Buchnevich impressive in Ranger loss to Flyers

Posted on October 6, 2016 by Derek
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Pavel Buchnevich celebrates a goal during a 4-2 loss to the Flyers in preseason. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy Newsday Sports.

The preseason is finally over and not a moment too soon. The Rangers were 4-2 losers to the Flyers at The Garden. It was a reminder of how last season went with them blowing a lead by giving up three unanswered in a one-sided third.

Bad defense. Undisciplined play. Uncharacteristic goaltending with Henrik Lundqvist allowing a softy following a power play that resulted in the final score.

Rather than rehash the negatives in the team finishing exhibition with four straight defeats, let’s accentuate the positives. In tonight’s game, the talented Russian prospect Pavel Buchnevich distinguished himself scoring a goal and assist. Only 21, the former 2013 third round pick who went 75th overall five spots ahead of former Ranger Anthony Duclair, picked a good time to ave a breakout performance.

He entered the contest with an assist thus far. However, coach Alain Vigneault heaped praise on Buchnevich due to him creating scoring chances and looking like he belonged. He liked the skilled rookie’s work on the power play and has continued to try him with proven players.

In the sixth preseason game, he got to play with Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad. They looked good together with the top unit factoring in on both Ranger goals. The first coming off the slick stick of Buchnevich over three minutes into the first period. He was able to make a nice deflection of a Dan Girardi wrist shot sneaking it past Philly starter Michael Neuvirth. Zibanejad started the play by handing off to Girardi, whose shot was redirected home by a pumped up Buchnevich.

The Flyers came back on the next shift tying the game 27 seconds later. Following an icing, Claude Giroux won a draw and then went to work with Wayne Simmons. The two combined to set up a cutting Mark Streit, who just beat Marc Staal in front and got just enough of the puck to put it past Lundqvist.

Nearly halfway into the second, some nice work by Buchnevich allowed Kreider to walk in and beat Neuvirth with a filthy shot top shelf for a 2-1 lead. Girardi made a good read in the neutral zone passing for Buchnevich, who gained the Flyer zone and made a nice pass across for Kreider, who finished his third of the preseason. He really has looked good. Hopefully, it carries over in the first year of a new contract that pays him an average cap hit of $4.625 million.

Even though they were very bad in the third period allowing the Flyers to score three times with Sean Couturier, Jakub Voracek (PPG) and promising Philly prospect Travis Konecny beating Lundqvist, there was another positive to take away.

As a shift finished for the Rangers’ top line, Buchnevich went back at Michael Del Zotto, who gave him a chop. After Radko Gudas intercepted Kevin Klein, Kreider came in and grabbed Gudas and shoved him away. He had some words with him and challenged him. But as both men finally dropped the gloves and were ready to go, the linesmen didn’t allow it. They had already separated them. So, nothing came of it.

It was good to see our team stick together. Especially Kreider showing some leadership by sending a message to Gudas a couple of nights removed from his boarding major that bloodied rookie Jimmy Vesey’s nose. Before the game, Vesey won the Lars-Erik Sjoberg Award for the Rangers’ top rookie. He scored a goal in the game at the Flyers on Monday.

As for the defense, even though I missed most, I was able to catch the replay. They struggled with broken down coverage in front including leaving Voracek unchecked for an easy power play goal backdoor from Simmonds and Giroux.

There also was a terrible miscommunication between Adam Clendening and Kevin Klein causing a awful turnover. Zibanejad and Miller had brutal giveaways that led directly to Konecny’s goal with him beating Lundqvist from a horrible angle. Even Sam Rosen thought he saved it only to be shocked it went in. That followed a power play that moved the puck well and caused dangerous chances but didn’t capitalize.

The power play looks like it’ll be better. Zibanejad is dangerous from the off wing with his right-handed one-timer. Pirri was tried on the same unit from the left side and nearly scored. Kreider looks more aggressive. You wonder what’ll be with Clendening, who is an asset as a righty on the left point who is pass first. Are they gonna go with eight D or 14 forwards? More on that in another post.

Notes: Josh Jooris returned for his second game and took 18 shifts including 2:17 shorthanded. … Cristoval Nieves made his first appearance centering a checking line going 4-for-10 on face-offs with three shots in 17 shifts (14:17). He also got 1:51 on the PK. A former 2012 second round pick who spent four years at Michigan before going 2-3-5 in eight games with Hartford last Spring, Nieves will start his first pro year with the Wolf Pack.

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Islanders win in overtime over Rangers 3-2

Posted on October 5, 2016 by Derek
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Josh Bailey celebrates his overtime winner in the Islanders’ 3-2 preseason win over the Rangers. Both teams should be in the mix for third in the division with the Devils also competing. AP Photo via Getty Images courtesy NYIslanders.

The Islanders defeated the Rangers 3-2 in overtime at Barclays Center in downtown Brooklyn last night. Josh Bailey got the winner at 4:38 from Dennis Seidenberg and Jason Chimera.

To be perfectly honest, I didn’t see much of this one. After all, it is preseason. I had other important family matters to attend to like visiting my Mom for the final night of Rosh Hashanah. I neglected to mention it yesterday. To anyone else who celebrates, L’Shana Tova to our Jewish followers out there. Happy and a Healthy New Year! May it be truly blessed and sweet. 🙂

I only managed to catch a chunk of the second period. No. I didn’t see any of the goals that came after I went back downstairs for espresso, strawberries and chocolate for dessert. Somehow, I missed Chris Kreider scoring and Cal Clutterbuck doing what he usually does- beating a Ranger goalie. He did it twice. Some things never change. As they say, old habits die hard. Bruce Willis’ Die Hard classic character John McClane would be proud of that.

Since I was unable to catch the replay, I missed out on a good exhibition game. Is there such a thing? As far as the league not disciplining Radko Gudas, I told ya. For all the beat writers up in arms, it could’ve been much worse. Whenever a player turns before a hit, it always looks worse. In this case, rookie Jimmy Vesey who was okay returning from a bloody nose even scoring against the hated Flyers. Gudas did admit that he was wrong in finishing the hit. But he also committed to it. Maybe he didn’t have to go with full force. Nothing was gonna come of it. So, will Gudas ever learn? No clue.

What I did manage to see was our defense getting pinned in by a formidable Islanders’ lineup minus captain John Tavares and big free agent pick up Andrew Ladd. Basically, Antti Raanta had to fend for himself making some fantastic saves en route to 39. The Isles out-shot the Rangers 42-25. But still needed to go to the non-NHL 3-on-3 to win.

I noticed on one shift John Gilmour get beat pretty badly. He definitely has some good offensive instincts knowing when to jump in and has a good shot. But he’ll need to work on his defense and can at Hartford. I love that signing. If only Butch Goring paid attention to the off-season. The Rangers lost their best offensive D since that No.2 guy donned the Blueshirt with his jersey hanging from the rafters. Keith Yandle’s offense from the blue line will be hard to replace. Speaking of which, why did Gilmour only get 13 shifts (10:13)? It’s preseason!

I’ve pretty much concluded that Adam Clendening will make the Opening Night roster. He continues to get over 20 minutes and plenty of power play time where the offensive-minded right D is effective. Defense might be why he’s bounced around. Perhaps with the help of Jeff Beukeboom, they can turn the 23-year old into a steal. I’m not saying he’ll become Anton Stralman. Rangers Town wishes. But there’s hope.

I did notice Dylan McIlrath was on the score sheet drawing a primary helper on Nicklas Jensen’s tying goal in the third. Big Mac was also plus-one in 17:26 with most of it exclusively at even strength with the other 1:40 shorthanded. Alain Vigneault knows what he can do. Though I wish he wasn’t a third pair after thought who still might sit on some nights. It is what it is. I like McIlrath’s size, strength and willingness. He also clears the front and is strong. He better get into at least 50-60 games or they’re wasting him.

You know how I feel about Dan Girardi. I love the guy. But unless something drastic changes when Oct. 13 hits, I believe his days are numbered. You know with how loyal AV is, he’s going to get every chance. You can read my column on Danny G here.

I see Tanner Glass had a fight with neanderthal Eric Boulton. Who won? What is Boulton even still doing playing? No disrespect. But it’s time. Watch Glass somehow make the Rangers as the 14th forward. He is a good team guy and gives an honest effort. If only more of our skill guys had shown up last Spring.

I also notice Nathan Gerbe played over 20 minutes. Huh? He is fighting for a job. But that much? At least Skjei got over 25-plus. Marc Staal with 26:28 in 34 shifts with an assist. From the game sheet, it looks like he played well. But that’s a lot for an exhibition. At the very least, there’s one more game against the Flyers Thursday at MSG. I can only imagine what that could be like if Gudas dresses. We know Henrik Lundqvist gets the full 60. And I bet familiar friend Wayne Simmonds will play. I would kill for him on this roster. Shoot me.

I don’t get why Robin Kovacs and Brandon Pirri played so little. Vigneault is a strange cat. Just nine and a half minutes for Marek Hrivik after a solid game? Yikes. I also see Kevin “Slim” Hayes went minus-two. Uh oh.

On the Isles’ side, they played a lot of regulars. Clutterbuck did his usual damage with two markers including a floater that somehow got , past Raanta late in the second. And I’ll bet his power play goal was him untouched in front. Bailey had a goal and assist. He never really became what they thought. But he’s a solid two-way third line checking pivot who can be trusted as a penalty killer. Not every first round pick becomes a star.

Why did Stephen Gionta only get two shifts? I guess he got hurt. That’s probably the end of his tryout. Boulton got an extra two for roughing while battling Glass. I hope Tanner beat him. I’ve never liked Boulton. Former Ranger draft pick.

The Isles’ back end included Calvin de Haan, Nick Leddy, Seidenberg and Ryan Pulock. I came away impressed with Pulock when he was brought up last season. The righty has a big accurate shot and looks like a player. Adding Seidenberg was a good move by Garth Snow. The German vet still proved he could play faring well during Team Europe’s run to the Final at the World Cup. He’s serviceable and can be counted on five-on-five and on the penalty kill.

Considering that the Islanders boast shutdown righty Travis Hamonic and Johnny Boychuk with Leddy and de Haan rounding out the top four, that blue line should be a team strength. They also have the underrated Thomas Hickey, who gave them valuable minutes in their big first round series win against the Panthers. Adam Pelech could go back down to Bridgeport unless Jack Capuano plans to carry eight defensemen.

Neither Isles’ top goalie played. Jaroslav Halak had a great World Cup. Thomas Greiss remains the backup. Jean-Francois Berube supplies good depth. He made 23 saves for the win. Christopher Gibson is the fourth string who will be with the Sound Tigers.

It looks like they’re trying Ryan Strome at center. With P.A. Parenteau returning, he could wind up on the top line with Tavares and Ladd. If 2015 first round pick Mathew Barzal makes the roster, then maybe Strome shifts to right wing again on the second line. The Isles have plenty of center options with Brock Nelson, Cizikas and Mikhail Grabovski if he ever returns from his concussion symptoms. His $5 million cap hit takes up a lot if he’s not placed on LTIR.

The only question is will they miss Frans Nielsen (Detroit) and Kyle Okposo (Buffalo). Both were reliable top six forwards who were right behind Tavares in team scoring. Each could play any situation with Nielsen an exceptional penalty killer. Red Wing fans should love him. Okposo will definitely enjoy life in Buffalo if he plays with Jack Eichel with Ryan O’Reilly the second option.

If Barzal is ready and supplies offense, then the Islanders should be okay. But they need a better year from Strome. Nelson and Lee are keys. How well will Parenteau do in Okposo’s place? Ladd should become a fan favorite. He is a heart and soul player who will add leadership and intangibles.

I believe both the Islanders and Rangers should be competing for third in the Metro Division with competition coming from the Devils. There’s even a chance all three locals can make the playoffs. More to come in our Season Preview. Figure by the weekend.

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Rangers make cuts, Lapierre released

Posted on October 4, 2016 by Derek

Before tonight’s preseason visit at Barclays Center, the Rangers finally made some cuts. Eight players were reassigned to Hartford following last night. They are Ryan Gropp, Adam Tambellini, Calle Andersson, Steven Fogarty, Chris Brown, Tommy Hughes, Philip McRae and Michael Paliotta.

Of the eight, Gropp had the strongest showing. The 20-year old former 2015 second round pick showed the ability to create offense off the rush due to his strong skating and set up a goal in preseason. There should be excitement over the former Seattle Thunderbird who will start with the Wolf Pack and probably stay there.

There were a few more cuts made today. Maxim Lapierre was released from his tryout. The former NHL checking center just wasn’t up to speed. He still is capable of killing penalties but his skating isn’t up to par. He took three penalties and was behind the play at even strength. So to all those experts who assumed he would make it to due to his past relationship with the coach, WRONG! Logic prevailed.

Defenseman Mat Bodie was also placed on waivers. The under sized defenseman who had a nice camp last year didn’t this time. It looks like the 26-year old is an AHL player. If he doesn’t clear, another team will pick him up and assign him.

Chris Summers was also on waivers. The throw in in the Keith Yandle deal that sent Anthony Duclair and too many draft picks to Arizona never proved capable.

So, who’s left still? After an impressive night in which he scored, Ryan Graves is still around. The 2013 fourth round pick had a solid first pro year in Hartford. Only 21 and another solid skating left defenseman, there’s no reason to rush him. Especially with it looking more likely that Brady Skjei could be ticketed for Hartford. He’ll get another shot tonight at the Islanders where he’ll be on the second pair with Adam Clendening.

John Gilmour will also be in the lineup pairing with Dylan McIlrath. At the very least, it looks like Jeff Gorton and his scouts did a great job improving the Rangers’ defensive depth. Gilmour definitely has impressed. The top pair will be starters Marc Staal and Kevin Klein.

Antti Raanta gets the start with Magnus Hellberg backing up. Given the strong showing from Mackenzie Skapski, Hellberg remains fourth on the depth chart. It looks like Skapski will reclaim the starting job with Hartford and be the emergency call up.

As far as the forwards, prospect Robin Kovacs gets another look on a fourth line with Marek Hrivik and Tanner Glass. An afterthought, Hrivik is more of a traditional fourth line option than offensive-minded Brandon Pirri, who Alain Vigneault won’t commit to despite his four goals and two helpers thus far. He actually is preaching team defense. It also could be a smoke screen. Pirri will be on the second line with Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider.

A slimmed down and faster Kevin Hayes will center J.T. Miller and Nicklas Jensen, who is probably on his last chance. Acquired for Emerson Etem and a seventh round pick, he hasn’t shown much. The sad aspect is Etem played better with Vancouver and will have a role.

The third line is centered by Nathan Gerbe with Michael Grabner and Jesper Fast flanking it. That trio very well could be the fourth line on Opening Night against the Islanders on Oct. 13 at MSG. But Gerbe is still in a battle with Hrivik.

As for Glass, he hasn’t hurt himself. His skating has looked improved. He worked with a physiologist in the off-season who told him that his left leg was 50 percent weaker than his right. Still a long shot to beat out the competition, he’s best suited as a second extra who can be inserted for tough opponents. But it is a numbers game.

Vigneault also had some positive thoughts on Pavel Buchnevich, who still hasn’t scored a goal. He’s liked what he’s seen in terms of the scoring chances the first-year Russian has gotten and also likes how he’s been on the power play. Good stuff.

As for the Islanders, center Mathew Barzal looks like he’ll make them out of preseason. He had a goal and assist in a 4-3 win over the Devils Monday night. If he does make it, that should really help the Isles offensively. Especially if he’s ready. They’ll need a better season from Ryan Strome.

Here are the Islander lines for tonight:

Kulemin-Cizikas-Clutterbuck

Beauvillier-Nelson-Bailey

Chimera-Strome-Lee

Boulton-Gionta-Fritz

Pelech-Pulock

de Haan-Seidenberg

Leddy-Mayfield

Berube-Gibson

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Preseason Flyers win in overtime over Rangers 4-3

Posted on October 3, 2016 by Derek

There was a preseason game played between the Rangers and Flyers in Philadelphia. It was the Rangers’ fourth exhibition. They lost in overtime 4-3 with Jakub Voracek getting the winner by abusing Ryan McDonagh and Derek Stepan. Let’s just say it looked like McDonagh and Stepan were imitating their hideous defensive play for Team USA. I’ll just leave it at that.

Considering that they trailed 3-0, the mix of NHL players and AHLers showed something rallying from three down to tie it up. I didn’t watch the whole thing due to the insanity of actually paying attention to what’s been a listless performance by the Giants at the Vikings on ESPN Monday Night Football.

On the Ranger end, goals were scored by Ryan Graves, Brandon Pirri and Jimmy Vesey. The important aspect is some of the key new players showed positives again. Following Miller’s high-sticking minor that allowed the Flyers to score on both ends of a 5-on-3 power play, Miller made a great play to set up the Rangers’ first goal.

Taking an outlet from Robin Kovacs, Miller cruised through the neutral zone and down the right wind before pulling up to find a wide open Graves in the slot. He made a good pinch and then fired a nice wrist shot by Philadelphia starter Steve Mason cutting it to 3-1 late in the second period. The goal awakened the Blueshirts, who then responded with Rick Nash drawing a holding penalty. But the power play was unable to cash in despite some looks.

Pirri continued his great preseason by scoring unassisted on a nice snapshot past Mason early in the third that made it a one-goal contest. He now leads the Rangers with four goals and two helpers. The ex-Panther who also played with the Ducks continues to look like a lock for the Opening Night roster. If he is in the starting lineup and there’s no reason for him not to be, he will either be cast in the top nine or on the fourth line while probably getting power play time.

Even better, Vesey scored his first goal in exhibition from Stepan on a successful power play. He had a scare earlier on when Flyers’ goon Radko Gudas decided to go for a big hit leading to a boarding call that immediately drew the ire of Dylan McIlrath. He was assessed a five-minute boarding major and game misconduct along with a fight major. How they even called it a fight major I have no clue. McIlrath came from the other end and jumped on top of Gudas, who bloodied Vesey’s nose on a hit into the boards.

Let’s be honest. Gudas is a dirty player who also was suspended three games last year. However, as much as our fans crowed about it on Twitter, Vesey did turn and the hit wasn’t that bad. I don’t see the NHL suspending him. But Gudas does have a history of such dangerous hits. The views were mostly negative with many in the media wanting him to pay the price. I agree the league needs to send a strong message. I just don’t believe the hit was that bad that it deserves much discipline.

As for the first part, it was mostly Flyers due to the two-man advantage. Henrik Lundqvist was sharp in his first appearance. He stopped all 15 shots in a busy first and only gave up a goal to Jordan Weal on an extended Flyer shift before giving way to backup Mackenzie Skapski. The coverage was pretty bad on the first goal with Maxim Lapierre victimized. Of course, scapegoat Tanner Glass was blamed but it was really Lapierre’s lack of speed which caused a delayed penalty and him not taking the man that led to the goal. My guess is he’ll be let go following Tuesday’s game against the Islanders.

Unfortunately, Skapski had the misfortune of coming in when the Rangers lost their discipline. It resulted in consecutive Flyer tallies. The first from Voracek which he thought he had but it trickled through. The second was Travis Konecny scoring from in front making it 3-0.

Afterwards, Skapski straightened out keeping his team in the game. He did allow Voracek’s winner but that was a direct result of some lousy defense by McDonagh and Stepan. Two vets who should know better. That it came off the opening draw in overtime was sad. A nice power move and finish by Voracek on the backhand.

Bright spots were Adam Clendening who again didn’t look out of place. He really needs to make the team. His work on the power play has been superb. He definitely is a good enough skater and gives the coaching staff a nice option as another righty shot with offensive capability. The issue is if he and McIlrath are in, then that means Brady Skjei isn’t. He can be sent back.

Dan Girardi remains. Who knows what’ll happen there. Anyway, that’s the end of this review. Until tomorrow.

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Dan Boyle to retire as a Shark

Posted on October 3, 2016 by Derek
Dan Boyle

Dan Boyle is congratulated by Marc Staal and Tanner Glass following his big goal that proved to be the winner in the Rangers’ hair raising 4-3 win over the Caps to take Game 6. AP Photo by Nick Wass/Getty Images

Dan Boyle won’t be fondly remembered for his time spent on Broadway. It didn’t work out for the proud American who will announce his retirement at a press conference as a Shark. A more fitting conclusion than the way his two-year run as a Ranger ended with him shouting and cursing out New York Post troll Larry Brooks.

For a player who went undrafted, Boyle became one of the better offensive defensemen in the NHL. After hardly sticking with the Panthers, he found a home with the Lightning. Under John Tortorella, he flourished in an offensive system helping patrol the blue line as part of a Stanley Cup championship in ’03-04. At one time, Tortorella emphasized a Safe Is Death philosophy that worked perfectly.

Boyle was front and center on the defense contributing big numbers that included a 13-goal, 53 point season, a 15-goal, 53 point season and a career best 20-goal, 63 point season. In ’04, he skated in 78 contests tallying nine goals and 30 assists while adding 2-8-10 in 23 playoff games to help the Lightning win their only Stanley Cup. He logged big minutes and played hurt.

After lasting half a dozen years in Tampa, he was traded to San Jose where he also spent six seasons. Continuing to produce for the Sharks, Boyle added three consecutive 50-point seasons along with a 48-point campaign. That also included a playoff best 16 points (4-12-16) in the 2011 postseason that saw the Sharks reach the Western Conference Final.

Following ’13-14, he signed a two-year deal with the Rangers. Looked at to improve the power play, Boyle was up and down. After not finding his groove in the regular season during ’14-15, he was one of their best performers registering three goals and seven assists in a deep run to the Eastern Conference Final. In scoring 10 goals during his final season, it marked the seventh time during his career that he totaled at least 10 goals-or-more. Seven times, Boyle had at least 40-plus points. He also went over 30 in nine seasons.

Boyle finishes his career with 163 goals, 442 assists totaling 605 points in 1093 games. He went 17-64-81 in 130 playoff games.

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Rangers at Flyers Preseason Game 4

Posted on October 3, 2016 by Derek
Jakub Voracek

The Flyers and Rangers renew their rivalry in preseason tonight.

On MSG tonight, the Rangers renew acquaintances with the rival Flyers in the City of Brotherly Love. It’s the first of two meetings with the Flyers also visiting MSG later this week.

Of course, it is preseason. So, both rosters will feature some players still battling for spots. Though the Rangers will make a slew of cuts following their fifth exhibition against the Islanders tomorrow. They still are carrying 47 players. Many who won’t be part of the 23-man roster in 10 days when the Islanders visit The Garden for Opening Night.

Henrik Lundqvist makes his first appearance of preseason following playing for Sweden at the World Cup where they were eliminated by Europe and Mats Zuccarello. Zuccarello isn’t expected to dress until possibly Thursday. Lundqvist will get half of tonight’s game before giving way to Mackenzie Skapski, who has looked good so far.

Derek Stepan also will play centering Jimmy Vesey and Rick Nash on the top line. Pavel Buchnevich gets a chance on the second unit with Kevin Hayes and Brandon Pirri, who Alain Vigneault singled out as being more of a top nine possibility than a fourth liner. It makes sense based on Pirri’s offensive skill. He’s scored three goals and two assists thus far doing damage on the power play.

A fourth line of Michael Grabner, Nathan Gerbe and Jesper Fast could be a good option assuming Gerbe makes the cut. It looks like Grabner definitely has a spot due to his strong penalty killing and dangerous speed.

As for the defense, Vigneault praised Marc Staal, who he feels has come in more focused injury free. He also said Brady Skjei was a little better Saturday but still has some things to work on. What if they decide to send him down at the start? Something I’m against. Adam Clendening has impressed with his unselfish passing on the power play. Dylan McIlrath has to stay. He has the size and strength the team lacks. Nick Holden is also part of the equation.

Here are the Ranger lines:

Vesey-Stepan-Nash

Pirri-Hayes-Buchnevich

Miller-Hrivik-Kovacs

Glass-Lapierre-Stromwall

D Pairs:

McDonagh-Clendening

Graves-McIlrath

Summers-Holden

Lundqvist

Skapski

As for the Flyers, there’ll be some familiar faces. Claude Giroux will center the first line flanked by 19-year old prospect Travis Konecny and Brayden Schenn. Sean Couturier, Jakub Voracek, Matt Read and 24-year old Russian import Roman Lyubimov will also be in the lineup.

Michael Del Zotto will pair up with annoyance Radko Gudas. Shayne “Ghost” Gostisbehere forms the top pair with 19-year old prospect Ivan Provorov. Andrew MacDonald and Sam Morin also are on the blue line.

1 A Steve Mason and 1 B Michael Neuvirth are the goalies. Considering how well Neuvirth played in last year’s first round after replacing Mason and pushing the Capitals six games, I wonder if he’ll be the top guy. I’m sure coach Dave Hakstol will go with the hot hand during the season.

We’ll have a review later between the Monday Night Football game which hopefully won’t see the Giants get crushed by the Vikings. Hey. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

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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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