Talbot makes 38 saves in Rangers 2-1 win over Panthers

Posted on March 15, 2015 by Derek

When you’re hot, you’re hot. That’s one way to describe Cam Talbot. The 27-year old undrafted goalie from Ontario made 38 saves to carry the Rangers past the Panthers 2-1 at MSG. He improved to 13-2-3 since taking over for Henrik Lundqvist, who remains out with a sprained neck vessel.

How good has he been? Counting tonight, Talbot has allowed three goals over the past four starts and six in the last six. He’s 5-0-1 with a 0.99 goals-against-average, .967 save percentage and one shutout. Overall, he’s won 13 of 18 starts posting a 2.20 GAA (40 GA in 1,091 minutes) with a .927 save percentage (505 saves on 545 shots faced) with two shutouts. Remarkably, the Rangers are 15-2-3 including MacKenzie Skapski’s two wins over the Sabres. How large has the play of the goalies been?

Goaltending is what won this one over a determined bunch of Panthers, who really deserved better. Sometimes, the play of a goalie is enough to win even when you’re badly outplayed. Florida played desperate hockey finishing with 98 shots attempted. Astonishingly, the Rangers blocked 36. The Panthers also had another 23 that missed the net which accounted for their 98.

It didn’t matter because Talbot was in a zone. Similar to what we’ve grown accustomed to from Lundqvist, he was stopping everything. Under siege in about as lopsided a second period as there’s been this season, he made 20 saves. The Panthers top line of Jaromir Jagr, Jonathan Huberdeau and Nick Bjugstad dominated every offensive shift keeping the Rangers pinned in for long stretches. Even at 43, Jagr remains scary as ever. He created and had great chances. One which was a rebound that he pushed wide with Ryan McDonagh nudging him to put the Panthers on a power play with 2:35 left in regulation.

Jagr was feisty throughout going back at Marc Staal after getting shoved into the net. Younger teammate Erik Gudbranson had quite a battle with Chris Kreider. The defenseman went after Kreider following a clean hit he delivered on Florida captain Willie Mitchell. But that wasn’t what drew his ire. In the third, Kreider caught Gudbranson with a late hit tripping the defenseman up. Somehow, neither ref or linesman saw anything. This is what you get in today’s NHL. Where every hold and hook is called while more dangerous infractions are missed. Gudbranson wanted Kreider but it never materialized.

The Rangers were able to take advantage of their chances. In particular, the fourth line with the addition of James Sheppard flourished accounting for both goals. Back in for Tanner Glass after missing the previous three, Sheppard paid immediate dividends when after winning a puck battle behind the net, he parked in front of Aaron Ekblad and scored his first as a Ranger on a double deflection from Dominic Moore and Matt Hunwick with 2:16 left in the first period.

After outshooting the Panthers 12-6, the Rangers fell asleep in a awful second. Completely outplayed, they ceded control. Florida used its aggressive forecheck and speed to effect forcing Alain Vigneault to make some switches for the third. The only reason his team still led by one was Talbot. His steadiness along with the Rangers willingness to block shots kept them in front. That included a Kreider diving effort to get in the path of a point shot with his knees jumping up. He was very involved for a third straight game.

Making his fifth consecutive start, Dan Ellis was good for the Cats. Even though he wasn’t as busy as Talbot, Ellis still made 32 saves to give his team a chance. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to stop a Hunwick point shot that changed direction in front with Jesper Fast screening giving the Rangers a 2-0 lead with 11:23 remaining. It was another strong shift from the fourth line with Fast outhustling a Panther to a loose puck and getting it to Moore who found an open Hunwick for the shot. Originally, it was given to Fast but a scoring change rewarded Hunwick with his first as a Ranger. A nice reward for the extra defenseman who’s played well so far in place of Kevin Klein. He had a goal and assist and got second star.

But the two-goal lead wasn’t safe. Less than two minutes later off a faceoff win from Bjugstad, Brandon Pirri was able to beat Talbot with a quick wrister low for his 15th cutting it to 2-1 with 9:49 left.

The Panthers pressed the action furiously. They came in waves. Dissatisfied with his team’s performance, Vigneault mixed up his lines moving J.T. Miller up with Derick Brassard and Mats Zuccarello. He also tried Rick Nash back with Kreider and Derek Stepan, who was held off the score sheet for a 10th straight game. Complicating matters, Martin St. Louis was injured on a late shift falling down behind the Florida net. He limped off. Many are concerned about it but Vigneault gave a promising update afterwards.

Of course, we won’t know the full extent. Who knows if he’ll play Wednesday when the Blackhawks visit. There are some interesting games coming up. Following a 3/21 visit to Carolina, the Ducks come in 3/22 and Kings visit on my Dad’s birthday 3/24. It should be fun.

The win gives the Rangers a Conference best 95 points. They’re now five clear of the Islanders and seven up on the Penguins. More and more, it’s looking like they’ll win the Metro Division and compete for the President’s Trophy. They’re two up on Nashville, Anaheim, St. Louis and Montreal for the most points. What does it all mean? Not too much. So much is riding on what happens the next three months. Or as Billy Joel sang:

“1-2-3-4…Pressure!”

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Matt Hunwick, NYR (game-winner-1st of season, assist, +2 in 16 shifts-13:43)

2nd Star-Dominic Moore, NYR (2 assists, 8-and-9 on faceoffs, +1 in 13;13)

1st Star-Cam Talbot, NYR (38 saves tying career high-13-2-3 2.20 GAA .927 save percentage 2 SHO since taking over)

Notes: Rangers only had 8 shots blocked and missed the net 10 times. They were out-attempted 98-52 and still prevailed. … Each team finished with nine giveaways. Playing against his brother Jimmy, Kevin Hayes struggled with four giveaways and lost all six faceoffs with just one shot. … Panthers won 36 of 62 draws (58 percent) led by Dave Bolland (12-and-4). Moore was the Rangers’ best going 8-and-9 while Miller was .500 (2-and-2).

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BONY Preview: Rangers Host Panthers

Posted on March 15, 2015 by Derek

The Rangers return home to host the Panthers at 5 EST. Winners of five of six, they enter today’s match leading the Eastern Conference with 93 points. By virtue of 40 regulation and overtime wins along with two fewer games played, they are first over the Atlantic leading Canadiens, who also have 93 points.

With Montreal sending the Islanders to another defeat, the Rangers lead the Metro by three points with 15 games remaining. The Penguins will remain five out due to a blowout loss to the Red Wings. Updating the wildcard race, the Bruins and Capitals face off tonight with an identical 82 points. They lead Florida by six and Ottawa by seven.

To their credit, the Panthers have hung around without injured starter Roberto Luongo and backup Al Montoya. Due to the play of vet Dan Ellis, they remain in play for the wildcard. Ellis made 27 saves in a 2-0 shutout of the Hurricanes yesterday. He’s started the last four games allowing the Panthers to go 3-0-1. At 31-23-14 with just 24 ROW and 14 games left, they must play very well and get help down the stretch.

Since coming over from the Devils at the deadline, Jaromir Jagr has fit in well posting a goal and four assists in six contests. When Jagr plays, the Panthers haven’t lost a game in regulation going 5-0-1 during that span. The one game he missed they lost to the Leafs 3-2 on 3/3 when both Luongo and Montoya got hurt.

Nick Bjugstad leads the Cats with 24 goals and is tied with Jonathan Huberdeau for the team lead in scoring with 41 points. A 2010 first round pick, the 22-year old Minnesota native has developed into a good scorer improving on his rookie totals of 16-22-38 in ’13-14. He also leads them with seven power play goals. Huberdeau has been hot of late with eight points (2-6-8) in his last six. The third-year forward has returned to form after a tough sophomore year that saw him record 28 points.

Veteran Jussi Jokinen has been a reliable playmaker. His 32 assists pace the club. He has an assist in each of the last four and is 1-7-8 over the last 10. Brandon Pirri, who scored his 14th goal in Saturday’s win has six markers over the last 10. He came over from the Blackhawks last draft for a 2014 third round pick (Justin Kirkland) and a 2016 fifth round pick. Jimmy Hayes is second in goals with 17. He and Dylan Olsen came over from Chicago for Kris Versteeg. When you consider that Dale Tallon is the GM and you see the number of ex-Hawks including Brian Campbell (3-20-23) and Dave Bolland (18 points in 39 games), it’s not all that surprising.

2014 first overall pick Aaron Ekblad has been as good as advertised. His 11 goals and 23 assists for 34 points has him in contention for the Calder Trophy. He’s up against freshmen Filip Forsberg (21-32-53) and Johnny Gaudreau (19-34-53) in a deep rookie class that includes Mike Hoffman (24-18-42), John Klingberg (10-26-36), Anders Lee (23-15-38), Kevin Hayes (13-19-32) and Michael Hutchinson (20 W). The difference is Ekblad is only 19 and anchoring Florida’s blueline after going number one. Pretty impressive.

Florida also boasts youngster Aleksander Barkov. He scored his 11th in a win over Winnipeg. The 19-year old Finn center has great skill and should be a future star. He matched his rookie total with 24 points. The 11 goals are a career best. Second-year forward Vincent Trocheck has 17 points. He’s a 2011 third round pick.

They also have veterans Brad Boyes, Scottie Upshall, another ex-Hawk Tomas Kopecky and captain Willie Mitchell, who was on the Stanley Cup champion Kings. With a mix of vets and kids, the Panthers have improved. They play hard and should be hungry when they visit MSG. They’re in a playoff race.

For the Blueshirts, Cam Talbot returns to net following a rare night off. He’s 12-2-3 since taking over number one duty for Henrik Lundqvist, who still hasn’t been medically cleared to return. He’s taking low shots in practice. With his status uncertain, who knows when he’ll be back. With Talbot performing so well and young pup MacKenzie Skapski winning his first two starts against the Sabres, the Rangers suddenly are pretty deep at goalie. Especially with prospects Brandon Halverson and Igor Shestyerkin proving to be good draft picks.

A once perceived organizational weakness is now a strength. If they trade Talbot either this summer or at next year’s deadline, they should get a good return including some of those picks Glen Sather gave up. There’s not much negative to say about the job he’s done. He was able to move Lee Stempniak to Winnipeg and Keith Yandle has fit in well scoring his first goal and point as a Ranger in Saturday’s win. With Kevin Klein out, it looks like a brilliant move. If only the coaching staff could remember what a power play is supposed to look like.

Derek Stepan is without a point in nine straight. Hard to believe because he’s not playing badly. When you have streaky linemates, it happens. At least Martin St. Louis has scored in two straight and the good Chris Kreider has reemerged. I disagree with Alain Vigneault benching J.T. Miller for his penalty. Granted, he didn’t have much of a game. But it seemed harsh. Especially on Miller’s 22nd birthday. Though he did move Miller up for an ineffective Kreider in a recent win. I wish AV held other players to the same standard.

What to think of Tanner Glass regaining his spot in the lineup over James Sheppard. He has played better. That much is evident despite the Corsis. However, every now and then you have to cringe like when Glass had a blatant giveaway that nearly led to a Sabres scoring chance. Thankfully, Marc Staal recovered in time. Sheppard is clearly a better player. Is this just Vigneault being too loyal to a guy he coached in Vancouver? I hope he realizes what’s best once the postseason begins.

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Skapski Skaps! First career shutout in win over Sabres

Posted on March 14, 2015 by Derek

Make it two for two for MacKenzie Skapski. In his second career start against Buffalo, the 20-year old rookie goalie posted his first NHL shutout in a Rangers 2-0 win over the Sabres. Skapski stopped all 20 shots for his second victory in three weeks with both coming against the NHL’s worst team.

To Buffalo’s credit, they played hard. The Rangers played down to their competition which forced Skapski into some difficult saves. There were a couple of highlights including a sliding stop and a couple of others on point blank chances including a stone job on a Tyler Ennis breakaway. The Sabres did their part working diligently. They just couldn’t find the back of the net against Skapski, who since allowing a Matt Moulson goal on his first shot faced 14 seconds in on 2/20 has a shutout streak of 118:54.

Even though it’s come at the expense of the 30th ranked team, you have to admire Skapski’s poise and concentration. Despite it being a very dull game, he never lost his focus turning aside seven Buffalo shots in the first, seven in the second and six in the third. For a 2013 sixth round pick, the 20-year old from British Columbia shows a maturity that bodes well. In his first pro season, he has won 12 games with Hartford posting a 2.38 goals-against-average, .914 save percentage and two shutouts.

There really isn’t much to analyze. For two periods, the Rangers struggled to outplay the Sabres. They didn’t register enough shots on Anders Lindback, who was solid finishing with 31 saves. He saw 18 shots the first 40 minutes and stopped everything. There weren’t many close calls with the mere exception of Martin St. Louis misfiring on a Matt Hunwick pass tossing a backhand off the goalpost with an open side.

To be brutally honest, the Rangers third and fourth lines outplayed the top two lines. With the exception of a dangerous turnover at the Buffalo blueline that teammate Marc Staal bailed him out on, Tanner Glass played a strong game along with Dominic Moore and Jesper Fast. In fact, Fast was bumped up by Alain Vigneault for the third replacing an ineffective J.T. Miller, who struggled on his 22nd birthday. I still hated seeing him get benched due to a penalty by the coach, who seems to have it out for him.

Fast came close on one chance, hitting the far goalpost in the third with the game still scoreless. It was actually Keith Yandle who unlocked the tie when his wrist shot went though a Chris Kreider screen past Lindback at 7:31. On a good forecheck by St. Louis, he got the puck to Yandle at the point. This time, he didn’t hesitate firing a seeing eye shot through traffic for his first goal as a Ranger. Also coincidentally his first point in six games since coming over from Arizona.

Yandle has been better defensively than advertised. He hasn’t struggled in his end and has made good reads either by skating out or making a smart first pass. Maybe playing for the Coyotes had an adverse affect. He remained on the third pair teamed with Hunwick, who replaced injured Kevin Klein. Marc Staal worked with Dan Boyle, who had a solid game.

If there’s an area that remains an eyesore, it’s the power play. In three attempts against a horrible penalty killing team, they didn’t come close. If you want to skip a portion of any Ranger game, just take your break when they’re on a 5-on-4. It is hideous. All they do is pass, pass, pass. One example had Boyle with the puck wide open and he hesitated before shooting into a Sabre. It really is exasperating.

Fortunately, it’s not costing them. The Rangers are now three points up on the slumping Islanders, who were shutout by the Canadiens at home. With 15 games left, it looks like it’s their division to win or lose. With the Caps losing Friday and the Pens suffering a shutout against the resurgent Bruins that saw Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin hurt, the Rangers are in great position.

Keep winning and they’ll lock up the Metro and earn home ice. A St. Louis empty netter sealed it. It was his 20th of the season.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Anders Lindback, BUF (31 saves incl. 13/14 in 3rd)

2nd Star-Keith Yandle, NYR (1st goal as a Ranger-5th of season, 3 SOG in 6 attempts, +1 in 18:34)

1st Star-MacKenzie Skapski, NYR (20 saves for 1st NHL shutout-2-0-0 vs Sabres)

Notes: Playing his third straight game over James Sheppard, Glass recorded four hits and lost a scrap to Nicolas Deslauriers despite coming back. … Despite not recording a point for a ninth consecutive game, Derek Stepan was effective winning 14 of 19 draws while registering four shots and going plus-two in 18:03. … Hunwick took 21 shifts (15:29) finishing with a shot, a minor penalty and a plus-one. … As a team the Rangers won 34 of 53 faceoffs. Dominic Moore went 8-and-3. Philip Varone went 6-and-5 for Buffalo. … Sabres blocked 18 shots to the Rangers’ 4 with Mike Weber accounting for 9.

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MacKenzie Skapski gets second start against lottery driven Sabres

Posted on March 14, 2015 by Derek

Three weeks ago, MacKenzie Skapski celebrated his first NHL win in a successful debut by making 24 saves in a 3-1 win against the Sabres. The 20-year old 2013 sixth round pick looks to go two for two at Buffalo when he makes his second start tonight.

Since Henrik Lundqvist went down to a sprained blood vessel, it’s been mostly Cam Talbot who has carried the Rangers to a 13-2-3 record vaulting them ahead of the Islanders into first in the Metro. Currently tied in points (91) with Montreal and Tampa Bay, they’re also first in the East due to less games played. Although the Lightning own the most regulation and overtime wins (40) in the conference, they’ve played three more games. The Rangers have 39 ROW, which is three better than the Canadiens who visit Long Island.

With Talbot making the last nine starts posting a 7-1-1 mark, Alain Vigneault finally found a day to rest the valuable backup who’s increased his trade value if Glen Sather decides to shop him at the NHL Draft. The Rangers are playing the first of a back-to-back this weekend with the Panthers visiting MSG tomorrow for a special 5 PM start. Talbot will be back in.

In the mean time, it gives Skapski the spotlight to shine. Even if it’s against the team with the worst record chasing Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel, he still has to perform. Even if the Sabres aren’t winning games, they still compete hard for Ted Nolan. They lost in a shootout 4-3 to the Leafs Wednesday. A game they came back in. Tyler Ennis scored his team best 17th and Matt Moulson notched his 10th. They’re winless in five (0-4-1) last beating Vancouver 6-3 on Feb. 26.

Wins have been hard to come by for a rebuilding franchise. At the deadline, GM Tim Murray stayed busy unloading Michal Neuvirth to the Islanders, Chris Stewart to the Wild, Brian Flynn and Torrey Mitchell to the Canadiens and Drew Stafford to the Jets. In a challenging year that’s seen them go 19-42-6 with a league worst 44 points, Buffalo has traded their top two goalies with Jhonas Enroth going to Dallas. They also made an intriguing blockbuster sending Tyler Myers to Winnipeg for Zach Bogosian in a bigger deal.

Currently, the Sabres chief competition for the number one overall pick should come from Edmonton (48 points) and Arizona (50 points). Carolina (58) and Toronto (60) round out the NHL’s five worst teams. If they do win the Draft Lottery and wind up with McDavid, he’ll team with 2014 first overall pick Sam Reinhart to form a 1-2 punch. They were teammates for Canada’s gold medal team at the World Junior Championship.

While there hasn’t been a whole lot positive for the Sabres, Ennis has had a good year pacing them in scoring with 37 points. He is the team leader in goals (17), points (37) and power play points (12). In the first year of a contract that pays him an average cap hit of $4.6 million, the former 2008 first round pick is one of the few building blocks. Along with promising second-year forward Zemgus Girgensons, who’s third in scoring with 30 points (15-15-30), they’ll be viewed as leaders along with Moulson.

Former 2010 Wild second round pick Johan Larsson is currently playing on the top line with Ennis and Moulson. He tallied a career high three points (1-2-3) in the loss at Toronto. Larsson has goals in two straight along with 12 hits. He was acquired with goalie Matt Hackett, a Minnesota 2013 first round pick (Nikita Zadorov) and a Minnesota 2014 second round pick (Vaclav Karabacek) for Jason Pominville and a 2014 Buffalo fourth round pick (William Lagesson). That could be one of those deals that turns into a steal for the Sabres. Pominville is signed with the Wild through 2018-19.

For Buffalo, it’s all about the future. Boasting a plethora of prospects that include Jake McCabe, J.T. Compher, Hudson Fasching, Gustav Possler, Justin Bailey and Cal Petersen, they are set up over the long term. Both 2013 first round picks Zadorov and Rasmus Ristolainen are already on the team’s blueline.

It’s a long climb to the top.

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Gomez writes emotional first-person account of his career

Posted on March 14, 2015 by hasan4978

Scott Gomez has proven this season he’s indeed ‘not done’ as an NHL player (NJ.com photo)

Normally, doing a blog almost entirely about another blog is a bit unconventional. However, both the Players’ Tribune blog itself, and specifically their most recent piece by the Devils’ own Scott Gomez is definitely worthy of the fifteen minutes-half hour it will take you to read through it:

http://www.theplayerstribune.com/not-done/

You’ve probably heard of the Players’ Tribune since it was founded by none other than Yankees legend Derek Jeter.  In a nutshell, it features many athletes writing first-person accounts of their career or of specific events in it with their own voice – and from what I’ve seen of this site, they aren’t watered down versions of events either.  While it might not be breaking new ground on paper, it’s definitely far more substantive than Twitter or most everyday local and national interviews.  In a player’s autobiography, you may have to read through hundreds of pages of family life and background stuff before you get to what really interests you as a sports fan…the nitty-gritty of the athlete’s career.  These blogs cut to the chase and are quicker reads but informative nonetheless.

Take this piece on Gomez, which is particularly poignant given that for better or worse I’ve followed Gomez’s career for fifteen years since he was a happy-go-lucky teenage rookie in 2000.  Reading something written by say, Russel Wilson is nice and one of the few pieces on the site I’d read before this one, but by the same token when you’re reading something from one of ‘your own’ as a sports fan it certainly makes more of an impression.  Especially given the ups and downs in Gomez’s career, which definitely make a good narrative.  While everyone knows of the highs and lows in Gomez’s career, his account of it is more or less a soul-bearing experience, and provides some revealing behind the scenes nuggets.  I’ll just highlight a few quotes and comment on them, starting with the lead itself:

Early in my career, I’d hear about guys with long scoreless droughts and just think, How’s that even possible? It made no sense to me.

But then there I was, sitting on the bench for the Montreal Canadiens, watching our home fans in the stands dancing around in sombreros and singing “Happy Birthday” in honor of my one-year goal drought.

By that point, I was fully aware of my poor play. My lack of scoring was the subject of TV reports, newspaper columns and, yes, its own website. But it was at that moment, serving as the butt of a bad joke for 20,000 fans at the Bell Centre, that it hit me hardest.

“Holy s***, I’m that guy now.”

While everyone knew about the infamous year plus long goalscoring drought (and the infamous website referenced) during Gomez’s Montreal days, I didn’t actually realize his own fans were mocking him to such an extent.  Reading that I went ‘wow, that’s just mean’, although ironically Gomez also talks in the article about how he didn’t want to be pitied and it hurt when even his closest friends were feeling sorry for him during the down years of his career.  Of course that wasn’t the beginning or end of Gomez’s career, just the nadir.

Thankfully as a Devil fan I got to see many of his best days from 2000-2007 when he was a key cog on two Cup winning teams.  Back then, he was definitely one of my favorite players. Certainly, I loved how he was able to thread the needle with his passing and rush end-to-end like a daredevil.  I was never much of an athlete but always had good peripheral vision myself, so I could appreciate a great pass as much as or even more than a great goal.  Part of my affinity towards Gomez was also personality-based, it was a bit refreshing to see someone overtly outgoing, happy and having fun compared to the dull, introverted persona many athletes adopt to avoid contreversy.

Of course then free agency happened, and everything changed when he went to the rival Rangers.  To his credit he’s unapologetic for moving on, while at the same time understanding the feeling of many Devils fans who booed him every time he touched the puck after he left:

To a hockey fan, signing a contract with the Rangers after spending several years with New Jersey probably sounds like treason. But the truth is that most of my teammates were happy for me. They understand as much as anybody that this is a business.

That’s not to say it was an easy decision. I played on the same team with some guys for seven years. We grew up together. We were like family. There’s no question that I felt a certain loyalty to them and the organization. But at the same time, we’ve all seen the other side of it. We’ve watched our friends get cut. We’ve seen guys buy a house and then get traded a couple of months later. When you see those things, you learn very quickly how important it is to take care of yourself when you can.

Ironically, Gomez was himself traded just two years into his big contract, and after a good initial season in Montreal came the steep descent into rock bottom a couple years later. After the 2012 lockout, Gomez was bought out shortly thereafter and moved onto San Jose.  I do recall reading rumors at the time that Gomez was considering a comeback here, and he in fact talked about that decision, to choose the Sharks over a return here in 2013.

Lou was the first person I called when I made the decision to go to the Sharks. He tried to talk me out of it. He wanted me back in New Jersey. He said he wasn’t going to let me fail. I should have listened to him, but at that point I was so set on trying something new that I didn’t hear him out. I thought getting a new start would build my confidence, but what I probably needed was some familiarity. At that point my mind was made up and I just wanted to get the hell out of the east coast.

Unfortunately the reunion would have to wait a couple of years as Gomez struggled, bouncing from San Jose to Florida a year later with little success.  Many thought his career was done after last season.  It turned out however, that the seeds for his career revival were planted in those last games down in Sunrise:

My final six games with the Panthers, they had a few injuries and I got into the lineup. I figured this was my last hurrah in the NHL, so I went full-out balls to the wall. I decided I didn’t care about fitting in whatever scheme was in place; I just grabbed the damn puck and played my style of hockey. I figured in a few months, I’d probably be in a TV booth so I left everything out there. My ice time jumped from 6 minutes to 17 minutes and I played better than I had in years. At that point, the people closest to me got in contact and told me the same thing: You’re not done.

Fittingly, Not Done is the title of the piece and represents not only fact but an atitude. Everyone knows about the fact Gomez returned on a tryout contract, eventually finding a spot in the lineup in December and proving he still belonged in the league.  However, it wasn’t just a matter of coming home to familiarity for him although it certainly helped – he had to work at it too, training with reknown fitness coach Vladimir Bure (a former Olympic swimmer and father to NHL HOF’er Pavel Bure).  As Gomez writes, those sessions not only became good for him physically but also mentally, helping him believe he could still play at a high level, even as he had to wait around a couple of months for his opportunity.  To date, Gomez has 27 points in 44 games for the Devils – which might not seem that impressive except that he’s less than ten points off the team lead on an offensively-challenged Devils team, and just one assist behind Adam Henrique for the team lead in that category, despite not being on the roster the first two months of the season.  Gomez’s 27 points is also his highest point total in a season since 2010-11.

Amazingly, his career has come full circle.  Once a popular player in New Jersey, then a notorious figure after going to the Rangers and an object of pity after that, he’s become beloved again – one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dissapointing season.  In doing this blog, I intentionally left out commenting on a lot of his Devils-related stuff so as not to spoil it for anyone who hasn’t read the piece yet, but suffice it to say Gomez even after leaving never lost his regard for Lou or the organization.  Perhaps the Gomez story also helps illustrate why so many Devils eventually wind up coming back to the organization. Even if you aren’t a Devils fan though, this is a compelling narrative nonetheless.  As Gomez himself says without it being hyperbole, he’s experienced the highest highs and the lowest lows of hockey.

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Klein out three to four weeks

Posted on March 13, 2015 by Derek

The Rangers got bad news on defenseman Kevin Klein. He’s expected to be out three to four weeks. In typical fashion befitting of how James Dolan runs The Garden, the organization is terming it an “upper body” injury.

Why bother with honesty? That’s not how MSG is. They keep you in the dark about injuries. Even if some rumors suggested Klein had a broken left arm, we don’t really know the seriousness of his injury. He suffered it in the final minute of Wednesday’s 3-1 win over the Capitals after blocking a Alexander Ovechkin shot.

Without Klein, I documented in the previous post how important Keith Yandle becomes. His acquisition now looks genius by Glen Sather because it’s insurance. Though he has no points so far in five games, he has played better defensively than expected. If only he could get it going offensively. The power play has struggled. Dan Girardi has the only PPG over the last five. A stretch that’s seen the Rangers go 4-0-1 with Cam Talbot allowing five total goals.

It’ll be interesting to see how Alain Vigneault handles the minutes for our top three. With 16 games remaining, the Rangers are first overall in the East with 91 points. Chasing a President’s Trophy, they visit Buffalo tomorrow. That could be 20-year old rookie MacKenzie Skapski’s second game. Ironically, his only NHL start came against the Sabres making 24 saves for his first career win- a 3-1 triumph on Feb. 20. With Florida visiting Sunday, it’s very likely with Talbot back in for the Panthers.

At the moment, there’s nothing new to report as far as call ups. That means Matt Hunwick will step into the lineup and play third pair. Considering how they stepped up since Henrik Lundqvist’s vascular injury, it presents another challenge. We’ll see how they do the final month looking to lock up home ice.

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Injured Ranger defenseman Kevin Klein returns to New York

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Derek

After limping off the ice with 41 seconds left in last night’s 3-1 win over the Capitals, Ranger defenseman Kevin Klein returned to New York today where team doctors are examining his left arm. He blocked a Alexander Ovechkin shot and was in pain as he went to the locker room. X-rays are being taken.

If it is serious with the possibility of a broken arm, it would be a big blow to the blueline. Klein has been a consistent performer in his first full season with the Rangers. After coming over from Nashville last year for Michael Del Zotto, he’s fit in seamlessly. Klein performed well in last year’s playoffs playing a steady role on the third pair. This year, he’s stepped it up offensively setting career bests in goals (9) and points (26) while pacing the Rangers in plus/minus (24). He’s actually tied with Rick Nash.

Coach Alain Vigneault has been able to use Klein with Marc Staal in a top four role and rotate him with Dan Boyle. Klein’s versatility allows Vigneault to also team him with new acquisition Keith Yandle on the third pair. He’s even sent Klein out for some shifts with Ryan McDonagh. That speaks to how well he’s played. A gritty stay at home type with a low key approach, he’s been an unsung hero.

Nash is a lock for the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award. But if it was given to a player who has gone above the call of duty and not Team MVP, Klein would be a good choice. If he is out for an extended period, it’ll be hard to replace him. He’s a reliable player with a right-handed shot that allows Vigneault to have balanced D pairs especially since Yandle arrived. Assuming he’s out for Buffalo Saturday, that means Matt Hunwick goes back in.

The Rangers will probably be forced to recall someone from Hartford. Conor Allen would probably be the best bet. He’s a lefty as opposed to former first round pick Dylan McIlrath, who struggled mightily in a brief stint.

Whatever happens, you have to hope Klein won’t be out longer than a month. The playoffs start soon.

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Islanders re-sign Boychuk for seven years $42 million

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Derek
Rookie Anders Lee celebrates his 23rd goal with Johnny Boychuk during the first period for the Islanders. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Rookie Anders Lee celebrates his 23rd goal with Johnny Boychuk during the first period for the Islanders.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

In a move that should give them staying power when they relocate to Brooklyn, the Islanders made big news by re-signing defenseman Johnny Boychuk to a seven-year $42 million. After dealing away two second round picks (2015 & 2016) plus a conditional 2016 third round pick to Boston for the veteran, they locked up their best defenseman to a long-term deal. In the final year of a deal that pays him $3.6 million, Boychuk will make nearly double earning $6 million per season.

The 31-year old Boychuk is having a career year with seven goals, 25 assists and 32 points. The 25 helpers and 32 points pace all Islander D. He also is plus-17 with four power play goals. For Team President and GM Garth Snow, who also locked up Nick Leddy to a seven-year deal worth $38.5 million, it was a no brainer. While Leddy recoups from an upper body injury that could sideline him up to two weeks, he took care of business with Boychuk. Boasting a top four that also features Travis Hamonic and Calvin de Haan, the Islanders are in good shape.

“Johnny’s influence in our dressing room, both on and off the ice, has been immeasurable,” Snow said in an interview on the team site. “His veteran presence is an asset that we are thrilled to help lead our club.”

“Ever since I came to the Islanders, the organization has been incredible to both myself and my family,” Boychuk said. “I am proud to be an Islander and look forward to competing every night in front of such a passionate fan base for many years to come.”

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Talbot stones Capitals to move Rangers into first

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Derek
Kiss Cam: Chris Kreider kisses Cam Talbot's helmet following his 28-save performance in the Rangers' 3-1 win that moved them into first. AP Photo by Alex Brandon/Getty Images

Kiss Cam: Chris Kreider kisses Cam Talbot’s helmet following his 28-save performance in the Rangers’ 3-1 win that moved them into first.
AP Photo by Alex Brandon/Getty Images

There was a defining moment when the Capitals were on a power play and about to tie the game up. Only Nicklas Backstrom shook his head in disbelief following a remarkable glove save by Cam Talbot, who preserved a one-goal lead leading to Backstrom saying something to Talbot. It was the biggest save of what was another stellar night for the red hot backup who stoned Washington in leading the Rangers to a 3-1 win that moved them into first.

Talbot stopped 28 including all 16 Caps shots in a tired third that saw the Rangers hang on in the second of a back-to-back. Their third straight win followed up an emotional one-goal triumph over the Islanders sending them to the top of the Metropolitan Division with 91 points. The identical amount Montreal and Anaheim have. The Rangers deserve a ton of credit for catching up to take their place as the league’s number one ranked team. By virtue of 39 regulation and overtime wins along with games at hands, they now are in the hunt for the President’s Trophy.

During a challenging part of the schedule that has them on a five-game road trip with one last stop at Buffalo this weekend, they’re 3-0-1 having taken seven of eight points. Dating back to a dominant 4-1 home win over Nashville, the Rangers have picked up nine of 10 points since the deadline trade for Keith Yandle. While the former Coyote has yet to contribute offensively, his addition has strengthened the blueline making it much stingier for opponents. That includes league leading sniper Alexander Ovechkin, who after scoring his 45th struggled to hit the net and was frustrated.

Even with them nursing a one-goal lead in another tight checking game that may as well have been a playoff preview, they never panicked. Talbot was the last line of defense making every clutch save. He’s allowed five goals in his last five starts. The way he was seeing the puck, the Caps would’ve needed a huge break to even the match. They certainly tried with Troy Brouwer crashing into the net searching for a rebound that wasn’t there. That’s cause Talbot didn’t allow many. Whatever he saw, he stopped. It was like he imitated Henrik Lundqvist against an opponent who’s seen this act before.

From the outset, the Caps intention was to get the puck deep and finish every check. That was the strategy coach Barry Trotz wanted. Even though they got some good hits in, they still had trouble with the Rangers’ superior speed which made a difference the first two periods. In particular, the cohesive third line did most of the damage by scoring twice. Off a Caps mishap, Dan Boyle set up Kevin Hayes in front causing Braden Holtby to leave a rebound that Carl Hagelin deposited for his 15th at 8:20.

But Boyle went off for interference which meant the Caps biggest weapon. Not so much the power play but that guy wearing number 8. Indeed, Ovechkin struck for his league-leading 45th when off a Evgeny Kuznetsov set up, his shot deflected off a diving Jesper Fast going to the right of Talbot and in. It was also his league-leading 21st power play goal. Joel Ward picked up the secondary assist on Ovechkin’s goal that tied it at 11:43.

When the teams played five-on-five, the Rangers had the edge due to their speed. Even on a night the top line of Rick Nash, Derick Brassard and Mats Zuccarello were shutdown by Matt Niskanen and Karl Alzner, they were able to go back ahead thanks to the Hayes line. Off another Caps turnover, Hayes stole the puck, faked shot and passed for an open J.T. Miller, who went top shelf for his seventh at 16:34. Even though Miller only played 9:33 in 23 shifts, he was effective on both ends.

The Rangers ran into penalty trouble before the conclusion of the first. Following an undetected cheap shot from bruiser Tom Wilson, Dominic Moore went back at Wilson getting nabbed for interference with 56 seconds left. Tanner Glass was out and warned Wilson, who accomplished his goal taking one of their best penalty killers off the ice. Complicating matters, Ryan McDonagh high-sticked Marcus Johansson with 14 seconds left leading to a Caps 5-on-3 that spanned the first and second periods.

At the start of the second, Washington set up Ovechkin three times and he missed the net on all three one-timers by a wide margin. The one set up they did get was down low to a wide open Backstrom at the doorstep. He fired and Talbot stretched across and robbed him point blank making a huge save on the goal line. They reviewed it briefly in Toronto but they confirmed the obvious. Talbot made the save of the game.

”I just kind of instinctively reached back, and luckily, it ended up in my glove,’ “To take away their momentum on their power play, which they feed off so much, was a big momentum boost for us, that’s for sure.”

Part of that was the Caps tactics. Curtis Glencross didn’t take kindly to a clean Dan Girardi shoulder to Jay Beagle earning a roughing minor. But the Ranger power play was woeful again misfiring in three attempts managing only one shot. So much for Yandle solving the power play issues. They’re 1 for 13 since he came over and Girardi scored the one at Detroit. It’s the same old story with way too much passing and not enough shots.

Following the Caps’ penalty kill, Ovechkin took a run at Miller catching him up high with a dangerous hit resulting in an illegal check to the head minor. Glass drew an unsportsmanlike conduct for getting into it with Tim Gleason following the incident. For once, Alain Vigneault looks pretty smart having Glass in there for a second consecutive game. It was a rivalry game and a bit heated. To Glass’ credit, he continues to play better. I would still figure James Sheppard returns to the lineup Saturday in Buffalo. Vigneault likes to keep everyone fresh.

The Rangers outshot the Caps 12-4 in the second. But they’re failure to take advantage of Washington’s lack of discipline could have come back to bite them. With not much left in the fuel tank, they ceded territory in the third. The fresher team, Washington came hard from the very first shift searching for the equalizer. By that point, it was too late. Talbot was a brick wall turning away all 16 shots.

”He made four brilliant saves that were Grade-A and kept us right there,” Vigneault said while adding ”and we were able to pull it off.”

Happy St. Louis: Goalscorer Martin St. Louis gets a high five from Keith Yandle. AP Photo by Alex Brandon/Getty Images

Happy St. Louis: Goalscorer Martin St. Louis gets a high five from Keith Yandle.
AP Photo by Alex Brandon/Getty Images

With Washington opening it up more, it was only a matter of time before the Rangers cashed in on their aggressiveness. As we noted in an earlier post, the second line had been silent. They were better in the third. Fittingly, it was Chris Kreider and Martin St. Louis who combined on a crushing insurance goal with 2:27 left in regulation. Kreider intercepted a John Carlson pass at the New York blueline and flew literally breaking in two-on-one and dishing across for a perfect St. Louis finish top shelf. St. Louis’ 19th was his first point in eight. Kreider made it happen ending a three-game pointless drought.

That put the finishing touches on another win. This one allowing the Rangers to improve to 31-7-3 over the last 41. At one point, Anaheim led the league in points by a lot. There was also a time where it was an uphill climb. That’s no longer the case. The Rangers are finally at the top of the standings. With 16 games remaining, home ice is there for the taking. And the pressure that will come with it promises to be a whirlwind the like we haven’t seen in this area since that special year.

What happens when Henrik Lundqvist comes back? Talk about a pressure cooker. The brilliant play of Talbot has allowed him to rest up. The countdown is on.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Ryan McDonagh, NYR (4 hits, 4 blocked shots, +1 in 37 shifts-20:51)

2nd Star-Kevin Hayes, NYR (2 assists, 2 SOG, +2 in 23 shifts-10:40)

1st Star-Cam Talbot, NYR (28 saves incl. 16/16 in 3rd-CamBot)

Notes: Kevin Klein took a puck to the left arm and left the contest in the final minute. He’ll have x-rays tomorrow. If he is lost for any significant time, it would be a big blow. … Beagle suffered an “upper body injury” according to Trotz. … The Caps were minus defensemen Mike Green and Brooks Orpik. … The teams combined for 64 hits with the Caps holding a 34-30 edge led by Wilson’s 6. Girardi and Glass shared the Ranger lead with 6 each. … Blocked shots were 20-15 Rangers paced by McDonagh’s 4 with Fast blocking 3. Carlson led everyone with 6. … Faceoffs were in favor of the Caps 38-29. Eric Fehr dominated going 12-and-3. Despite no points in an eighth straight, Derek Stepan went 12-and-11.

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What Should The Rangers Do With Martin St. Louis

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Derek
Marty St. Louis celebrates his goal with Rick Nash and Marc Staal. AP Photo by Frank Franklin II/Getty Images

Marty St. Louis celebrates his goal with Rick Nash and Marc Staal.
AP Photo by Frank Franklin II/Getty Images

It’s an exciting time to be a Rangers fan. They’re playing their best hockey. After defeating the Islanders 2-1 in the final regular season meeting at Nassau Coliseum, they pulled within a point of first place. With 89 points and 38 regulation and overtime wins (ROW) in 65 games, they’re in great position to win the Metropolitan Division. If they can win at Washington tonight, they’ll take over first and still have three extra games remaining.

Astonishingly, they’ve gone 30-7-3 over the last 40 games. Even without Henrik Lundqvist, they haven’t missed a beat. Due in large part to Cam Talbot and the continued big season from Rick Nash, the Rangers look like a Stanley Cup contender. Lately, they haven’t been scoring as much relying more on Talbot and a remade defense thanks to the addition of Keith Yandle. Being able to win tight low scoring games is a plus this time of year. It proves why they made a trip to the Stanley Cup Final last year.

If there is one concern with a month left, it’s the play of Martin St. Louis. Acquired at last year’s trade deadline for former captain Ryan Callahan plus two first round picks including 2015, the former Hart winner has been streaky this season. In the final year of a contract that pays him $5 million, the soon to be 40-year old is being counted on for offense. His 18 goals rank second and 44 points are third on the team.

Overall, that’s not bad. Playing a top six role on the second line with Derek Stepan and Chris Kreider, he has done his part. However, St. Louis has also gone through cold stretches which are alarming. Entering tonight’s match at Washington, he’s without a point in seven straight. Making matters worse, Kreider is without a point in three straight and was taken off the line by coach Alain Vigneault in the third period last night. J.T. Miller replaced him.

If they’re to have success this postseason, the Rangers can ill afford for two/thirds of the second line to have off nights. Fortunately, Kevin Hayes’ accelerated development has taken pressure off. The rookie scored a brilliant tying goal in Tuesday’s win. His continued improvement along with Miller and old reliable Carl Hagelin has given Vigneault a strong third line that forechecks vigorously and chips in offensively. The acquisition of James Sheppard has also solidified the fourth line. Dominic Moore continues to fly under the radar quietly putting up six goals and 19 points while winning key faceoffs. Rookie Jesper Fast has been steady. Even Tanner Glass has improved.

While you can make the argument that this team is four lines deep, they’ll need more out of St. Louis. As he provided last Spring scoring and setting up big goals with the team rallying around him following the death of his Mom, St. Louis is a locker room leader who’s respected. Kreider has learned from him as has Stepan, whose production has been affected by his linemates’ struggles. He also is without a point in seven. The difference with Stepan is you still notice him. One of the team’s best two-way forwards, he shows up defensively and makes big plays like breaking up a dangerous Islanders’ chance in the final half minute. He also has teamed with Nash to form a dangerous penalty killing tandem that have combined for five shorthanded goals.

When St. Louis and Kreider aren’t scoring, they’re not as noticeable. Especially Kreider, who is probably one of the worst defensive forwards on the team. The second-year left wing still struggles in the defensive zone with giveaways. Something Vigneault doesn’t tolerate despite his more aggressive approach. He still had Kreider out on the power play despite the demotion. Vigneault understands the value of using his players to their strengths. He also hasn’t hesitated to switch Kevin Klein to the second pair with Marc Staal late in games over Dan Boyle.

With St. Louis, he still competes. You do have to wonder what the Rangers plan is this summer. Already having re-signed Mats Zuccarello to a four-year $18 million contract, they must bump up Stepan significantly. A bargain at an average cap hit of $3.075 million, he is earning $3.85 million this season. Despite missing the first month, he ranks fourth in team scoring with 43 points (11-32-43) in 51 games. He should have good leverage and get between five to six million.

Team President and GM Glen Sather also has a decision on Hagelin. Currently making $2.4 million, the underrated 25-year old Swede has put together a good year. Despite playing mostly with Hayes who went through some growing pains, Hagelin has 14 goals and 15 assists for 29 points and a solid plus-16 rating in a checking role. He continues to be a pest shorthanded using his dangerous speed to bother opponents. Just ask the Islanders. While he might not be more than a top nine forward, he’s proven his value and can be counted on. Unless there’s another player who the organization believes can replace him, he should be re-signed. That’ll mean a bump up in salary.

The only other restricted’s the club has are Fast and Miller. Perhaps Fast moves up to the third line if Sather decides to trade Hagelin to shed salary and recoup a pick. Much depends on what happens with Pavel Buchnevich. When they parted with Anthony Duclair for Yandle, it signaled that they would like to bring Buchnevich over from Russia. The 2013 third round pick had a big year with Cherepovets Severstal of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) tallying 13 goals and 17 assists for 30 points in 48 games. A significant total for a 19-year old in a pro league. The club also signed 2013 third round pick Adam Tambellini. He’s totaled 45 goals and 34 assists for 79 points in 65 games for the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL). A high scoring league.

The Rangers are committed to all six of their defensemen including Yandle, who can become unrestricted the following summer. They already re-signed Talbot for another year. But the way he’s played, he could be trade bait with an attractive $1.45 million salary for ’15-16.

What does it all mean for St. Louis? Unless he improves down the stretch and delivers a similar performance to the 15 points (8-7-15) he had last postseason, the popular veteran could be the odd man out. Unless he’d be willing to take a pay cut to finish his career on Broadway, it’s hard to see him returning. But it’s awfully hard to replace a top six forward with his skill set and experience. They already sacrificed Duclair, who could’ve been his replacement.

Whatever the Rangers decide, it’ll be one worth following this summer.

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