The heart can’t measure the eye test with Rangers’ warrior Girardi

Posted on October 3, 2016 by Derek
Callahan and Girardi

Dan Girardi has been one of the team leaders of the Rangers since he debuted a decade ago. His struggle last year has continued in preseason. Is the writing on the wall? Getty Images

For a decade, Dan Girardi has bled Rangers blue. The undrafted free agent who became one of the keys to a core that’s been through the playoff wars that included a Stanley Cup Finals appearance and two Eastern Conference Finals, is at a crossroads as a player.

No one would ever question the prideful 32-year old’s heart. Girardi has been part of a successful franchise built around Henrik Lundqvist. He and Marc Staal are still here along with captain Ryan McDonagh, who anchors a blue line that’s in transition. The wear and tear really showed last season. Girardi struggled mightily. Dealing with daily aches and pains that even included a cracked right kneecap, he still played 74 games and got into two playoff matches in a lopsided first round defeat to Pittsburgh.

It wasn’t just number five who had a tough time. Staal also went through his worst year. While it’s true both returned from serious injuries that required off-season surgery, neither ever was consistent. A trend that also plagued McDonagh, who endured two concussions and missed nine games and another two in the postseason. Kevin Klein also returned from a fractured thumb that limited his effectiveness.

To say the Rangers were bruised and battered would be an understatement. However, all teams deal with injuries. The Pens overcame key losses to win the Stanley Cup thanks to great depth. Bumps and bruises are part of hockey. So are the familiar terms “lower body” and “upper body” along with “out indefinitely” which frustrate fans and media.

Truth be told, the ’15-16 New York Rangers weren’t good enough. It wasn’t just the decline of Girardi and Staal. Overall, the team was less committed to defense. Forwards didn’t always come back. One of the culprits is gone. Derick Brassard was sent packing to Ottawa in a cap cutting deal that returned younger center Mika Zibanejad, who has looked good in the preseason.

That wasn’t GM Jeff Gorton’s only move. He acquired defenseman Nick Holden from Colorado and signed Adam Clendening in an attempt to provide better defensive depth. Both have shown glimpses that they are capable of contributing.

With Dylan McIlrath and Brady Skjei each looking ready for prime time, suddenly the back end doesn’t necessarily depend on Girardi or Staal. Their time can be managed. Particularly Girardi, whose struggles at even strength were hard to ignore. The lack of foot speed allowed opponents to get favorable match-ups, taking full advantage of coach Alain Vigneault. There were instances where his loyalty to a good soldier hurt the team. Pairing him with McDonagh once too many. A reluctance to use McIlrath more when his play with former Ranger Keith Yandle was better.

Last year, McIlrath was the extra who got into 34 games and one postseason. This time, the Rangers are eight deep which leaves the coaching staff with more options. Assuming they keep Glendening, who with his skating and right-handed shot and passing makes him a good power play option, that would mean they’d have to make some tough cuts up front.

Likely candidates include the slow and slower Max Lapierre, who will take part in tomorrow’s exhibition at the Flyers. Josh Jooris is hurt and could be placed on injured reserve. Tanner Glass has to be behind camp standout Brandon Pirri along with key penalty killers Nathan Gerbe and Michael Grabner. Considering that he passed through waivers last year before being recalled, Glass will likely be optioned to Hartford.

Younger forward prospects Pavel Buchnevich and Jimmy Vesey have done nothing to hurt themselves. Considering that Vigneault has tried both on first and second lines, it’s likely they’ll be part of the starting lineup. Vesey showed chemistry with Zibanejad and Chris Kreider after being shifted to right wing. Buchnevich has shown the ability to get shots through and generate chances. He has an opt out clause back to the KHL if he doesn’t play in the NHL.

On a 23-man roster, you have the option of keeping 14 forwards or eight defensemen. That makes the decision even harder. For the Rangers, it makes sense to go with two extra forwards due to Gorton improving the depth. You don’t go out and add Gerbe, Grabner and Pirri if you’re not gonna take advantage of it.

The dilemma is what to do with Clendening. Only 23 and on his sixth organization, he has proven capable of adding something to the power play. Used on the left point as a right-hand shot, he has been able to get the puck over to Zibanejad for his deadly one-timer from the off wing. Something the Rangers haven’t had since Nikolai Zherdev was still around and to a lesser extent, Ales Kotalik.

It would be easier if they could just bite the bullet and work out an agreement with Girardi, who has continued to look bad in two preseason matches. On several occasions, he got caught out of position leading to goals against or dangerous chances. It’s sad to watch him struggle.

What makes it even worse is the buyout period passed long ago in the summer. The next window isn’t until June of next year when the expansion Las Vegas team will enter the NHL. The plan can’t be to play Girardi daily. Not in a condensed schedule. His minutes must be sheltered. Using him on the penalty kill is fine as long as he isn’t stuck out there. At five-on-five, he remains a problem.

Girardi has full support of the coaching staff and organization. He has vowed to return to form. But of course he’s going to say that. With four years remaining on a contract that pays him an average of $5.5 million per cap hit, Girardi’s contract is one of the worst in hockey. Though at the time we understood the logic with former GM Glen Sather choosing his blood and guts defenseman over Ryan Callahan, who was moved at the 2014 trade deadline for Martin St. Louis.

In choosing to remain loyal to core members Girardi and Staal, Sather decided against re-signing Anton Stralman. He was only their best defenseman against the Kings. Rather than keep him Slats made a huge miscalculation giving Dan Boyle two years at the same cap hit. While Boyle struggled to fit in, Stralman has paired with Victor Hedman to form one of the best top pairings in the game. He’s still only 30 with three years left at an affordable $4.5 million average.

Sometimes, it’s hard to admit mistakes. Gorton has been left with Sather’s which has handcuffed him. In subtracting Brassard, he at least saved on salary and was able to afford Kreider long-term while re-upping key forwards J.T. Miller and Kevin Hayes. He also seems to have made a good find in former Providence College defenseman John Gilmour, who has looked good putting up two goals and an assist in preseason.

At the very least, Girardi will start the season as one of the top six on the roster. At this point, he is behind McDonagh, Klein, Skjei, Staal, Holden and McIlrath. However, we know he’ll be ahead of McIlrath which makes no sense. If it’s about being stronger defensively and tougher in front of the net, McIlrath deserves the chance to show what he’s got. Girardi has been tried with Skjei in exhibition. Skjei can at least cover for him. But a Skjei/McIlrath third pair would make better sense.

This isn’t a bash Girardi column. He’s exceeded expectations becoming one of the team leaders during the team’s rise as a Stanley Cup contender. A stand up character guy who will do anything to help them win. The laying out the body to block shots. The balls to the wall approach is easy to appreciate. What he lacks in talent he makes up for in grit and determination.

The issue is the NHL has become faster. It’s more of a speed and possession game. With Girardi’s body breaking down, it’s not a winning formula. Unfortunately, Glendening won’t make the opening roster. Not unless management concedes that there is a need for two extra defensemen, which would be an indictment of Girardi. There’s too much of a glut at forward. So, Glendening will go down to Hartford despite a good camp.

Sometimes, life isn’t fair. The same can be echoed for the business of sports. Sooner or later, the Rangers are going to have to wrap their heads around the big elephant in the room. That Dan Girardi isn’t good enough to be a regular anymore. Nothing he’s shown in exhibition has changed that. Unless something drastically changes when the season starts against the Islanders on October 13, his days are numbered.

As one of his biggest supporters, it hurts to have to write this column. Of course, I’m rooting for him. I would rather be wrong. I won’t boo him. I never boo our players. I support them no matter what. They aren’t immune to criticism. Here’s hoping Danny G still has something left to give.

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Taylor Hall scores in Devils preseason 5-4 win over Rangers

Posted on October 1, 2016 by Derek
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Taylor Hall shoots the puck past Magnus Hellberg for a power play goal in a Devils’ 5-4 win over the Rangers in preseason. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy nhl.com.

It’s only preseason. But Taylor Hall looked the part in a Devils’ 5-4 preseason home win over the Rangers at The Rock. The former Oiler scored a goal and had an assist as the Devils held on for a one-goal victory over their Hudson rival.

Wearing his trademark number 9, the exciting Hall was dangerous for most of his shifts against a less than NHL caliber Rangers D. Having already cut down to 32 players, the Devils iced a better roster. It showed during a lopsided second period when they scored the last three goals to take a 5-2 lead.

Hall wasn’t the only player who stood out. 2015 first round pick Pavel Zacha scored a goal and set up Hall’s tally. A goalscorer’s goal which surprised Rangers’ reliever Magnus Hellberg. It started a three-goal barrage in less than six minutes. Zacha tallied off a sloppy Ranger turnover, snapping one top shelf over Hellberg for a two-goal lead. Considering how well he played and that coach John Hynes used him at the end to help protect a one-goal lead, Zacha looks like he’ll make the roster.

Former Blueshirt John Moore tallied the Devs’ fifth goal late in the second. A play set up by Travis Zajac and Kyle Palmieri. They overwhelmed a lackluster Rangers on an extended shift with Moore finally beating Hellberg, who must’ve felt like he was put through hell.

The Rangers did dress some inexperienced players on defense including bright spot John Gilmour and Michael Paliotta. Mat Bodie also took part but struggled as did mainstay Dan Girardi, who got abused by Hall on one shift that almost resulted in a goal during the third. Girardi’s struggles are nothing new. He definitely had issues with the Devils’ speed. With Dylan McIlrath playing better in his first two appearances, it’ll be interesting to see what happens.

Adam Clendening had another solid performance assisting on two goals while logging 24:32 in 31 shifts including 5:07 on the power play. Brady Skjei was up and down. He had a strong first including making a great recovery to prevent a shorthanded chance. Skjei also made a great shot pass for a Jesper Fast deflection that beat Devils’ goalie Anders Lindback for the game’s first goal. But he also struggled mightily in the second with lazy turnovers and was caught out of position.

The Devils responded with two straight goals. Both coming off the stick of Beau Bennett. A player GM Ray Shero is familiar with from the Pens organization. On the first, Bennett got inside position and was able to steer home a rebound for a power play tally. The second came on a great feed from Hall with Bennett burying a one-timer past Rangers’ starter Antti Raanta.

Assisting on both goals was 27-year old Frenchman defenseman Yohann Auvitu. Having played overseas in Finland, the smooth skating lefty D now has five assists in the preseason. He picked up a third helper later in the contest on a Hall power play goal. If he makes it, that could be a huge bonus for the Devils.

Other defensemen who dressed for New Jersey were regulars Andy Greene, Ben Lovejoy, Jon Merrill and Moore. Kyle Quincey also debuted after signing. The ex-Red Wing threw his weight around  Only starter Damon Severson didn’t dress.

Prior to the Devils’ three-goal flurry, Ryan Gropp showed a flash skating in and spinning around and making a nice backhand feed for trailer Gilmour, who scored again. The 23-year old Providence College graduate has made an impression. He is a fast skater who makes good reads and jumps into the rush. In two straight games, Gilmour has two goals and an assist. His defense will need work in Hartford.

As for Gropp, he was one of the Rangers’ most noticeable forwards. Interestingly, he was buried on the fourth line behind Alain Vigneault favorite Max Lapierre, who didn’t look good taking a penalty due to not being able to keep up. The 20-year old 2015 second round pick has good size and can make plays with the puck. He’ll enter his first pro year and start at Hartford.

The Rangers responded well in the third getting the only two goals. Vigneault made a switch taking J.T. Miller off the top line and sticking Jimmy Vesey on it at right wing. The move worked with Vesey finding chemistry with Mike Zibanejad and Chris Kreider. For two periods, they were held in check. But in the third, generated quality chances. A great defensive play by Vesey sprung Kreider on a breakaway where he was hooked from behind leading to a penalty shot. On it, he shot but was beaten by Lindback’s glove. Kreider shanked it. For his NHL career, he’s 0-for-3 on penalty shots.

Zibanejad wound up with a power play goal and an assist. His assist came on a Michael Grabner goal which made it 5-3. Zibanejad fed Paliotta at the point for a shot which Grabner neatly redirected past Lindback. A nice play from a hard working player. Kreider’s penalty shot followed.

Lindback made some strong saves including a couple on Vesey and Kreider on a dominant shift with Zibanejad. Put on the power play with under five minutes left, Miller made a tough cross ice pass which Quincey partially deflected across to Zibanejad for a wicked one-timer off the bar and in at 16:28. Clendening started it for another power play point. If he does stick, the right D definitely should get power play time. For a guy who’s on his sixth organization, it’s amazing he’s only 23. Maybe he can be a steal.

The Rangers pulled Hellberg with under two minutes left. They came close to tying it. A big block of a Gilmour shot and a well timed Lovejoy hold with seconds to spare prevented Nathan Gerbe from possibly forcing overtime.

It was definitely a fun game that had peaks and valleys. The Devils controlled periods with their top players including feature attraction Hall showing why. It was their fourth preseason game. They have three left with a home-and-home against the Islanders Oct. 1 and 3. Then travel to Florida for the final one and must fly back there for the season opener Oct. 13. Odd scheduling.

This was the Rangers’ third of six exhibition games. The final three are at the Flyers Monday, at the Islanders Tuesday and home for the Flyers Oct. 6. They’ll see the Islanders at MSG for the season opener Oct. 13.

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Taylor Hall to debut for Devils tonight

Posted on October 1, 2016 by Derek
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Taylor Hall leads an improved Devils offense in 2016-17. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy Devils Hockey House.

It’s not often you get a former first overall pick in the off-season. Precisely what happened when the Devils acquired scoring forward Taylor Hall from the Oilers for defenseman Adam Larsson. The deal came down on June 29. It sent the 2011 fourth overall pick Larsson to Edmonton for the 2010 first overall selection Hall.

When it happened, most of the hockey world couldn’t believe Devils GM Ray Shero was able to get Hall straight up for Larsson. Nothing against the talented skating Swede. But the idea that the Oilers didn’t get anything else still seems absurd. Hall is capable of scoring 30 goals and putting up 80 points. Larsson is a good skating defensive defenseman who can log big minutes as he did last year playing all 82 for the Devils.

The game has changed. Puck possession is more valued. So, Edmonton is banking on Larsson to bolster their Achilles heel on the back end. If he proves capable and the Oilers make the postseason with a loaded offense that features Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Jordan Eberle and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins with possibly 2016 fourth overall pick Jesse Puljujarvi, then the gamble will pay off.

Meanwhile,.the Devils knew they needed to upgrade offensively. So, getting Hall was a no-brainer. Signed thru 2020 at a cap hit of $6 million per season, the soon to be 25-year old is entering his prime. Following an injury riddled ’14-15 that limited him to 38 points in 53 contests, he led the Oilers in scoring with 26 goals, 39 assists and 65 points in a full 82. The talent is there. However, a few former teammates questioned his character. It’ll be interesting to see how he responds to a new team.

The Devils boast Hall’s former junior teammate Adam Henrique. They played together on the Windsor Spitfires. In ’09-10, Hall led the club with 106 points (40-66-106) as a 17-year old while Henrique ranked third with 77 at 19. The two combined for 37 goals and 60 points in the OHL playoffs on a team that also featured prominent NHL defensemen Cam Fowler and Ryan Ellis.

Reuniting them along with leading scorer Kyle Palmieri could potentially give the Devils a lethal top scoring line. Something the NHL’s lowest scoring team lacked in support of all world goalie Cory Schneider. An injury to Mike Cammalleri didn’t help.

They’re also hoping former first round pick and top prospect Pavel Zacha is ready to make the jump. In his NHL debut, he recorded two assists.If the 19-year old Czech who went sixth overall in ’15 is ready, New Jersey should be much improved on offense.

When they host the Rangers in a preseason rematch at Newark, Hall will make his debut in a Devils sweater. It should create plenty of excitement at The Prudential Center. Hall will play on the top line with Henrique and Beau Bennett.

“It will be fun to play,” Hall told reporters. “I want to make a good impression and we want to keep building our game. I’m looking forward to having a game where I can not only build on my play but on the team’s play.”

Schneider was also expected to make his preseason debut following the disappointing USA result in which he barely played. But he’s a late scratch due to soreness. Anders Lindback gets the call. Palmieri will be in the lineup for the first time.

Another forward to watch is Reid Boucher. Coming back from a hip flexor issue, he says he’s ready to go. The now 23-year old former fourth round pick is expected to provide more consistent offense. He registered eight goals and 11 assists in 39 games last season. In 73 career games, he is 11-16-27.

Joseph Blandisi also was an interesting find. A speedy and skilled forward, he needs to produce better than five goals and 12 helpers in 41 games. He definitely is capable of contributing in the top nine.

The Devils recently signed veteran defenseman Kyle Quincey to a one-year, $1.25 million deal. Clearly a depth move with ex-Pen Ben Lovejoy also part of a revamped blue line that features anchor Andy Greene and third-year player Damon Severson, defense is an area that is a question mark. Any time you subtract a dependable player such as Larsson, it’s hard to replace the role he played.

New Jersey will look to Severson for more consistency after a up and down ’15-16 that saw him score only one goal in 72 games. John Moore returns as does Jon Merrill. Another young player who must show more.

Former 2013 second round pick Steven Santini is still looking to make the roster. After spending three years at Boston College, the 21-year old debuted in one game last season. If he’s not ready, they can send him down to Albany for his first pro year.

Devante Smith-Pelly made an impression tallying eight goals and 13 points in 18 games after coming over from the Canadiens for first round bust Stefan Matteau. He could play on a third line with Travis Zajac. Jacob Josefson could play with free agent veteran addition Vernon Fiddler. Sergey Kalinin also returns.

All-time leading scorer Patrik Elias remains unsigned. Are they going to work something out so the popular Czech and two-time Stanley Cup winner can go out the right way? As someone who appreciates what he’s brought to the Jersey side of the Hudson Rivalry, I hope so.

There is also a battle for backup goalie between Keith Kinkaid and Scott Wedgewood. Kinkaid had a down year while Wedgewood was impressive in a brief stint.

Overall, the Devils should score more goals and continue to get strong netminding from Schneider. As Hasan has noted, having a dependable backup is a key to give Schneider nights off in a condensed schedule. It probably will come down to the defense. If they perform adequately, they should be a playoff team.

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Competition continues for deeper Blueshirts

Posted on October 1, 2016 by Derek
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Brandon Pirri celebrates a goal in the Rangers’ preseason win over the Devils Thursday. The rematch is tonight in Newark. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NYRangers Twitter.

Later tonight, the Rangers pay a visit to Newark to face the Devils for the second time in three nights. This late preseason continues due to an entertaining World Cup dominated by Canada, who pulled off a fantastic finish stunning Europe with the tying and winning goals in the last two-plus minutes.

The competition for roster spots continues for a deeper Blueshirts. With a crowded forward crop that features kids Pavel Buchnevich and Jimmy Vesey along with vets Nathan Gerbe, Tanner Glass, Michael Grabner, Josh Jooris, Max Lapierre and the impressive Brandon Pirri, there’s a lot for the coaching staff to assess. It won’t be an easy decision on who makes it and who gets cut.

Thus far, Buchnevich has taken part in both exhibitions getting the chance to play with good players. He’s fared alright. If for some reason he doesn’t make it, he has an out clause to return to the KHL. Although I didn’t see the Rangers’ 3-1 win over the Devils on Thursday night, reports were positive on Vesey, who right away had a breakaway off the opening draw and drew a penalty. The big free agent signing out of Harvard is gonna make it and start in the top nine. It’s just a question if Buchnevich will join him.

With Pirri looking like a steal with three goals so far including a pair and a helper the other night, it’s hard to believe nobody wanted the 25-year old who’s on his fourth team. He certainly has good speed and great hands. Able to finish as he proved with the Panthers scoring 22 goals in ’14-15, Pirri should be a lock. Especially with Oscar Lindberg out until November. Will he play on the third line or center the fourth providing more offense? Alain Vigneault prefers a fourth line with physicality. But if he went with Pirri, Jesper Fast and either Gerbe or Grabner, it would generate enough speed to create offense. Plus both Fast and Gerbe/Grabner are good defensively unlike Pirri, who admittedly still needs work.

Vigneault favorites Glass and Lapierre remain in camp. Glass entering the final year of his contract while Lapierre is here on a pro tryout. Both played together in Vancouver on the team that reached the Stanley Cup Final. Times are changing. The days of the slower skating pluggers who can mix it up are dwindling. Not that the roster couldn’t use some toughness. It’s been a sore spot under Vigneault. Opponents have run roughshod taking runs at Henrik Lundqvist while injuring top defenseman Ryan McDonagh and going after Derek Stepan.

There is no Wayne Simmonds, who can do everything. Chris Kreider is still working on becoming a better player. His first preseason game was as complete an effort as I’ve seen. He played both ends while scoring and setting up goals in a win over the Islanders. Certainly no stranger to physicality, Kreider can drop the gloves as he proved last year coming to Stepan’s aid. But it’s not something he needs to do often. The Rangers need him on the ice. His size, skill, speed and strength are a rare combo. Is this the year he breaks through?

Along with Kevin Hayes and J.T. Miller, they make up a young core of forwards who are expected to contribute more. Miller looking to build on a career season while Hayes looks to bounce back in his third year with better line mates. Adding the talented Mika Zibanejad from Ottawa for Derick Brassard looks like a wise move. Younger, cheaper and a dangerous right-handed shot as he demonstrated with a rocket for a power play goal on Tuesday, he looks capable of taking the next step as a player. He’s scored 20 and 21 in consecutive years. Zibanejad will be restricted next summer.

Mats Zuccarello had a strong tournament helping lead surprising Team Europe to the finals. The Rangers’ leading scorer was sharp using his creativity and skill to set up two overtime winners while not being afraid to mix it up. If Vigneault decides to keep Zuccarello with Stepan and moves Rick Nash up, that would mean Kreider could stick with Zibanejad and either Buchnevich, Miller or Vesey. Either way, the third line will be improved.

As for the blue line, Vigneault has been supportive of Dylan McIlrath. Indicating that the former first round pick has looked more confident defensively, hopefully it’s a positive sign that McIlrath is in his plans. He and Brady Skjei could comprise a young third pair with the perfect left-right combo Vigneault prefers. Don’t forget Nick Holden, who Jeff Gorton added from Colorado. A late bloomer, he can kill penalties and help improve a weak area. Also why Gorton signed Gerbe and Grabner up front. Adam Clendening has done nothing to hurt his chances. With two helpers in the first preseason game, the offensive minded skating right D could be a power play option. Interestingly, the 23-year old is on his sixth organization.

In the win Thursday, backup Antti Raanta split duty with Mackenzie Skapski, who had another solid outing in relief.

Boasting a deeper roster has its benefits. With other young players Ryan Gropp, Marek Hrivik, Robin Kovacs, Nicklas Jensen, Cristoval Nieves, Adam Tambellini, Mat Bodie, Ryan Graves and Thursday’s first star John Gilmour (goal, assist) in the system, Hartford should be loaded.

When they take on the Devils at 7 PM, here is the lineup:

Kreider-Zibanejad-Miller

Vesey-McRae-Jensen

Grabner-Gerbe-Fast

Gropp-Lapierre-Brown

Skjei-Clendening

Bodie-Girardi

Gilmour-Paliotta

Raanta

Hellberg

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Zibanejad makes first impression in Rangers preseason win over Islanders

Posted on September 28, 2016 by Derek
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AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy Twitter.

There was preseason hockey played at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night. It was the first game played by a revamped Blueshirts. With it being the first one, it was a mix of roster players and minor leaguers who took on and defeated the Islanders’ B squad 5-2.

The best Rangers were forwards Chris Kreider (goal, assist) and newcomer Mika Zibanejad (power play goal, 2 assists). Playing on the same line with Russian prospect Pavel Buchnevich, they meshed well. Buchnevich didn’t look out of place registering three shots and getting chances while adjusting throughout.

Following a shaky start that saw no one pick up new Islander Jason Chimera in front for a rebound goal on starter Magnus Hellberg (1 GA on 13 shots), the Rangers went to work on the power play which looked much improved due to having a right-handed shot on the off wing. It was that different look that allowed Zibanejad to one-time home a Adam Clendening pass for a power play goal. He blasted one top shelf by Isles’ starter Jean-Francois Berube, who went the distance permitting four goals on 30 shots.

In particular, Kreider played one of his strongest games. He did everything well including hustling back on the back check to prevent an Isles’ chance. Looking even stronger and faster, he dominated a shift and scored from distance on another assist from Clendening, who had a good game. If he can carry his steady play through when the season begins, we could be seeing the best from Kreider.

Featuring a lineup that included regulars Dan Girardi, Brady Skjei and Marc Staal, the defense was okay for the most part. Skjei paired with Girardi while Staal worked with Clendening. The third pair was Mat Bodie with Dylan McIlrath, who scored a goal with his big shot in the third off a clean Zibanejad face off win.

Another player who impressed was Brandon Pirri. The offensive center assisted on the first goal and converted on the power play off a beautiful rush and backhand saucer pass from Zibanejad, which was started by Kreider. Even though he’s on his third roster in a year, Pirri has good hands and is capable of providing offense on one of the bottom lines.

Speaking of which, coach Alain Vigneault naturally played the fourth line a lot. On a night when Girardi and Staal wore A’s, Tanner Glass also wore an A. While some might chuckle over that, it was a good reward for a team first guy who remains a long shot to make the roster. Especially given the improved depth with key additions Nathan Gerbe, Michael Grabner, Josh Jooris and Pirri. Jooris only took four shifts before leaving with a groin injury. He’s day-to-day according to Vigneault and there will be a call up for Thursday against the Devils.

Eventually, Oscar Lindberg will be back too. There’s no reason to rush him. He can take his time. When he does return, that’ll be a nice bonus. Lindberg proved he is capable of playing key minutes at even strength and shorthanded. He also has size and goes to the net. Plus he’s a decent center who can win draws. You can never have enough of those.

As for that fourth line, Glass played with former Hab/Canuck Max Lapierre and Chris Brown. Lapierre is here on a tryout under his former coach. A well known pest who isn’t the most popular player, he spent last season in Switzerland and Sweden. He didn’t look bad. But the idea he can make the roster seems unlikely even if Vigneault knows him.

Forward prospect Robin Kovacs also played. He wore number 71. He’s likely ticketed for Hartford which should be good for his development. Marek Hrivik also dressed playing over 18 minutes. He centered a line going even in 14 draws. Malte Stromwall and Nicklas Jensen also played.

One of the best parts of the game was when Mackenzie Skapski replaced Hellberg. The fan favorite was cheered. Ranger fans never forget. As a 20-year old emergency call up two years ago, he won his only two NHL starts both against the Sabres. Last season was a rough one for him after undergoing hip surgery. Predictably, he struggled spending time in the ECHL and AHL. In his return at least in a Blueshirt, Skapski was sharp making a few sparklers including a nice kick out on a tough Isles’ chance. He finished with 17 saves and heard chants.

After a sloppy second in which they got the lone goal on Pirri’s one-time blast from Zibanejad, the third was a joy to watch. It was end to end skating with some good possession time for the Rangers. There weren’t many whistles.

The Isles finally solved Skapski when Nick Leddy had a shot go off the Ranger netminder and in. Former first round pick Matthew Barzal set it up as the Islanders had the Rangers hemmed in. The center played over 22 minutes leading all Isles’ forwards. Michael Dal Colle also played over 13 minutes. Andrew Ladd played on the top line and was in front on Leddy’s tally. Initially, he was credited with the goal. But replays showed he didn’t touch the puck. He should be a good addition to the Islanders.

P.A. Parenteau wore Matt Martin’s number 17. Stephen Gionta and Steve Bernier also played. Both Gionta and Parenteau had assists. Brock Nelson also dressed as did Alan Quine.

The Isles had three regulars on the back end including Leddy, Travis Hamonic and Calvin de Haan.

Prior to the game, MSG held a moment of silence for FDNY chief captain Mike Fahy of Battalion 19. He died in the line of duty during an explosion in the Bronx yesterday morning. Six police officers and nine firemen were injured during a marijuana-growing operation exploded. A horrible tragedy. He was a father of three children. Wishing all the best to his family. 😦

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Crosby leads Canada past Russia into World Cup Finals

Posted on September 24, 2016 by Derek

 

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Captain Clutch: Sidney Crosby dominated again with Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron in Canada’s 5-3 semifinal win over Russia to send them to the World Cup of Hockey Finals. AP Photo via Getty Images by Penguins Twitter.

The world’s best player continued to dominate this international tournament. Sidney Crosby’s three points helped lead Canada past Russia 5-3 and into the World Cup Finals. At the start, he was put on a line with Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron. They have been by far the best line in the winner take all event in Toronto.

The cohesive trio were at it again combining on three of Canada’s five goals. Crosby scored his third of the tournament by absolutely undressing the Russian defense. After a clean strip of the puck, he made a world class deke on Sergei Bobrovsky before whistling a backhand top shelf for the game’s first goal.

It was all Canada in a lopsided first period that saw them control every facet. Remarkable puck possession along with superb checking kept the counter attacking skilled Russians at bay. Alexander Ovechkin had no time or space to do anything. In fact, he didn’t even attempt a shot until the third. He was so well checked that the Caps’ superstar was rendered useless. It didn’t help that the Russian coaching staff didn’t force feed him. An oddity that has angered players in past tournaments.

Bobrovsky was phenomenal at turning away glorious Canadian chances time and again. He finished with 42 saves. Many of the spectacular variety. For two periods, the former Vezina winner who is used to seeing plenty of shots on the Blue Jackets gave his country a chance to pull the upset. He committed highway robbery several times with his best save coming on Marchand with the game tied early in the third.

At one point, it was so lopsided that it was hard to fathom how Russia had come back to tie the contest halfway through the second. Nikita Kucherov exploited a Canadian pinch off a defensive draw and exploded towards the net on a two-on-one, making no mistake beating Carey Price far post. The shots were 26-8 in favor of Canada.

Unlike Team USA, Russia doesn’t need a lot of chances to score. Finally awake, they actually went ahead on a great passing play started behind the net by former NHLer Evgeny Dadonov. The ex-Panther who plays in the KHL slipped a Ryan O’Reilly check and spun off to find Ivan Telegin for a one-timer in the slot that was deflected home by Evgeny Kuznetsov. That made it 2-1 with 3:36 left in the second.

Plenty of time for the Crosby line to strike back. It was again a relentless Crosby who made the play. After centering from behind the net for Bergeron, he stole the puck from Andrei Markov and in one motion dished across for a wide open Marchand for an easy finish 1:12 later to draw Canada even.

Undeterred, Russia nearly went back ahead in the closing seconds. Vladimir Tarasenko threw a puck from the side off Crosby and dangerously close to the goal with 8.8 seconds remaining. But it didn’t go in. Tempers flared after the buzzer with a scrum that had Marchand and Evgeni Malkin coming together.

At the start of the third, Canada sent out its top line after Jonathan Toews’ unit neutralized Ovechkin. It didn’t take long for them to expose Russia. First, a on rushing Bergeron had Marchand for a lay-up. But a sprawling Bobrovsky reached out with his glove extended for a Statue of Liberty highlight reel save. The stop of the game. But after getting out of their zone, here came Crosby dropping one off for Marchand, whose shot sneaked past Bobrovsky’s glove 1:16 into the third. It was one he should’ve had. But who could blame him?

On a broken play in front, Corey Perry was able to get to the loose change in front and send a rebound upstairs with Bobrovsky down and out- increasing to 4-2. Sharks’ teammates Logan Couture and Marc-Edouard Vlasic drew the helpers.

Islanders’ captain John Tavares finally got a goal. He had been dangerous all night. This time on a nice transition, he took a Getzlaf drop and sniped upstairs thru a screen to put the game away.

As for Ovechkin, he was only able to get one shot on net. The Canadian defense is so good that there’s virtually no room. Between Norris winner Drew Doughty, Vlasic, Jay Bouwmeester, Shea Weber, Alex Pietrangelo and Brent Burns, they play perfectly with plenty of help from two-way forwards such as Bergeron, Crosby, Marchand and Toews.

To their credit, Russia didn’t give up. They played till the end with Artemi Panarin getting credit for the game’s final tally at 19:51 on what looked like a hand pass. It wasn’t reviewable. So, the final bookkeeping was Canada 5, Russia 3.

Notes: Pavel Datsyuk was a scratch due to an injury which hindered his skating. Sad that North Americans couldn’t see the Russian great one final time before he returns home to the KHL. … Russia did finish with 34 shots at least forcing Price to make 31 stops. … Russian tandem Markov and Alexei Emelin had rough nights each on for three goals against. Dmitry Orlov was their best defenseman ringing a loud shot off the crossbar. … The second semifinal is at 1 PM tomorrow with Team Europe taking on Sweden. I’m picking the upset. Just got a hunch Europe will prevail.

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Rangers open training camp with new faces

Posted on September 24, 2016 by Derek
Pavel Buchnevich

Pavel Buchnevich is one of the new bright faces the Rangers are looking for good things from.

While Team USA was finishing off a sad World Cup of Hockey losing all three games for the first time on the international stage, NHL training camps finally opened up. As Devil blogger Hasan noted, there have been plenty of distractions. For myself too with such excitement over the Yankees and Gary Sanchez. Plus the Giants actually starting 2-0.

I have also enjoyed seeing the game’s best players even if our country embarrassed itself. But the overreaction from the media is just that. Had they had some of those young talented players from Team North America, we’re singing a different tune.  If only the kids featuring McDavid, Eichel, Gaudreau, Matthews, Gostisbehere, Gibson, Murray had made the semifinals which begin Saturday night with a throwback classic between Russia and Canada in Toronto. The second semi will be Sunday night with Sweden against surprising Europe which still features Ranger holdovers Henrik Lundqvist going up against Mats Zuccarello. Fun times.

As for the rest of the current ’15-16 version of the Rangers, it’ll include captain Ryan McDonagh and Derek Stepan. Both of who disappointed in the tournament. At least McDonagh led the Americans with two goals. But he was beaten for several goals against. A disturbing pattern we saw last season. I sure hope the popular captain gets back to being better defensively. If he doesn’t, it could be a long year.

Without question, McDonagh must bounce back. Especially with a defensive corps still counting on Dan Girardi and Marc Staal to return to form after much needed time off. Both have given their blood, guts, heart and soul to the cause that included three Final Fours and one Stanley Cup Final appearance. Each struggled mightily with the wear and tear catching up. How coach Alain Vigneault and new assistant Jeff Beukeboom manages each will be the key. Staal remains one of the team’s best penalty killers. Girardi at times too. He must be managed five-on-five when it comes to match-ups. Last year, opponents took advantage of his lack of speed. He also played hurt.

The Rangers now have eight defensemen including former Avalanche Nick Holden, who GM Jeff Gorton picked up for a 2017 fourth round pick. Where does the 29-year old left skating D fit in on a blue line that also returns Dylan McIlrath, Brady Skjei and veteran Kevin Klein? It’s worth noting that Holden played all 82 for Colorado in ’15-16 and 78 the previous year. Adam Clendening was also added or insurance.

Subtracting the very skilled Keith Yandle will hurt. When they moved his negotiating rights to the Panthers, it was an admission that they couldn’t afford him. For all the fuss made over what former GM Glen Sather gave up including Anthony Duclair plus first and second round picks, Yandle’s value offensively will be missed. Despite being misused at times by Vigneault, he put up a team-leading 42 assists and 47 points, which topped all Ranger defensemen. He now tries to fulfill the big contract Florida gave him. They sure will miss his first pass and on the power play.

Also gone is Dan Boyle, who should have a more peaceful retirement without having to deal with the loathsome Larry Brooks. Undoubtedly, the defense will be younger. Look for Skjei to establish himself in the top four. A strong skater and puck moving D with solid defensive skills and offensive capability, the former first round pick should see plenty of ice-time. It’ll be interesting to see how he grows.

Vigneault was sure to mention that he likes how McIlrath has improved defensively. The behemoth is as tough as they come. He brings the size, strength and toughness the back end has lacked since Mike Sauer’s career ended due to a Dion Phaneuf hit. Nothing against Holden. But it sure would be nice to see McIlrath stick and gain more trust from the coach. Perhaps having a familiar assistant in Beukeboom, who also developed Skjei will help.

Offensively, Stepan now is the man. With Derick Brassard gone to Ottawa for a package that brought back younger and bigger Mika Zibanejad, it falls on Stepan to be more consistent as the top center. While he’ll never be confused with Crosby, Toews, Getzlaf, Backstrom, Tavares, the heady Stepan remains one of the team’s most complete forwards. Capable of playing power play and penalty kill while being reliable at even strength, this is the time for the 26-year old to prove he can approach 60-70 points. Even with missing 10 games last season, he still wound up with a career best 22 goals with 31 assists. Unlike most of his teammates, Stepan scored twice in a one-sided first round exit to eventual Cup champion Pens.

Stepan will need help from Chris Kreider, who is capable of more than the 21-22-43 line he got in his third year. Now signed thru 2020 making $4.625 million, it’s time for the talented big power forward to become more consistent. He has all the tools. Maybe not the best hands. But it’s still my belief that he can score 25-30 goals and produce 50-or-more points. That assumes he’ll go to the net more and be a nuisance. It also means being a factor for most shifts.

Kevin Hayes and J.T. Miller will continue to be looked upon for production. While Year 2 wasn’t as good for the pass-first Hayes, the puck possession forward could wind up with some talented young players if top prospects Pavel Buchnevich and Jimmy Vesey prove themselves. As for Miller, he stepped up with career marks in goals (22), assists (21) and points (43) to earn a bridge deal worth a cap hit of $2.625 million. A effective forechecker who can complement any line with his energy and skill set, Miller looks to improve in the top six.

Zibanejad is at a similar stage as Brassard when he was acquired from Columbus in the Gaborik deal. He’s 23 and has put up consecutive seasons of 20-or-more goals totaling a career best 30 assists and 51 points in his fourth year with Ottawa. The bigger Swede goes 6-2, 222. Like Brassard, who fared well on Broadway becoming known as Big Game Brass, Zibanejad is a former first round pick who went sixth overall. Is that a good omen? We shall see.

Once he gets done with the World Cup, Zuccarello will return. Last year’s leading scorer remains the most popular skater. After Lundqvist, nobody is more beloved than “Zucc!” The pint sized Norwegian is 29. He remains a creative forward who makes players around him better. Watching him feather a perfect outlet for an exciting Leon Draisaitl overtime winner in Group play is what makes Zuccarello so fun. He also will battle anyone as he proved in blocking a McDonagh shot and checking him in Europe’s 3-0 upset of USA. If he can hit 25 goals and 60 points again, that would be a successful year.

The key player left out of the discussion is Rick Nash. How will he respond to no Brassard? Nash could find himself with Stepan and Kreider on the top line. Or will Vigneault stick with Kreider, Stepan and Zuccarello. Obviously, Nash had an injury plagued ’15-16 only scoring 15 times in 60 games. However, he did total two goals and two helpers in the postseason. The 32-year old three-time 40-goalscorer should be motivated. The Rangers need him to score at least 30 and stay healthy. Having Nash on the ice also can aid Kreider and help with Buchnevich and Vesey.

The top nine shapes up to be pretty good. If you can pencil in Stepan, Zibanejad and Hayes as your three centers with a mix of Kreider, Miller, Nash, Zuccarello, Buchnevich and Vesey, that would be a marked improvement. That also assumes Buchnevich and Vesey are ready for top nine roles. If not, Vigneault favorite Jesper Fast can be plugged in on any line. Though I’d prefer to see him on the fourth line in a checking role.

Gorton also made some astute signings by adding speed and depth as well as penalty killing to a unit that needs it. Both Michael Grabner and Nathan Gerbe can kill penalties with Grabner always a shorthanded threat. If only he could finish some of those chances. Also signing Brandon Pirri on the cheap and adding former Calgary energizer Josh Jooris are good moves.

To be frank, last year’s roster had no depth. With Oscar Lindberg out until probably mid-November recovering from surgery, Gorton made the most out of his cap and freed up space by moving Brassard and getting a young talented player in Zibanejad. All these moves should make it easier for Vigneault to roll four lines.

Tanner Glass has a year left at a million. While he improved last year, he should only be used against tough opponents who could take runs at our best players. With so many more forwards in camp and former Vigneault fave Maxim Lapierre in on a tryout, the odds are long for Glass to make the roster.

Goaltending will be the same. Once Lundqvist finishes with Sweden, he returns as the man. It’s getting late already for the now 34-year old Swedish King. As hard as it is to believe, Lundqvist has been here a decade. He enters his 11th season. Last year, it was his brilliant play that allowed a flawed team to get off to a great start. Without it, they don’t sniff the playoffs. Somehow, because his form fell off due to a decline defensively which included most of our forwards taking naps which further explains why Brassard is gone, Lundqvist came under criticism. He still won 35 games and had a 2.48 goals-against-average, .920 save percentage and five shutouts. He faced the most average shots-per-game and more high danger chances.

When it comes to Lundqvist, never bet against him. You know he’ll come in with something to prove. He played 65 games last year. Too many. Look for the staff to lighten the load. Antti Raanta proved to be a steady backup winning 11 games with a 2.25 GAA and .919 save percentage. Both netminders stood on their head. One thing on Lundqvist. He was pulled more than I can recall. That will be stored away.

So, what to expect from camp? Outside of some intriguing competitions at forward with both Buchnevich and Vesey looking to make the mark, keep an eye on Robin Kovacs. The 19-year old Swede who the Blueshirts selected in the third round in 2015 signed and is expected to play pro in North America. He will be 20 in mid-November. Supposedly, the right wing has tons of skill and speed.

As far as other young D in the system, Ryan Graves had a good rookie season in Hartford posting nine goals and 12 assists with 53 penalty minutes. The 21-year old lefty skating defenseman is a former 2013 fourth round pick.

Cristoval Nieves, Malte Stromwall, Nicklas Jensen and Ahti Oksanen all are players to follow. Nieves played four years for Michigan and debuted late with the Wolf Pack putting up five points in eight contests. Stromwall was a big scorer in Swedish-1 for AIK last year. Jensen came over from Vancouver for Emerson Etem and had a good worlds for Denmark. Oksanen was a college free agent signing out of Boston University. The Finnish defenseman developed offensively his final two years.

The camp also includes Ryan Gropp, Ty Ronning, Adam Tambellini and Sean Day. Brandon Halverson is one of seven goalies which includes the recovering MacKenzie Skapski. A player to root for. Hopefully, he can put together a better ’16-17.

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On the first day of fall, camps are upon us

Posted on September 21, 2016 by hasan4978

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With the newest made-for-TV incarnation of the World Cup going on, it’s almost gone overlooked that all thirty NHL teams including the Devils are opening training camp this week.  Of course in the Devils’ case it still feels a bit like the B team with coach John Hynes and franchise players Cory Schneider and Kyle Palmieri still in Toronto to help preside over team USA’s quick burial at the World Cup.  All three will probably be back by the Devils’ first preseason game next Monday though.  Admittedly I only had a passing interest in the World Cup in part because Cory and Palmieri were bit players at best, which some people were relieved about.  In that vein, I’m not one of those fans that say ‘well I don’t want my guys playing in a meaningless tournament!’.  What do hockey fans think preseason games are?  You can just as easily suffer a serious injury in camp or during preseason than you can during this de facto All-Star competition.

It is nice to have the coach back for the beginning of camp though, especially since for the first time in a few years the Devils actually enter camp with a sense of optomism and without any dark clouds hanging over the franchise.  It had gotten old since basically the end of 2010 wondering about ownership problems, key players leaving for home, a contreversial contract penalty, a lockout that didn’t do us any favors and last but not least cleaning out an entire generation of successful Devils hockey with the departures of franchise icons Lou Lamoriello, Martin Brodeur and many others.  While last season’s Devils fell far short of the playoffs in the end, for a few months they showed flashes of what this new generation wants to become and the offseason trade for Taylor Hall and long-term extension for Jersey native Palmieri just makes the present and future that much brighter.

That’s not to say this team’s a Cup contender or anything like that.  There are still flaws that need to be addressed.  While acquiring Hall was much-needed for an offense that was particularly dreadful 5-on-5 last year, dealing Adam Larsson created a hole on a defense which wasn’t all that proven to begin with.  Signing Ben Lovejoy from the Penguins helps but this team’s going to need a couple of Damon Severson, John Moore, Jon Merrill and rookie Steve Santini to step up and become top four defensemen, or GM Ray Shero‘s going to have to go outside the organization for camp/in-season help.

Offensively this team can’t be worse than it’s been the last few years, and along with Hall it’s almost certain 2015 first-rounder Pavel Zacha (above) will make the team, especially if he’s being tried as center, where the Devils could use another legit top nine player to go along with Adam Henrique and Travis Zajac.  At wing the Devils should be fine – if healthy – which applies both to vet Mike Cammalleri who missed nearly half the season last year after leading the club in scoring early, and also to new acquisition Beau Bennett, another former first-rounder who was acquired from Shero’s old organization at the draft.  Bennett will be competing with holdover Devante Smith-Pelly for a spot at RW2 in the top six.  One name I haven’t mentioned is franchise icon Patrik Elias, still seemingly in limbo waiting to get healthy enough from surgery to try skating before officially coming back…or hanging them up after a brilliant career.  Elias represents the last tangible link to the glory days, unless you count goaltender coach Chris Terreri or Albany assistant Sergei Brylin.

Although there’s no question about either the starting goaltender or about Schneider’s quality as a top player at his position, there is a question over who’s going to be the backup this year.  Keith Kinkaid‘s filled that role for the most part over the last couple years but Scott Wedgewood came on last year in Albany and had a few nice starts up here late in the season, making it a legit competition for the backup job.  Especially since the loser will have to clear waivers to get sent back down to Albany.  Not only is there a question over who’ll be the backup but there’s a question how good the backup will be and whether the Devils will have to upgrade that area.  Kinkaid after a nice rookie season fell off dramatically last year, and Wedgewood’s still almost totally unproven at the NHL level.  If the Devils are going to contend for their first playoff spot since the 2012 lockout, games played by backup(s) could prove decisive in the end.

One of the changes the last couple years I do like is the Devils participating in a prospects challenge with the Sabres and Bruins last weekend, essentially giving many of their key younger players a couple of additional games, against players who have similar age and talent.  Extra evaluation time and practice at game speed is always a good thing for inexperienced players.  Our preseason’s also seven games this year as opposed to six, including an additional game with the Panthers at West Point, NY five days before the same two teams open their respective regular seasons in Florida on the 13th.

Not that I’ve completely bought in to being excited about the opening of camp yet, in fact this blog is the most I’ve thought about hockey in months.  Perhaps that’s the price of being a multi-sport fan.  I don’t have the same excitement over camp opening in hockey, football camps opening or Spring Training that fans with undivided attention will.  Take this month for instance.  While hockey fans all across North America are breathlessly awaiting camp updates and who’s playing on what line in the first practice, I’m watching my Mets try to hold onto a Wild Card spot in an exciting race despite a pitching staff held together with spit and duct tape, and also watching the beginning of the NFL season with the Jets having a talented team run up against a horrendous early schedule.

If it wasn’t for football or baseball I no doubt would be more breathlessly anticipating Devils camp.  Maybe to a degree the older you get the more jaded you get about preseason and you just want the season to get underway too.  Don’t get me wrong it is nice to finally have something to start anticipating after basically a five-month offseason.  Amazingly I have been to Newark three times since the season ended though, a couple of times for season ticket holder Q/A’s (one with coach Hynes and first-rounder Michael McLeod, another with new acquistion Hall) and once for a development camp scrimmage in July.  By the time I go to the home opener on October 18 though, it’ll be more than six months since actually being at the Rock for a game itself.

Of course due to three lockouts in two decades, all hockey fans have become conditioned to long waits when neccesary (thanks again Gary).  And as a Devil fan I’m starting to become too accustomed to long offseasons that start before the actual end of the previous season.

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World Cup: North America dominates Finland 4-1

Posted on September 19, 2016 by Derek
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Youth Is Served North America Style: North America captain Connor McDavid celebrates a goal in a dominant 4-1 win over proven Finland in their first game in Group B of the World Cup at Air Canada Centre. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NBC Sports.

Of all the participants in this 2016 World Cup, the one with the most buzz is the 23-and-under Team North America. And for good reason. Never before has a roster boasted so much young talent in an international competition. It features 2015 first overall and second overall picks Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel along with 2013 first, second and fourth overall selections Nathan MacKinnon, Seth Jones and Jonathan Drouin.

For good measure, North America also has 2014 number one overall pick and Calder winner Aaron Ekblad and 15th overall pick Dylan Larkin. Not to mention 2016 first overall pick American Auston Matthews, who is playing in front of Toronto at the Air Canada Centre where he’ll star as a Maple Leaf. The magnitude of such a roster which also possesses Pens’ Stanley Cup winner Matt Murray and the Ghost, Shayne Gostisbehere makes them a must see. It also features former Calder winner Johnny Gaudreau and Brandon Saad along with backup John Gibson.

So, when they finally took the ice at 8 PM under the bright lights in the hockey capital, North America gave a showing worthy of captivating hockey fans throughout the world. In easily beating an accomplished Finland team 4-1, they sent a message to the rest of the tournament. What they lack in experience they more than make up for in speed, skill and talent.

By the middle of the second period, you had to feel sorry for Pekka Rinne. He was under siege. North America so dominated in possession time as well as shots (43-25) and scoring chances that they made a very experienced Finn team that also boasted gifted 2016 second overall pick Patrik Laine look average. They were no match for the game’s brightest future stars.

It didn’t take long for the youngest squad to establish itself. Using superior speed and playmaking, they pinned the Finns in for a majority of the first period. It was a brilliant Matthews rush around Rasmus Ristolainen that led to the game’s first goal. Matthews took a McDavid feed in the neutral zone and skated past Ristolainen and in firing a tough low shot on Rinne which resulted in a persistent Eichel steering in the rebound for a power play goal at 5:03.

They easily could’ve had two or three more. Rinne was fortunate a couple of times with one loose puck standing on the goal line while another apparent North America goal was properly reversed due to interference from Mark Scheifele. McDavid thought he had one when he pushed the puck on the line and then saw Rinne knock it in after attempting to freeze play. However, Finland’s challenge was a good one. It showed that an aggressive Scheifele knocked a defenseman into Rinne which resulted in no goal. Something that amused ESPN analyst Brett Hull. It might have something to do with his Stanley Cup clincher for the Stars in ’99 over the Sabres.

An on-rushing Gaudreau also rang one off the crossbar moments later. While Murray displayed his postseason form turning Finland aside when they got shots on goal, Rinne didn’t have time to breathe. He did have some luck on some chances. The accomplished Nashville goalie also had trouble controlling pucks. A lot of it had to do with the relentless pressure from North America. He did manage to make a few big saves for the highlights including a nice kick out of a tricky Matthews low shot and then denied a rebound point blank. He played all 60 minutes stopping 39 of 43.

How dangerous was North America? All 18 skaters registered a shot paced by Matthews’ five. For someone who just celebrated his 19th birthday the day before, he didn’t show any nerves and just played. The Leafs have a bright future ahead which also includes former number one picks Mitch Marner and William Nylander plus Kasperi Kapanen, who came over in the deal with Pittsburgh for Phil Kessel.

Finland couldn’t deny Gaudreau from scoring a legit goal in the second. He was able to brilliantly redirect a Colton Parayko point shot past Rinne for a 2-0 lead. Larkin set the play up. The roof caved in when a Gostisbehere rush led to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and then Drouin finishing off a loose scramble.

Finally, MacKinnon got inside position on Olli Maatta to rebound home a Parayko shot which made it 4-zip at 14:37. The crowd was going bananas. The best young Canadians and Americans dominated a proven Finnish team that featured Mikko Koivu, Jussi Jokinen, Valterri Filppula, Sami Vatanen along with young stars Aleksander Barkov, Jori Lehtera and Joonas Donskoi.

By the time Filppula tallied for Finland from Jokinen and Maple Leaf Leo Komarov, it was too little, too late. The damage had been done. They’ll next play bitter nemesis Sweden on Tuesday with in all likelihood, Henrik Lundqvist back.

As for North America, the young guns will get tested by Russia in a back-to-back Monday night in what basically is their home barn when Canada isn’t playing. If they succeed, they can put themselves in position to potentially see Canada in the knockout stage. The game is at 8 PM on ESPN. Don’t miss it.

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WCH2016: Sweden holds off Ovechkin, Russia 2-1

Posted on September 18, 2016 by Derek
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As Alexander Ovechkin celebrates what he thought was the tying goal with seven seconds left, the refs were correct waving it off as Russia’s comeback falls short to Sweden 2-1 in the World Cup. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy The Score.

In the most competitive game of the tournament, Sweden held off Russia 2-1 in the first game of Group B play. Even without Henrik Lundqvist, who was a late scratch due to sickness, the more detail oriented Swedes were in control throughout. On goals from Gabriel Landeskog and Victor Hedman, they blanketed a very talented Russian team until the final minute.

With Vancouver backup Jacob Markstrom getting the start, the Swedes did a good job in front of him. Russia boasts a roster led by captain Alexander Ovechkin. The relentless Caps’ superstar tried everything to get through a stingy Sweden team defense. If there was an edge for the Swedes, it came on the back end with the quarter of Hedman, Erik Karlsson, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Anton Stralman making it very tough on the supremely skilled Russians. Toss in the overlooked Niklas Hjalmarsson and Mattias Ekholm and it’s no wonder many like the Swedes to challenge Canada.

Despite limiting Russia’s scoring chances by keeping them outside, they nearly squandered a two-goal lead in the last 33 seconds of regulation. With key stars Evgeni Malkin and Nikita Kucherov reluctant to shoot, it looked like Russia would get shutout. But in desperation mode, Ovechkin was able to sneak a tricky wrist shot through traffic past Markstrom at 19:27 to end his shutout bid. He finished with 27 saves to get the job done in place of Lundqvist, who went back to the hotel two hours before game time.

Remarkably, Ovechkin nearly pulled off a great comeback. With starting goalie Sergei Bobrovsky pulled for an extra attacker following a icing, Russia had 10 seconds left to make something happen. On a face off win, the puck somehow wound up rebounding out to Ovechkin. He wisely went to glove the puck down and thought he tied it with seven seconds left. The refs immediately waved it off while Ovechkin raised his arms and celebrated at the Russia bench. As it turned out, they got it right with Ovechkin unable to get the shaft of his stick on the puck before it went in. It did look to also go off Stralman’s stick. But the rule is he gloved it in. So, unless he got a stick on it, it’s no goal.

Due to the ruling, the face off came outside, dashing Russia’s comeback hopes. While Sweden is 1-0-0, Russia is basically in the same unenviable position as USA. They need to win the next two to have a realistic chance of advancing to the semifinals. They’ll have to come back tomorrow night and beat a very young and talented North America, who currently lead Finland 1-0 on a Jack Eichel tally from 2016 first overall pick Auston Matthews. With Finland their third opponent in the round robin, it’s no easy task.

Even for a team that boasts some of the world’s best players. Russia isn’t just Ovechkin. There’s Malkin, Kucherov, former Red Wing turned KHL star Pavel Datsyuk, Evgeny Kuznetsov, Vladimir Tarasenko, ’15-16 Calder winner Artemi Panarin and Artem Anisimov. They don’t boast the best D with vets Andrei Markov, Alexei Emelin and newest Sabre Dmitry Kulikov leading the charge. However, there’s enough world class skill up front to compete. They’ll have to be in full attack mode against high flying North America and will need Bobrovsky to be at his best. He finished with 27 saves in defeat and wasn’t to blame on either.

As for Sweden, what makes them tough is how diligent their checking is. They compete for every loose puck. Led by Daniel and Henrik Sedin, they also boast Nicklas Backstrom, Landeskog, Loui Eriksson, Filip Forsberg along with underrated players Carl Hagelin, Jakob Silfverberg and Carl Soderberg.

On their first goal of two in the second period, it was Backstrom combining with Karlsson who set up a wide open Landeskog at the point for a one-timer thru a screen. The second tally was similar with Henrik Sedin getting the puck to Hagelin, who sent it across for a wicked Hedman one-time blast also through traffic.

It’s that kind of teamwork that makes the Swedes a tough draw. It’s why they have had success before winning Olympic gold in Torino back in ’06. They should be even tougher once Lundqvist returns. Given how well they played in front of Markstrom, who was strong, you have to like their chances.

In the second game, North America continues to lead Finland 1-0 late in the first period on ESPN2. They could easily be up 3-0 if not for highway robbery by Pekka Rinne and a goal post. We’ll have more on that one later.

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