On Turkey Eve, Martin St. Louis returns to Tampa

Posted on November 26, 2014 by Derek
A Louis Louis Louis: Martin St. Louis celebrates one of two goals on a memorable night. The Canadian Press

A Louis Louis Louis: Former Lightning Martin St. Louis celebrates one of two goals on a memorable night one year ago today.
The Canadian Press

Tonight, there will be plenty of emotion for Marty St. Louis who returns to Tampa for the first time since the big trade last March. The former Hart winner who led the Lightning to the franchise’s only Stanley Cup spent 14 years in the Sunshine State before turning heel by requesting a trade to the Rangers. To this day, most observers point to his omission from Canada. Getting passed over by general manager Steve Yzerman hurt his pride.

Whatever the case, the first captain for captain deadline deal saw St. Louis move to Broadway for Ryan Callahan, who drew criticism for his contract demands. As he indicated in a successful MSG return highlighted by two goals in a 5-1 Lightning win, it really boiled down to the no-trade clause. He wound up taking less to stay with Tampa due to getting the NTC until the final couple of years of the contract.

If Nov. 17 was all about Callahan plus former Blueshirts Brian Boyle and Anton Stralman, all the attention will be on St. Louis. In 972 total games with Tampa, he tallied 365 goals and 588 assists for 953 points. That included a memorable 94 points (38-56-94) to win the Hart in ’03-04. He followed it up by notching nine goals and 15 assists in the playoffs- teaming with Brad Richards and Vincent Lecavalier to win the Cup. No moment was bigger than his goal in double overtime at Calgary that sent the series back to Tampa for Game 7. Ruslan Fedotenko scored twice in Game 7 highlighting the Bolts’ only Cup.

Ironically, St. Louis’ return comes exactly a year later when he torched the Rangers for two goals and an assist in a 5-0 Lightning win. That night, he was honored by the franchise for reaching 1,000 points. In typical fashion, he put on a show. Fast forward a year later and he’s already become a fan favorite with his new team. It was during the postseason where the Rangers came together by rallying from a 3-1 deficit to stun the Pens in the second round following the death of St. Louis’ Mom. No moment was more special than St. Louis scoring this goal on Mother’s Day in Game 6. In their run to the Stanley Cup Final, St. Louis had eight goals and seven assists. That included a huge sudden death goal to beat the Canadiens in Game 4 at MSG. The Rangers took the series in six.

After a slow start, he’s been on fire. St. Louis enters tonight with four goals in his last six games. Dating back to Nov. 3, he has 11 points (7-4-11) over the last 10. For the season, he ranks second in team scoring with 17 points (8-9-17). In a lopsided 5-1 loss against his former team, he scored the lone goal but went minus-four. That one stung leading to some strong criticism from St. Louis who wondered how his team could live with the effort they gave. Figure them to be ready from the drop of the puck. It would be fitting if St. Louis scored and led the Rangers to a win. That’s the kind of player he is.

I’m sure he’ll get booed more than Callahan. However, you have to figure the Lightning fans will cheer loudly when they show a video. But once that drama ends, he’ll hear it. It should be quite the appetizer on Turkey Eve. Unfortunately, I won’t be around to see it. But I should catch the ending and replay.

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Schneider’s 34 saves not enough in loss to Canucks

Posted on November 26, 2014 by Derek

Cory Schneider returned to Vancouver. He did his part making 34 saves. His teammates did not. The Devils were shutout by the Canucks 2-0. Ryan Miller made 20 saves to hand them a second straight defeat. They concluded a four-game road trip 1-2-1.In a mediocre division, they’re fifth with 21 points trailing the Rangers by a point for third. With nine wins in their first 22 games, what exactly are they? It’s a point resident Devil blogger Hasan has driven home in this space.

After getting a rare night off in what can be called the Calgary debacle, Schneider made his 21st start. Despite a heavy workload similar to former all-time great Martin Brodeur, he’s performed well lately. Over his last six starts, Schneider is 3-3-0 with a 1.53 goals-against-average, .951 save percentage and two shutouts. He can’t be much better than that.

Clearly, the Devils lack consistency. Offensively challenged, they’ve scored 2 goals-or-fewer in 13 games. Their record is 4-8-1. When they score three-or-more, they’re 5-2-2. Goals have been hard to come by recently. With the lone exception being the four they put against the Flames, they’ve totaled six in five of their last six. During that span, they’re 2-3-1. Since a perfect 3-0-0 start, they’re 6-10-3. That simply won’t cut it.

On a night the Canucks paid tribute to former coach and general manager Pat Quinn who passed away at age 71, they dominated. Only Schneider prevented an onslaught stopping all 17 shots in a lopsided first period. The Devils mustered only five. He couldn’t do anything about Vancouver’s first goal which came 1:14 into the second. A Marek Zidlicky turnover led directly to Alex Burrows redirecting a Kevin Bieksa pass into an open side. After failing to clear the zone, Zidlicky was beaten badly by Burrows in front. It was not his night. The veteran also got victimized on Vancouver’s second goal.

Trailing by one, the Devils picked it up. Jaromir Jagr had a couple of chances along with top center Travis Zajac, who ran out of room with Miller down. Zajac has four goals and four assists so far. He isn’t really a top pivot but is being asked to anchor the number one line. At what point does coach Pete DeBoer consider flipping Zajac with Adam Henrique? In 16 games, Henrique has six goals and six assists. He remains their second center. For the time being, Zajac plays with Jagr and Mike Cammalleri, who’s performed up to expectations. With Patrik Elias not as productive and Michael Ryder ice cold after a good start, DeBoer should think about tweaking his lines.

Astonishingly, the Devils’ best chance came off the stick of Steve Bernier. Perfectly set up, he was robbed by a sprawling Miller, who managed to get a piece of a shot labeled for top shelf. It was the save of the game. A few minutes later, a horrible Zidlicky turnover inside allowed Shawn Matthias to score on a breakaway. Zidlicky mishandled the puck allowing Matthias to get behind him. His backhand went off Schneider and then deflected off Zidlicky and in increasing Vancouver’s lead to 2-0 with 5:23 left in regulation.

Predictably, DeBoer pulled Schneider early with over three minutes remaining. It didn’t matter. The Devils return home on Black Friday to host the Red Wings.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Ryan Miller, Canucks (20 save shutout, 2nd of season)

2nd Star-Alex Burrows, Canucks (GWG-5th of season, 5 SOG, +1 in 14:40)

1st Star-Cory Schneider, Devils (34 saves incl. 17/17 in 1st)

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Rangers dominate Canadiens 5-0

Posted on November 24, 2014 by Derek

This one was one to point to. Playing for the first time since Wednesday due to the cancellation of the Sabres game, the Rangers handled the Canadiens with ease winning 5-0 at MSG. Their second straight win was a repeat in one aspect. It was another shutout. Probably the easiest of Henrik Lundqvist’s career. He only needed 21 saves against a road weary opponent who played the night before defeating the Bruins.

Bottom line. They did what they had to taking full advantage of a tired team who started their backup. Dustin Tokarski couldn’t duplicate his performance in the Conference Final getting lit up for five goals on 34 shots. The first couple were bad. Especially allowing a rebound off a routine Tanner Glass shot that Dominic Moore stuffed in for his first this season. As stunning as that was, both Glass and Jesper Fast picked up assists for their first points. That’ll silence the Glass detractors for the time being.

It wasn’t a perfect start. There were a couple of misplays that led to Montreal chances but Lundqvist stifled them with 11 saves in the first period. One of those came on a John Moore giveaway that nearly allowed Brandon Prust to capitalize. Dan Girardi got very lucky with his customary sliding block. He really shouldn’t do it as it takes him out of position. If the pass gets through, it’s a tap in for Prust.

Lundqvist also was an adventure twice coming out of his net. The first sequence saw him give away the puck and then scramble back. I tweeted that he should be velcro’d to the net. The second instance was much more dangerous. Following a Carl Hagelin goal that put it out of reach, he wandered out to play a puck only to get nailed by Prust, who tried to stop. However, his momentum sent Lundqvist flying leading to Kevin Klein challenging Prust. Another great quality even if Klein bit off more than he could chew. Finally, a defenseman willing to step up.

Once the first concluded, so did the Habs’ chances. The long change in the second doomed them. As if to make a point, Marty St. Louis made a brilliant backhand feed to Derek Stepan, who wristed home his second only 35 seconds in. It literally was a fastball by St. Louis. Just amazing skill from a future Hall Of Famer. He had a wonderful night also scoring a beauty later in the period that increased the Ranger lead to 3-0. St. Louis stripped the puck from a Canadien and broke in and beat Tokarski easily for his eighth. They gave assists to Chris Kreider and John Moore. Kreider had a pair of helpers and had his best game in a while shooting the puck. Tokarski denied him twice.

The Rangers dominated for long stretches. Following 11 shots in the first, the Canadiens only totaled 10 the rest of the match. They really were lethargic and didn’t have their legs. The result was predictable. Sadly, Tokarski was left to fend for himself. He actually made some good saves off point blank chances. Otherwise, it could’ve been uglier.

A bright spot was the play of Anthony Duclair. The 19-year old rookie was active throughout and finally got rewarded. During a strong shift with linemates Kevin Hayes and Hagelin, he set up the Rangers’ fourth goal. Hayes came out with the puck from behind the net and passed for Duclair, who passed in front for a Hagelin finish. It was his fifth. He’s quietly played well despite working with first-year players. A credit to how hard he works. As for Duclair, he also went back at P.K. Subban earning matching slashes following a collision with Tokarski. The kid is feisty.

Throughout, I sat next to three Canadiens fans in the last row of Section 419. I counted seven in our section. Even though their team was outclassed, they stayed and continued showing support. I had a nice dialogue with my Habs contingent on the game, Subban and Prust. One thing about Montreal fans, they are as diehard as it gets. I loved seeing one fan draped in a classic maroon red Canadien flag. Their enthusiasm was a bright spot on an otherwise bad game. Sure. The Rangers won. But it wasn’t competitive. As one fan remarked next to me, “At least lose with dignity.”

For the Rangers, they did what they had to and have outscored opponents 7-0 during the two wins. The next one is a little tougher with a visit to Tampa on Turkey Eve. They owe them one following that no show in Ryan Callahan’s return. Below is a classic scene from Major League II. Win that one and that’s called a winning streak. It has happened before.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Kevin Klein, NYR (4 hits, fight, +3 in 21 shifts-15:39)

2nd Star-Chris Kreider, NYR (2 assists, team-leading 7 SOG, 5 hits, +2 in 16:06)

1st Star-Marty St. Louis, NYR (8th of season, assist, +2 in 16:37)

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Devils’ Western Canada trip microcosm of their season

Posted on November 23, 2014 by hasan4978

Scott Clemmensen making a save in last night’s shootout, which the Devils wound up losing anyway (NJ.com)

Last night may have provided the perfect symbolism for two ships passing in the night.  While the Islanders completed a home-and-home sweep of the Penguins that lifted a previously hapless team into first place, the Devils continue to stumble every time they try to surge back into playoff position.  New Jersey’s entire season – and really the entirety of their last three years under Pete DeBoer can be encapsulated in the last three games.  There was a no-show performance in Winnipeg where the Jets’ speed once again ran us off the ice, followed by a good shutout win in Edmonton which combined with the first 57 minutes in Calgary provided enough of an illusion to think this team was about to make a run…then BAM yet another blown multi-goal lead, yet another shootout loss and once again the Devils are running in place.

Some people might think three points out of six are good enough heading into Vancouver, especially when you compare it to our lost weekend last year where we got only one point the entire western Canada swing…however, settling for mediocrity is part of the problem around here.  As Martin Brodeur accurately said last year, the mentality of hanging around .500 and hoping to make a run has infected this entire organization, as evidenced by a couple of DeBoer quotes from this week which really bothered me.  After the dreadful no-show in Winnipeg on Tuesday, DeBoer actually had the nerve to suggest we played ‘a good road first period’.  How anyone – much less the head coach – could ever suggest that we had a good period by any standard when we had four shots on goal in twenty minutes (outshot 9-4) and took back-to-back penalties is mind-boggling.  Why you would even want to sugar-coat a game where the Devils were outshot 23-9 in the first two periods, were horrible even-strength and showed little sign of life until Patrik Elias’s power play goal in the third period is troubling in itself.

Not to mention even after admitting last night’s (latest) blown lead fiasco in Calgary was a game that should have been won, DeBoer showed he was out of touch with reality with the following snippet after being asked whether blown leads have become a pattern:

“You guys are always looking for patterns,” DeBoer said. “There’s no pattern. This team (Calgary) has come back on lots of teams before. We’ve got some young guys at key positions and we’re learning how to win games.”

First of all, there IS a pattern of blown leads (and many times multi-goal ones at that) no matter how much Pete wants to plug his ears and deny reality or get defensive against the media for merely pointing out what everyone with two eyes can see.  When you win only half your games after scoring first – 6-4-2 when getting the first goal – that’s a clear sign of a problem.  And the ‘young guys in key positions’ excuse is a canard, particularly last night.  Last time I checked, Travis Zajac and Jaromir Jagr weren’t young guys but both had horrid turnovers that led to goals, with Jagr’s mistake particularly egregious giving away the puck in the middle of the ice causing a breakout that led to the Flames’ tying goal with just seconds remaining.  Andy Greene isn’t a ‘young’ guy and he was a -3 last night, on the ice for every single goal against.  Bryce Salvador isn’t a young guy and the PK was awful with him in the lineup, but now has been sensational with Adam Larsson (a young guy) taking his spot on the PK; last night’s goal against excepted the team killed off its first 20 or so penalties with the new lineup.  To even cite the fact we were playing young guys is missing the boat that the vets aren’t pulling their weight on.  Of course selective accountability has been part of Pete’s problems the last few years.

Being content with mediocrity has even extended to the broadcast booth, which was more concerned over celebrating the fact Elias finally ended a seventeen-game goal drought in Winnipeg after a scoring change than with dissecting the actual bad performance by the team in general.  I love Patty but I could give a hoot about that goal at that point in time.  Maybe during the game I would have been happy for him but not after a dreadful 3-1 loss was in the books.  Elias’s whole season’s been poor to this point with just two goals, eleven points and a -6 in 21 games and he’s the first to admit that, evidenced by a very revealing quote the other day when he was asked about the booing goaltender Cory Schneider got toward the end of the Devils’ last homestand (before he ended his own goal drought) Elias said something to the effect of ‘they shouldn’t be booing him…they should be booing me’.  While it’s nice one of the big names is willing to take accountability there should be more of it demanded from the top, coming from above Patty, Cory or any of the other players.  Settling for the same old nonsense for a third straight year is inexcusable.

I’m not even going to bother recapping much of what’s happened this week…what’s the point?  I’ve already spent way too much time on this team in the last 48 hours, after vowing to watch part of the game last night and tape the rest to watch in the morning of course I got sucked in once the Devils took three seperate two-goal leads.  And then of course after the latest blown lead fiasco and shootout loss I only got half a night’s worth of sleep.  I’m not going to make that mistake again Tuesday with a West Coast weeknight start.  At least Cory finally got ‘some’ rest himself last night as the Devils picked the Calgary game to finally start a backup goaltender, and with it being Scott Clemmensen poor Keith Kinkaid’s left to stew once again in the AHL though his game hasn’t come back since being demoted to Albany.  Ironically Clemmensen was good enough for the most part despite the four goals against and looking shaky at times, it still should have been a winning effort before the Devils collapsed and gave up two empty-net goals in the final 2:30 including Curtis Glencross tying the game with just five seconds remaining.  Goalies, defense and forwards may change but blown leads are still a fact of life with Pete DeBoer teams.

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“First Place Islanders” Sweep Penguins On Billy Smith Night

Posted on November 23, 2014 by Derek
Islanders great Billy Smith drops the ceremonial first puck with John Tavares and Sidney Crosby at center ice. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Islanders great Billy Smith drops the ceremonial first puck with John Tavares and Sidney Crosby at center ice.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

On a night they honored one of their all-time greats, the Islanders delivered an impressive 4-1 win before an energized Nassau Coliseum to sweep a home-and-home series from the Penguins. They followed up a 5-4 shootout triumph by scoring four unanswered to move into first place.

”The atmosphere was incredible,” coach Jack Capuano said after seeing his team improve to 14-6-0- the franchise’s best start since 1987-88. ”We played the Islander way.”

”We made high percentage plays and did a good job of matching their speed. We managed the puck well, and we played a smart game.”

With four-time Stanley Cup winning netminder Billy Smith on hand, they didn’t disappoint. Smith loved what he saw even joining MSG’s broadcast late in the second with Howie Rose and former teammate Butch Goring. As luck would have it, the Islanders tied the game when Matt Martin rebounded home a Cal Clutterbuck shot with 1:59 left. Casey Cizikas got the other helper. That it came from the fourth line felt appropriate. It was that trio that provided a spark with physical play that got the crowd into it.

On one shift, Clutterbuck, Martin and defenseman Travis Hamonic delivered big hits. Hamonic also dropped the gloves going with Pens antagonist Steve Downie earlier. After falling behind on a Evgeni Malkin goal from Patric Hornqvist and Nick Spaling, the Islanders rallied with a strong second. Upping the ante, they were more aggressive outshooting the Pens 13-7. For nearly two periods, Pittsburgh backup Thomas Greiss held them off. He was strong finishing with 31 saves in a losing effort. Eventually, the Islander pressure allowed them to seize control.

”We’re a group that really pulls for each other,” Martin said after tallying in his 300th career NHL game. ”To hear the crowd behind us like that adds a lot to our confidence.”

It was all Islanders in the third. Off some heady play from Ryan Strome, Anders Lee deflected home a Lubomir Visnovsky point shot at 2:38 to give them the lead. Thomas Hickey drew the other assist. A few minutes later, they killed a Hickey penalty after he held Malkin. With Jaroslav Halak doing the job in net with 27 saves for his sixth consecutive win, they put the game out of reach thanks to some foolishness from Downie. He took down Hickey sending them on the power play. He also earned a misconduct for the shenanigans. The Isles made him pay with textbook passing from John Tavares to Kyle Okposo to Brock Nelson for an easy finish.

Nelson’s team-leading 10th led to chants of “First Place,” “First Place,” from the crowd. The chants grew when Tavares padded the lead. His eighth off came from Johnny Boychuk and Nikolay Kulemin increasing to 4-1 with 4:14 remaining. On the play, Kulemin fed Boychuk for a shot that caromed off Greiss right to Tavares for a tap in. Afterwards, the Islanders captain alluded to the close rivalry they have with the Pens since a closely fought first round series in 2013.

”Certainly the rivalry is right up there with the Rangers,” he stated. ”It’s exciting for us and for our fans.”

”We didn’t have a good third period, and they raised their game,” Penguins captain Sidney Crosby said after being held off the score sheet for a second consecutive game. ”They were more intense than we were in the back-to-back.”

At 14-6-0 with 28 points, the Islanders are tied with the Pens for first in the Metropolitan Division. Pittsburgh has one game in hand. What matters is that the Islanders are not only competitive but look like the most improved team in the conference. They’ve now won three in a row and eight of their last nine. Ever since they took the last three on that five game road trip, they’ve been a different team. Given the depth up front along with improvement on the blueline and in goal, they have to be taken seriously. In their final year on Long Island, pride has been restored.

Billy Smith leads the Islanders out on his special night. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Billy Smith leads the Islanders out on his special night.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Travis Hamonic, NYI (2 hits, 2 blocked shots, fight in 17:31)

2nd Star-John Tavares, NYI (8th of season, assist, 8-and-6 on draws in 19:03)

1st Star-Matt Martin, NYI (2nd of season, 4 hits, +1 in 18 shifts-11:44)

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In Cam We Trust: Talbot Shuts Out Flyers

Posted on November 20, 2014 by Derek
Happy teammates congratulate Cam Talbot on his shutout. AP Photo by Frank Franklin II/Getty Images

Happy teammates congratulate Cam Talbot on his shutout.
AP Photo by Frank Franklin II/Getty Images

In Cam We Trust. Behind the goaltending of Cam Talbot, the Rangers shutout the Flyers 2-0 to end a three-game losing streak. Making his first start since Nov. 8, Talbot was sharp turning aside all 31 shots for his fourth career shutout. He wasn’t as busy as Steve Mason but the popular Rangers backup was up to the challenge. That included some key stops late when Flyers coach Craig Berube pulled Mason with over three minutes left.

”It’s a little difficult knowing that I haven’t really contributed to the team much this year,” said Talbot after winning his first game of the season. ”To be able to come out today and provide a big win after what’s been kind of a low stretch for us, it’s pretty big.”

From a psychological standpoint, it’s huge for Talbot’s confidence. He clearly struggled in his first three outings and needed a good performance. During a long season, the Rangers will need him to give Henrik Lundqvist nights off. For once, the team put together a full 60-minute effort. Even if they made the last three minutes feel like an eternity, it was like night and day. They defended well and forwards hustled back. The Blueshirts won battles all over the ice which infuriated Flyers GM Ron Hextall. Via Puck Daddy, he roasted his team in the locker room.

”It bothered me a lot,” Hextall said. ”I don’t think we were hungry enough. I’m very disappointed.”

Rivalry Night brought out the best for our side. It’s hard to explain why the Flyers were so flat. They never were really in it. If not for Mason, the Rangers could’ve had a laugher and won rather handily. But Mason gave his team a chance. He played extremely well and deserved better. He was peppered in the first two periods. The Rangers fired 27 shots and countless others including a couple of goalposts. They responded following Monday’s beating that had players and coach at a loss for words.

Kevin Klein continued his renaissance scoring for the fourth time already which matched a career high. The former Predator defenseman acquired for Michael Del Zotto has been an unsung hero. He continues to provide Alain Vigneault with a dependable blueliner capable of playing top four minutes. Once Ryan McDonagh returns, he won’t have to. But who can argue with Klein’s production? Known as a defensive defenseman, he’s added offense. So much for Dan Boyle leading the charge.

The Rangers were shorthanded late in the first period but escaped trouble. In fact, Rick Nash was stoned by Mason on a shorthanded bid with time winding down. There was little Mason could’ve done to stop Nash from steering home his team-leading 13th which increased the lead to 2-0 nearly midway through. His power play goal was perfectly set up thanks to some great passing between Boyle, Derek Stepan and Marty St. Louis. With Nick Schultz off for slashing, they worked the puck around following a Mason save on Nash. This time, Boyle fed Stepan at the point. He then dished for St. Louis who threaded the needle to Nash for an easy put away.

Cam Talbot denies Braydon Schenn. He finished with 31 saves in the Rangers' 2-0 shutout over the Flyers. AP Photo by Frank Franklin II/Getty Images

Cam Talbot denies Braydon Schenn. He finished with 31 saves in the Rangers’ 2-0 shutout over the Flyers.
AP Photo by Frank Franklin II/Getty Images

They easily could’ve had more. Mason did everything possible to keep his team in the game. It should’ve been a blowout. That’s how out of sync the Flyers looked. They were a couple of steps behind chasing the puck. Even with captain Claude Giroux surprisingly dressing, they really didn’t mount much of an attack. Especially the first two periods where they were completely outplayed. Talbot still had to come up with at least one tricky save off a weird sequence. Boyle helped tuck the puck underneath.

Both Chris Kreider and Mats Zuccarello had good nights. Each hit the post and were active during shifts. Kreider was more visible and threw the body while Zuccarello was his pesky self making a sliding block to deny a Del Zotto chance. Speaking of which, the former Ranger got over 16 minutes during the first two periods before leaving with an injury. Of course, he was booed. Playing that many minutes speaks volumes about the Flyers. They just don’t have much on the blueline. Luke Schenn is still out.

There was one scary incident late in the second where Braydon Coburn accidentally knocked down Mason behind the net. At first, Wayne Simmonds thought Tanner Glass was the guilty party. But the replay showed that he wisely avoided Mason, who had the misfortune of being run over by his own teammate. Fortunately, he was able to stay in the game.

”He [Mason] stood on his head for 60 minutes and we didn’t support him,” said Simmonds. ”We just didn’t show up.”

The Flyers got some chances in the third. They actually had 13 shots but an aggressive Talbot came out to challenge shooters. He also exhibited a quick glove denying Voracek late with Mason on the bench. When it was over, Voracek gave him a stick tap. His 10-game point streak was snapped.

”That was Cam’s real good performance. We need that from him,” Vigneault noted. ”Hopefully that will give him the confidence that he needs right now to continue to do that for us.”

NY Puck 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Kevin Klein, NYR (GWG-4th of season, 3 SOG, 2 hits, +1 in 27 shifts-17:51)

2nd Star-Cam Talbot, NYR (31 saves for 4th career shutout)

1st Star-Steve Mason, Flyers (32 saves incl. 25/27 thru 2)

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Game Preview: Rangers host Flyers on Rivalry Night

Posted on November 19, 2014 by Derek
Flyers forward Zac Rinaldo delivers a big hit on Rangers defenseman Kevin Klein in Game 1. AP Photo/Bruce Bennett

Flyers forward Zac Rinaldo delivers a big hit on Rangers defenseman Kevin Klein in Game 1.
AP Photo/Bruce Bennett

Eight days before Thanksgiving, the Rangers and Flyers renew acquaintances. The first meeting of the season is featured on NBC Sports Network for Rivalry Night with a late 8 PM start. If it’s anything like the one they played against the Red Wings two weeks ago, that would be a welcome change. Ironically, the bitter rivals also see each other for a home-and-home series 11/28-29. The other meeting isn’t until the end of February.

Considering where these two teams are in the standings, the next week is crucial. The Rangers are fourth in the Metro with 18 points. The Flyers rank sixth with 16 points in two fewer games played. Each club has 7 wins but Philadelphia has 7 ROW compared to the Rangers’ 6. When you don’t win games, it adds up. The Blueshirts have won only two all month. They need a good finish.

For the Blueshirts, Lee Stempniak is out for tonight. Jesper Fast goes back in and will play on the fourth line. He hasn’t done much. Two-thirds of that line have zero points. You can’t expect much from Tanner Glass but it’s also hurting Dominic Moore. Unlike the cynics, I have cooled off on burying Glass. You can’t blame him for everything. The third line isn’t great by any stretch. Not with Kevin Hayes playing out of position. He shows glimpses but can’t be relied on in the faceoff circle. For all the hoopla, Anthony Duclair has 1 goal. The lack of production has affected Carl Hagelin. Brad Richards isn’t easily replaced.

With kids, Alain Vigneault must continue to show patience. It takes time. However, if they continue to fail when does the organization give J.T. Miller another look? Wasn’t that supposed to be the plan? When it comes to development, you can’t trust this team. Eventually, they must have a third line that produces. It’s way too reliant on the top six. With Chris Kreider struggling and Mats Zuccarello off to a slow start, there’s not much consistency. Where would they be without Rick Nash? A thought better left unsaid.

Cam Talbot gets the call tonight. He really needs a big game. Last year, he was dependable and even carried the load for a stretch when Henrik Lundqvist was un-King like. However, that team was different. They played strong in front of him. Subtracting key cogs Anton Stralman, Brian Boyle, Benoit Pouliot and Richards has its downside. They didn’t have to replace Stralman but Glen Sather did by signing Dan Boyle. Boyle was basically thrown overboard by Vigneault. Now, he plays a bigger role in Tampa.

So much of how this team plays hinges on the system. They’ve spent a good chunk trading chances and chasing the puck. Unable to generate a sustained forecheck, it’s allowed opponents easy outs to go on the attack. The mixed defense pairs without Ryan McDonagh and lack of forwards coming back has contributed to a lackluster start. The good news is McDonagh is on target about two weeks away. Unless the effort level changes, it doesn’t guarantee anything.

The Flyers are without captain Claude Giroux, who has an injured ankle. They still are formidable with Jakub Voracek tied for the league lead in scoring with 26 points. Despite his team’s inconsistencies, Voracek is red hot. He’s on a 10-game point streak with five goals and 14 assists for 19 points. A ridiculous clip that’s featured 8 multi-point games. More impressive, he only has eight power play points with five coming in two recent games. For his career, he done alright posting 14 points in 18 games against the Rangers.

With Giroux out, the Rangers will key on Voracek. Figure Brayden Schenn see major minutes. The Flyers also boast dangerous power forward Wayne Simmonds. After a hot start, he’s cooled considerably. Six of his seven goals came in October. But he did pick up one in a win over Colorado. Simmonds is a tough match-up due to his size and physicality. He always gives our D fits. Marc Staal and Dan Girardi have their work cut out. Five of Simmonds’ seven career goals against us have come on the power play. The best advice is to stay out of the penalty box. The man-advantage is where the Flyers do most of their damage. They are tied for fourth at 24.6 percent. The Rangers penalty kill is 18th (79.7 percent).

Sean Couturier is a good two-way center who kills penalties. His offense still is inconsistent. But he shouldn’t be underestimated. Matt Read has picked it up lately with three points over the last four. He’s streaky and also capable. The Flyers are missing Michael Raffl (6-1-7 in 12 GP). They need more from Vinny Lecavalier and Jason Akeson. Of course, they have agitator Zac Rinaldo. The Rangers must be aware of him. He will deliver big hits and try to get underneath their skin.

This also marks the return of Michael Del Zotto. The former first round pick had an up and down career. After flourishing under John Tortorella, he was given up on by Vigneault. Eventually, Del Zotto was traded to Nashville for Kevin Klein. A move that actually benefited the Rangers. While Del Zotto failed to impress in Music City, Klein became a solid complement to John Moore. Playing third pair, he was a solid contributor. Due to injuries, he’s been asked to play more minutes and has been our best defenseman even pacing the club with three goals.

After the Predators declined to offer Del Zotto a contract, he went a long time as a free agent before the Flyers signed him. They didn’t have much choice with Kimmo Timonen out for the season. Following a predictable shaky start, he’s been better of late. Over his last 10 games, Del Zotto has two goals and three assists with a plus-six rating. He hasn’t been a minus over the last nine going plus-seven. He’s also been physical. His 43 hits lead all Flyers defensemen. He’s blocked 26 shots and has only been penalized twice (4 PIM).

Considering all the criticism he received, it’ll be interesting to see how Del Zotto responds to what will be a hostile environment. The boos will be loud. I also wonder what chants are in store for him since porn star Lisa Ann called him out on Twitter. It could be ugly. Don’t forget this is a super sensitive player. Will he let it to get to him? He might need some good earplugs.

The Flyers are starting Steve Mason. After a good showing in last year’s first round, he’s only won 3 times in 10 starts. Amazingly, he still has a .911 save percentage speaking to how bad his team is. The Rangers must move him laterally. That requires an actual attack unlike Monday’s “disaster.” They had an optional morning skate. Vigneault is the opposite of Tortorella. Given all the disappointment, I expect a good effort.

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Rangers best must be their best

Posted on November 18, 2014 by Derek

After 18 games, the Rangers are NHL .500 (7-7-4) sitting fourth in the Metropolitan Division. They head into tomorrow’s Rivalry Night showdown against the Flyers having won only twice in November. With a record of 2-3-4, they have recorded eight of a possible 18 points. That’s included home humiliations to the Oilers and Lightning. At least they got points in four shootout losses.

While it’s true they’re still without top defenseman Ryan McDonagh, who is skating, it doesn’t explain their inconsistent play. Too often, they’ve been sloppy with the puck and blown assignments. During last night’s 5-1 drubbing, Martin St. Louis was a minus-four despite scoring on the power play. He was far from alone with Derick Brassard and Rick Nash each minus-three. The blueline was no better with Marc Staal and Dan Girardi each minus-two with the latter losing a battle against Ryan Callahan that led to the former Ranger captain’s first goal. John Moore was atrocious but that’s understandable since he isn’t that good to begin with.

Henrik Lundqvist didn’t distinguish himself. He’s paid the big money to stop breakaways like the one he gave up to Nikita Kucherov. The one he allowed to Steven Stamkos was on Nash, who made a poor choice. Lundqvist’s play has mimicked his team. It’s been choppy. Despite having three shutouts, he’s 7-5-3 with a 2.68 goals-against-average and a .910 save percentage. With Hank, he always takes responsibility. He knows he must be better.

“Yeah, I’m concerned but we just have to keep talking about it and practicing and believe in each other and stay positive,” Lundqvist told Andrew Gross. “We know it’s there. We showed it but again to be in the race and to be on the right side of where you want to be you have to be consistent. You can’t have one good one and one bad one.”

“It’s our play with the puck, making the right decisions. Then it’s our play away from the puck, seeing extra guys coming in and making the reads on the rush. And sometimes just battle level,” a critical Girardi said. “We’re all over the place. Sometime we’ll have a bunch of shifts where we compete and a bunch of shifts where we stand around and let teams run around us. We’ve got to get our stuff together here.”

One of the most damning quotes came from St. Louis. He made a valid point emphasizing how he didn’t know how they could take this loss. He was mostly talking about the lack of effort. Just listening to him on last night’s postgame, you could tell he took it pretty hard. It was his first game versus his former team. He felt they did too much watching. Something echoed by Dan Boyle.

“I think, defensively, we need to be stronger to play against. Just because we’ve got one of the best goalies doesn’t mean we can give up that many chances. When you’re spending 90 percent of the shift defending, you’re not going to have much going the other way. We’ve got to flip that around,” the former Lightning defenseman stated.

Right now, there are too many passengers. Did Chris Kreider even play? The scoresheet says he took 21 shifts and logged 15:51. Somehow, he didn’t have a shot. He’s far from alone. The Rangers as a team only had 16. However, there have been too many instances where Kreider hasn’t been noticeable. The second-year forward is better than four goals and six assists in 18 games. He only has 26 hits. He must start taking the body and get back to what worked last season. His return in the playoffs was instrumental.

Mats Zuccarello was one of the few who competed Monday. He was in on the forecheck and delivered a team-leading four hits. He also wasn’t on for a goal against. Neither was Stepan, who had another good night on faceoffs winning 10 of 17. As for Zuccarello, three goals and five helpers in 16 games doesn’t cut it. They need more production.

Another player who can perform better is Brassard. It’s not the offense as he ranks second with 15 points. It’s the other aspects. Brassard has had more than his share of responsibility for not picking up his man. He is a team worst minus-eight. No longer a third line center, he’s seeing better opposition. I don’t mind when he looks for offense because it’s part of the job. But that doesn’t mean he can’t get back.

I’d like to see better point production from Carl Hagelin. The four goals and three assists are okay considering who he plays with. However, he’s a top nine forward capable of contributing more. It isn’t easy playing with a first-year player in Kevin Hayes who’s being asked to play a new position. Hayes is growing and shows you glimpses. With Vigneault still keeping Anthony Duclair around, it’s a work in progress. You gotta love Duclair’s compete level. Just wish it would result in offense.

For as much criticism as Tanner Glass gets, he is what he is. A role player who brings energy, physicality and kills penalties. Does he go for hits too much at the expense of the puck? Absolutely. There was one instance last night where I cringed because it led to a chance. But the D recovered and Lundqvist made an easy stop. If we’re spending our time focusing on Glass, something’s wrong. Dominic Moore has been okay with five helpers but could use a goal. Lee Stempniak has been a constant. He can play third or fourth line and not miss a beat. He’s day-to-day which means Jesper Fast probably returns tomorrow.

Defensively, the Rangers can be better. In 12 of their 18 games, they’ve allowed three goals-or-more including at least five in five defeats. That isn’t Ranger hockey. Not one player has been consistent. Girardi and Staal have their moments but then have clunkers like yesterday. When Kevin Klein is your most consistent defenseman, that’s not a good sign. Honestly, Matt Hunwick has outplayed John Moore. The vet was an afterthought when Glen Sather signed him. But he’s given Vigneault solid minutes and even contributed offensively with six assists. How many times does Moore leave you wondering? He turns 24 tomorrow and shouldn’t be given up on. In order to stay in the lineup, he must show improvement.

When they return to MSG Wednesday, backup Cam Talbot gets the call. He hasn’t won yet allowing 12 goals on 100 shots. Part of it has been the team in front of him. But Talbot must step up against a bitter rival and prove he can get the job done. You don’t want a situation like New Jersey. Lundqvist can’t play every game. It’s not conducive over the long haul. As a team, they need more consistency. They’re only making it harder on themselves. With three games over the next five days, we’ll have a better idea.

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Callahan Scores Twice In Return Against Listless Rangers

Posted on November 17, 2014 by Derek
Ryan Callahan celebrates a goal as Dan Girardi and Tanner Glass look. Frank Franklin II/AP Photo Getty Images

Ryan Callahan celebrates a goal as Dan Girardi and Tanner Glass look.
Frank Franklin II/AP Photo Getty Images

It was a happy return for Ryan Callahan. He scored twice as the Lightning humiliated the Rangers 5-1 at MSG. Along with Brian Boyle and Anton Stralman, Callahan received a nice ovation from the crowd during a special acknowledgement on Gardenvision. The moment came during a TV timeout. Booed the first time he touched the puck, Callahan played well finishing a beautiful Steven Stamkos set up on the power play that put Tampa ahead 2-0.

There wasn’t much inspiration from the Blueshirts. In what can best be described as a listless effort, they didn’t show up ready to play. You would’ve thought that wouldn’t be the case facing one of the NHL’s best teams. They knew Callahan, Boyle and Stralman would be motivated. So were the rest of their teammates. Without Victor Hedman, the Lightning haven’t missed a beat. With Stralman handling the hard minutes and everyone doing their jobs, they look like a complete team. The scorers scored and the checkers checked making it a routine night for Ben Bishop (15 saves).

Coming off a great game Saturday at Pittsburgh, a lot more was expected. Instead, we got another inconsistent effort. When Dan Girardi basically called out the team for just showing up and not winning any 50/50 puck battles, it’s pretty indicting. Alain Vigneault couldn’t explain it. Henrik Lundqvist called it disappointing and emphasized that they have the team capable of playing their system. They looked disjointed and got taken advantage of by a good team.

There weren’t many positives. Outside of Marty St. Louis, who looked hungry scoring the only goal and seemed pretty upset afterwards, there aren’t many players who showed up. Sure. They might’ve skated but it was like watching a black hole. This was only my third game and one I looked forward to. Not just because of Callahan’s return but I also felt they’d play up to the competition. Not get outclassed. There really is no explanation. They’ve played 18 games and are a mediocre 7-7-4. As Vigneault mentioned about being .500, that won’t get them in the playoffs. Funny but I recall him echoing a similar message last year. When does the light go on?

The game turned twice. First, when Bishop denied St. Louis on a mini-break. Tyler Johnson then sent Nikita Kucherov in on a breakaway. Lundqvist got a piece of his deke but fell into the net and lost the puck resulting in Kucherov’s 7th. The officiating didn’t help either. They called Marc Staal for a trip a few minutes later. It sure looked like the Lightning player fell down. Tampa took full advantage thanks to Stamkos, who went around our defense and then dished for an easy Callahan tap in. As expected, the crowd groaned. There wasn’t much to get excited about. The Rangers only mustered five shots. It was hideous.

On a power play to start the second, they came out much better. With Matt Carle still in the box for tripping, Derek Stepan and Derick Brassard worked the puck across to St. Louis. St. Louis centered for Rick Nash but his pass deflected off a Tampa skate and in for his seventh which cut the deficit in half.

Suddenly alive, they then had a golden opportunity. With Stamkos already in the box, Alex Killorn took a delayed penalty. Instead of giving up the puck, they wasted time. The wiser play would’ve been to give it up so they would’ve had a longer two-man advantage. Instead, a lost faceoff and poor puck management allowed the Bolts two clears. They never even forced Bishop to work. It was a blown chance.

Vigneault emphasized the poor puck management in the postgame. Boy was it on display on Stamkos’ backbreaking goal. Girardi had already given away the puck in the middle forcing Lundqvist to bail him out. A moment later, Nash tried the same pass which was easily intercepted by Valtteri Filppula. He sent Stamkos in alone and the Lightning captain faked Lundqvist out of his jock for his 12th increasing to 3-1.

The Rangers never recovered. Even after a Killorn incidental contact wiped out a goal, more sloppiness led to Killorn finishing off a Johnson feed that made it 4-1 with 1:18 left in the period. At that point, a drunken fan in the next section yelled, “This team is heartless.” As painful an assessment as it was, it’s hard to disagree. There’s zero consistency. They didn’t battle the way they needed to. When you face good teams, they make you pay.

Even down three, I wanted to see if they would respond in the third. Instead, it was basically the Lightning controlling puck possession and blocking shots. Since they took our players, they figured they may as well execute that. As a team, they blocked 21 with Stralman leading them with five. Callahan also had a nice sliding block to deny a Ranger opportunity.

How bad was it? The Rangers only got 16 shots. Twice, they were held to five. You can’t be competitive. They weren’t. They mailed it in. There really isn’t much else to say. When Vigneault admitted that they basically made it easy on their opponent handing them pucks and easy scoring chances, it’s damning. It was so bad that I didn’t stick around for Callahan’s second. I left at the five minute mark.

This is one to throw away and burn. The Flyers visit Wednesday for Rivalry Night. If they can’t get up for them with Michael Del Zotto returning, then when? They need that game and better get the one Friday at Buffalo or I might blow a gasket. Sunday, the Canadiens come to town. I’ll be at that one too. Montreal has the best record so far. Any surprise? They’re hungry. When does our team start?

NY Puck 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Anton Stralman, Bolts (2 SOG, 5 blocks, +1 in 31 shifts-25:16)

2nd Star-Ryan Callahan, Bolts (2 goals-7, 8 in return, +2 in 14:53)

1st Star-Steven Stamkos, Bolts (12th of season, 2 assists, +2 in 15:43)

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Cheer Captain Cally, Root For Home Team

Posted on November 17, 2014 by Derek
Captain Cally Returns: Ryan Callahan (seen above with Derek Stepan) following his playoff clincher at Florida will be the opponent in his MSG return. Getty Images

Captain Cally Returns: Ryan Callahan (seen above with Derek Stepan) following his playoff clincher at Florida will be the opponent in his MSG return.
Getty Images

Tonight is the emotional return of Ryan Callahan. The popular former Rangers captain visits MSG along with familiar faces Brian Boyle and Anton Stralman when the Lightning battle our Blueshirts. This one has been circled for a while and should be worth the wait.

The man known to many as Captain Cally was one of our own. A heart and soul type who left every ounce on the ice. A classic overachiever, Callahan was selected in the fourth round of the 2004 Draft. The same draft that netted Brandon Dubinsky two rounds earlier. Both were integral parts of the team’s rebuild. They were key leaders during the Rangers’ run to the Conference Final- helping them win the Atlantic Division and finish with the East’s best record.

After falling short, Glen Sather subtracted Dubinsky and Artem Anisimov sending them to Columbus for Rick Nash. A trade that’s worked out for both sides. Even if Nash wasn’t healthy his first two seasons, he was part of a special group that went to the Stanley Cup Final. The club’s first appearance since 1994. Sather made the hardest decision of his Ranger tenure dealing away Callahan to Tampa Bay for Marty St. Louis. The two sides tried to work out a new contract but Callahan’s demands were too high forcing Sather’s hand. As it turned out, the Rangers rallied around St. Louis following the death of his Mom making a memorable run.

Thinking back, it wasn’t easy for fans. Number 24 will always be remembered. The passion he played with was second to none. No question the Rochester native gave everything. Who could forget that suicidal dive in front to block a Zdeno Chara shot to get his team back in the playoffs? It cost him the postseason. That’s the kind of high character player he is. There’s nothing he won’t do to help his team win. Only now, that tenacious style comes in a Bolts jersey where he took less ($5.8 million). If you had the chance to play with Steven Stamkos, can you blame him? As usual, he’s missed a few games but is a point-per-game going 6-7-13 in 13.

Ironically, St. Louis has exactly the same stat line except in four more games. After a slow start, the ageless small wonder has five goals in the last seven. His 13 points rank third in team scoring trailing only Derick Brassard and Nash. Like he had in Tampa where he won a Cup, St. Louis has become a team leader offsetting Callahan. More skilled even at age 39, the former Hart winner still has something left. The question is will he re-sign next summer. That’s still a long way off.

As for Callahan, he brings Boyle and Stralman with him. Both were part of last year’s team. Each playing pivotal roles. It was tough to see them leave. Boyle was a warrior who always elevated his game in the postseason. It isn’t surprising to see him fitting in with new teammates. He already has five goals and three assists. Part of that production is being surrounded with better talent. Figure Boyle to get underneath one of his ex-mates skin. He’s always chatty. Meanwhile, Stralman is anchoring Tampa’s blueline with Victor Hedman out. Aside from logging big minutes, he’s added offense with two goals and eight assists. That’s because he plays power play. Something he rarely did here.

When Callahan sports his trademark number 24, it will be as an opponent. He’ll don Lightning white and navy blue. You know he’ll be in the starting lineup. I imagine Boyle and Stralman will also line up. It’s what coaches usually do. The appropriate thing to do is cheer Callahan and politely applaud Boyle and Stralman. But Callahan deserves a nice ovation as he was True Blue. He bled it. I have to figure there’ll be a video tribute. Will it come at the beginning or during a timeout? Either way, there shouldn’t be a dry eye.

As a fan, I respect what Captain Cally brought. Even if he wasn’t worth what he wanted, it still was upsetting. I still hope he does well as I do with almost every one of our former players. I don’t believe in rooting against guys I cheered for. I’ll give Callahan a loud cheer and clap for Boyle and Stralman at the start. But that’s it. Once the game is on, they’re opponents our team is trying to beat.

Cheer for Callahan. Root for the home team. Let’s Go Rangers!

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