Drury, Rangers make a splash at deadline by adding Copp, Motte and Braun

Posted on March 21, 2022 by Derek

On Monday afternoon right before 3 PM, the Rangers completed a successful day by acquiring forwards Andrew Copp and Tyler Motte at the NHL Trade Deadline. Earlier on March 21, they added defenseman Justin Braun.

With his team sitting in second place only three points back of first place Carolina following the Alex Georgiev gem on Sunday, Rangers Team President and GM Chris Drury worked the phones earlier today. He was able to upgrade the roster without sacrificing too much.

If they go on a run this postseason, Ranger fans will remember this day. It had already been circled on the hockey calendar around the league. It’s exciting to see a team with a good core that’s ready to compete with the big boys. Whatever happens this Spring, it’s only the beginning.

In the first of three moves, the Rangers acquired veteran defenseman Justin Braun from the Flyers. Repeat. They made a trade with the rival Philadelphia Flyers. In the deal to get Braun, they sent back a third round pick in 2023.

When I first caught wind of it, I wasn’t too crazy about it. But after my initial reaction,  it’s not the worst idea to bring in a proven 35-year old who has 100 games of playoff experience. For over a decade spent with both the Sharks and Flyers, Braun is a tough customer who will take the body and block shots.

In 61 contests this season, he has five goals, 11 assists and 36 penalty minutes with a plus-3 rating while averaging over 20 minutes a night. He’s blocked 114 shots with 79 hits. For a defensive defenseman who mostly starts in his own zone, those are solid numbers.

Is Braun here as insurance? That depends on Gerard Gallant and Gord Murphy. They are responsible for who’s in the lineup. Considering the recent struggles of Braden Schneider over the weekend, he might be hitting a rookie wall. He and partner Patrik Nemeth were pinned in their end often.

Schneider made some mistakes. He’s only 20. The ice time was a little down. It also was a back-to-back situation in less than 24 hours. If he is the odd man out, it’s understandable. As much as we’d like to see him get that valuable playoff experience, they have to do what’s best for his development.

It doesn’t mean he won’t play. There are 19 games remaining on the schedule. Let’s see what Gallant and the coaching staff think. Getting a defenseman was a need. They have been rolling the same six for a while. Schneider can use a breather. Maybe watching from the press box can help. Plus working on his game in practice.

As other teams made moves, we had to wait it out. A night earlier, the Jets had reaccquired Mason Appleton from the Kraken in exchange for a 2023 fourth round pick. That was a hint that the much rumored Andrew Copp was on the move.

Approximately 11 minutes before the 3 PM deadline which went way past that due to a long delay, Darren Dreger all but confirmed that the Rangers were about to get Copp. It was confirmed from other reliable sources.

When it was revealed, it really ended the worst kept secret. Like quite a few pundits, I felt that Copp would be the perfect addition to the Rangers’ lineup. He checks off a lot of boxes.

The 27-year old center wins is a strong skater who’s capable of contributing offensively both at even strength and on the power play. He also is a good penalty killer. Most notably, he wins face-offs. At 54.0 percent (312-and-266), the left shooting pivot is the kind of player this team needs.

A hard player to play against due to his skating and skill, the good Copp has done well for himself. A former Jets’ fourth round pick in ’13, the Ann Arbor, Michigan native is a good secondary scorer.

Playing in the shadow of established stars Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, Blake Wheeler, Paul Stastny and Pierre-Luc Dubois, he has 13 goals and 22 helpers totaling 35 points over 56 games. Copp needs two goals to match last year’s career high of 15 and four points to match the 39 he established in ’21. If he can record five points, he’ll reach a new high.

Copp is unrestricted this off-season. He currently makes $3.64 million. His market value should be up. If he performs up to expectations, it’s possible the Rangers could be interested in bringing him back. It gives them an option to Ryan Strome, who’s been a good player since arriving from Edmonton. Don’t tell that to the naysayers who forgot they only gave up Ryan Spooner for Strome.

Even as the trade was announced, the details remained sketchy. Based on last night, the talk was Winnipeg was hoping for two second round picks. A fair price for someone of Copp’s caliber. Especially in a seller’s market. Don’t believe me? Look what Jeremy Lauzon netted from Nashville? A second round pick. Yikes.

As Drury closed in and executed an easier transaction by sending a 2023 fourth round pick to the Canucks in exchange for Tyler Motte, we were left to wonder what the holdup was on who went to Winnipeg. First, some misinformed person made it sound like one of the Rangers’ defense prospects would go the other way. Names like Matthew Robertson were floated.

Instead, the trade above listed by the Winnipeg Jets official Twitter account indicated it was center Morgan Barron along with conditional second picks in 2022 and ’23 for Copp and a sixth round pick next year. Dreger spelled out the conditions below.

It’s simple. If the Rangers win two rounds and advance to the Conference Finals this postseason, then this year’s second becomes a first round pick for the Jets. Copp also must play in at least half the playoff games. Let’s keep our fingers crossed he helps them make a run. Winnipeg can choose between ’23 and ’24 on the other second pick.

If they make it to the Eastern Conference Final, will anyone care where Winnipeg will pick in the first round? I won’t.

Copp certainly makes the Rangers better. He can score and set up goals. He’s a trusted top nine forward that Gallant can plug anywhere. That versatility along with Barclay Goodrow is valuable. We all know how well Goodrow has worked out. He can now slot down to the fourth line if necessary. Considering the chemistry he’s had with Filip Chytil and Dryden Hunt (likely fourth line), this is a good thing.

We still don’t know when both Kaapo Kakko and Kevin Rooney are returning. With Drury deciding to also go get Tyler Motte from Vancouver for a fourth pick in ’23, that should signal that maybe one of those players might not be ready for a while. Let’s leave it at that.

As for Motte, having seen him play and turn into a solid checking forward for the Canucks, I love this trade. Why? Go take a look at his season above on Hockey-reference.com.

Another player from Michigan who Jacob Trouba and Frank Vatrano know well from playing together for the U.S. National Development Team, the 27-year old Motte is having a good season. In 49 contests for Vancouver, he is 7-8-15 with 22 PIM and a plus-3 rating. Fourteen of his 15 points have come at even strength. The other was a shorthanded goal that I happened to see.

Motte is a fast skater who also plays with grit. He will finish checks and win puck battles. He is a solid player that can play in a checking role for the Rangers. There’s no downside. In the Canucks’ most recent postseason, he put up four goals and an assist in 17 games. That was during the expanded format.

Ironically, Motte has a direct link with Artemi Panarin. They were in the same trade that sent Panarin to the Blue Jackets for Brandon Saad and Anton Forsberg on June 23, 2017. Unlike the Bread Man, Motte didn’t stay in Columbus long eventually winding up with the Canucks with Jussi Jokinen for Thomas Vanek. Wow. I forgot he played for the Blue Jackets.

Over the past four years playing in Vancouver, Motte has become a fixture in the bottom six while contributing at five-on-five. Even better, he gets takeaways (27), delivers hits (90) and blocks shots (51). This is a solid player who I think our fans will like. A high energy guy with character.

One fan I exchange tweets with was concerned about Rooney due to the Motte acquisition. They don’t play the same position. Even if Motte plays over him assuming Goodrow slides down to center the checking line, it’s a good problem to have. Let Gallant worry about it. That’s what he gets paid the big bucks for.

Not too long ago, the third and fourth lines were thin. They weren’t capable of contributing any reliable scoring. Since adding Vatrano, whose speed and smarts are very apparent, that’s changed. Now, you can slide him down to play with Chytil and either Goodrow or Hunt. Or he can stick with Panarin and Strome while Copp works with the third line.

That means a lot more options for Gallant at his disposal. I like Jonny Brodzinski. He works hard and is a good skater. But he’s not going to add much offensively at this level. The goal he scored was nice. Ditto for the honest Greg McKegg. The Keg Man has done a nice job when in. But similar to Julien Gauthier, he’s not adding much offensively.

Clearly, Motte is an improvement. So is Rooney whenever he’s back. We know if Kakko returns, he’s in the top nine without as much pressure.

Ryan Reaves has been a good addition. He’s played in almost every game under Gallant, who loves him. He delivers heavy hits and can forecheck. He also is smart out there. But is he going to play every game against say the Penguins if that’s the first round match-up? I’m not sure.

If you can’t get behind what Drury has done between last summer adding Goodrow and Reaves- plus picking up Vatrano, Braun, Copp and Motte- I don’t know what to say. They improved without giving up any real assets.

Barron is replaceable. He didn’t have a spot here. He will go play for Winnipeg as a checking center who can win draws and kill penalties. Best of luck to him.

When they replaced Jeff Gorton and John Davidson last year, it was with the playoffs in mind. It also was due to how they got pushed around by both the Islanders and Capitals. Most notably Tom Wilson. Has anyone seen him since his vanishing act in the Rangers’ last win at MSG over the Caps? Reaves did that.

This season, Drury has delivered on his promise to make the Rangers a more complete team. He’s added more sandpaper and found secondary scoring that didn’t cost the organization any of their top prospects.

Moving forward, the roster is better equipped for the postseason. Whatever happens, let’s enjoy it. Don’t worry about the other teams. They’re competing for the same thing. We couldn’t say that a year ago. This has been a dream season. Enjoy the ride.

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Georgiev steals the show in epic 44 save shutout of Hurricanes, Kreider gets number 41 in 2-0 victory for tired Rangers

Posted on March 21, 2022 by Derek

It was stolen. Plain and simple. Alex Georgiev put on a show. His 44 save masterpiece allowed the Rangers to come away with a 2-0 shutout over the Hurricanes in Raleigh on Sunday evening.

For over two periods, it literally was Georgiev who held up his end. The much maligned backup was unbelievable in pitching his seventh career shutout. The 44 saves actually fall 11 shy of 55 he made in a win versus the Maple Leafs on Feb. 10 2019.

A time when it looked like Georgiev could become the next in line after Henrik Lundqvist. That was before Igor Shesterkin. It’s hard to believe he once faced 56 shots and beat Toronto at MSG only allowing one goal. His dominance over the Leafs is well documented.

How did last night compare? It’s right there. He made so many great saves while facing a Canes’ onslaught during this game. Honestly, it didn’t feel like one until the final part of the third period. By then, Georgiev finally got some support from some weary teammates who played less than 20 hours after an emotional win in Tampa.

https://twitter.com/BattleOfHudson/status/1505731723467894785?t=PndiIgEQm066-91moOmdaQ&s=19

To a man, the players would tell you they weren’t at their best in the second of a tough back-to-back on the road. Especially after getting into Carolina late. It was the third game over four nights. It wasn’t a surprise that they struggled mightily.

It’s one thing to be outplayed. It’s another to get dominated the way they did. Despite being outshot 14-3 and 28-4 at one point (no joke), they were in it for one reason. The brilliance of Georgiev. He was locked in. Nothing broke his concentration in this one. Not even the return of former Ranger Tony DeAngelo.

When the shots reached 28 to 4, Sam Rosen remarked to Joe Micheletti about how unbelievable it was. They both laughed at the extreme difference in shots. Rope a dope was referenced by Micheletti. A John Davidson favorite back in the glory days. It was a good description of the hockey.

Unable to mount any forecheck, they really were on their heels throughout. The Canes came at them in cycles with their relentless attack. The Rangers spent extended shifts defending in their end. They got fenced in for long stretches.

It was a tough game for Braden Schneider. The 20-year old defenseman has spoiled us so far. But he definitely battled at Tampa and Carolina. There were some turnovers that resulted in uncharacteristic penalties. Something he doesn’t do a lot of. Maybe he’s hitting a rookie wall. Patrik Nemeth is holding up that pair at the moment.

With it officially the trade deadline later this afternoon, the Rangers could still be in play for some players. Having already added Frank Vatrano, whose empty netter sealed the win yesterday, it’s possible Team President and GM Chris Drury could be in the market for one more forward and another defenseman to improve team depth.

Late last night, the Jets reaccquired Mason Appleton from the Kraken for a mid-round pick. The rumors are hot that much coveted forward Andrew Copp could be dealt for a pair of second round picks. Considering the market, he’s probably worth it. A good secondary scorer who can forecheck and finish checks, he checks off all the boxes.

If the Rangers got him for a package of Julien Gauthier and two second picks, I’d be excited. If not him, what about Artturi Lehkonen from the Canadiens? He’s got another year left until he turns unrestricted. I would imagine Jeff Gorton wants more for the checking wing. Likely a good prospect. If there’s a deal to be made that makes sense, I’m sure Drury will do it.

When you watch a game like last night, it makes you wonder if they can survive a grueling seven-game first round series. Of course, playing on two straight days in less than a 24-hour period doesn’t help. That won’t happen in the playoffs. For those complaining about the schedule, they aren’t the only team who’s had to do that.

What I’m basically saying here is tough crap. Think about how many days they had off in February while other teams had to make up many games. They were lucky in that aspect. So, can it about the schedule conspiracy. It’s worse than some of the other theories out there. Way more serious mind you. Unless we’re discussing the JFK Conspiracy. I’m a big history buff. That I could talk about all day.

As far as the game went, it was all about Alex Georgiev. He was the best he’s looked all season. In fact, this was his best game in two years. He struggled most of last season too following what happened with DeAngelo. He was making the tough saves to bail out teammates and had good rebound control.

Magnificent is one way to describe what the 26-year old netminder did. For one day, he was Alexander The Great. Time and time again, he turned away the Canes. They had to be shaking their heads. This wasn’t the same goalie they lit up for six goals on 35 shots two months ago.

Instead, there was an intense focus. He never broke all night. Sebastian Aho and Andrei Svechnikov had point blank scoring chances. They were turned away. So was former Ranger Derek Stepan. Jordan Staal had a couple of dangerous opportunities that were thwarted. So did Martin Necas.

Nothing went in for the Canes. They couldn’t beat Georgiev. He was impenetrable. Whatever he had to do, he did. There was even a ridiculous sprawling save that defied logic midway through. This was all about the forgotten guy. Someone who’s gotten plenty of criticism. Some warranted. Some ridiculous.

Good for him. Georgiev made his statement. This was a virtuoso performance from a backup who wants to become a number one goalie in this league. It was eye opening. The Canes also had three power plays. Their seven shots were denied. They had looks. It didn’t go in.

If you could give him all three stars, Georgiev deserved it. He still needed a huge Chris Kreider goal on a remarkable deflection of a Jacob Trouba shot with 4:21 left in the second period to even up his record to 9-9-2.

Kreider’s 41st was sheer determination. How he was able to redirect it and score I’ll never know. But as soon as Alexis Lafreniere passed up top for the Trouba shot, I knew they were scoring. Sometimes, you can tell. That was the shift to make it happen on. They made the most of it.

As lopsided as the play was at five-on-five, the Blueshirts were able to close out the game in better fashion. For a while in the third period, it looked like they could barely skate. They were gassed. Gallant admitted it in the postgame. There wasn’t a lot left in the tank.

But after a series of clutch stops from Georgiev, they finally started to make some good defensive plays in the neutral zone. That led to some sustained pressure in the second half of the final period.

You saw Artemi Panarin hustling back defensively and chipping pucks in. There was the tenacity of Barclay Goodrow, who went right at Svechnikov after he took a run at Nemeth during a shift. Goodrow was effective along with Filip Chytil and Dryden Hunt. He’s been worth his salary.

Speaking of Chytil, he had a goal disallowed due to the refs blowing the whistle. They thought Freddie Andersen had a puck covered. He didn’t. All they could do was apologize to Gallant at the bench. Human error. Turk understood. It’s a lot easier when your team wins.

The Canes got 15 shots in the third. But after holding a huge 29-10 edge through two periods that once was 28-4, they did give up some chances. Andersen made a few key saves in the period to keep it at one goal. The Rangers had eight shots in the period after totaling only 10 during the first two.

Their effort was better. They did enough to take the heat off Georgiev, who was under siege. Hunt had another strong game. He was aggressive throughout and finished checks. It also was a good game for Ryan Strome, who hit a goalpost on a power play and led the team with five shots.

The Rangers had a lot of hits throughout. They had to take the body while doing all that back pedaling. Something Micheletti pointed out during the MSG broadcast. Four different players registered at least four hits. Trouba paced them with four in another busy game where he and partner K’Andre Miller defended well. They were physical.

As a team, they blocked 23 Carolina shots. That’s part of the job description when you’re stuck in your zone. Georgiev called it a “team shutout.” It was. But he was the reason they won. They were out-attempted 94-36. It didn’t matter. You can take all the silly analytic nonsense and throw it in the garbage.

At least for one night anyway. Is this how they can win games in May? No. They’ll have to play more like they did against the Lightning and Islanders. Controlling the neutral zone. Limiting mistakes. Applying a consistent forecheck. That will help prevent them from playing too much in their end. Plus special teams. They have the goaltending. But you can’t over rely on it.

A Mika Zibanejad face-off win against Aho in the defensive zone saw him make the play defensively by clearing the puck off the boards. That allowed Vatrano to pull away and score his first as a Ranger into a vacated Canes’ net at 19:18.

I never got the sense Carolina would tie it. So brilliant was Georgiev that even with all their shots and attempts, they over passed at times. That’s what happens when you run into a hot goalie. 🔥

This was Georgiev’s night. Kudos to him for coming in with a great mindset. It was great to see. He got a lot of love from happy teammates. They know it’s been a challenging year for him. That start should keep Georgie here through the end of the season.

Battle Of Hudson Three Stars 🌟 🤩 ✨️

3rd 🌟 Chris Kreider NYR team best 41st goal for game-winner on great deflection, won face-off that led to goal, 3 hits, +2 in 16:15

2nd 🌟 Jacob Trouba NYR assisted on Kreider goal, 5 hits, 2 blocks, +2 in 23:43 including team high 19:48 even strength

1st 🌟 Alex Georgiev NYR 44 saves for 7th career shutout, a masterpiece

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Zibanejad’s power play goal with 16 seconds left gives Rangers well deserved one-goal win over Lightning, Blueshirts sweep season series from champs, Bruins and Panthers make big moves

Posted on March 20, 2022 by Derek

For most of the night, the Rangers were powerless against the Lightning penalty kill. Given one more opportunity late in regulation, they made the most of it. Mika Zibanejad’s power play goal with 16 seconds left in regulation gave the Rangers a well deserved 2-1 win over the Lightning.

Among the 19,092 at Amalie Arena, there were plenty of Ranger fans heard throughout a very competitive playoff caliber game. When Artemi Panarin fed Zibanejad for the game-winner at 19:44 of the third period, they made a lot of noise in the Lightning’s home arena.

A pretty big moment for a younger team still learning how to win these tight checking games. Unlike Thursday’s crusher, they won this one with their own gut wrenching goal in enemy territory. In doing so, it allowed them to sweep the season series from the champs. That is a confidence boost.

Even more important, the two points kept them within two of the second place Penguins, who defeated the Coyotes 4-1 on Saturday night. They needed the win to get some breathing room from the Capitals. With 20 games remaining, the Rangers have 83 points. The Caps have 80 with one less game left. The two old Patrick Division rivals will meet the final game of the season on April 29 at MSG.

In besting the Lightning at their arena for the second time, the Rangers proved they could win a chippy game that featured plenty of hitting, scrums and some rough stuff. The teams combined for 66 hits and 32 penalty minutes. There were nine power plays. The Bolts going 1-for-3 by cashing theirs early. The Blueshirts finishing 1-for-6 by scoring the only one that mattered with 16 seconds to spare.

The first period was well played. It had plenty of five-on-five play and strong goaltending from Igor Shesterkin and Andrei Vasilevskiy. Both showed why they’re considered the two best goalies throughout the game. Unlike the other night when he was a save short against Ilya Sorokin, Shesterkin was a save better than Vasilevskiy. In other words, he got the second goal this time to earn his 30th win of the season.

The Lightning were a bit better in the opening period. They had a territorial edge as it moved on. When the Rangers forechecked, it was the newly formed third line that did most of the work. That would be Filip Chytil, Barclay Goodrow and Dryden Hunt, who had a second straight strong game. The cohesive trio came close on one shift with a Patrik Nemeth pass for Goodrow just missing with an open net.

Victor Hedman took the game’s first penalty on a delay of game. Out came the top unit for the second ranked Blueshirts. They didn’t get much done. The Lightning were aggressive by attacking Adam Fox up top and taking away set up time. Zibanejad got off one clean shot that Vasilevskiy gloved. Fox had an attempt blocked and cleared.

Without any momentum from the five-on-four, the Rangers didn’t play their best in the first. They got eight shots on Vasilevskiy. But it was a tacky Nemeth interference minor drawn by an acting Mathieu Joseph that led to the Lightning capitalizing on their first power play.

Following a Shesterkin glove stop on Steven Stamkos from the left slot, he denied a Alex Killorn deflection on a long Hedman one-timer. But unaware where the puck was, he didn’t have it covered. That allowed the clutch Brayden Point to find the puck and jam it in for a 1-0 Lightning lead with 3:19 remaining.

Although Gerard Gallant protested as usual, this was a clear case of the refs making the right call. Had Shesterkin had it, he would’ve let them know. He didn’t react that way. It’s not like it could be challenged. Point’s 23rd from Killorn and Hedman stood for the only goal of the period.

As it was about to end, a sloppy turnover on a miscommunication between Jacob Trouba and Zibanejad nearly cost them. But Shesterkin calmly gloved Anthony Cirelli’s last second try as the horn sounded. Had he not made the big save, it probably would’ve counted. Needless to say, that was a key moment.

Unlike the first which saw the Bolts outshoot the Rangers 16-8, the second was much better. The only issue were all the penalties. There were too many to count. It was a march to the penalty box for each side. That meant less even strength play.

After Goodrow drew a hooking minor on Ross Colton, Fox took down Joseph to negate the man-advantage 49 seconds later. It was due to the way the Lightning defended. Fox wasn’t given much room all night. They took him away.

The interesting part of the second was how much busier Vasilevskiy was than Shesterkin. Despite all the ineptitude on the power play which saw the Bolts turn them powerless, the Blueshirts had the better scoring chances.

A good shift from the second line resulted in Vasilevskiy coming up with four saves. He first denied Panarin shorthanded. Then stopped Frank Vatrano. Panarin and Vatrano were stopped again by Vasilevskiy, who was proving why he’s considered the best goalie. He has a great resume. Even if the Lightning aren’t as strong, he gives them a chance this postseason.

It was the following shift that the Rangers drew even. It was the third line that created the tying goal. A pair of Chytil shots helped create the goal. On for Goodrow, who had just killed a penalty, Alexis Lafreniere made a hustle play to keep a loose puck alive. On a good play from Hunt, a pinching Trouba snuck in to tie the score at 9:25.

His 10th matched a career high set back in his rookie season at Winnipeg. It’s been the consistent play from Trouba that in my mind is the difference with the defense. He and K’Andre Miller are continuing to become a strong shutdown pair that the coaching staff can count on. Miller’s growth has been apparent. He’s more physical. Maybe Trouba has rubbed off on him.

A few minutes after Trouba’s tying goal, Pat Maroon came in behind the net and hit Shesterkin. He got around Ryan Lindgren to get position and bump into our goalie. That immediately got a strong response from Lindgren, who exchanged punches with Maroon. The officials did a good job assessing an extra minor to Maroon for interference. He received four minutes while Lindgren got two for roughing.

Instead of getting anything off the Maroon minor penalty, they did zilch. It was the Lightning who attacked the Rangers up top. They had no room. It resulted in easy clears down the ice for Tampa. It was frustrating.

So too were the ridiculous camera angles ESPN/ABC used. How many different angles does the television audience need? They had so many strange looks that it made me wonder if they were aiming to make the viewers drunk. If I wanted to do that, I’d have some wine or go out and get a couple of cold ones. It really has become nauseating. Stop trying to reinvent the wheel. Stick with what works.

The hitting continued. Nobody passed up a chance to finish a check. The best one came from Hedman, who got a clean shoulder on Goodrow earlier in the period while he was clearing a puck while shorthanded. He got right back up and into the play. When there was a stoppage, he smiled and joked with his former teammate. It was a great open ice hit.

Hunt continued to be effective. He got a good shot on Vasilevskiy that the elite Bolts’ netminder stopped. A couple of minutes later, Zibanejad took away a puck in the neutral zone and drew a Killorn hooking minor with under 60 seconds left in the second.

Although Ryan Strome got a long shot on Vasilevskiy with a few seconds left, it was a broken record. I had already wondered if they should just decline the power play. Funny how that works sometimes.

After holding a 13-5 shots edge in a better second, the Rangers were all even. Business still was to be settled. What lied ahead was worth waiting for.

Even as I flipped to see Saint Peter’s shock Murray State to become only the third 15 seed to make the Sweet 16. A great story in the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. Not bad for a bunch of scrappy kids from Jersey City. Hopefully, they can keep it going and make history.

The third period was more closely fought. It was intense. Shots were at a premium. So were chances. Tight checking was on display. So too were fisticuffs.

Ryan Reaves didn’t let Maroon off the hook. Just after four minutes had passed, he challenged the Lightning touch guy to a fight. It was due to the hit on Shesterkin. The two squared off at center ice. They danced for a while before engaging. Maroon tried to use his left arm to hold Reaves, who got in a few rights to earn the decision.

Then it was over. That part of business had been taken care of by Reaves. As good teammate as any Blueshirt could ask for. He made Maroon accountable for his actions. Just as Lindgren did. That’s an ingredient this team lacked under the previous regime. They won’t back down.

As the physicality and defensive minded style took shape, there wasn’t as much operating space. Veteran checker Pierre-Eduoard Bellemare was able to get free and fire a backhand that Shesterkin swallowed up. That was a big save.

On Tampa’s next shift, this time he denied both Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov. For the period, Shesterkin made eight saves. He was focused.

With over eight minutes left, Lindgren got a tricky shot ticketed for the short side off. But a sharp Vasilevskiy made the key stop to keep the game tied.

When there wasn’t hitting, you had each team making critical blocks. That’s the kind of game it was. Very fun to watch. These are exactly the style of games we’ll see in six weeks. It won’t change when they visit the even better Hurricanes at 6 PM Sunday before sunset. Isn’t that refreshing to say?

For a five-minute stretch, the Rangers didn’t even have one shot attempt. The Lightning were in control. They got four shots through on Shesterkin, who was equal to the task.

Finally, a skating Chris Kreider was able to get the attention of the refs when rugged Tampa defenseman Erik Cernak hi-sticked him with 2:15 remaining. With the Lightning bench giving it to him, he told them he got the penalty called. Flat out honesty from the unofficial captain.

Gallant used his timeout to rest his vaunted number one unit. It didn’t look like it would matter. A Lightning face-off win and a clear sent them into retreat mode. It really felt like this would need overtime to decide.

But following a neutral zone face-off that Zibanejad controlled over Cirelli, they were finally able to get set up. After he had a shot blocked, the puck came right back to him. Panarin then made a great cross-ice pass for Zibanejad right into the wheelhouse. He didn’t miss.

His 25th of the season (13th on the power play) just beat a still moving Vasilevskiy, who almost got it. Had he, it would’ve been miraculous. Fortunately, Zibanejad was able to celebrate the clutch game-winner with happy teammates. That included Kreider, who was positioned in front when the goal was scored.

That last penalty doomed the Lightning. They were undisciplined. It finally cost them. Even with new acquisition Brandon Hagel added to the core of Stamkos, Kucherov, Point, Hedman, Cirelli, Killorn and Ondrej Palat, the Bolts only beat Shesterkin once. They didn’t create a lot of offense for a team with their talent.

Credit goes to the Rangers, who really played a strong game. They had one period where they allowed too many shots. But really buckled down. Over the final two periods, they outshot the Lightning 19-13. They won a hard-nosed defensive minded playoff style game.

That Trouba quote is exactly right. These are the games they have to play. Similar to what he said after the 2-1 loss to the Islanders. If they can play this way with that edge, then they will have a better chance to do something in the postseason.

It was a good win. A step in the right direction. Now, it’s off to Raleigh for a big divisional match-up with first place Carolina. The last time they played, it was brutal. Hopefully this time will be much better.

The final game before Monday’s big deadline is another good test. Might it determine if GM Chris Drury makes another deal? We’ll know soon enough.

On the trade front, there were three big deals made yesterday. The Bruins went all in on left defenseman Hampus Lindholm acquiring him from Anaheim for Urho Vaakanainen, John Moore, a 2022 first round pick along with second round picks in ’23 and ’24. They then extended Lindholm, whose expiring contract was 50 percent retained by the Ducks.

The Ducks weren’t done sending energizer Nicolas Deslauriers to the Wild in exchange for a third round pick in 2023. A good pickup for the very heavy Wild. But a nice return for new Anaheim GM Pat Verbeek.

Finally, Claude Giroux was sent to the Panthers as expected. With a full no-movement clause, the former Flyers captain who was honored for playing his 1,000th career game, had to approve any trade. He wanted to be in Florida over Colorado. That meant the Flyers didn’t get back as much.

The trade is Giroux with minor leaguers Connor Bunnaman and German Rubtsov along with a 2024 fifth round pick for forward Owen Tippett, a conditional 2024 first round pick and a ’23 third round pick.

If I were a Flyer fan, I’d be upset. They had no real bargaining power. Tippett should become a good player. But what are the conditions on the ’24 first round pick? Do the Panthers have to win the Cup or reach it?

Whatever the case, Florida made some serious upgrades. They went all in on Ben Chiarot to solidify their back end and got the very experienced and still productive Giroux for their Cup push. First Round Picks Optional for the Cats.

There will be more to come with over a day left. Will Marc-Andre Fleury find a new home? The Wild are rumored to be interested. Will the Rangers add one more piece or are they satisfied with Vatrano knowing eventually both Kaapo Kakko and Kevin Rooney will return? It’s anyone’s guess.

This went a bit long. It had to. It deserved it. Just like the team deserved that one-goal win with Zibanejad the hero.

Battle Of Hudson Three Stars 🌟 🤩 ✨️

3rd 🌟 Mika Zibanejad NYR scored game-winner on power play with 16 seconds left in 3rd period for 25th goal

2nd 🌟 Andrei Vasilevskiy Bolts 25 saves on 27 shots including 21/22 at even strength

1st 🌟 Igor Shesterkin NYR 28 saves on 29 shots including 24/24 at even strength for 30th win of season

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Following tough loss, Rangers have big tests at Bolts and Canes before trade deadline

Posted on March 18, 2022 by Derek

Gerard Gallant didn’t see the elbow Oliver Wahlstrom delivered that cut Ryan Lindgren. A missed call that led directly to the crushing Kyle Palmieri game-winner with 2:44 left in last night’s 2-1 loss to the Islanders before a great environment at The Garden.

However, he didn’t agree with two of the penalties earlier in the hard fought game that went against Barclay Goodrow and Ryan Strome. Unlike the narrative that came out of Thursday night, the experienced coach didn’t blame the officiating for the defeat.

Instead, he spoke about how much he liked the game. Particularly the way his team played. If there was a positive to take out of a one-goal loss to their bitter rivals, it was how the Blueshirts played. It was hardly fought in the trenches with both teams finishing checks and getting superb goaltending.

That’s the kind of style they’ll see in the first round. Whether it’s the Penguins, Capitals or a division winner (worst case scenario), they can take solace in how they competed against an experienced Islanders team that have had success in the postseason.

As Gallant noted, they are where they are due to a rough first half that included injuries and Covid. The truth is a healthier Isles are a good team. One that’s better than their record and point total. So, it didn’t come as a surprise that the second meeting between the rivals was so intensely fought.

Sometimes, you run into a hot goalie. Ilya Sorokin has been playing well for a while. The close friend of Igor Shesterkin has supplanted Semyon Varlamov as the Isles’ starter. He’s had a good year on a team that won’t qualify for the playoffs. The save on Artemi Panarin off a perfect feed from newest Ranger Frank Vatrano was remarkable. Sorokin had a great night to edge Shesterkin in an old fashioned goalie duel.

When you have both the coach and some players taking away the positives in a game they probably deserved a better fate in, that is the big picture. They know they were in a battle. They controlled a good portion. Even if it didn’t go their way due to the missed Wahlstrom elbow, it doesn’t take away from the game they played.

“I’ll take the effort we had tonight. We don’t like the result. But I’ll take that over some of the wins we’ve had this year with the game we played,” defenseman Jacob Trouba told reporters in last night’s postgame interview.

“I think there’s a lot we can take from this game.”

Trouba is also excited to have close friend Vatrano to play with. They played together during their teens and know each other well. He praised Vatrano for his hard work and honest game that should be a good fit. Especially his shoot first mentality. It’ll be interesting to see what develops this weekend for Vatrano, Panarin and Ryan Strome. As Trouba said, they have two tough games ahead in Tampa Bay and Carolina.

“We’ll learn a little bit ourselves this weekend for sure. We’re gonna need to bring this same effort. I think this effort going forward is the standard. We know we can play that way. If we play like that, we like our chances in a lot of hockey games.”

“It’s always good to see familiar faces. … I played at the U.S. program with Troubs for a couple of years. I played World Championships with Foxy and Kreids. … To know those guys coming in, it’s always very helpful,” Vatrano said after the game about the opportunity to play for the Rangers.

He definitely seems excited about the chance to play with a talented player like Panarin, whose recent stretch has been much better. Even though he didn’t have a point yesterday, he certainly generated chances and had quality shots like the point blank one that a sprawling Sorokin robbed.

Hopefully, that new second line can find chemistry quickly against two good opponents this weekend. It shouldn’t be easy visiting the Lightning and Hurricanes for back-to-back games. But it’ll definitely be a good test.

These are the exact kind of teams you want to battle against. Both are Cup contenders. The Lightning just went out again and added a good young forward in Brandon Hagel to upgrade their secondary scoring. They sure paid a premium in giving up depth forwards Taylor Raddysh and Boris Katchouk along with two first round draft picks to the Blackhawks in exchange for Hagel and two fourth round picks.

Already a loaded roster that’s won consecutive Cups, the Bolts are all in on trying to make history. There hasn’t been a team to three-peat since the Islanders dynasty between 1980-83. Even the Oilers and Penguins fell short of winning three in a row. In getting the 23-year old Hagel who has been on fire, the Lightning have added a good young player to a core that features established stars Steven Stamkos, Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Victor Hedman and Andrei Vasilevskiy.

Considering how competitive the Atlantic Division is, it’s easy to see why they made the move. The Panthers remain in first with the Maple Leafs and Bruins not far behind Tampa for second. Home ice in the first round could prove critical. With Florida going all in for Ben Chiarot and possibly Claude Giroux (hot rumor), the next three days are sure to be busy.

Meanwhile, the Hurricanes lead the Metropolitan Division. They’re four up on the Pens and six ahead of the Rangers, who also have to worry about the suddenly resurgent Caps breathing down their neck. Carolina could have Tony DeAngelo back for the weekend. A key contributor to their offense from the back end, he’s having similar success in Raleigh that he did on Broadway two seasons ago.

The Blueshirts know they’ll have to bring their best hockey over the next 48 hours. Similar to how they played against the Islanders. However, they’ll have to provide more run support for Shesterkin, who could get both starts. If not, we could see Alex Georgiev once more. His status remains uncertain entering Monday.

For tomorrow when they try to sweep the regular season series from the Lightning with face-off not until after 8 PM, the lineup will likely be the same. Expect Gallant to have Vatrano with Panarin and Strome while 40-goal man Chris Kreider, Mika Zibanejad and Alexis Lafreniere continue to comprise the top line.

The third line of Filip Chytil, Barclay Goodrow and Dryden Hunt won’t change. They looked good together with Hunt moved down into the top nine. Gallant has liked what he’s seen from Jonny Brodzinski, who puts himself in good position. He’ll probably stay on the checking line with Greg McKegg and Ryan Reaves.

That should leave Julien Gauthier as an extra unless Turk decides to give the former Carolina first round pick a game on Sunday. Always a possibility. When Kevin Rooney is ready, he’ll be back in the lineup to bolster the fourth line. It remains to be seen when both Rooney and Kaapo Kakko return. It won’t be until post deadline.

Unless they think an upgrade on left D is needed over Patrik Nemeth, who’s looked better since returning from the birth of his second boy, the Rangers could look to add another depth forward to improve scoring. Phil Kessel, Rickard Rakell and Andrew Copp are worth exploring.

If they move on from Georgiev, then maybe they should consider adding a vet like Craig Anderson from Buffalo. I’d prefer him over Keith Kinkaid, who’s better off in Hartford. We don’t know what the market is for Georgiev, who wants out. It might wait until the summer.

The Rangers have 21 games remaining. How they play down the stretch will determine who they play. That includes two tough games over the next two days and three meetings left with Pittsburgh. Plus a pair with the Islanders, who are going to play spoiler.

It won’t be easy. It isn’t supposed to be. It’ll also be fun. We’ll see where they wind up. The next two games being a good measuring stick.

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Devils’ anticipated quiet trade deadline could get spicy

Posted on March 18, 2022 by hasan4978

I’ll be honest, it’s still hard for me to get into watching the Devils right now. Even if there are some genuine reasons for optimism going forward with both Jesper Bratt and Jack Hughes each putting up points at over a PPG pace. Except for Taylor Hall’s MVP season, no other Devil has scored at that rate since Ilya Kovalchuk in 2011-12. Coincidentally, those were the Devils’ last two playoff seasons – a stark contrast to this season where the team is still puttering around twelve games under NHL .500, with just 22 wins in 61 games after being whipped 6-3 in back-to-back games on their Western Canada swing, yet another setback for the franchise after a promising homestand where they won three out of four – including a stirring comeback from 3-0 down to beat the Avalanche.

Of course, it doesn’t help that right when there was a ray of hope after the Devils’ most recent homestand they were playing late weeknight games – one of which I was more interested in the Rutgers NCAA tournament play-in game on at the same time anyway. Not that I missed much in either game other than Nico Daws’ Cinderella story reaching midnight after being pulled in two straight games following a solid eight-game stretch where the team went 5-3 and he only allowed eighteen goals on 250 shots. Even during that stretch I was fearful of the bottom eventually falling in for the 21-year old rookie and seemingly that happened with some bad goals allowed in both games contributing to second-period pulls. He shouldn’t be playing but sadly he’s the best option available considering just how awful Jon Gillies is. Still, at a certain point you have to start prioritizing what’s best for this kid’s development over attempting to win a couple more junktime games. Even if I’ve been harping on the fact the rest of the team needs to start earning better results, there’s a balance between going for results and doing what’s best for development.

With the trade deadline mercifully upon us on Monday, action is finally starting to happen around the NHL. I wasn’t necessarily expecting the Devils to be among the big wheelers and dealers (and still really don’t), given our only expiring contract of any significance is PK Subban, who might not even want to be dealt to begin with. If he does, I doubt he has much value given his cap figure – even with 50% retention you’re talking about $4.5 million prorated, which will be hard for win-now teams who are cap strapped to justify for a middle pairing defender. PK or maybe a 5th rounder for Jimmy Vesey is not going to inspire me to refresh Twitter over the weekend or Monday.

All that said, there may well be some action beyond our slim UFA pickings with rumors of them finally having enough of Pavel Zacha and soliciting offers for the mercurial Czech – who’s gone back to being a disappointment this year after seeming on the verge of a breakout last year and early this season. While there haven’t been any rumors yet on Damon Severson, if you’re GM Tom Fitzgerald you have to at least throw it out there to see what his market value is given that from the few moves that have happened so far it seems to be shaping up as a sellers’ market, especially for guys with team control beyond this season. At the very least, I can’t see us re-signing both Severson and Ryan Graves, who are pending 2023 UFA’s. Neither Severson or Zacha is the biggest name rumored to be on the block, however.

What’s telling is that it’s hard to figure out the meaning of being on the same page, and where it’s coming from although there are some clear possibilities. Is the team still skeptical of Blackwood after his well-publicized vaccine hesitancy in the fall, and/or do they feel he hasn’t managed his injuries well (or been honest about the extent of them)? Or is Blackwood the one annoyed over the team’s handling of his injuries, or them leaning on him to get the vaccine the way 99% of the NHL has? Whatever the case, Blackwood did change agents recently, and you generally don’t do that if you want to maintain status quo. Not long after he gained new representation is when these trade rumors have been popping up. So perhaps it’s his camp trying to engineer his way out.

I can’t see what kind of market he would have at this point coming off of two bad and injury-plagued seasons, although given that we’re apparently being held hostage just trying to find schlebs on the goaltending market, maybe Blackwood still has more trade value than I think. It’s hard to see how a contender could think he would be an immediate answer with his questionable health status. I’m not sure a deal happens now, but it sure seems likely these two parties are headed for divorce one way or another by this offseason. Clearly there’s blame to go around for everyone with this mess, but the bottom line is if the player had played better the last two years it’s unlikely we’d be at this point, to where he wants out and we’re relying on a 21-year old kid to play down the stretch.

I kind of have the feeling something happens at the deadline, I just don’t know what. I’ll be surprised if we only move Subban, disappointed if we really don’t trade anyone at all (or trade for anyone) but I’m not expecting miracles either. It’ll be interesting to see where this goes by Monday afternoon.

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Palmieri’s goal with 2:44 left gives Islanders win over Rangers in playoff style game, Sorokin highlight reel save on Panarin the talk, Kreider gets number 40 in tough defeat

Posted on March 18, 2022 by Derek

It’s not often a goalie outshines Igor Shesterkin. Especially this season when he’s the leading Vezina candidate with 21 games left. However, it was his Russian friend Ilya Sorokin who was the story in tonight’s game. His highway robbery on Artemi Panarin was part of a great game.

Unfortunately, the Rangers didn’t win. Instead, the hated rival Islanders spoiled the fun thanks to a late goal from Kyle Palmieri to prevail 2-1 before an energized MSG. His goal with 2:44 left in regulation made Sorokin a winner. He earned it by making many tough saves en route to 29 to get the better of Shesterkin, who was stellar as well. He made 26 saves.

Sometimes, that’s the breaks. The Rangers probably deserved a better fate. They played a really good 60-minute game against an Islanders foe that’s been playing better. Since getting healthier, they’re winning more than earlier. So, it wasn’t a surprise that this was a hard fought game.

If there was a gripe, the officiating wasn’t good at all. The refs made two tacky calls on each side and missed more blatant stick infractions. One was a Mat Barzal cross check on Mika Zibanejad in a tie game. He let them know about it during a stoppage.

The other was an elbow Ryan Lindgren took from Oliver Wahlstrom that cut him. Whether it was incidental or not, he had a legit beef. Predictably, Palmieri scored the game-winner on the same shift. Lindgren fumed at the officials following the goal.

Let’s be fair here. When it comes down to it, the stripes have a tough job. It is a fast game. The players are bigger, faster and stronger. The officials are going to miss some calls. It happens with regularity. You hope it’s not something that leads to a winning goal. That was the case tonight.

The thing is the games are getting tougher. They always do. The closer we get to Spring with the playoffs around the corner, there are going to be fewer penalties called. Whether you agree or not, the standard changes.

I’ve always been consistent in wanting the blatant stick fouls called over the petty obstruction crap that sometimes isn’t a penalty. Ask both Ryan Strome and Brock Nelson about that. Their penalties late in the second were bogus. Exactly why both Kreider and Anders Lee were on the refs at the conclusion of the period.

Let’s not get carried away and blame the refs. That’s not why the Rangers lost. They simply didn’t find a second goal on Sorokin. There were plenty of opportunities. But he was brilliant. He’s quietly had a very good season for a team that won’t be in the postseason. It’s flown under the radar.

The feeling following a one-goal defeat to the bleeping Islanders is always the same. Insert curse words. Or slam something out of frustration. I actually did because I was disgusted. But nothing over the top. It’s never fun to lose to your biggest riva4l. Especially when every win and point matters. It was a missed opportunity.

As far as how the game was played, I have no complaints. The Rangers played well enough to win. They had more of the play at even strength. The forecheck was there in Frank Vatrano’s Rangers debut. He wore the same number he did with the Panthers. That would be number 77. Forget the silly conspiracy theories over Tony DeAngelo, who they’ll probably see on Sunday in Raleigh.

If you love good skating, clean hitting, strong goaltending and little to no stoppages, then the first period was a treat. It was so competitive during most shifts.

You also had a couple of thumping hits from Ryan Reaves, who caught Cal Clutterbuck with a clean reverse check. He then nailed the towering Zdeno Chara on the same shift. The crowd loved it. So did Reaves, who heard it from Chara as they went to their respective benches. It wasn’t the only run-in. Good hockey at a good atmosphere in a rivalry that matters.

As good as the checking was, how about the improved forecheck from the Rangers. In his first appearance with the Blueshirts, Vatrano was effective throughout. He debuted playing the right side on the second line with Strome and Artemi Panarin. They generated chances with Panarin attempting seven shots while Strome had a near miss on a redirect.

Frankie Vatrano only wound up with one shot on net. But he looked good with the Bread Man and Strome. He also got some power play time on the second unit with Filip Chytil, Alexis Lafreniere, Barclay Goodrow and K’Andre Miller. He had one attempt go high over the net. He has a shoot first mentality. That should help the offense.

Maybe the most frustrating aspect of the opening 20 minutes was how well they played. But Sorokin kept it scoreless. His diving stick save on Panarin (as seen above) was of the highlight reel variety. At the time, I was listening to the action in the car with Justin. We could tell by both Kenny Albert and Dave Maloney’s reaction how good it was. Maloney raved about it. It was even better when we put the game on to catch the replay.

He got it with the paddle while being almost on his back. Remarkable. It wasn’t a goal because Sorokin somehow reached out with his paddle and got a piece of it. That kind of key stop in a low scoring game like Thursday can be momentum turning. It definitely was.

In a period they controlled by holding a 12-7 edge in shots, the Rangers still were held off the scoreboard. They could’ve had a couple of goals. Sorokin also denied Mika Zibanejad and Strome in tight.

The best save from Shesterkin came when he stoned Palmieri who was dangerous. He’s been on a good roll lately. After only scoring one goal in his first 29 games, he’s gotten 10 since. He absorbed a big check from Reaves during the first as well. Reaves was a human wrecking ball with five of his seven hits coming in the first period. This was his best hockey in a while.

Late in the period, Goodrow got nabbed for hooking into Barzal. The game’s first penalty with 70 seconds left didn’t result in much initially for the Islanders. To their credit, the Rangers’ penalty killers got the job done to end the period.

However, with a fresh sheet of ice, the Islanders took advantage to take the lead. With the power play about to expire, some good passing from Noah Dobson and Barzal led to Lee sniping his 23rd by Shesterkin 49 seconds into the second. They left him open in the slot and he buried the one-timer over Shesterkin for a 1-0 Isles lead.

After the goal, the Islanders had a couple of chances to increase their lead. But Barzal was wide on one shot and then stopped by Shesterkin on a second attempt. The speedy top center made life difficult. He was good throughout. He would later nearly set up Wahlstrom only for a sprawling Shesterkin to get over and stack the pads. His best save of the game.

A good Chytil play led to Adam Pelech taking a minor for holding. However, the first Rangers power play was mind numbing. The Islanders took away time and space. Only Adam Fox got a shot on Sorokin that he had no trouble with.

The Rangers continued to finish checks. They got a good scoring chance from the Chytil line. The only gripe was why didn’t Dryden Hunt take a wide open shot from the high slot. Instead, he passed. Chytil got a backhand on Sorokin that he handled. A missed opportunity.

Sorokin would later stop Kreider. He also was stoned by the Islanders starter on a breakaway during a power play. It was on that second man-advantage that Kreider stayed on to draw the Rangers even.

With Scott Mayfield off for an ill advised interference minor by hitting Vatrano late, the Rangers’ leading finisher decided to extend his shift. While the rest of his unit changed, Kreider stayed on. It paid off.

On a quick up from Jacob Trouba, Alexis Lafreniere fed a flying Kreider who fired a wrist shot from the left circle that snuck in short side low blocker on Sorokin to tie the game at 13:38. This was a fantastic shot. It also was number 40 for Kreider. His league-leading 21st power play goal tied the game with 6:21 left in the second.

The physicality continued. Reaves finally paid back Mayfield for his foolish penalty. The feisty Mayfield returned the favor on a heated shift for the Rangers’ fourth line. Everybody was hitting. Lafreniere got one on Anthony Beauvillier. Then Pelech returned the favor on Lafreniere.

It was that kind of game. Grit was on display. The teams combined for 48 hits (27-21 Rangers). The Islanders blocked 16 shots. They were a pain in the ass. That’s what you expect from a Barry Trotz coached team. The Rangers only had nine by comparison. That was due to them having the puck more.

Two brutal calls were then made late in the period. First, Strome got called for a phantom rough on Dobson. We get on him a lot for his penchant for bad penalties. When Micheletti laughed at the replay, you knew it was bad.

Fortunately, the penalty kill was better this time around. With the Isles still on the power play, this time it was Nelson who was sent off for a nothing interference on Zibanejad. The definition of a make up call. That’s basically what Maloney said during intermission on ESPN Radio. The feeling was both penalties were bogus calls.

With the game still even entering the third, it set up a good finish. But it didn’t go the right way. Instead, the Islanders found a way to stay with the Rangers and get the gut wrenching goal that left a bad taste in your mouth.

In a very evenly played period where both Sorokin and Shesterkin were good, the difference turned out to be a fluke play. Following a Sorokin stop on Panarin, it was the Islanders who caught a break when Wahlstrom got his elbow up with Lindgren closing in on him along the side boards.

Could it have been called by the linesmen? Sure. Was it accidental? Perhaps. However, Lindgren was cut and continued playing on the extended shift. With the Isles on the forecheck, Pelech got the puck to Ryan Pulock. In traffic, he took a strange shot that seemed to hang in the air before it came right to Palmieri who redirected it in with 2:44 remaining.

It was a bit perplexing. It didn’t feel like anything would happen. All Pulock did was shoot the puck and it took an Islanders bounce with Palmieri doing the rest for the game-winner. Not much else to add.

As much as Lindgren yelled at the refs, the Rangers still were able to pull Shesterkin for an extra attacker. But the Islanders made it tough. They defended well and even came close to getting the empty netter. Only some hustle prevented it.

A Zibanejad shot from an angle with two seconds left was stopped by Sorokin for his final save. The only shot he saw after denying Panarin with 3:44 remaining. That’s not good enough.

The Rangers got no points out of this game. They played well enough, but ultimately fe short. Disappointing. That’s all to say.

Of course, the Pens came back to win at Nashville in a shootout. So, they’re up to 83 points in second while the Rangers remain at 81 with an extra game left. Don’t forget the three remaining meetings between the rivals. That’ll likely determine home ice. With the Caps winning again, they’re up to 78 with 20 games left. It’s going to be a photo finish.

There’s no time to think. The Rangers have the first place Hurricanes on Sunday. A team that handled them once. DeAngelo will probably play for Rangers South. He didn’t play in tonight’s 3-2 loss at Toronto. But is said to be close to ready. You know he doesn’t want to miss the second meeting versus his former team.

Right now with 21 games remaining and one before the big March 21 deadline, the Blueshirts have at the Lightning Saturday and then the Canes Sunday. The final two games before Armageddon.

They’ve been reportedly linked to veteran Alex Radulov. Why? He’s had a lousy season for Dallas. I’d like to see them in on someone else. I don’t mean a left defenseman that’s going to cost essentially what the Panthers paid Montreal for Ben Chiarot. They’re a legit Cup contender who’s all in. The Rangers have to be careful here. Add what you can that’s reasonable.

That’s going to do it for now. If anything earth shattering happens, I’ll have it up on here. Until then, Happy Saint Patty’s Day! Happy Purim!

BATTLE Of Hudson Three Stars 🌟 🤩 ✨️

3rd 🌟 Chris Kreider, Rangers career best 40th goal for NHL-leading 21st PPG, 5 SOG in 19:44

2nd 🌟 Kyle Palmieri, Islanders game-winning goal (11) with 2:44 left in regulation, 4 SOG, +1 in 12:52

1st 🌟 Ilya Sorokin, Islanders 29 saves on 30 shots including 24 for 24 even strength and highway robbery on Panarin

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Rangers make solid pickup acquiring Frank Vatrano from Panthers

Posted on March 16, 2022 by Derek

Chris Drury made a move today. In what could be a signal the Rangers are going to be busy until next Monday’s March 21 trade deadline, the team made a sensible deal by acquiring Frank Vatrano from the Panthers for a fourth round pick.

Vatrano has spent the last few years in Florida. Formerly a Bruin who the Cats stole for a third round pick, he’s a solid depth forward who can contribute offensively.

In fact, his final game for the Panthers saw him score twice including in overtime to beat the Sharks last night. The pair of goals gave him 10 for the season. It is the fourth consecutive year he’s hit double digits. Vatrano notched 24 goals in ’18-19, 16 in ’19-20 and 18 last season.

The left wing has a shoot first mentality. Something that the Rangers need. He was successful with Florida due to being able to find the back of the net with his good shot.

A productive secondary scorer, the 28-year old forward had 73 goals and 53 assists for a total of 126 points in 271 games with the Panthers. Sixty-four of his 73 goals came at even strength including nine of 10 this season.

That is exactly the kind of player the Rangers can use. With Vatrano in the final year of a contract that pays him $2.6 million including a $2.53 million AAV, the Blueshirts agreed to pick up the remainder of the tab to help Florida clear space. They’re going to be serious players over the next few days.

In helping out a team they could even see if things go right this postseason, the cost was less. Frank Seravalli reported that the Panthers originally wanted a second round pick. So, Drury did pretty good to upgrade the bottom six. He sure didn’t overpay.

Vatrano can slot in on the third line with Filip Chytil and possibly Barclay Goodrow depending on how Gerard Gallant wants to use him. Goodrow can also center the checking line. His versatility has been an asset.

The addition of Vatrano means someone comes out of the lineup when the Rangers host the Islanders tomorrow. Given what Jonny Brodzinski has provided, he should stay in on either the new third line or checking unit. I actually prefer Greg McKegg over Julien Gauthier for the fourth line. I’d scratch Gauthier.

Morgan Barron will likely be reassigned to Hartford to clear room on the roster. Barron has only gotten in the lineup occasionally. He’s been used sparingly. It makes more sense to send him down where he can get top line minutes with the Wolf Pack.

It’s also worth noting that by picking up Vatrano, who will hit the market this summer, they’re admitting the obvious. Both Kaapo Kakko and Kevin Rooney won’t be back soon. However, when they eventually return, the lineup should be improved.

Depending on if Drury makes an addition to the second line that would drop Dryden Hunt to the bottom six, there could be more to come. That would strengthen a team weakness. They’ve depended so much on Chris Kreider, Mika Zibanejad and Artemi Panarin to provide most of the offense. By addressing the obvious, the lack of scoring depth should improve.

This was an easy transaction for Drury to make. The Rangers got better today.

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A Foxy Finish! Fox’s goal in overtime gives Rangers home win over Ducks, Panarin sets up winner, three helpers, Kreider ties it with NHL best 20th power play goal

Posted on March 16, 2022 by Derek
Foxy: Adam Fox celebrates his overtime winner for the Rangers who defeated the Ducks 4-3 at MSG. AP Photo by New York Rangers via Getty Images

It was a Foxy kinda night at 33rd and 7th. Adam Fox’s goal at 55 seconds of overtime gave the Rangers a 4-3 win on home ice. His 9th of the season was perfectly set up by Artemi Panarin, who continued his surge with three assists to give him eight points (1-7-8) in the last two games. Both wins.

On a night where they didn’t have their best game, it was mostly the brilliance of Panarin that helped carry the Blueshirts to a second consecutive victory. Coming off his third career five-point game, Panarin had it going against the Ducks at The Garden.

It was his line that controlled most of the action. Along with sidekick Ryan Strome and the gritty Dryden Hunt, the Panarin line dictated for long stretches in the Ducks’ zone. Their defense struggled against the Rangers’ second scoring unit.

This was more like how Panarin played in his first season in NYC. A welcome sight for the Garden Faithful. He not only setup goals, but was more aggressive shooting the puck. The Bread Man had four shots on net and seven attempts. That’s the mindset the Rangers need from their leading scorer. By putting up eight points over two games, he’s up to 71 (16-55-71) for the season. A good sign.

Fox had a second straight good game. He’d slumped recently. But in this one, the ’21 Norris winner was everywhere throughout. A more active approach led to him having his best game in nearly two months. Not only did he pass the puck well, but looked for his shot. For the game, he had a team high six shots in eight attempts.

The end result was a three-point effort by the Rangers’ leading star defenseman. That included helping set up Chris Kreider’s league-leading 20th power play goal to tie the score with 6:20 remaining in regulation. It also saw him finish off a great pass from Panarin by beating losing Ducks’ goalie John Gibson with a wrist shot in close for the overtime winner.

When the stars play well, this team has a much better chance of being successful. Mika Zibanejad also scored his 24th goal and added his 37th helper on the game-tying Kreider goal following a smart timeout by coach Gerard Gallant. He rested his top unit to keep them fresh. They delivered with Fox sending a shot wide that took a Ranger carom for a Kreider backhand that gave him his 39th to tie the contest at three.

They also got a nice contribution from the third line. Earlier in the game, a Filip Chytil clear out of his end allowed Jonny Brodzinski to score his first goal as a Ranger 4:29 into the contest. Chytil has played better recently. It was nice to see the hard-working Brodzinski get rewarded. Even if his shot from range was a bad one for the slumping Gibson to allow.

Since appearing in the All-Star Game following a good first half, Gibson has hit hard times. He entered play having allowed at least three goals or more in every start since Jan. 31. He wasn’t as bad tonight. But the final statistics were four goals allowed on 38 shots to extend his miserable run to 11. Yikes.

The first period was a bit strange. There weren’t a whole lot of shots or what I’d call high quality scoring chances. However, it was the Blueshirts who drew first blood.

On a good defensive by Braden Schneider, he got the puck up to Chytil along the boards. He was able to move it up for Brodzinski who simply gained the Anaheim zone and fired a wrist shot from the right circle that eluded Gibson. It was his eighth career NHL goal. The first in 11 games this season. He scored one last year in a five game cameo.

Despite getting off to the good start, the Rangers couldn’t or wouldn’t fire more shots on a fragile goalie. That allowed Gibson to eventually get into a rhythm. Something that’s been uncommon for the 28-year old American.

The only line that created consistent chances was the Panarin unit. Able to gain the zone, forecheck and win loose pucks, they had the Ducks pinned in often. It just didn’t lead to much early. Interestingly, the third line that featured Brodzinski also cycled effectively. Brodzinski was credited with three of the team’s seven shots in the first period.

With the Rangers still up by one, a Ducks’ forecheck led to them getting the tying goal. Adam Henrique worked the puck to Troy Terry, who came out and centered a pass that banked in off Max Comtois with 5:55 remaining. The puck also appeared to bounce off K’Andre Miller simultaneously. A bad break.

With the game tied, a good Strome hit in the corner of the Ducks’ end resulted in Sam Carrick taking a holding minor. On their first power play, the Blueshirts couldn’t do anything. Instead, the improved Ducks’ penalty kill were aggressive at clearing the zone. They were able to kill it off.

Late in the period, some Anaheim pressure led to Ryan Lindgren throwing the puck away for a delay of game minor with 14 seconds left. Despite what both Sam Rosen and Joe Micheletti said, he had enough time. It was an unforced error.

The Ducks remained on the five-on-four into the second period. Even though they didn’t score, their power play created opportunities on Alex Georgiev, who got the start. Of course, some fans negatively reacted to him playing this game. But what are they supposed to do? Play Igor Shesterkin in every remaining game. That makes no sense.

Interesting to note that Georgiev entered the start 3-0 versus the Ducks in his career with only four goals allowed. You do the math. This was a calculated move to maybe get him one more show case just in case they move on. Given some of his postgame commentary following recent losses, it’s obvious this is it for him. Whether he goes at next week’s deadline or this summer, his time as a Blueshirt is coming to an end.

To be fair, Georgiev was okay. He’s also fared better at home than on the road during his career. It’s interesting that Gallant has used him more on the road where he hasn’t been as successful. Perhaps that’s due to the schedule and the monster season from Shesterkin.

With the game even entering the second period, the Rangers killed off the Lindgren penalty. That included a nice save from Georgiev. Following that successive kill, Alexis Lafreniere’s takeaway sent Zibanejad in with Kreider. His pass in front for Kreider was denied by Gibson.

Following that sequence, the Panarin line again dominated an offensive shift against the Ducks. In the period of the long change, that unit forechecked until Hunt drew a delayed call. But with the six skaters showing patience, eventually Panarin and Fox combined to set up Zibanejad for a one-timer from a tough angle that beat Gibson high short side for a 2-1 lead.

The six-on-five goal was well executed. They kept the puck possession the entire time against an exhausted Ducks five-man unit. Finally, Zibanejad picked up number 24 off a good Fox pass at 3:06.

But before they could feel good about themselves, Jacob Trouba took down Isac Lundestrom to go for tripping. The Ducks didn’t waste any time. With Henrique able to get the puck up top for Cam Fowler, the veteran defenseman let go of a point shot that Georgiev couldn’t pick up to tie the score at 4:53. Fox forgot about Comtois who screened Georgiev in front.

Tied at two, that’s how it remained during a pretty even period. It wasn’t as dull as the first. The teams combined for 21 shots. The Rangers held an 11-10 edge. Both goalies made key stops to keep it even headed to the third.

The Rangers were able to kill off one of those Strome penalties late. He also missed an open net on a one-timer off a Panarin feed. A regular occurrence. Both the bad penalties and easy misses are known as the Ryan Strome for a reason.

If he buried some of these opportunities, he would have over 20 goals by now. Nobody would be complaining. He is still a key player. It’s absurd that there’s a small contingent that want him traded. Come on. They need to add players. Not subtract.

For most of the third, it was mostly Rangers. They really had the Ducks on the ropes. To his credit, Gibson stopped the puck to give Anaheim a shot. His timely stops nearly helped them steal the game.

With the Rangers applying more pressure, Patrik Nemeth had a shot blocked. With him caught and all three forwards trapped, Danny O’Regan moved the puck up for Derek Grant in the neutral zone. Able to get a step on Schneider, the checking forward broke in and beat Georgiev by shooting over him to make it 3-2 Ducks with 9:25 left.

My only gripe with Georgiev on the goal is he didn’t challenge enough. He had Schneider skating back chasing Grant. Even though the rookie defenseman took the wrong angle, if Georgiev had been more aggressive, he could’ve come out and denied Grant. The indecisiveness cost him. Breakaways have been a bugaboo for him. It wasn’t all his fault.

With the Ducks leading for the first time, Fox was able to get a step on Comtois and draw a hooking minor. On the power play for the second time, they couldn’t get the shot they needed during the first half. That included a passive Kreider not shooting and forcing a pass into the middle that was sent down the ice.

Following a Gibson save, Gallant again used his timeout to keep his top unit fresh. He’s had success with it this season. After the breather, Zibanejad won an offensive draw back for a Panarin shot that Gibson gloved.

After controlling another face-off, they went to work. Off a Panarin set up of a Fox shot, the puck banked off the back boards right to Kreider, who did what he does best. He was able to put in a backhand for his NHL best 20th power play goal.

It also was his 39th goal and 54th point. The goal was career point number 400. The 54 points are a new career high. So, now Kreider has career bests with 39 goals and 54 points. Better than that, he’s clutch.

That goal allowed the Blueshirts to force overtime. It didn’t take long to decide a winner. A Zibanejad defensive play helped send Panarin in behind the Anaheim skaters. After he was caught, he was strong enough to get the puck over for Fox, who beat Gibson for the exciting game-winner at 55 seconds.

It wasn’t perfect. They don’t all have to be. Gallant didn’t sound particularly thrilled I the postgame. The scowl he gave following the Grant breakaway goal was as mad as I’ve seen him during a game. There was definitely steam coming out.

Part of that is by design. With the Islanders visiting town on Thursday, they’ll have to be sharper. The Isles have played better hockey lately. Even though they’re a playoff afterthought, they haven’t quit. Too much pride.

Anders Lee is hot coming in and Noah Dobson is having a breakout year. Ilya Sorokin has quietly put together a good first full year. He’s got six shutouts. You will likely get the Sorokin versus Shesterkin match-up at MSG.

For the Rangers, it’s a chance to play against their number one rival. It’s only the second meeting. They need to win. No excuses. Expect it to be tough. The Islanders are now spoilers.

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As deadline approaches, Rangers must be careful not to go overboard

Posted on March 13, 2022 by Derek

By show of hands, who had this team in second place with 79 points through 59 games? With a 37-17-5 record, the Rangers have had a splendid season. They entered Sunday tied in points with the Penguins, who take on the first place Hurricanes this afternoon in Pittsburgh.

Regardless if the Pens win to move two up in the standings, the Blueshirts would have a game at hand and still hold the first tiebreaker with 32 regulation wins. If that is the first round match-up, the final three meetings between the old Patrick Division rivals will likely decide home ice. Something probably more vital to the younger Rangers.

Whatever happens when they return Tuesday to host Anaheim, it’s been an exciting year. Under Gerard Gallant, the postseason was an expectation. However, even the most optimistic fan probably didn’t have this team 20 games over .500. Eighteen points clear of ninth seed Columbus and 25 better than the desperate Islanders who pull into Penn Station this Thursday, the Rangers are a playoff lock.

It’s been that way for a while. In an Eastern Conference where we already know the eight teams who’ll compete for the Prince of Wales Trophy when the postseason begins, it’s all about putting yourself in the best position possible. A Carolina win in regulation today would give them 89 points. Ten clear of second. Even without Tony DeAngelo, they continue to be successful.

If the Canes look like a runaway Metropolitan Division winner vying for home ice with current Atlantic Division leading Florida, then that leaves six teams competing for seeding for the first round.

It’s a bit more undecided in the Atlantic where the Lightning have dropped three in a row. The Maple Leafs can pass them with a win against the Sabres in the NHL Heritage Classic at Tim Hortons Field. The outdoor game can be seen on TNT or SportsNet. The Bolts are in action later tonight at the Canucks.

A hot stretch led by David Pastrnak and emerging Calder candidate Jeremy Swayman (eight straight wins) have the Bruins up to 77 points. They’re in the first wildcard. But can move up if Tampa continues to falter with Toronto having goalie issues. Much is still up for grabs.

A much needed 7-4 road win in Dallas gave the Rangers exactly what they needed last night. They erased an early two-goal deficit by getting the next four in a high scoring first period. Artemi Panarin had his best game of the season by recording his third career five-point game. That included his 16th goal that made it 4-2. He set up four more to earn the game’s First Star.

After allowing a soft goal to Esa Lindell early and then giving up a Tyler Seguin deflection, Igor Shesterkin settled down. He finished with 29 saves on 33 shots. Many of those saves were tough due to a very aggressive Stars’ mindset which included bumping Shesterkin without any resistance. A sequence where Ryan Lindgren and Adam Fox just stood and watched the Rangers’ MVP absorb contact was unacceptable.

Without the brilliant play of their number one goalie, they’d be sunk. More often than not, the 26-year old Russian netminder has bailed out his team. Too often on Saturday night, the Stars got whatever they wanted. There were far too many high danger chances. It was too easy for the fast skating Stars to gain the zone and generate good shots on Shesterkin.

He’s unflappable. But he can’t save this team by himself. As was evidenced in ugly defeats to the Wild and Blues, even the great Igor isn’t perfect. He needs help. The six goals they scored sans a Ryan Strome empty netter were a step in the right direction.

So too were the contributions support players Greg McKegg, Julien Gauthier, Dryden Hunt and Barclay Goodrow supplied. Scoring depth has been an issue. The over reliance on the stars has been a common theme. A Mika Zibanejad power play goal that tied the game made it 39 of 43 PPG’s for the first unit. A remarkable number. That lethal unit has the team ranked second in the league at 26.5 percent.

It features league-leading power play goal getter Chris Kreider, whose 19 are the most in the NHL. Half his career high 38 goals have come on the man-advantage. With a PPG yesterday, Zibanejad is up to 12. He has 23 on the season. That’s 31 for the Rangers’ top two finishers. Panarin, Strome and Fox comprise the rest. More setup men than shooters, they have a combined eight on the power play. Five for Panarin and three for Strome. Fox has none.

It’s great to have a top unit that can do so much damage. However, the games get tougher. There will continue to be more attention paid to Fox, who runs the power play. Recent opponents are attacking him up high to limit time and space. If you give Fox time, he’ll find open teammates. A great passer of the puck, his 50 assists lead all defensemen. It was nice to see him score a goal on a tip-in of a Jacob Trouba shot.

While Kreider and Zibanejad have starred on Broadway to score the big goals in most wins, the Rangers will need more games like last night from Panarin. The Bread Man is a very skilled player with great peripheral vision. He can find open ice.

The best part about Saturday night is he was able to do it at five-on-five. No better example than controlling play and finding a pinching Trouba for an open shot Fox redirected to make it 3-2. Ditto on Panarin’s 16th where he took a pass from K’Andre Miller and fired a wrist shot by Jake Oettinger to increase the lead to 4-2.

It was a rarity to see guys like McKegg, Gauthier, Hunt and even Filip Chytil have an impact. Gauthier set up the McKegg goal that started the comeback. Hunt notched a career best three assists by playing an assertive game. Chytil made a defensive play that led to Goodrow beating Oettinger five-hole to give them a 6-4 lead with the Stars pressing.

Secondary scoring is a necessity come postseason. As the trade deadline approaches in just over a week, it’ll fall on Chris Drury to make the key decisions that can improve the roster.

What he must determine is are the Rangers a piece or two away from serious contention. To the naked eye, it doesn’t seem so. That’s why I’d tread carefully as March 21 approaches.

Is it worth overpaying for a proven commodity such as J.T. Miller if the Canucks make him available? Vancouver is only a few points out of the wildcard. They’ve been playing better under coach Bruce Boudreau. They could decide to keep Miller, who leads them in scoring and has another year left on his current deal.

I’ve mentioned the Canucks’ rumored interest in young Rangers’ rookie defenseman Braden Schneider. Not something I’d even contemplate. I’m a fan of Miller, but not at the cost of Schneider, who has the look of a shutdown right defenseman that can contribute offensively due to his skating. He has a bright future.

With Kaapo Kakko still uncertain, the Blueshirts need to upgrade at right wing. As honest a game as Hunt plays, he isn’t the right fit for the second line. He’s better suited in a checking role. Preferably on the fourth line. His hitting and energy are a plus. Any offense is a bonus.

Who is the missing piece that can fit with Panarin and Strome? Two very unselfish players who think pass more than shot. That would explain the combined 30 goals between them. Although I have no idea how Strome blows so many chances with open nets. At least he didn’t miss last night.

If both Miller and Filip Forsberg aren’t available, then what. Phil Kessel can be had for a mid-level prospect and mid-round draft pick. While he isn’t the same scorer he was with the Pens, Kessel can still get off his shot. A scenery change can work for the two-time Stanley Cup winner.

Let’s say Drury were to add two forwards. One a proven scorer who can also play second power play. The other a solid bottom six forward that can forecheck and contribute offensively.

I’ve been on record as saying I’d love a reunion with Colin Blackwell. A guy who plays bigger than his 5-9 frame. He had success here last year with Strome and Panarin. If you put him in a secondary role, that could work. He also kills penalties and is a shorthanded threat.

Whether it’s a Blackwell, Vladislav Namestnikov, Connor Brown, Artturi Lehkonen or Tyler Motte, those are the type of high energy players who are capable of helping a team too reliant on its top six. The cost shouldn’t be as much.

What about Rickard Rakell of the Ducks for the second line? The 28-year old is unrestricted this summer. With Anaheim fading, acquiring Rakell could make sense. Although he’s not what he once was, he still has 16 goals and 28 points. That includes five power play goals. A good right shot, he could be worth exploring for Drury.

Another area the organization could decide to upgrade is third pair, left defenseman. Patrik Nemeth has played better since his wife gave birth to a baby boy. He even scored a big goal late in the second period last night. So, it isn’t a necessity to replace him in the top six.

Besides, the cost of a Ben Chiarot or Hampus Lindholm will be astronomical. Is it really worth coughing up high picks and possibly a good prospect (Brennan Othmann, Will Cuylle, Zac Jones) for a rental? I doubt it.

The truth is this team isn’t a couple of pieces away. They’d have to catch lightning in a bottle to make a deep run. This isn’t to suggest it isn’t possible. The core is good. They’re a close knit group with chemistry.

It hinges on Shesterkin. He’s the straw that stirs the drink. At 29 wins with a 2.07 GAA and .938 save percentage, no goalie has been better. He’s certainly capable of stealing a series. But is it similar to Henrik Lundqvist in ’06-07 and ’07-08? Given the age of the current roster, I’m inclined to say yes.

Realistically, they could be capable of getting out of the first round. That would be a good accomplishment. Especially against the battle tested Pens, who look like the likely opponent.

If the first game two weeks ago was any indication, it would be a tough series. Especially facing Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Jake Guentzel. Tristan Jarry has had a great bounce back season. The Pens are no longer a run and gun team. Think tight checking with Crosby and Malkin the game-breakers.

In terms of seriously competing against possibly the Canes, Lightning or Panthers, they’re deeper. Only Florida doesn’t defend well. Plus Sergei Bobrovsky doesn’t have the best track record. The Canes and Bolts are more proven.

From my observations, Carolina appears to be the best team. They defend extremely well and have a good forecheck. Five-on-five is a strength. The only question is in net with Freddie Andersen. A veteran goalie who’s had a great season. But like Bobrovsky isn’t a proven playoff performer. But they have superb depth and would be tough to beat in a seven-game series.

If they are right, the Lightning are a handful. The two-time defending champs boast the game’s best goalie in Andrei Vasilevskiy. With apologies to Shesterkin, who’s having the best season, it’s Vasilevskiy who has the proven track record. A Vezina winner who’s come up clutch in elimination games, he’s the one goalie you’d go with in a Game Seven.

When you factor in a deep roster that features stars Steven Stamkos, Nikita Kucherov, Victor Hedman, Brayden Point along with Alex Killorn, Ondrej Palat, Anthony Cirelli, Ryan McDonagh and Mikhail Sergachev, the Lightning are championship caliber. They also boast depth thanks to veterans Pat Maroon and Corey Perry along with Ross Colton, they’re not a team you’d want to draw. Especially if they don’t get eliminated early.

How do the Rangers compare to Boston or Toronto? The scoring isn’t as good if it’s the Leafs. If it’s the Bruins, who play more of a checking style that now involves their top three lines, it’s a little closer. A goalie match-up of Swayman versus Shesterkin would be interesting. Of course, this is a hypothetical. Probably not realistic.

The Leafs score at a high rate and boast the best power play along with the game’s top finisher in Auston Matthews. He only enters today with 44 goals. Five up on Leon Draisaitl and six ahead of Kreider. He missed some games and still should hit 60. The combo of Matthews and Mitch Marner is deadly. With Jack Campbell out and having slumped after a strong first half, who stops the puck? Maybe they can call Felix Potvin.

Whether they’re ready for prime time remains to be seen. There will be meaningful hockey at The Garden for the first time in five years. That’s significant. Whatever they decide, it must be with the best interest in mind.

If it’s not this year, ’22-23 could be a better time frame. By then, the roster should have a different look. Shesterkin will be 27 and in his prime. Just like another Rangers legend Mike Richter. That could be a good omen.

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Rangers turn the tables in a ‘must win game’ over Stars, Panarin erupts for five points, Hunt picks three apples in wild victory

Posted on March 13, 2022 by Derek

Dryden Hunt called it a ‘must win game.’ The gritty forward played a key part in another comeback win for the Rangers. After falling behind by two early, they turned the tables completely on the Stars to pull out a wild 7-4 win to conclude a four-game road trip.

For his part, Hunt had three assists to help the Rangers snap a two-game losing streak. Two ugly losses that were the worst of the season. They needed a game like this. Maybe not getting down early before coming back. It showed character.

On a night coach Gerard Gallant opted for another strange 11 forward, 7 defensemen alignment, it worked out alright. This time, it was Ryan Reaves getting his first healthy scratch of the season. While he got a night off, Gallant decided to dress Libor Hajek for the second time on the road trip.

Initially, Ryan Lindgren was listed as the seventh defenseman. He’s been struggling lately. Perhaps it’s due to being banged up. As the game progressed, Lindgren regained his status on the top pair with Adam Fox, who looked more like himself.

By going with seven D and only 11 forwards, Gallant basically had three lines and worked in Julien Gauthier and Greg McKegg, who made a nice contribution in his return. In a very unpredictable game, both Gauthier and McKegg were responsible for a huge goal that swung the momentum.

It also was a big night for Artemi Panarin. The team’s leading scorer finally had the kind of impact game they needed from the star player. He erupted for a season high five points with a goal and four assists. It was the best he’s looked in a while. He scored and set up goals the way he can.

Facing a good team that doesn’t lose often on home ice, the Blueshirts got off on the wrong foot. It was just 49 seconds in that defensive defenseman Esa Lindell was able to sneak a backhand from a bad angle by Igor Shesterkin short side top. Not the start he wanted after being chased from the net in St. Louis.

Before the game was five minutes old, Tyler Seguin was able to redirect a Joel Kivaranta shot in to give the Stars a quick 2-0 lead. At that point, there had to be concern. Were the Stars about to blow the doors off the Blueshirts? Thankfully, it never happened.

On a strong Gauthier forechecking shift behind the Dallas net, he was able to outwork two Stars and throw a puck out to a pinching K’Andre Miller. Using a defenseman as a screen, the more confident Miller let go of a wrist shot that changed direction to beat Jake Oettinger at 9:45.

The hard work from Gauthier led to the big goal that changed the first period. It was his first point in 16 games. Originally, the goal was credited to Miller. That would’ve been a new career high six. But replays showed that McKegg was able to get his stick on the puck to pick up his second of the season. A gritty play by the veteran.

Jonny Brodzinski drew the only penalty of the period on Roope Hintz, who hooked him down. The second ranked power play made short work to even it up. Needing only seven seconds due to a face-off win, Panarin one touched the puck to Ryan Strome, who moved it in the slot for a Mika Zibanejad one-timer that went off the far goalpost and in. It was his 12th power play goal and 23rd overall.

Suddenly with momentum, the Rangers stayed on the attack at even strength. On a good shift where Panarin found room, he got the puck over for a Jacob Trouba shot that Fox tipped in front for the go-ahead tally with 5:46 left. His eighth was the first goal he scored since Jan. 19. It broke a 15 game drought.

On the very next shift, it was some more good work by the second line that allowed them to make it four consecutive goals. Hunt moved the puck for Miller up top. He then passed for Panarin, who moved into the right circle and surprised Oettinger with a wrist shot that beat him. That made it two goals in 36 seconds.

Following the crazy first period where the teams combined for six goals, the second wasn’t as high scoring. For the most part, both young goalies settled down to make key saves.

After the Rangers were unable to capitalize on a second man-advantage Alexis Lafreniere drew on Radek Faksa, Lindgren took another penalty for interference. As Dallas worked the puck around, Brodzinski took down Jamie Benn to give them an abbreviated five-on-three.

With only 22 seconds on it, the Stars caught a nice break to pull within one. Following a Hintz pass to John Klingberg, he centered down low for Jason Robertson, who had the puck go off his glove and in. Shesterkin immediately threw his hands up and protested the controversial play. He had a point.

Even on the Stars’ feed, color analyst Daryl Reaugh thought it wouldn’t count. A well respected broadcaster, Reaugh tells it like it is. When both he and Joe Micheletti think it shouldn’t count, there’s a good reason for it. A player isn’t allowed to direct the puck in with their glove. The problem was it was hard to tell if that’s what Robertson did. He’s an outstanding player.

I don’t think the play in question can be challenged. Gallant certainly was animated while discussing it with refs Jake Brenk and Steve Kozari. They probably couldn’t do anything. So, it stood as the 30th goal for Robertson. A great player many teams passed on in the 2017 NHL Draft. He went number 39 to the Stars, who also took Miro Heiskanen (mononucleosis) third and Oettinger 26th in the first round. Don’t bother looking at that draft.

The Robertson goal that made it 4-3 definitely gave the Stars life. They really carried the play for almost the rest of the second period. But whenever it appeared they’d find the equalizer with the Blueshirts hanging on, Shesterkin was there to make the critical stops. In a period his team was outplayed and outshot 13-8, the Vezina favorite made 12 big saves.

With it looking like Dallas could tie it on an extended offensive shift late in the stanza, an important goal was scored by an unlikely source. On a strong cycle from Hunt and Panarin, Patrik Nemeth took the puck behind the net and then came around for a backhand stuff in try that Oettinger stopped. However, he jammed away at a loose puck as the whistle blew with 1:40 left.

Initially, nobody seemed to realize that the puck crossed the line. However, a horn sounded from above which usually signals a goal. Following the review in which replays indicated that the puck was indeed in prior to the whistle blowing, Nemeth had his second goal since becoming a Dad for the second time.

It was a nice reward for a guy who’s certainly been criticized enough. Nemeth made a smart play around the net and realized Oettinger didn’t completely have the puck covered along his post. That allowed him to poke it in to give the Rangers a huge goal that put them ahead 5-3 with a period remaining.

In the third, the Rangers did a solid job defensively. They didn’t give up many shots early on. In fact, the Stars barely mustered anything the first several minutes. However, one good offensive play led to Joe Pavelski tipping in a Hintz shot for his 23rd at 8:09.

On the scoring play, Klingberg got the puck over to Hintz. He then took a shot with Pavelski in front. With Lindgren a bit off him, that allowed Pavelski to do what he does best. The 37-year old veteran American is having a great season. Having just re-signed for a year at a cap hit of $5.5 million with an extra $500,000 in performance bonuses, Pavelski is over a point-per-game. Remarkable.

Again with momentum from a goal that cut the deficit to one, the Stars looked on the verge of drawing even. They had the play in the Ranger end. But a good defensive play from Filip Chytil cleared the zone. It also allowed Barclay Goodrow to come out with the puck.

Skating into the Stars’ zone, he let go of a wrist shot from the left circle that eluded Oettinger for the momentum shifting goal that gave the Rangers enough breathing room. Goodrow added to his career high with number 13 by beating Oettinger five-hole. That made it 6-4 with 5:53 left.

Dallas coach Rick Bowness eventually lifted Oettinger for an extra attacker. However, it was the effective combination of Panarin and Hunt that combined to move the puck ahead for Strome. Needing a goal desperately for his psyche, even he couldn’t blow the empty netter that came with 1:37 to go.

Prior to Strome getting his 14th, an over excited Shesterkin went for it again. As soon as he got the puck, he saw the Dallas empty net. Perhaps a bit over anxious, he shot too quickly. It nearly resulted in disaster. The Stars came close to making it a one-goal game. Fortunately, Shesterkin’s mistake didn’t cost him.

At the end of the day, this was an important win. Maybe not a must win as Hunt said. But considering how poorly they played in lopsided defeats at Minnesota and St. Louis, it was nice to see them get off the mat. The victory allowed them to earn a split on the road trip. It also prevented three losses in a row in regulation.

They now can return home in a better mood. The Rangers have the next two days off before the Ducks visit MSG on Tuesday. Believe it or not, the Islanders then are on the schedule this Thursday.

The victory tied the Blueshirts with the Penguins for second in the Metro. Both have 79 points with 23 games remaining. By virtue of three more wins in regulation, the Rangers are second. Pittsburgh takes on first place Carolina this afternoon. The Canes are up to 87 points and show no signs of slowing down.

Congrats to former Ranger Derek Stepan on his 500th career point. A nice assist on a Steven Lorentz goal in the Canes’ 3-1 home win over the Flyers. Proof that good guys don’t always finish last. I’ll always be a fan of Step. Kudos to him on the milestone.

Battle Of Hudson Three Stars

3rd 🌟 K’Andre Miller NYR 2 assists, 3 SOG, 2 takeaways, +2 in 19:59

2nd 🌟 Dryden Hunt, NYR career high 3 assists, +2 in 17:10

1st 🌟 Artemi Panarin NYR goal (16th) plus 4 🍎 for season best 5 points, +2 in 20:18

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