Without Nash, Rangers tighten up to shutout Flames behind Talbot 1-0

Posted on February 24, 2015 by Derek

This one won’t be fondly remembered for its excitement. Without Rick Nash, who missed the game due to neck spasms, the Rangers played differently. Following two ugly periods that featured way too many icings, rookie Kevin Hayes got the lone goal and Cam Talbot shut the door in a 1-0 win at MSG over the Flames.

Talbot stopped six third period shots en route to his fourth shutout. He made 21 saves altogether improving to 7-1-2 since Henrik Lundqvist’s injury. Despite giving up a lot of goals, he had been winning consistently. As a team, the Rangers are 8-1-2 since Lundqvist went down earning 18 of 22 points. They maintained pace with the Islanders remaining two points out of first. The Isles broke open a tie game with a four-goal third to beat the Coyotes 5-1. The Rangers have three games at hand.

The game wasn’t a Picasso because it didn’t have to be. Without Nash, coach Alain Vigneault moved Hayes up to the top line with Derick Brassard and Mats Zuccarello. The second and fourth lines remained intact. Rookie Oscar Lindberg made his NHL debut on the third line with Carl Hagelin and J.T. Miller. He was fine taking 16 shifts (8:18) finishing with two shots, three hits and winning two of five draws. He didn’t look out of place but is expected to go back to Hartford if Nash returns Thursday against the Coyotes.

Facing the Flames for a second time, the Rangers got an early power play and nearly scored. But Calgary goalie Karri Ramo slid across to rob Miller on the doorstep. It was an eventful night for Miller, who had his first NHL fight with Michael Ferland in the second. He didn’t win but got a couple of shots in before being taken down.

Vigneault opted for Matt Hunwick over John Moore in the continuing sixth defenseman rotation. Hunwick struggled during some shifts including a scary one in the final minute of the first following a dreadful Tanner Glass turnover. Why Vigneault insists on having his worst line and worst defensive pair out in the last minute of periods remains a mystery. He nearly got burned.

After the Rangers were credited with 10 shots to the Flames’ seven in a scoreless first, the teams played about as uneventful a second as possible. Aside from Miller’s scrap versus Ferland, there was nothing going on. The teams managed to combine for several icings in between the 17 total shots. Both netminders were sharp keeping the game scoreless after 40 minutes.

For a while, it looked like this one was destined for a shootout. But Brassard pounced on a Dennis Wideman neutral zone turnover and fed Hayes for a sweet finish with 17:00 left in regulation. Hayes stayed hot scoring for the fifth time over his last nine games. He then got a cool #PurpleHayes tribute from MSG during a stoppage. Playing against former Boston College teammate Johnny Gaudreau, Hayes had another strong game playing the left wing for the first time this season. He continues to improve and is eighth in rookie scoring with 27 points.

For a welcome change, the Rangers played well with the lead in the third. Instead of sitting back, they attacked and got better chances forcing Ramo to come up with some difficult saves. He finished with 28 in a losing effort earning the game’s third star. The Rangers outshot the Flames 10-6 and never were really threatened.

It was my first game since 12/8. A birthday win over the Pens. While there were lulls, it was still fun. Especially hearing someone yap “There’s some Corsi” in reference to Glass leveling a Flame with a big hit that lead to a Rangers scoring opportunity. Aside from a couple of predictable moments, he played a decent game registering four hits and even getting two shots on net. The first one a routine wrist shot from the right circle that Ramo easily squeezed to my amusement.

With his team nursing a one-goal lead, Vigneault chose to substitute Dominic Moore for Lindberg on the third line. Moore is defensively responsible and basically is the whole fourth line. He was dominate on faceoffs winning 10 of 11 while playing a smart two-way game. Despite being held back by Glass and Lee Stempniak, Moore’s still found a way to shine. A credit to how smart a player the former Harvard alum is.

Calgary made one last ditch effort with Ramo pulled for an extra attacker. They held the puck in a couple of times and moved the puck around but were unable to get a quality shot through. The Rangers defended well in front of Talbot making his life easy. It was the best they played since a Feb. 4 win over the Bruins.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Kevin Hayes, NYR (goal-12th of season at 3:00 of 3rd, +1 in 18:33)

2nd Star-Karri Ramo, CGY (28 saves)

1st Star-Cam Talbot, NYR (21 saves for 4th shutout)

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Lindberg Assigned Number 48 as Rangers host Flames

Posted on February 24, 2015 by Derek

Per a tweet from Sean Hartnett, Oscar Lindberg has been assigned number 48 by the Rangers. I can’t think of many players who wore 48. At least we know of one who shall for tonight’s game against the Flames.

By no means should it be easy. Calgary has proven they’re for real. Still in a tight Western race for one of the final wild cards, they’re currently tied with the Kings and Sharks in points (68). Each trails the Wild by a point and are three behind the Jets and Canucks. It’s worth noting that the top three teams in each division automatically qualify for the playoffs. The wildcard should be a mad scramble to the finish.

The Flames boast Norris front runner Mark Giordano and Calder candidate Johnny Gaudreau, who teamed with Kevin Hayes at Boston College to form a great line. They’re still close and had dinner out last night. It should be an interesting reunion between two rookies with bright futures. Gaudreau is second among rookies with 44 points (15-29-44) while the emerging Hayes has moved up to eighth with 26 (11-15-26). That match-up is worth watching.

We are leaving for MSG now. My first game since a nice birthday win over the Pens on 12/8. I’ll have a full recap and review later.

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Rangers recall Oscar Lindberg

Posted on February 24, 2015 by Derek

Due to a flu epidemic, the Rangers have recalled forward Oscar Lindberg from Hartford for tonight’s game against Calgary. The 23-year old Swedish center could make his Broadway debut due to several players under the weather. Shocking considering how ice cold the temps have been. Will February ever end? Don’t answer that.

In his second season with the Wolf Pack, Lindberg has 16 goals and 20 assists for 36 points in 54 games. His 36 points rank second behind team leader Chris Bourque (45). Lindberg is third in goals with 16 trailing Bourque (20) and Danny Kristo (17). He has five power play goals, 50 penalty minutes and is plus-five.

Lindberg is on a similar path to Year 1. In his rookie season, he posted 18 goals and 26 helpers for 44 points over 75 games. Acquired from the Coyotes for Ethan Werek on May 8, 2011, it looks like he’ll finally play his first NHL game. Originally a Coyotes second round pick in 2010, Lindberg likely will start on the fourth line. Assuming he plays, Lee Stempniak probably moves up to the third line for Carl Hagelin, who is one of the players ridden with the flu.

Supposedly, it has also inflicted Mats Zuccarello and Derek Stepan. Lindberg is a center. So too is J.T. Miller who can move up if necessary. He’s had good chemistry with Hagelin and Kevin Hayes as a wing on the third line.

Injury Report: Updating the injured players, Jesper Fast is skating with a non-contact jersey. Henrik Lundqvist is taking low shots in practice with goalie coach Benoit Allaire monitoring his progress. Lundqvist has yet to be reevaluated by doctors for his sprained blood vessel. The time is coming soon. This Sunday, it’ll be three weeks.

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Canadiens and Ducks swap forwards: Sekac for Smith-Pelly

Posted on February 24, 2015 by Derek

In an interesting deal between two first place clubs, the Canadiens and Ducks swapped a pair of 22-year old forwards. Montreal sent Jiri Sekac to Anaheim in exchange for Devante Smith-Pelly. Each has played secondary roles and each are signed through next year before turning restricted.

In his rookie year, Sekac has seven goals and nine assists totaling 16 points in 50 games. Conversely, Smith-Pelly is already in his third year tallying five goals and 12 assists for 17 points in 54 contests. If there is a difference, Smith-Pelly is much more physical playing a rugged style. His 147 hits paced the Ducks. On the contrary, Sekac has 49 hits or just under one a game.

Overall, it looks like a deal that can benefit both sides. Both are solid players who can bring something to their new teams. For Montreal, I like it due to Smith-Pelly’s physical style. Already boasting a strong core, they’ll be even more difficult to play this Spring. Slumping lately despite a nice comeback shootout win over Detroit last night, Anaheim probably felt compelled to make a change. Sekac is well liked in Montreal. We’ll see how he does with the Ducks.

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Islanders lock up Nick Leddy to 7-year $38.5 million extension

Posted on February 24, 2015 by Derek

The Islanders re-signed defenseman Nick Leddy to a seven-year extension worth a reported $38.5 million. Acquired by Team President and GM Garth Snow from Chicago a day before the season, the 23-year old has fit in well under coach Jack Capuano. His eight goals pace all Islander defensemen and 25 points rank second behind another wise off-season pick up Johnny Boychuk (28).

Locking up Leddy is a wise investment. At 23, he continues to evolve as a player. While the length is always a risk, an average cap hit of $5.5 million is in line with other young blueliners. Teamed with Boychuk, he helps anchor the back end while contributing offensively. The top trio of Boychuk, Leddy and Travis Hamonic are a combined plus-39. With Leddy and Hamonic signed through 2017-18, that’s two-thirds of the top three.

Boychuk, who turned 31 last month, can become unrestricted this summer. Currently making $3.6 million in the final year of a deal originally signed with Boston, he’ll prove more difficult keeping. An Edmonton native, rumors have circulated that he could go home returning to play for the Oilers. Would he really want to be part of a rebuild for more cash rather than stay with a emerging playoff contender? That remains to be seen.

At least for now, the Islanders have made a sound commitment to a top four defenseman who’ll be a big part of their future. With second-year man Calvin de Haan still developing, that’s three-fourths of the club’s top four. The best aspect is Leddy, Hamonic and de Haan are all 24 and younger. With former first rounder Griffin Reinhart close to ready, they boast a quartet that should patrol the blueline for the next decade.

With vet Lubomir Visnovsky unlikely to re-sign and Brian Strait unrestricted, the look of their back end could change. However, Thomas Hickey is restricted and Matt Donovan is also Group II. Depending on if Snow can convince Boychuk to stay, the Islanders still should be solidified on D.

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Inside Statistics: Rangers 3rd Periods

Posted on February 23, 2015 by Derek
Carl Hagelin can't look as the Kings celebrate a goal. AP Photo/Kathy Willens

Carl Hagelin can’t look as the Kings celebrate a goal.
AP Photo/Kathy Willens

Dating back to last year’s Stanley Cup Final, the Rangers haven’t exactly been lights out in third periods. Presenting, further breakdown of their struggle to close out games.

STANLEY CUP BREAKDOWN (Unlucky 3rd) NYR vs LAK

GF  GA    Shots     SA     Shot Differential

Game 1    0     0            3        20            -17

Game 2    0     2            7        12             -5

Game 3    0     0           11         2             +9

Game 4    0     0            1         15             -14

Game 5    0      1            3         12             -9

Totals       0      3           25       61              -36

As I’ve illustrated, the Rangers inability to put away the Kings did them in. While it’s true they had a couple of crucial calls go against them, had they been a bit more aggressive in third periods, it might have been a different series.

Out of curiosity, I looked at their success in the previous two rounds against the Canadiens and Penguins. Most of it came during the first two periods. The Rangers scored more than once in a third just one time doing so in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final- outscoring the Habs 3-1 en route to a 7-2 win. In fact, Chris Kreider scored their last goal in Game 3 with 29 seconds left in regulation forcing overtime. A game they lost 3-2. Ironically, P.K. Subban scored the lone goal in Game 4 forcing extras but Martin St. Louis played the overtime hero.

Including Games 5 and 6, the Rangers didn’t score a goal in the third period the final eight games of the postseason. However, it doesn’t mean they didn’t play well. When they needed a big third in the Game 6 clincher at MSG preserving a Henrik Lundqvist 18-save shutout, they dominated the Habs outshooting them 13-5. Only unknown quantity Dustin Tokarski gave them a chance.

In their stunning turnaround against the Pens, the Rangers scored only one third period goal during Games 5 through 7. A Kevin Klein empty netter sealing a 5-1 Game 5 win at Consol Energy Center to stave off elimination. They used quick starts in all three games scoring first in each. In fact, they outscored the Pens 9-3 in periods 1 and 2. Not coincidentally, they never trailed. The comeback from 3-1 down was eerily reminiscent of the one the 2000 Devils had against the Flyers in the Conference Final. They too never trailed.

So much of the way they play under Alain Vigneault is dependent on playing very aggressively from the start. It’s no coincidence that they’ve owned the first two periods. This season, they’ve outscored opponents 57-35 and outshot them 593-546 in the first period. In the second period, they outscore foes 58-54 but outshoot them 660-579. In the third, they’re plus-13 (63-50) but are outshot 550-522. Part of it could be going into protective mode. They’re 26-0-1 when leading after two.

However, it doesn’t fully explain why they go into a shell. Vigneault’s system emphasizes continuing to attack. It seems that whoever coaches them post-lockout, the Rangers are most comfortable sitting back. They played a more defensive minded style under former coaches Tom Renney and John Tortorella. It just seems odd that despite oodles of talent, they continue to struggle at times just getting shots in the third period.

As the season continues, we’ll have more to look at. It could just be that Lundqvist covered up a lot of mistakes. The Rangers aren’t as tight defensively. The loss of key personnel (A. Stralman, B. Boyle, Richards, Pouliot, Dorsett, Carcillo) has contributed. The top pair of Ryan McDonagh and Dan Girardi have been inconsistent. Second pair Marc Staal and Kevin Klein have been their most dependable while the third pair of Dan Boyle and either John Moore or Matt Hunwick remains problematic.

At some point, Glen Sather must address sixth defenseman. Vigneault still doesn’t trust Moore enough to play him regularly which is a failure on his part. No way should he be rotating with Hunwick. It’s bad for his development. That’s where they’ll have to see if they can pry a veteran D. Potential target Andrej Sekera from Carolina is a perfect candidate who turns unrestricted this summer. However, the cost could be high with a prospect and first round pick likely.

Due to the St. Louis trade, the Rangers lack a first round pick and don’t possess many prospects. Unless they want to part with J.T. Miller, who seems to finally be getting it, it’s a steep price to pay.

Depending on when Lundqvist returns, that will immediately upgrade them in net. Cam Talbot has won but continues to allow questionable goals and has posted a sub-3.00 GAA and is below .900 save percentage since taking over. Twenty-year old rookie MacKenzie Skapski won his NHL debut making 24 saves against the lowly Sabres. Not enough of a measuring stick for a kid in his first pro year.

The Rangers have the goalie to go far this Spring. It’s just a question of when is Lundqvist ready and how long will it take for him to get back in game shape. Hopefully, they’ll tighten up in front of Talbot and improve their third periods.

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Nash Bails Out Rangers In Shootout After Latest Blown Lead

Posted on February 23, 2015 by Derek
Winning netminder Cam Talbot is congratulated by goalscorer Martin St. Louis following the Rangers' 4-3 shootout win over the Blue Jackets. AP Photo by Kathy Willens/Getty Images

Winning netminder Cam Talbot is congratulated by goalscorer Martin St. Louis following the Rangers’ 4-3 shootout win over the Blue Jackets.
AP Photo by Kathy Willens/Getty Images

At least they won. After blowing a three-goal lead, the Rangers were bailed out by Rick Nash, whose shootout winner allowed them to edge the Blue Jackets 4-3 for their sixth win in the last eight. Without Henrik Lundqvist, they’ve managed to earn 16 of 20 points. Even with Cam Talbot struggling, they’ve only lost once in regulation since Lundqvist’s injury.

This one should’ve been much easier. But that’s not how they play. Despite what players say about getting off to quick starts and playing with leads, this team doesn’t do a good job protecting them. Forget the record. How many times can we see an Alain Vigneault coached team sit on the lead and not get shots in third periods? Is it a philosophical problem? Or is it like Martin St. Louis said. On the players to make plays.

 ”We talk all the time about trying to find ways,” St. Louis said after staying hot with a pair of goals giving him four in the last four games after going 15 straight without one. ”Obviously, up three goals, it’s not the way you are trying to get two points. We should have pulled away and closed it out.”

St. Louis’ rejuvenation is crucial to their success. There were moments where you didn’t notice him during an extended stretch. Finally, the 39-year old future Hall Of Famer is scoring. His two markers gave him 18 for the season. He has seven points over the last five. St. Louis and Derek Stepan are back in sync with the unlikely duo combining for 16 points (4-12-16) over a five-game stretch that’s seen the team go 4-0-1. Their scoring along with rookie Kevin Hayes’ (goal) rapid improvement gives them three lines that can put the puck in the net.

For the Blueshirts, it’s not about offense. There’s plenty. During a tough stretch where Talbot’s allowed three goals-or-more in seven of his last eight starts, they’ve managed to outscore the opposition 33-26. In his last eight, Talbot is 5-1-2 with a 3.19 goals-against-average and .895 save percentage. While part of that is due to the high risk style they play, Talbot has fought the puck since being forced into a starting role.

”We don’t want to give up any points to the other teams, but to get a win in the shootout was big for us,” Talbot admitted after making 27 saves and denying Cam Atkinson in Round 3 to preserve the win. ”The guys bailed me out huge.”

At the very least, the win pulled them within two points of first place due to the Islanders getting shutout by the Canucks 3-0. Despite no Lundqvist, they’ve won seven of 10 going 7-1-2 to move up to second in the airtight Metropolitan Division. Four points separate first from fourth. The Islanders are two up with 80. The Rangers have 78 and have three extra games left along with 33 ROW (regulation overtime wins) for first tiebreaker. By virtue of their 5-1 home win over the Panthers, the Penguins are third with 77 in 60 games played. The Capitals lost to the Flyers 3-2 remaining at 76 with 61 played. The Islanders have 21 games left while the Rangers have 24.

Even with them gaining in the standings, their defensive habits remain a work in progress. There are still too many correctable mistakes. Last year’s team wouldn’t have blown a three-goal lead. Due partially to a stronger supporting cast, they were stingier. That the Blue Jackets were able to methodically work their way back from a three-goal deficit after being severely outplayed in the first period despite it being a back-to-back speaks volumes.

Statistically speaking, the Rangers have outscored opponents in third periods 63-50. Their second period has been their worst with a 58-54 edge. They have dominated early outscoring opponents 57-35 in first periods. Here’s the catch. With the Jackets scoring the only goal in the third to tie last night’s game, they outshot the Rangers 8-1. Why it’s significant is because if you include that total, opponents have outshot the Rangers 550-522. While it doesn’t seem like a lot, compared to the first two periods it’s much worse. In first periods, they’re plus-47 (593-546) and in second periods, they’re plus-81 (660-579).

In what basically has become symbolic of how they play under Vigneault, the Rangers outshot the Blue Jackets 14-8 in the first and 16-11 in the second for a two period 30-19 advantage. What happened in the third? A similar result like Vancouver when they blew a one-goal lead with two minutes left. At least in that one, they scored twice after falling behind early in the third. The Canucks doubled them up in shots (12-6).

What is it about third periods that sees this team wear down? Is it the high tempo they play? Or is it not being as good fundamentally. There’s no doubt the ’14-15 edition isn’t as strong defensively. Losing Anton Stralman and replacing him with Dan Boyle was going to have an adverse affect. Speaking of which, why is the power play struggling? The Rangers had chances to put the Jackets away but failed miserably including a key one before David Savard’s tying goal eluded Talbot with 4:19 left.

It was also a Ranger four-on-three at the beginning of overtime that baffled after St. Louis drew a Fedor Tyutin trip nine seconds in. The usual result was over passing and not enough shots on Columbus backup Curtis McElhinney. A goalie who only was forced to make one save in the third after facing a two period onslaught. In a five-minute OT, he actually was forced to make some big saves stopping six Ranger shots.

Maybe the problem is psychological. They’ve played with leads before. Their record says they’re pretty successful going 26-0-1 when leading after two. Their .963 success rate ranks second in the NHL behind the Blackhawks, who are batting a perfect 1,000. In the regular season, the end result is what matters. As long as they’re piling up points, it’s fine. But something needs to change.

”We’ve got the standings up in the dressing room, so it’s hard not to see it,” Nash said after easily beating McElhinney with a twisted wrister in the third round. ”We’re worried about ourselves, worried about our game and our process and our game plan.”

Notes: Former Ranger Artem Anisimov sparked the Jackets back with a goal and assist. He finished off his fourth late in the second cutting the deficit to 3-2. … Rookie Marko Dano got the comeback started by burying a Nick Foligno pass less in short reply to St. Louis’ second that had the Rangers up 3-0. … Brandon Dubinsky was his usual pesky self hitting anyone in a Blueshirt including a near miss at St. Louis, who ducked in the nick of time. On the same shift, Dubinsky caught St. Louis and the two chirped before Chris Kreider came to his defense. … John Moore returned to the lineup for Matt Hunwick and had a minor penalty and two hits in 19 shifts (14:03). He had a scoring chance in OT but missed the net summing up his year.

MVP candidate Rick Nash beats Curtis McElhinney in Round 3 of the shootout giving the Rangers the win. AP Photo by Kathy Willens/Getty Images

MVP candidate Rick Nash beats Curtis McElhinney in Round 3 of the shootout giving the Rangers the win.
AP Photo by Kathy Willens/Getty Images

NY Puck 3 Stars:

3rd Star-J.T. Miller, NYR (2 SOG, 4 hits, 4-and-3 on draws in 16 shifts-12:51-played with confidence)

2nd Star-Artem Anisimov, CBJ (goal-4th, assist, 5 SOG, +1 in 20:09-nice to see Artie healthy)

1st Star-Martin St. Louis, NYR (2 goals-17th, 18th, +1 in 20:10-heating up at right time)

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Kreider’s Improvement A Key To Rangers Success

Posted on February 17, 2015 by Derek
Chris Kreider leaps in the air celebrating a goal during last night's Rangers comeback win over the Islanders. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Chris Kreider leaps in the air celebrating a goal during last night’s Rangers comeback win over the Islanders.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

When Chris Kreider decides to play, no one can stop him. In his second year, the Rangers 2009 first round pick is starting to figure it out. During last night’s 6-5 come from behind win over the Islanders, he was a factor scoring a goal and assisting on Derek Stepan’s goal that cut the deficit to 5-4. His aggressive forecheck forced Islander defenseman Johnny Boychuk into a turnover leading directly to Martin St. Louis’ tying goal.

Only 23, Kreider is still developing. The 6-3, 226 pound left wing has been a key to the Rangers success. When he tallies a point, they’re 18-4-1. In fact, they’ve won 15 of their last 16 when he hits the score sheet. For the emerging power forward, it’s about consistency. In 53 games, he has 14 goals, 17 assists and 31 points. The 14 goals rank third on the team and 31 points are sixth. His 79 penalty minutes rank first and 117 hits are third.

When Kreider uses his combination of size and game breaking speed, opponents are at his mercy. The plays he can make at top speed are breathtaking. For example, the breakaway goal he scored at Arizona in which he took a hard Stepan pass and flew past Michael Stone and deked Mike Smith with a sweet backhand finish with little real estate. In Monday’s win over the Islanders, he beat Jaroslav Halak with a long wrister and used his speed to back up the Islander D before making a perfect drop for Stepan’s goal that turned the game around.

When he is going, the Rangers are a better team. Nobody can deny the impact he is capable of. Kreider has great chemistry with former USA World Junior Championship 2010 gold medal teammate Stepan.  They read off each other well. Whether it’s in transition or on the forecheck, the American duo are two of the club’s top six forwards who are a big part of the present and future. For now, they play with elder statesman St. Louis, who’s unrestricted after the season. Of the trio, Stepan’s been the most consistent with 39 points (10-29-39) in 41 games including three yesterday. St. Louis erased a 15-game goal drought with the game-tying goal.

Of the three, Kreider is physically the most imposing. His return from an injury that helped turn around the second round series against the Penguins. While most observers allude to Kreider injuring Montreal starter Carey Price in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final, they neglect to mention his impact on the series. Kreider had eight points (3-5-8) helping the Rangers advance to the Stanley Cup Final. In their five-game series loss to the Kings, he was one of the few players who was effective posting a goal and two assists.

It’s still a work in progress for him. Undoubtedly, Kreider still has off nights. He also has been at fault on a couple of dangerous hits that were penalized including a major and game misconduct against the Wild on Oct. 27. At times, his size and speed can result in such incidents. So far, he’s been lucky not to receive a fine or suspension. He also has had several run ins with goalies leading to many labeling him ‘dirty.’ He must learn to control himself and try avoiding such collisions. Otherwise, he’ll get a bad reputation.

Lately, Kreider is on the right track. With six points in his last 10 and 19 over the last 21 since a New Year’s Eve win at Florida, he’s becoming a more consistent threat. Opponents must take note. As he continues to improve, the better off the Rangers are.

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Rangers score three unanswered in third to stun Islanders 6-5

Posted on February 17, 2015 by Derek
Ryan McDonagh (far side) scores the first of two with Tanner Glass and Dominic Moore screening in front. The Rangers rallied to defeat the Islanders 6-5 in a wild game. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Ryan McDonagh (far side) scores the first of two with Tanner Glass and Dominic Moore screening in front. The Rangers rallied to defeat the Islanders 6-5 in a wild game.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

This one was as wild and unpredictable as it gets. For a while, it looked like it would be a repeat of the first three meetings. Not this time. Showing resiliency, the Rangers twice rallied back from two-goal deficits to stun the Islanders 6-5. It was their first win in four tries in the Battle Of New York. More importantly, they cut the Isles’ division lead to two with two games at hand.

Using a three-goal barrage in a dominant third period, they earned it by getting to Jaroslav Halak. Entering the contest, he had only allowed four goals in the first three games. All Islander wins. However, the Rangers solved Halak getting six by him on 42 shots. Derek Stepan and Martin St. Louis scored 1:37 apart to tie it and then Kevin Klein notched the game-winner with 4:32 left in regulation. Despite severely outplaying the Islanders, they still had to survive a Josh Bailey chance off the crossbar in the final frantic seconds.

”I’m sure it was a fun game to watch. Not so sure either coach feels that way,” Stepan diplomatically observed after having his best game since returning from the flu. He recorded his 10th goal and two assists.

His line with St. Louis and Chris Kreider combined for seven points (3-4-7) and a plus-seven rating. The elder statesman, St. Louis snapped a 15-game goal drought putting together a two-point night. His first multi-point game since Jan. 18. Kreider scored for a second straight game and was instrumental throughout. His finger prints were all over the Rangers’ fourth consecutive win allowing them to go a perfect 4-0-0 on their road trip. The fifth time in franchise history they’ve swept a four-game road trip.

”That was a real gut check for us,” Ryan McDonagh said after recording his first two-goal game. ”It feels really good right now. It’s great how we stuck together.”

It wouldn’t have been possible without a huge save from Cam Talbot. Shaky throughout, he made the biggest stop of the game denying Casey Cizikas on a breakaway with the Islanders already leading 2-0. Talbot atoned for a gaffe on the game’s opening shift when his giveaway behind the net allowed John Tavares to score his team-leading 26th just 11 seconds in. Before they knew what hit them, Frans Nielsen beat Marc Staal to a Travis Hamonic rebound giving the Isles an early two-goal lead with Nassau Coliseum rocking.

For most of the first period, it was deja vu all over again. The Islanders dominated with their size and speed generating chance after chance. In fact, they peppered Talbot with a dizzying 22 shots. If he doesn’t stone Cizikas, it could have been a very different game. Instead, a rare good shift from the Rangers fourth line allowed Dan Girardi to find McDonagh wide open in the slot for a huge goal cutting the deficit to 2-1 with 5:25 remaining. Before the goal, McDonagh got away with a penalty. Undetected, he buried his sixth with Tanner Glass in front of Halak. He actually had a good game along with Lee Stempniak, who picked up a secondary helper on the goal.

”We just kept fighting and fighting,” Talbot explained after stopping 38 of 43 in improving to 5-1-1 since taking over the number one goalie for injured starter Henrik Lundqvist. ”The mindset is to just stop the next one. They’ve been scoring in bunches.”

It was one of those games you so rarely see in today’s NHL. Neither team played much defense. Both goalies were beatable. There were plenty of mistakes by each side. It was a classic rivalry game between bitter rivals. Fire wagon hockey. The teams combined for 11 goals and 85 shots. Every goal came at even strength. There weren’t many power plays with the Rangers 0-for-2 while the Islanders went 0-for-3 even though one of their goals came after a penalty expired.

The second period was frantic. Each side scored twice. Like they had at the start, the Islanders struck first when Johnny Boychuk intercepted a Klein clearing attempt firing a rocket past Talbot to put the Long Island hosts ahead 3-1 at 1:20.

Undeterred, the Rangers kept coming. First, Kreider took a Stepan pass in the neutral zone and beat Halak with a long wrist shot from the left circle cutting it to one at 3:07. Only 23 seconds later, J.T. Miller kept a puck in and passed across for McDonagh, who let go of a slap shot from long distance that eluded Halak at 3:30 to tie it.

Ryan Strome celebrates a goal with teammates Brock Nelson and Travis Hamonic. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Ryan Strome celebrates a goal with teammates Brock Nelson and Travis Hamonic.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

But Stepan took his second minor of the game going off for tripping to give the Islanders a power play. Even though they couldn’t score on it, they were able to go back ahead after it expired when a Travis Hamonic shot deflected off Brock Nelson in front rebounding off Talbot to Ryan Strome, who deposited it as both Girardi and McDonagh watched. It was the first of two for Strome, who would also score what looked like a crusher early in the third to give his team a two-goal lead.

Despite some undisciplined penalties including a bench minor for a second consecutive game, the Rangers kept pressing. They easily could’ve tied it in the second. Even though he didn’t get on the score sheet, Rick Nash was dominant offensively with a game high seven shots. That included a goalpost after the Isles’ first goal when he had Halak dead to rights. However, his line was victimized for a couple of goals against.

Two straight Islander penalties gave the Rangers chances late in the second and at the beginning of the third. Unable to take advantage despite heavy pressure, they got burned when Dan Boyle lost control of a puck at the Islander blueline. After he fell down, Strome and Nielsen came the other way on a two-on-one with only Matt Hunwick back. A perfect give-and-go resulted in Strome going top shelf for his second of the game at 3:43 giving the Isles a 5-3 lead.

At that point, I had it. It just felt like it would be another missed opportunity. This was different than the first three games. The Rangers were in it and dictating the play after a awful first. Even though I didn’t think it was over, I decided to leave and go to the gym. I muttered to Dad, “Maybe they’ll show some heart.” I doubt he heard me. I was in a jovial mood. 😛

By the time I reached the gym, Stepan had finished off a Kreider back pass on just a great rush for his 10th closing it to 5-4 at 6:25. As I parked, St. Louis then buried his 15th from Stepan and Marc Staal tying it up at 8:02. But really, Kreider made the play forcing Boychuk into a turnover. Even though Boychuk contended that he was tripped, that’s not how I saw it on the replay. It was just a good play by Kreider, who took advantage of a very poor decision from Boychuk. The end result was Stepan setting up St. Louis for an easy finish.

After listening to the much more tolerable MSG radio team of Kenny Albert and Dave Maloney for a couple of minutes, I decided to go do my workout. I figured, ‘It’s not like I’m going to see it anyway. Either they’ll complete the comeback or not.’ As I was getting to a machine, Klein scored his ninth from Derick Brassard. It was a great forecheck by Brassard and St. Louis, who also got a helper. Brassard skated around the Isles D before finding Klein for a perfect shot far side on Halak to make it 6-5 Rangers at 15:28.

”We were down by two twice and the guys battled back,” Klein said after extending his point streak to six straight with a goal and assist. ”It was a wild one. We wanted to play a more defensive style against these guys.”

They may not have succeeded in slowing down the Islanders, who were without a top six forward in Kyle Okposo and a top four defenseman in Calvin de Haan even though that was curiously Jack Capuano’s decision. But for once, the Rangers showed tremendous character against a good team they’ll have to go through. Halak was fighting the puck all night. The Isles didn’t play lock down defensively. They were outscored 3-1 and outshot 18-6 in the third.

NY Puck 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Ryan Strome, NYI (2 goals-11th, 12th, 5 SOG, +2 in 18:53)

2nd Star-Chris Kreider, NYR (goal-14th, assist, 4 SOG, 2 hits, +3 in 15:22)

1st Star-Kevin Klein, NYR (goal-9th, game-winner, assist, 2 hits, 3 blocked shots, +1 in 19:01)

Notes: Eleven different Rangers recorded a point. Five had multi-point games including Stepan (1-2-3), Klein (1-1-2), Kreider (1-1-2), McDonagh (2-0-2) and St. Louis (1-1-2). Seven Islanders recorded a point led by Strome’s two goals, Nielsen’s goal and assist and Hamonic’s two assists. Despite scoring 11 seconds in, Tavares was minus-two while matched up against the Rangers’ third line. … Islanders outhit the Rangers 43-29 led by rookie Anders Lee’s 8. Carl Hagelin recorded seven for the Blueshirts. … Islanders won 35-of-62 faceoffs led by Nielsen (12-and-6). Dominic Moore paced the Rangers going 6-and-4. … McDonagh led all skaters in ice-time with 25:42.

… Rangers improved to 34-16-5 with 73 points tying the Pens in points but going ahead due to more ROW (32-29) and one game at hand. They have the most ROW in the division two better than the Islanders (30). The Islanders dropped to 37-19-1 with a division-leading 75 points in 57 games. They’re back at it tonight at Carolina. … The Rangers get two days off before hosting Vigneault’s former team Vancouver Thursday.

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Hunwick Stays In Over John Moore

Posted on February 16, 2015 by Derek

Earlier, I forecast that John Moore would pair up with Dan Boyle for tonight’s game. Instead, Alain Vigneault has other ideas.

Matt Hunwick will stay in the lineup and work with Boyle on the third pair against the Islanders. Interesting considering that I felt he struggled mightily against the Coyotes. So, Moore is the odd man out. The 24-year old defenseman hasn’t established himself under Vigneault. After only moderate success last season posting four goals and 11 assists with a plus-seven rating in 74 games, Moore has only four helpers and is plus-four in 34 contests in Year 2.

Moore performed better under former coach John Tortorella. After coming over with Derick Brassard and Derek Dorsett for Marian Gaborik at the 2013 trade deadline, he tallied a goal and five assists with a plus-nine rating in 13 games.

For some reason, he fared better under Tortorella. Vigneault is a good coach who’s gotten the most out of other players. It’s surprising that Moore hasn’t developed under him and he still doesn’t trust him. Is this another Michael Del Zotto? Moore is restricted this summer. The Rangers can certainly use an upgrade on the blueline before the March 2 deadline.

Updating the D pairings for tonight:

McDonagh-Girardi

Staal-Klein

Hunwick-Boyle

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