for the equalizer. That’s sport. It’s a game of inches. Fate was on the Rangers side.

When you’re hot, you’re hot. That would explain the zone Miller is in. The third-year forward is budding into the team’s best forward. A player the coaching staff can trust to play in any situation- especially on the penalty kill where he and Hayes have formed a potent tandem that have combined for four of the Rangers’ seven shorthanded goals- Miller is playing the best hockey of his career. Only 23, the 2011 first round pick recorded his fourth consecutive two-point game.

During a torrid stretch that’s seen him put up 22 points (9-13-22) over the last 17 games, seven of his 11 multi-point games have come. Prior to the hot stretch, he had been ice cold going seven straight without a point. The low point was when Vigneault demoted him to the fourth line. Ever since a successful road trip on 12/29 and New Year’s Eve in wins over Colorado and Arizona in which he posted four points, he’s been a different player. Previously, Miller was showing off his play making skills by setting up teammates with terrific passes. In the 4-1 win over Anaheim, he made two great passes for Grabner tallies. He had gone six straight without a goal but entered with eight assists.

Naturally, it was Miller Time tonight as he scored twice to increase his goal total to 18 which ranks third behind Grabner (26) and Chris Kreider, who notched his 22nd in the win. His 26 assists tie him with Hayes for fourth on the team behind Stepan (27), McDonagh (29) and Mats Zuccarello (30). It is Miller who leads the club in scoring with 44 points. He’s played in all 54. A intelligent two-way player with good offensive instincts, he’s putting it all on display.

As much credit as Miller gets, even more goes to Hayes, who’s turned it around following a disappointing sophomore campaign that resulted in Vigneault scratching him in a five-game first round series loss to the Penguins. In 49 games this season, a faster and slimmer Hayes is dominating shifts with improved skating and smarter puck decisions. He just returned the other night and made a difference. After missing five games with a lower body injury, Hayes has four helpers in two wins. He makes great reads to find open teammates.

Most notably, his defensive play along with sidekick Miller have made them a lethal shorthanded duo. Even when they’re not scoring, they’re constantly making good reads to put pressure on opponents’ power plays. It used to be teams only had to worry about Stepan and Nash. Now, it’s Hayes and Miller who wreak havoc. Grabner is a threat any time he’s out for a penalty kill shift. It’s hard to believe he has only one shorthanded goal while ranking first in the NHL with 24 even strength goals. His game breaking speed has been a perfect fit under Vigneault, who emphasizes offense off the rush.

The past two seasons, Grabner failed to hit double figures in goals with the Leafs and Islanders. In ’16-17, his 26 markers are already nine more than he had in those two years. For those keeping track, that’s 26 goals in 53 games as a Blueshirt. He totaled 17 in 114 with the Isles and Leafs previously. Signed for a bargain basement $1.65 million thru 2017, it’s become imperative for the organization to figure out a way to keep him. With Las Vegas coming in via expansion, Gorton has his work cut out for him.

Obviously, it goes without saying that youngsters Hayes, Kreider and Miller aren’t going anywhere. Jimmy Vesey is in the first year of a two-year rookie deal while Pavel Buchnevich is in Year One of a rookie contract. Nash, who receives $8 million this season and $8.2 million in the final year of his contract (AAV $7.8 million), could be a likely candidate. But would you take him with one year remaining? He’ll turn 33 on June 16.

Mika Zibanejad is due a raise on a current cap hit of $2.625 million that works out favorably for the Rangers. But he is getting paid $3.25 million and should command in the neighborhood of $5 million as a restricted free agent this summer. Cheaper Group II’s Jesper Fast, Oscar Lindberg and Matt Puempel may not all be back. But they’re affordable and won’t cost much. Maybe they trade one. Brandon Pirri won’t be back.

That leaves Stepan and Zuccarello. Stepan is in the second year of a long-term deal that pays him $6.5 million on average per season through 2021. His no-movement clause doesn’t kick in until this summer. Would the Rangers dare consider moving him like they did Derick Brassard to free up cap space to retain Grabner and give themselves spending money possibly for a right defenseman? That’s a tough one. Stepan isn’t the best scorer but he is a solid all around player who is trusted in any situation and has proven he can perform under pressure. Don’t forget Games 5 and 7 against the Caps. He is a guy who Steps up in big moments.

Zuccarello is older. He’s 29 and is signed for another two years earning a very affordable $4.5 million cap hit that expires following 2019. Interestingly, Zucc had a full no-trade in his first season. But doesn’t anymore. So, he could be available. To any diehard Rangers fan, would you trade the pint sized Norwegian with the giant sized heart? My heart says no. He’s such a valuable player and has formed amazing chemistry with Kreider, almost tutoring him.

Look at Kreider this year. He’s a beast. With 22 goals and 39 points in 48 contests, he’s on pace for his first 30-goal campaign. To think they just extended him last summer at four years for $18.5 million which is a bargain basement $4.625 million. That’s why you pay for potential.

As for Hayes and Miller, they’re bridged with each getting similar amounts ($2.6 million to 2.625 million) thru ’17-18. When they’re up, they’re going to command big raises.

This is what makes it so tricky for Gorton. He has some tough decisions ahead. That includes whether to finally buy out old warrior Dan Girardi with still three years and $13 million left with an AAV of $5.5 million. What about Kevin Klein, who’s seen his role reduced due to inconsistencies? He only makes $2.75 million but can become unrestricted in 2018. It’s not hard to imagine a Rangers’ blue line totally revamped on the right side.

With commitments to McDonagh, Marc Staal, Brady Skjei and soon to be extended Nick Holden ($1.65 million cap hit thru 2018), that leaves two spots potentially open. Will the organization have enough in the vault for say Kevin Shattenkirk if he gives them a bargain deal at say six years, $38.5 million? Is the current Blue who hits the market this summer worth it? It is hard to say.

What remains is the amazing chemistry between the say Hayes kid, Grabner and Miller Time. If you aren’t enjoying the show, you’ve been missing out.

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