Sauer, Erixon, and 24/7

Defenseman Michael Sauer has been placed on the injured reserve, joining Marc Staal as the the second defenseman to be placed on the IR because of a concussion.

The Rangers have called up defenseman Tim Erixon from the Connecticut Whale. Erixon started the season with the Rangers because of a shortage on defense after Sauer suffered a shoulder injury during the preseason. Erixon was sent to the Whale after Sauer's return, and seems to have been recalled once again because of an injury to Sauer.

24/7 will premier tonight at 10 pm on HBO.

St, Louis Out, Wolski Skating, and Anisimov on Twitter

Lightening forward Martin St. Louis will most likely not play tonight against the Rangers. He took a puck to the face from former Rangers Dominic Moore in practice. This is a huge break for the Rangers and one more offensive threat the defense has to contain.

Injured forward Wojtek Wolski skated at this mornings practice for the first time since receiving sports hernia surgery.

Ranger forward Artem Anisimov is now in Twitter!

Sauer Becomes Second Concussed Defenseman

It was confirmed by the Rangers and Torts that defenseman Michael Sauer has been diagnosed with a concussion and will not play tomorrow night against the Tampa Bay Lightening. Sauer is listed as "day-to-day". Anton Stralman will likely be inserted into the lineup for just his second game as a New York Ranger (his first being the loss against Florida) because the Rangers have not announced any cal ups. The seriously weakened defensive pairings will most likely look like this-
McDonagh-Girardi
Eminger-Del Zotto
Stralman-Woywitka

Concerning possible call ups, Tim Erixon, who played with the Rangers in the beginning of the season due to Sauer's shoulder injury, is still suffering from an undisclosed injury and is also listed as "day-to-day". If Sauer is out for a while, the Rangers might need to make a trade, especially with the concussion Marc Staal has been dealing with.

In other injury news, Mike Rupp practiced with the team (wearing a non-contact jersey) for the first time since his knee surgery.

Rangers prospect and first round draft pick J.T. Miller was selected to attend the USA National team evaluation camp.

Rangers Vs. Leafs-Take 2

The Rangers will play the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight at 7 pm at Madison Square Garden. The Leafs are the only team to beat the Rangers at home in regulation this season. The Rangers are also wearing their white jerseys instead of the blue ones they usually wear at home. The last time the Rangers wore their white jerseys at home, they beat the Philadelphia Flyers 7-0.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Richards-Callahan
Mitchell-Boyle-Hagelin
Avery-Dubinsky-Prust

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Eminger-Woywitka

Lundqvist

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms), Mike Rupp (knee), Wojtek Wolski (groin), Erik Christensen (healthy), Anton Stralman (healthy)

Player Profile-Artem Anisimov

Left wing Artem Anisimov debuted on the Russian unprofessional team Lokomtiv Yaroslavl during the 2004-05 season. He was drafted by the Rangers 54th overall in the 2006 entry draft. He signed his first contract with the Rangers in 2007 and played with the Hartford Wolfpack of the AHL for the 2008-09 season. He scored a goal and had two assists in the 2009 AHL All-Star Game for PlanetUSA. He was recalled by the Rangers in February 2009 and scored his first goal in a 3-0 win over the Anaheim Ducks in October of 2009. He signed a two year deal with the Rangers as a restricted free agent in 2011. He currently plays left wing on the top line with Derek Stepan as center and Marion Gaborik as right wing.

Rangers Ground Lightning with Rebounds

The Rangers defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning by a score of 4-2.

Thoughts-

• The Rangers continue to give up early goals, and  goals in the closing seconds of the period. Surprisingly, they still win games. Imagine how difficult it will be to play them if they don't give up those goals.
• I don't think that Henrik Lundqvist played his best last night. The two goals he gave up were pretty weak, although he was screened on the first one by Derek Stepan.
• It seemed that every time there was a rebound, the Rangers scored. It was great to see Brad Richards set up Ruslan Fedotenko for the tying goal. Both players won the Stanley Cup with Tampa in 2004. Fedotenko actually scored the cup winning goal. 
• Artem Anisimov had a great game. Ryan Callahan pressured the Tampa defense and caused a turnover. Arty Anticipated the shot by Stepan, and was in prime position to put in the rebound. 
• When Stepan said he was "ready to rock, he wasn't kidding. Stepan drew a penalty when he was elbowed in the head by Pavel Kubina. Recently it almost seems like Stepan can't go a game without getting hit. Even though the Rangers didn't score on the power play, Stepan scored off yet another rebound to break the tie. Stepan has matured as a player immensely this year after a relatively slow start, as has Arty, who are both part of the GAS Line. stepan earned himself the BRoadway Hat for his efforts, and became the first player to earn the hat twice. 
• Richards put the icing on the cake, scoring an empty netter against his former team. 
• It is a good sign that the Rangers find ways to win even though they don't play their best hockey. Hopefully they realize that they do have some things to fix, and play hard against Toronto on Monday. 

Rangers Vs. Lightning

The Rangers will play the Lightning in Tampa Bay tonight at 7 pm on MSG.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Richards-Callahan
Hagelin-Boyle-Mitchell
Avery-Dubinsky-Prust

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Eminger-Woywitka

Lundqvist

Former Lightning-Brad Richards (played with the Lightning from 2000-2008, won a Stanley Cup and the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2004, traded to the Dallas Stars on   February 26th, 2008), Ruslan Fedotenko (scored the Stanley Cup winning goal in 2004, left in 2007 as a free agent)

"Ready to Rock"

Derek Stepan is "ready to rock" tonight against Tampa Bay. John Mitchell is now wearing a visor. Mike Rupp skated with the non-contact jersey on at the optional skate today, and Marc Staal skated by himself after practice.

Game Day Updates

Henrik Lundqvist will be in the net for the Rangers tonight. The Lightning will start Mathieu Garon in net. John Mitchell is wearing a visor at morning skate after blocking a shot with his face during Thursday night's game against Carolina. Derek Stepan, who was also hurt blocking a shot on Thursday, is skating and testing his ankle.

Stepan, Rupp, and Staal

Derek Stepan, who was hurt blocking a shot yesterday, did not practice today. X-rays came back negative, and he plans to play tomorrow night against Tampa Bay. Any absence of Stepan would hurt the Rangers, so lets hope he gets better soon. Mike Rupp skated for the second day in a row, but Staal took the day off. He expects to skate tomorrow.

Rangers Weather the Hurricane

The Rangers beat the Carolina Hurricanes by a score of 5-3 last night. They are now on a 4 game winning streak, and will play the Tampa Bay Lightning Saturday night.

Thoughts-

• Anyone else notice Stepan didn't take any more faceoffs after he lost the one that lead to Carolina's first goal? He really needs to work on that. 
• Stepan redeemed himself later in the game with a pass to Gaborik, setting up the Avery goal. 
• I don't think anyone blamed Stepan for that first goal after the blocked that shot in the closing minute of the 3rd. It scared the hell out of me to see him crawling around on the ice like that. He didn't miss a shift though, even though he was grimacing the rest of the game. The Rangers tweeted that Stepan was "OK" and he was hobbling around the locker room. Hope he gets the day off tomorrow. 
• Speaking of blocked shots, Mitchell is a beast. He jumps right up after getting slammed in the face with the puck, and later says he was frustrated because "who wants to block a shot with your face?" Forget Torts and Avery, I wanna see this guy on 24/7. Going by the way he's playing, he might be able to stick with the Rangers far awhile. 
• Once again a great game by Gaborik. has there been a game this season where we haven't said that? He had 1 goal, 1 assist, and a great diving play in the end of the 3rd period to knock the puck out of the zone when Carolina had an extra skater. 
• Hagelin also had a great night, and got an assist on the Sauer goal, meaning he has a 4 game point streak, like Richards.
• The Rangers are really scoring up and down the roster, including the defense. Only 4 players didn;t record points. The Rangers scored 5 goals, so, if a different player had a goal or assist each time, 15 different players would have point. 14 Rangers did because Gaborik got a goal and an assist. 

Rangers Vs. Hurricanes-Take Two

The Rangers play the Carolina Hurricanes for the second time this season tonight at 7 pm on MSG. The last time the Rangers played Carolina, they won by a score of 5-1.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Richards-Callahan
Hagelin-Boyle-Mitchell
Avery-Dubinsky-Prust

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Woywitka-Eminger

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms), Mike Rupp (knee), Wojtek Wolski (groin), Anton Stralman (healthy), Erik Christensen (healthy)

Other News-With the coaching change in Anaheim, it seems that Bobby Ryan will not be traded in the near future. While Marc Staal is progressing, he still experiences the occasional bad day, indicating that his return won't be soon.

Staal, Rupp, Ducks, Biron, and Wolski

Marc Staal spoke to the media and says he has been improving, but it's too soon for a timetable for his return, although he does expect to play this season. It was reported that he was skating with forward Mike Rupp, who has been out with a knee injury. The Anaheim Ducks fired their coach Randy Carlyle, and hired Bruce Boudreau, who was recently fired by the Washington Capitals. This seems to have put an end to the trade rumors about Bobby Ryan, but they may be looking to trade him in the future. Andre Deveaux, who was put on waivers yesterday, has been assigned to the NHL. Marty Biron will start in goal tonight to give Lundqvist a break. Wojtek Wolski tweeted that he was skating the other day, posing the question of what happens when he returns. When he eventually does return, he will be taken off the LTIR, and the Rangers will need to do something to get under the cap limit. That could include waiving Christensen and Mitchell, just Christensen, or maybe trading Wolski. (A similar situation happened last year with Michal Rozsival. He went down with an injury so Ryan McDonagh was called up. He played so well that the Rangers kept McDonagh and traded Rozsival to the Phoenix Coyotes for, guess who, Wojtek Wolski.

Practice and Waivers

Both Brad Richards and Dan Girardi did not practice today because they were given maintenance days. Forward Andre Deveaux was placed on waivers. If he clears, he will be reassigned to the Connecticut Whale, meaning Carl Hagelin and John Mitchell will remain of the Rangers roster. The speculation continues on how much interest the Rangers have in Bobby Ryan, and who they would have to deal if they actually wanted him.

Rangers Defrost Frozen Chickens

The Rangers defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins by a score of 4-3 for their third straight win and their second over division rivals.

Thoughts-

• The 1st period was horrible for the Rangers. I almost stopped watching, but like a loyal fan, I endured the agony. 
• The calls were against the Rangers in the 1st. Off the top of my head, I can think of 4 times when there wasn't a penalty called against a chilled chicken. 
• Hank did a good job of keeping it 1-0, and so did the defense and penalty kill. Without the good defensive effort by the entire team, this would have been a blowout by the time the 1st period was over.
• In the 2nd period, the power play was great. Who would have thought that Rangers would have scored at least one power play goal in the last 3 games? When was the last time the Rangers ever scored TWO power play goals in one game? 
• Gaborik was a maniac tonight. He not only made an amazing pass on the first goal, he scored an awesome one himself when he batted the puck out of midair. He deserved his first star, and maybe the Broadway Hat as well, if not for the second goal...
• That pass by Hagelin is amazing. I have never seen someone that fast, not only skating-wise, but quick to pass shoot, hit, or whatever else he decides to do. As the announcers gleefully repeated every time he was on the ice "Boy, is that guy fast!" Great finish by Mitchell for his first goal as a Ranger and the Broadway hat.
• Hagelin and Mitchell have been amazing call ups. Makes you wonder why Eric Christensen was starting instead, and it took the suspension of Andre Deveaux to give the new guys a spot on the Rangers.
• Just when you were gleefully taunting the dejected looking Fleurry, those annoying frozen poultry took advantage of the dreaded 3 goal lead and started to stage a comeback.The semi-good news is that this almost-comeback stemmed from the brain farts of the Rangers, and not from players the Rangers weren't able to handle. At least they can fix mental lapses. 
• Can Rangers just shoot on the 5-on-3? Please?

Rangers Vs. Penguins

The Rangers will play the Pittsburgh Penguins tonight at 7:30 pm on MSG.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Richards-Callahan
Hagelin-Boyle-Mitchell
Avery-Dubinsky-Prust

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Woywitka-Eminger

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms), Mike Rupp (knee), Wojtek Wolski (groin), Andre Deveaux (suspension), Anton Stralman (healthy)

Notes-"Superstar" Sidney Crosby has returned from a concussion that kept him off the ice since last year. The last time the Rangers played the Penguins, Matt Cooke elbowed Ryan McDonagh in the head, and was suspended for 10 games and the first round of the playoffs. That wasn't the first time Cooke was suspended for a dirty hit. In November 2008 he was suspended for 2 games for a check to the head of Artem Anisimov. Torts has confirmed that Staal is skating on his own. Jesper Fasth, a Rangers draft pick, badly injured his foot during a game. Here is the video, but you may not want to watch it because it is extremely disturbing.

It is rumored that the Rangers have expressed an interest in the Duck's Bobby Ryan. I hope the Rangers don't pay an arm and a leg for this guy because the team is doing pretty well right now. I would also hate to lose a lot of prospects because the team has established an identity as a homegrown team. Dan Girardi was not ranked in the newest update of votes for the NHL All-Star Game. Please remember to vote a smany times as you can. The Rangers Winter Classic jerseys were revealed yesterday.

Rangers Chain Down Flyers

The Rangers beat the Philadelphia Flyers today by a score of 2-0. Just 4 seconds into the 1st period, Prust fought (and demolished) Zac Rinaldo. He then squared off with Wayne Simmonds (and beat him) right after leaving the penalty box. To me this set the tone for the entire game, and the Rangers didn't give the Flyers any room for the rest of the game. This also preserved the statistic that the Rangers are perfect after Brandon Prust fights in the first 2 minutes of a game. For the second game in a row, the Rangers converted on a power play. The first goal on the power play was waved off, but Brad Richards scored a goal that would stand just seconds later. Richards didn't get a great shot off, but Ryan Callahan screened the goaltender, and proved that good things happen when you throw the puck at the net and take shots. What followed during the rest of the 2nd period and the beginning of the 3rd was spectacular defense and goalkeeping. Carl Hagelin gave the Rangers some breathing room with his 1st NHL goal, and earned the Broadway Hat for his efforts. In the end, the Rangers won an important and emotional game against a "good" team. I'm sure the people at HBO were loving all the drama during the game. I can't wait to see how they portray this game on the 1st episode of 24/7, although if the preview that was on last night was any indication, it will mostly focus on Philadelphia. The Rangers are back in action on Tuesday when they face off against the recently returned Sydney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Rangers CAPITALize

The Rangers beat the washington Capitals by a score of 6-3 tonight. Fedotenko had two goals, and the other goals were scored by Gaborik, Boyle, Anisimov, and Richards. On the first goal of the game, Derek Stepan made an amazing pass over a defenders stick to set up Gaborik for this 10th goal of the season. It's amazing how well Stepan can pass the puck, and in only his 2nd year in the NHL. Hagelin played very well, earning his first NHL point, and didn't look out of place against the Capitals. What impressed me most was a great shift he had in the 1st period. The Rangers lost the puck in the offensive zone, and Ovechkin was trying to enter the Rangers zone. Hagelin demonstrated his speed and flew across the ice for a big hit on Ovechkin and helped the Rangers to recover the puck. He lost his helmet as he hit Ovechkin, but continued to put pressure on the capitals, and eventually ended up with a scoring chance. I'm sure Torts loved that. Mitchell also had a very good game, earning his first assist as a Ranger on the goal by Brian Boyle. Dan Girardi did a great job on Ovechkin the entire game, and continues to justify our efforts to get him into the All-Star Game. Fedotenko earned the Broadway Hat. Finally, Henrik Lundqvsit was spectacular, as per usual, and did a great job keeping the Rangers in it during the 1st period. Without the King, the Rangers are down by 3 after the 1st period. The Rangers look to keep the momentum moving against Philadelphia tomorrow afternoon. If I were Torts, I would go with the same lineup, considering the great game Hagelin and Mitchell had.

Lines, Scrtaches

Torts has announced that the healthy scratches for today's game against the Washington Capitals will be Erik Christensen and Anton Stralman. Both Hagelin and Mitchell will be making their NHL debuts, in the place of the suspended Devaux and Christensen. Hagelin will wear number 62 and Mitchell will wear 34.

Deveaux Out, Hagelin or Mitchell In?

Andre Deveaux was suspended 3 games for the elbowing incident on Wednesday. The Rangers have already called up forwards Carl Hagelin and John Mitchell. The question now is what forward will be scratched? Personally, I think it should be Christensen, but it might be Avery considering he was sent to Connecticut instead of Christensen and he was scratched a lot towards the end of last season. I would make the lines as follows:
Hagelin-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Anisimov-Mitchell-Prust
Avery-Boyle-Redorenko
The healthy scratch would be Christensen. I would also give the fourth line more playing time than Torts usually does. The game against Washington is toady at 4 pm.

Rangers Recall Hagelin and Mitchell

The Rangers recalled forwards Carl Hagelin and John Mitchell from the Connecticut Whale, must likely because of the inevitable suspension of Andre Deveaux for an elbow to the head of a Florida Panther last night. Hagelin brings his speed, which the Rangers desperately need, and Mitchell brings potential offense, demonstrated by the fact that he was the leading scorer for the Whale.

Skid Continues With Loss to Panthers

The Rangers lost to the Florida Panthers by a score of 2-1 last night. Anton Stralman made his debut for the Rangers, but was unable to help on the power play. After going down 2-0, Gaborik set up Stepan for a sweet goal, and provided the glimmer of a comeback. All hopes were ended just a short time later when Andre Deveaux elbowed Fleischmann in the head and earned a himself a match penalty and a five minute penalty kill for his team. Deveaux will likely be suspended after his mandatory meeting with Brendan Shanahan today  at 2 pm. As always, Henrik Lundqvist was the best penalty killer for the Rangers. Even though there were a few more chances for both teams, the goalies proved themselves up to the task and the game ended 2-1. The Rangers are now faced with the decision of who to call up to replace Deveaux after he receives his inevitable suspension. If the Rangers were to call up Carl Hagelin or mats Zuccarello, they would have to receive sufficent amount of ice time to be effective and develop their game. In this situation, there just might be some line shuffling. Artem Anisimov has been ineffective on the GAS line recently, so I am in favor of putting either Hagelin or Zuccarello on the top line.

Other News-The Rangers Winter Classic jersey will be revealed on Monday. Jaromir Jagr will not play against the Rangers on Saturday due to a groin injury. Brendan Bell of the Connecticut Whale scored his second overtime winner in the Whale's 3-2 victory over the Pirates. Goals were scored by Blake Parlett, JAM (shorthanded), and Brendan Bell. Tim Erixon assisted on all three Whale goals, John Mitchell had two assets  and Carl Hagelin had one.

Staal Traveling

For the first time since experiencing headaches during training camp, Marc Staal will travel with the team, along with Wojtek Wolski and Mike Rupp. He will most likely not play tomorrow because he hasn't been fully cleared yet and is not in game shape, but it is a step forward to his return.

Rangers Lose Calendars and Game to Canadiens

The Rangers might have had a game last night in Montreal, but they must have lost their calendars because they didn't play. They had no pressure on Carry Price, and the combined disaster of Del Zotto and Biron lead to a 4-0 defeat and the end of a winning streak. Of the 4 goals that went in, 3 were stoppable. Del Zotto seemed to make a mistake every time he was on the ice, like moving up on the first goal, and then getting beat. The officiating was horrible, but wasn't the reason the Rangers lost. I still don't understand why the icing was called off at the end of the penalty kill and the faceoff was taken in the Ranger's zone. There was no diving by Del Zotto, no boarding or roughing by Deveaux, and certainly no roughing by Prust. The Rangers need to move on now and try to get some points  against the string of better teams they have lined up.

Rangers Vs. Canadians-Take 2

The Rangers will play the Canadians in Montreal tonight at 7 pm on MSG. The last time the Rangers played the Canadians, they won 5-3.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Avery-Boyle-Fedotenko
Prust-Christensen-Deveaux

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Eminger-Woywitka

Biron

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee), Wojtek Wolski (groin), Anton Stralman (healthy)

Former Canadians-Ryan McDonagh (Scott Gomez trade)

Former Rangers-Scott Gomez (Ryan McDonagh trade)

Reminder-Keep voting Dan Girardi for the All Star Game. You can only vote 30 times per account, but you can make more accounts using different e-mail addresses.

Lundqvist Cheated in Win Over Fish Sticks

The Rangers beat the Islanders by a score of 4-2 tonight on Long Island, avenging a loss earlier in the season. Sean Avery had a good first period, scoring his second goal in as many games. The lead didn't last long however, as McDonagh made a bad judgement call, and a shot from a Fish Stick was almost saved by Lundqvist before it fell into the back of the net. A great pass by Captain Cally gives the Rangers a one goal lead. The Islanders score on the power play, but Brad Richards scores the game winner with a wicked slap shot. I thought the defense didn't have a very strong game, Girardi in particular. The were a couple of bad give aways that almost lead to Islander goals. However, he did make some very great plays, as always. The diving play by Lundqvist in the 1st nearly gave me a heart attack, but thank god Sauer was there to play goalie while Lundqvist checked out the view from outside the crease. I'm beginning to wonder if the Ranger coaches are training other players as goalies to help Lundqvist and Biron out. A couple of games ago, Anisimov made a couple of great saves with his skates during a melee in front of Biron, and now Sauer saves the day tonight. That being said, Lundqvist robbed the Islanders many times, but was then robbed himself. I thought if anyone deserved the Broadway Hat, it was him. Without Lundqvist, the Rangers lose this one by at lest 6. It was kind of poetic that Brad Richards finally got to wear the Broadway Hat after bringing back from Europe and starting the tradition. The Rangers next game is at Montreal on

P.S.-Loved Torts calling the Coliseum "this damned building" :)

Rangers Vs. Islanders-Take Two

The Rangers play the Islanders tonight at 7 pm on MSG. The last time these teams met, the Islanders won 4-2 while John Travares got a hat trick.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Boyle-Callahan
Avery-Richards-Fedotenko
Prust-Christensen-Deveaux

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Woywitka-Eminger

Lundqvist

Scratches-Marc Stall (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee), Wojtek Wolski (groin), Anton Stralman (healthy)

Former Islanders-Ruslan Fedotenko (left as a free agent)

Former Rangers-P.A. Parenteau (left Ranger as a free agent and signed with the Islanders in July 2010), Mike Mottau

Other News-Former Ranger Aaron Voros skated with the Whale today on a professional try out. The New York Rangers Blog continues it's campaign to get Girardi in the All Start Game.

The Avery Effect and the Monkey off Dubi's Back

The Rangers won their 6th straight last night against the Carolina Hurricanes, continuing to be  unbeaten since the recall of Sean Avery. Avery played his best game of the season, scoring his first to but the Rangers up 1-0 in the 1st, and drawing two penalties in the 3rd, forcing Torts to give him more ice time. The Hurricanes were able to tie it up in the 2nd off a defensive breakdown. Things were looking down for the Rangers, who were 27 seconds into killing a penalty, when a struggling Eric Staal, who had been booed the whole game by the Garden  was called for high sticking against Dan Girardi. This was the turning point of the game as the Rangers went on to score 4 goals in an explosive 3rd period. During the Rangers 27 second power play, Richards made an amazing pass cross ice to Girardi who hammered it in for a 1 goal lead. The next goal came just seconds later When Dubinsky put the puck into a wide open net, after a shot by Callahan had rebounded. Some good play by Dubinsky along the boards lead to a penalty against Caroline, but Callahan scored off a rebound before the play stopped. The final goal came from Brad Richards, who capitalized off of Cam Ward's mistake behind the goal for one of the easiest goals in his career. While the GAS line had a ton of chance, they were unable to get on the score sheet. This game showed that Rangers have secondary scoring, as they don't have to rely on the top line for all their goals. Also, the replay of the Callahan goal shows Cam Ward trip up Dubinsky behind the net with his stick, and it also shows Ward waking Brian Boyle with his stick after the goal. That should have been a penalty, but I think the Rangers got revenge anyway on the Richards goal, which, personally, I think is better than a power play. Dubinsky was awarded the Broadway hat for his efforts, and the three stars of the game were Avery, Dubinsky, and Girardi.

Girardi was not put on the All-Star ballot despite his stellar play, so The New York Rangers Blog has started a write in campaign, similar to the one for Sean Avery last year. Voting starts in Monday.

Del Zotto is not practicing today, and the lines appear to be the same as they were at the end of the game-
GAS
Dubinsky-Boyle-Callahan
Avery-Richards-Fedotenko
Prust-Christensen-Deveaux

Rangers Vs. Hurricanes

The Rangers will play the Carolina Hurricanes tonight at 7:00 on MSG. This game would usually be of note because Marc Staal's brother, Eric, plays for Carolina. However, this game features a struggling Eric Staal, who delivered the hit that gave Marc a concussion and has kept him off the ice all season.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Deveaux-Christensen-Avery

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Eminger-Woywitka

Lundqvist

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee, IR), Wojtek Wolski (groin, IR), Anton Stralman (healthy)

Hats, Visors, and Stralman

Torts said that newly signed defenseman Anton Stralman will not play tomorrow against the Hurricanes because he needs a better understanding of the system.

I forgot to mention it in the recap, but I think Deveaux did great in his fight with Cowen, who was a coward and fought with his visor on. Deveaux showed he wasn't all brawn when he beat Cowen with a nice hit to the chin. Here's the video-

For his solid play last night, Artem Anisimov (The A in the GAS Line) was awarded the Broadway Hat by Derek Stepan.

GAS Line Powers Rangers to Win over Senators

The Rangers beat the Ottawa Senators 3 to 2. All three goals for the Rangers were scored by the Gaborik-Stepan-Anisimov line (newly dubbed the GAS line). This line continues to fly, and it weren't for them (and a certain net minder) no way the Rangers would have won. Who would have thought, at this point in the season, Stepan would be the best center of the game? Hopefully all the line shuffling by Torts will finally find another good combination that has some chemistry. Did anyone see how horrible the ice was? Players were falling left and right, especially Ryan McDonagh. McDonagh and Dan Girardi continue to play over 28minutes. I would complain, and worry about tiring them out, but the major mistake by Woywitka proves that Torts isn't comfortable giving some players big minutes. Maybe the debut of Anton Stralman will change that. Finally, I loved the commercial that played during the game for the Rangers next game against the Carolina Hurricanes tomorrow. "Who says Hurricane season is over? The Ranger." :)

Rangers Vs. Senators-Take Two

The Rangers play the Ottawa Senators tonight for the second time this season at 7:30 on MSG. The last time these two teams met, the Rangers appeared to have a commanding three goal lead, but were eventually defeated in the shootout.

Probable Lines-
Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Deveaux-Christensen-Avery

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Eminger-Woywitka

Lundqvist

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee, IR), Wojtek Wolski (groin, IR), Anton Stralman (healthy)

In other news Rupp's knee surgery was successful and he should return to the line in 4-6 weeks, the same time as Wolski is supposed to return from his second groin injury of the season. Stralman has passed his physical and will skate with the team tomorrow. Connecticut Whale defenseman Jyri Niemi was assigned to the ECHL Greenville Road Warriors. He has 1 assist in 8 games player with the Whale.

JAM

Rangers prospect Jonathan Audy-Marchessault (who I will be calling JAM because of his ridiculously long name) has been grabbing the attention of the Rangers with his recent stellar play with the Connecticut Whale. HE plays center and right-wing, and has 5 goals and 6 assists in 7 games. The only concern right now is his small  size. JAM first grabbed my attention during the Traverse City Prospect Tournament, and I hope he can crack the Rangers roster next year. 

Recently signed defenseman Anton Stralman was not on the ice at practice because he hasn't finished medical testing. He will not make the trip to Ottawa. 

Injury Update

Wolski will undergo sports sports hernia surgery tomorrow and is projected to miss the nest four weeks, suggesting Sean Avery will remain on the team for a while.

Marc Staal's brother Eric, who delivered the hit that might have caused the concussion like symptoms that has Marc on the IR, says that Marc is "on the right track" but doesn't think he will play soon.

Rangers Vs. Habs

The Rangers will play the Montreal Canadiens tonight at 7:00 pm on MSG.

Probable Lines-
Fedotenko-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Anisimov-Boyle-Prust
AVERY-Christensen-Deveaux 

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Woywitka-Eminger

Lundqvist

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee, IR), Wojtek Wolski (groin, IR), Anton Stralman

Former Canadiens-Ryan McDonagh (traded from Montreal with Christopher Higgens, Pavel Valentenko, and Doug Janik for Scott Gomez, Tom Pyatt, and Michael Busto on June 30th, 2009), Jeff Woywitka (claimed off waivers on October 6th, 2011)

Former Rangers-Scott Gomez (traded with Tom Pyatt and Michael Busto for Ryan McDonagh, Pavel Valentenko, and Doug Janik on June 30th, 2009)

Notes-Agitator Sean Avery makes his Rangers season debut tonight, and can't let the fans down after their insistent "We Want Avery" chants and banners. Ryan McDonagh needs to continue his strong play as the Habs continue to regret that trade. It would also be great of Scott Gomez had a terrible game, or at least played as bad as he did with the Rangers.

Rangers Sign Stalman, Staal placed on LTIR

The Rangers officially signed defenseman Anton Stralman to a one year, $900,000 contract. He will likely compete with Jeff Woywitka (who got his first goal of the season and as a ranger last night) and Steve Eminger for a position on the bottom pair. To free up some cap space (and to confirm Rangers fan's worst fears) Marc Staal was place on the long term injured reserve. Based on this move, it looks like Staal might not be back before next season. In other injury news, Mike Rupp will receive knee surgery and Wojtek Wolski is getting an MRI on his groin. Personally, I hope this means Zuccarello will get a call up. He recently stated that he would leave the Rangers to play in the NHL, or possibly go back to Europe.

Avery at Practice

At his first practice since being called up by the Rangers, Sean Avery was the extra forward. Lines were the same as Monday night, and it looks like Avery will be the healthy scratch tomorrow night. He said he is okay with that, seeing as the team was playing well. He also said he loves playing for the Rangers and can't wait to play at the new MSG. Ever since his demotion to the Whale, Avery has said all the right things. I personally can't wait to see the impact he has on this team. Mike Rupp was not skating again because of his knee. 

According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN, the Rangers have called the Toronto Maple Leafs about a possible trade for a defense-man, most likely Cody Franson. This isn't necessary at all. The Rangers had a great game on Monday and will hopefully play like that more often now that Avery has been recalled. The defense is a possible issue, but the Rangers already have an abundance of bottom pair defense-men. I don't think they should make a big deal for a top defense-man either. The defense has been okay, and I don't think it would be worth it to give away any players or prospects who might develop into great players, otherwise we might feel just like Montreal does right now about giving up Ryan McDonagh. 

Christensen Whips Off Invisibility Cloak in Much Needed Win Over Sharks

The Rangers defeated the Sharks with a score of 5 to 2 last night. Erik Christensen finally realized that the season had started, and decided to make an appearance with 2 assists in the game. The bad news is he will probably put that invisibility cloak back on for the next 9 games. Anisimov and Stepan scored their first of the season, and Callahan seems to have recovered from his slow start with 2 goals. Ryan McDonagh scored his third of the year. Who would have thought that McDonagh would have more goals than Dubinsky? Great to see McDonagh developing into a solid defense-men and offensive threat. In Dubinsky's defense, he has been getting a lot of chances, and I think (hope) that he is close to breaking out. The only thing he needs is target practice, seeing as he can't seem to hit the net. I think there were two keys to this game, the beginning and after San Jose had tied the game. After their epic collapse, most Rangers fans were left wondering whether the Rangers would sink deeper into the hole they were digging, or finally find the spark they needed to play a full 60 minutes of hockey. While some people may claim that the recall of Sean Avery inspired the Rangers, I think the Prust fight in the beginning of the game should receive most of the credit. Dating back to last season, the Rangers are 6-0 when Prust fights in the first 2 minutes of the game (thanks to Scotty Hockey for this great stat). Biron was solid in goal, giving me confidence he is up to the task of giving Hank a rest when he needs it. In some interesting post-game drama, Joe Thorton of the Shark said the Rangers were soft and they should have won the game. It doesn't really mean anything though, just like it doesn't matter that the Rangers should have held on to their 3 goal lead on Saturday. At the end of the day, the Rangers dominated the game, and earned a well deserved 2 points.

In other good news, Sean Avery has officially cleared waivers and has been recalled by the Rangers. I'm assuming he will play Thursday night or the fans might try and lynch Torts.

Rangers Vs. San Jose Sharks

The Rangers will play the San Jose Sharks tonight at 7:00 p.m. on MSG.

Probable Lines-
Wolski-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Deveaux-Anisimove-Christensen

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Eminger-Woywitka

Biron

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee)

Notes-The Sharks have won their last five games, and the Rangers desperatly need a win after their epic collapse on Saturday.

Practice Lines, Avery, and Wolski

At practice today, the line were as follows:

Wolski-Stepan-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Devaux and Christensen skating together

The Avery will be put on recall waivers tomorrow, according to Larry Brooks. He will not play for the Rangers on Monday because of the 48 hour rule. The first game he will be eligible to play would be on Thursday against Anaheim. Guess this shows that the Rangers really do listen to the fans. Or maybe they just think the Rangers need a spark, and Avery can give it to them. If Avery were to be claimed by a team, Dallas would play 50% of his salary, the Rangers would pay 25%, and the new team would pat 25%.

Wolski will not be suspended for his questionable penalty yesterday afternoon.

There have been no defensive call-ups, so Woywitka will likely play tomorrow.

Anisimov didn't practice today, maybe because of the hit he received yesterday from Konopka of the Ottawa Senators. Konopka was gived a five minute major and was thrown out of the game. Rupp didn't practice, most likely because of the knee injury that kept him out of the past two games. Del Zotto also did not practice.

Visors are a big issue in the NHL, and Dubinsky has stated that he doesn't want one, despite the fact that numerous people close to him want him to. Gaborik, Richards, Christensen, Del Zotto, Stepan, Eminger, walski, McDonagh, Anisimov, Callahan, and Sauer wear visors.

More Roster Changes

Carl Hagelin posted on twitter that the Rangers have recalled forward Andre Deveaux from the Connecticut Whale, most likely to replace Kris Newbury, who was sent down last night. He could also be a replacement for Mike Rupp, who didn't play yesterday because of a knee injury.

Boomer Esiason tweeted that someone told him Sean Avery is back. I don't know how reliable this is, but it wold be great to see Avery back, especially after Christensen has been invisible, except when missing on the shootout. Ironically, Avery scored the winning goal in the shootout for the Whale last night.

according to a Swedish tabloid, the Rangers are expected to sign defense-man Anton Stralman, who they offered a contract last week. He played with the New Jersey Devils on a tryout during the preseason, but was not offered a contract. I am assuming this is why Erixon was sent to the Whale. I don't like this move, mostly because it goes against the whole youth thing the Rangers have been going with lately. Hopefully, Erixon can play a lot in Connecticut and become a better player.

Roster Changes

After the 5-4 loss to the Ottawa Senators, the Rangers reassigned forward Kris Newbury and defense-men Tim Erixon to the Connecticut Whale. Jeff Woywitka was the healthy scratch on defense, so he could play on Monday night. However, Erixon has been better than Woywitka so far, so this move is confusing. Some may think that Staal might come back on Monday, but I don't see this as possible because he hasn't even practiced yet. This could also indicate a possible move.

Rangers Fall 5-4 to Senators in Shootout

The Rangers lost to the Ottawa Senators this afternoon, but gained a point because they lost in the shootout.

The range of emotions inflicted on Rangers fans from this game was almost criminal. The first period was like usual, in other words, horrible. Then the second came and gave fans hope, and the halfway through the third, I think everyone was confident that the Rangers had this game won. Well, everyone except the announcers, who repeatedly brought up how hard working the senators are. By the end of the third, the overall mood was wary, but still hopeful considering we supposedly have a great shootout team, including Christensen, who pretty much kept in case games went to shootouts. When the shootout ended, and the out come was what most expected after the first, I was furious. It's one thing to lose, another to lose a close game, but it's torture to lose a game we were supposed to win. It brings back bad memories of the game the Rangers lost to the Capitals in the playoffs last year, after they had achieved a three goal lead. I also know how it felt to be a Bruins fan during the Rangers' epic comeback late last season, although I think that game was a tougher pill to swallow for Bruins fans. I don't think anyone was surprised that Torts changed the lines AGAIN, despite reports that he didn't like to change lines. However, it seemed to work this game, and I thought Stepan did well on a line with Gaborik and Wolski. Newbury was invisible, as was Christensen, and I  would say it's time to call up Zuccarello or Hagelin, if it weren't for the fact that they most likely wouldn't get sufficient ice time. The goals were great, and one good thing we can take out of this game is hope that the offense is finally starting to find it's game. Lundqvist didn't seem to have a good night tonight, especially when he let in the only goal of the shootout. Usually his glove is much higher on shots like those. Maybe Torts starts Biron on Monday night to give Hank a rest. To make matters worse, Wolski will probably get at least a two game suspension for for his hit. The Rangers need to learn from this game, but I think the fans need to try their best to forget it.

Rangers Vs. Senators

The Rangers face the Ottawa Senators today at 3:00 pm on MSG. Pregame starts at 2:30.

Probable Lines-
Wolski-Christensen-Gaborik
Dubinksy-Richards-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Newbury-Anisimov-Stepan

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Sauer
Erixon-Eminger

Scratches-Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Rupp (knee)

Practice

At the Rangers practice yesterday, the lines looked like this:

Wolski-Christensen-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Newbury-Anisimov-Stepan

I really don't like these lines. And unless you looked at the lines before the game, you wouldn't know that Christensen even played. Why is he on the top line instead of Richards? When the Rangers signed Brad Richards, I didn't think it was so he could center the second line. Maybe Torts is trying to get Dubinsky and Callahan going. Another thing that really bothers me is putting Stepan on the fourth line. Knowing Torts, the fourth line often doesn't get a lot of ice time, and Stepan needs to be on the ice. Even though his numbers aren't great, he still did well on the top line. Finally, the players, especially Richards and Gaborik, are supposed to be building chemistry. How are they supposed to do that if the lines are constantly changing?

Rangers Lose 4-2 to the Mapleleafs in Home Opener

Here are my thoughts on the game:

-Just when you thought that the Rangers had gotten over their slow start and were going to thrash the Mapleleafs, they seemed to hit the wall, and looked flat the rest of the game.
-It was super quiet during player introductions and the rest of the game. It sounded like a game at Nassau Coliseum, not Madison square Garden. Then again, the Rangers didn't give the fans much to cheer about after the 1st period.  
-That goal by Girardi was nice, but kind of a lucky goal. The puck just slipped past Gustavsson. Still, a goal is a goal. Also nice to see Girardi wearing the A. He deserves it. However, that makes me think that we might not see Marc Staal for a while.
-The call on the first disallowed goal was ridiculous. Callahan was clearly being pushed into the net by the Mapleleaf. I did think that the second call was legitimate. But I don't understand why there weren't any penalties given. Personally, I think if there wasn't a penalty, it should be a goal. No goal means there must have been a penalty.
-Torts needs to stop changing the lines. If the lines are constantly changing, then no one is going to develop any chemistry (i.e.-Richards and Gaborik).

The Rangers look to rebound with a win this afternoon over the Senators. The game starts at 3:00 pm on MSG.

Rangers Home Opener Vs Maple Leafs

The Rangers finally have their home opener at the newly renovated Madison Square Garden against the Maple Leafs at 7:00 on MSG.

Lineup-
Fedotenko-Richards-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Stepan-Callahan
Wolski-Boyle-Prust
Christensen-Anisimov-Newbury

McDonagh-Girardi
Erixon-Sauer
Del Zotto-Eminger

Lundqvist

Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Mike Rupp (knee)

Notes-Michael Sauer is returning to the starting lineup tonight after sitting out most of the beginning of the season with a shoulder injury. However, McDonagh remains with Girardi as the top defensive pair.

Rangers Vs. Oilers

The Rangers face the Edmonton Oilers tonight at 10:00 on MSG.

Probable Lines-
Stepan-Richards-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Rupp-Christensen-Newbury

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Erixon
Bell (Rangers debut)-Eminger

Lundqvist

Scratches-Sauer (shoulder), Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Wolski (healthy), Woywitka (healthy)

Former Rangers-Oilers head coach Tom Renney

Rangers Vs. Flames

The Rangers play the second game in their Canadian road trip tonight at 9:30 on MSG against the Calgary Flames. 


Probable Lines-
Stepan-Richards-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Rupp-Newbury-Christensen

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Erixon
Eminger-Woywitka

Henrik Lundqvist 


Scratches-Marc Staal (concussion like syndromes, IR), Wotjek Wolski (groin), Michael Sauer (shoulder), Brendan Bell (healthy)


Key Points-The Rangers must stay out of the penalty box and play for the entire 60 minutes like they did in the third period last night.


Former Rangers-Olli Jokinen (leading scorer) 


Former Flames-Brandon Prust (traded in Feb. 2010), Tim Erixon (traded in June 2011)

Possible Lineup, Prust, Erixon, and Torts

-Based on comments from Torts and observations of who participated in practice, it is inferred that the lineup for the Calgary game tonight is the same one used during the game against the Vancouver.

-Prust admits that his first shift back at Calgary will be emotional. Prust was traded to the Rangers from Calgary  on February 1, 2010 along with Ollie Jokinen in exchange for Ales Kotalik and Christopher Higgens. 

-Michael Sauer is closer to returning to the line up, but says he wants to take some hits in practice first. 

-Tim Erixon was Calgary's first round draft pick in 2009. He threatened Clagary he would re-enter the draft in 2011, basically forcing a trade. He was traded to the Rangers in exchange for prospect Roman Horak In lieu of the upcoming game between the two teams, Calgary general manager Bret Sutter says he has no comment on Erixon. I hope Erixon has a great night against the team that drafted him. 

-Karlsson will start in goal tonight for the Flames instead of Kiprisoff. Lundqvist gets the start for the Rangers. 

-Torts has stated that his team needs to stop taking bad penalties. If they can;t do this, the Rangers will find themselves in a deep hole. 

The Game starts at 9:30 p.m.  

Lundqvist Leads Rangers to First Win of the Season

The Rangers beat the Vancouver Canucks last night 4-0. Because the game was late at night, I couldn't watch the game. But here are some great thoughts on the game from The New York Rangers Blog, Blueshirt Banter, Rangers Review, Scotty Hockey, and Blue Seat Blogs.

In other news, Sean Avery believes he won't be called up from the Whale by the Rangers this season. Mats Zuccarello believes he didn't get a good shot on one of the top lines, but he would rather be with the Whale than on the fourth line.

Rangers Vs. Canucks

The Rangers (0-1-2) will play the Canucks (2-2-1) in Vancouver where they haven't won a game since 1997. 

Probable Lines-

Stepan-Richards-Gaborik
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Rupp-Newbury-Christensen

McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Erixon
Eminger-Woywitka

Henrik Lundqvist 

Scratches-Wolski (groin), Sauer (shoulder), Staal (concussion like symptoms, IR), Brendan Bell (healthy)

Notes-The Rangers are still looking for their first win of the season, and to achieve that they will have to stay out of the penalty box. Forward Kris Newbury will make his season debut with the Rangers after scoring 8 points in 4 games with the Connecticut Whale (the Rangers' AHL affiliate). He aims to play the agitator role on tonight's game. 

Opponent Notes-The Canucks will play theit first game of the season with forward Ryan Kesler after his hip surgery in July. The Rangers also need to be aware of the Sedin twins. 

The game starts at 10 p.m. on MSG.

Zuccarello Sent to Whale, Newbury and Bell Recalled

The Rangers recalled foward Kris Newbury after he started the season with 8 points (4 goals, 4 assists) with the Whale. In his place, the Rangers sent down forward Mats Zuccarello who had no points in the first 3 gmaes of the season.

 The Rangers also recalled defense-man Brendan Bell, most likely because of concern for Sauer's shoulder over the long western road trip.

Ranger Lose to Islanders 4-2

The Rangers lost to the Islanders on Long Island last night 4-2. Goals for the Rangers were scored by Gaborik (his second of the season) and Prust (his first). Travares had a hat trick for the Islanders (including an empty-netter), and the other goal was scored by Moulson. Here are my thoughts on the game:

-Even though in was an away game for the Rangers, you could clearly hear the "Let's Go Rangers" chant. Shows how many Islanders fans actually show up.
-The Rangers need to stop taking penalties. Even though a number of them were borderline or not called the other way, they need to stay at full strength, or it's going to be a very long season.
-That being said, the Rangers had a great penalty kill on the Erixon interference call, even generating some shorthanded chances. Of course the Islanders did score goals on different penalties.
-On the first Islanders goal, Rupp didn't get back fast enough, plus Eminger and Woywitka covered the same man. It almost seems that half the Rangers' defense shouldn't be playing.
-During a play in the Rangers' end, Del Zotto slid on the ice trying to block the shop, but in reality taking himself out of the play and giving the Islander an open shot. Thanks God Lundqvist is so good, or the Rangers would really be in trouble.
-Also, Del Zotto continues to make bad passes. Something new this game though was his stupid penalty. He touched the puck coming off the bench with too many men on the ice, giving the Islanders a power play. Something needs to change with Del Zotto, or he will continue to hurt the Rangers.
-The first line did great all game, and got a goal for their efforts. It started with a great defensive play by Stepan who passed to Richards, who passes to Gaborik for a breakaway. It was almost too easy for Gaborik to put it through the goalies legs.
-Stepan also won a couple of faceoffs on the penalty kill. Hope he keeps working on those.
-Prust scored a great Matteau-like goal that hit the defense man's leg and rebounded in.
-Towards the end of the 2nd period, Stepan made a great play by blocking an open ice shot.
-Surprisingly, Torts didn't really change the lines, which is very unusual for him. I hope he doesn't change the top line, because they had a great game.
-I hate how the cameramen are always messing around with the camera angles. It's fine for replays, but I want to be able to see the play the first time it happens.
-It seemed like the 4th line didn't even play last night for all the impact they had.
-Anisimov needs to get the shot off sooner, or he won't score very many goals this season.
-The first line had a great game, as already stated, they had half the shots on goal and generated many of the quality scoring chances. The 3rd line seemed to pick up during the 2nd half of the game. The rest of the team need to have more of an impact for the entire game.

The Rangers' next game is against the Canucks in Vancouver on Tueasday which will be on MSG at 10 p.m. Pregame starts at 9:30 p.m.

Rangers Vs. Islanders

The Rangers visit the Islanders on Long Island tonight at 7 p.m. The Rangers lineup is most likely as follows:

     Stepan-Richards-Gaborik
     Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
     Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
     Rupp-Christensen-Zuccarello

     McDonagh-Girardi
     Del Zotto-Erixon
     Woywitka-Eminger

     Lundqvist

Scratches-Micheal Sauer (shoulder), Wojtek Wolski (groin), Marc Staal (concussion symptoms)

Opponent notes: Rick DiPietro is out indefinitely after suffering a concussion. Former Ranger P.A. Parenteau is looking forward to proving to the Rangers that they made a mistake. (Personally, I hope Callahan or Boyle flatten him).

Other Notes: Jeff Woywitka will make his debut as a Ranger in place of the injured Michael Sauer. Derek Stepan will play (or at least start) on the top line with Brad Richards and Marion Gaborik, partly because of Wolski's injury, and also because Torts wants to keep the Pack" line together.

Sauer Out, Woywitka In

Michael Sauer will not play tomorrow night against the Islanders because of his shoulder. Wolski will most likely not play because of a lingering groin injury. At practice, the lines and defensive pairings appeared as follows:
     Stepan-Richards-Gaborik
     Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
     Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
     Rupp-Christensen-Zuccarello

     McDonagh-Girardi
     Del Zotto-Erixon
     Eminger-Woywitka

I'm so excited for this game. Hopefully, Stepan will play well on the top line, and possibly earn a permanent spot there (as permanent a sopt that is possible with Torts as the coach). If not, he can always go back to his old line when Wolski returns, but that still poses the problem of him not getting enough minutes. Also, the current lines keep the "Pack" line together. McD and Griradi should be solid (as always), and Woywitka and Eminger should be comfortable playing together like they did during the World Juniors. The only think that worries me is the possibly shaky pairing of Del Zotto and Erixon. Surprisingly, I actually have more confidence in Erixon than Del Zotto. During the first two games of the season, Erixon seems to be progressing steadily. Del Zotto continues to make bad decisions and passes. Hopefully he will improve as the season goes on.

In other news, Islander's goalie Rich DiPietro is out with a concussion. Incredible how many times he gets injured...

Cherepanov

Three years ago today, the Rangers' first round draft pick from 2007, Alexei Cherepanov, collapsed and later died during a KHL game. There has been much speculation surrounding his death, particularly concerning why the defibrillator at the rink wasn't working and possible doping. But, today we remember him as a talented young hockey player who inspired many people. Since his death, Chereoanov's team, Avanguard Omsk, has built a memorial museum and retired his number, 7. The KHL named their Rookie Of The Year award after him.

Avery, the Power Play, and Probable Lines

-Avery received an MRI on his right shoulder, which he hurt while playing during the preseason. There is no structural damage, but he may need a cortisone shot that could delay his debut with the whale until the week of October 21st to 23rd according to Larry Brooks from the New York Post. This opens the possibility that Avery may be recalled if the Rangers are struggling.
-At practice, these were the power play units the Rangers were using:
     Stepan, Boyle, Gaborik, Richards, and Fedotenko
     Christensen, Dubinsky, Zuccarello, Callahan, and Anisimov
It is also reported that they were working in Erixon, Girardi, and Del Zotto. Personally, I don't like Christensen on the power play, but them again, I don't really like Christensen on the team. Period.
-The Rangers tried Stepan as the left wing on the top line, although he doesn't know if he will play there on Saturday on Long Island. The lines appear to be as follows, assuming Wolski doesn't play again because of his groin injury:
     Stepan-Richards-Gaborik
     Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
     Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
     Rupp-Christensen-Zuccarello
-Sauer didn't practice for the second day in a row, though it is probably a maintenance day for his shoulder.

Sauer Not Practicing, Lines, Avery, and the Power Play

-Michael Sauer was not practicing yesterday, most likely just for rest, but may be connected to a shoulder injury that cause him to miss all the exhibition games the Rangers played in Europe.
-As of practice yesterday, the lines appear to be as follows:
     Dubinsky-Richards-Gaborik
     Fedotenko-Anisimov-Callahan
     Prust-Stepan-Boyle
     Zuccarello-Christensen-Rupp
Del Zotto was paired with Woywitka on defense.

-Avery has reported to the Rangers AHL affiliate, the Connecticut Whale, today.
-The Rangers are working on developing the power play at practice (they started the season at 0-for-8 on the man advantage). Coach Tortorella blamed the poor performance on bad ice surfaces and limited practice time in Europe.

Bell and Stajcer

The Rangers assigned defense-man Brendan Bell to the Connecticut Whale and goalie Scott Stajcer was assigned to Owen Sound in of the OHL, as expected. The Rangers purchased Bell for some defensive depth, but he didn't dress for either regular season game in Sweden because Coach Tortorella elected to play Tim Erixon instead. Scott Stajcer was kept on as the third goalie while the Rangers were in Europe, and it was known that he would return to Owen Sound after the trip.

Player Profile-Henrik Lundqvist

Henrik Lundqvist is the Swedish born goaltender of the Rangers. He was drafted 205th overall by the Rangers in 2000. He used to play with his twin brother, Joel, for Frolunda HC in Sweden, who the Rangers recently beat in a preseason game. Lundqvist made his debut on Broadway because of the injury to starting goaltender Kevin Weekes in October 2005, and lost to the Devils in a shootout. He is the first NHL goaltender to record 30 wins in his first 6 seasons. He was nominated for the Vezina Trophy as a rookie, and was also named to the NHL All-Rookie team. Because of Lundqvist's spectacular saves the often keep the Rangers in the game, fans and the press have taken to calling him "King Henrik" or "The King". He has won the Rangers' MVP award every year since the 2006-07 season. If it weren't for Lundqivst, the Rangers would have left Europe with no points to start the season.

A Video of some of Lundqvist's best saves.

Player Profile-Brian Boyle

Brian Boyle is a 6'7" 244 lbs. left winger from Hingham, Mass. He was drafted 23th overall by the LA Kings in 2003, and was traded to the Rangers for a 3rd round pick in 2009. Before playing the the NHL, Boyle played in for Boston College and for the Manchester Monarchs of the AHL. He is close friends and former roomate of defense man Michael Del Zotto. Boyle is known for his size, and had a surprising number of goals last season. This season, he has been playing on a line with Rupp and Prust, although that is always subject to change.

Rangers fall to Ducks in Shootout

Today, the Rangers played the final game on their European road trip and lost in the shootout to the Ducks, finishing the first two games with 2 points. Here are my thoughts on the game:

• The power play was totally ineffective, whether it was with 5 forwards or not. They didn't get enough pressure because they could barely keep the puck in the zone. The Rangers also didn't get enough shots off. 
• During the first period Boyle took an interference penalty. On the PK, Sauer lost his helmet but continued to play, even blocking shots. To me that shows guts. 
• Lundqvist was amazing. without him, the Rangers would have been out of the game by the end of the first period, much like last night. Let's hope this doesn't become a regular thing. 
• On the Anaheim goal, both defense men (Erixon and Eminger)  chased the puck behind the goal, leaving the front of the net open. 
• The fight between Rupp and Parros was a waste of time.
• It's evident that the Rangers are at a lost without Staal. Because he isn't there, players are being forced to play more minutes when they shouldn't be, and other players are playing the NHL when they shouldn't be. I think we need to get a look at Woywitka before we really start to panic though, and maybe hope that Erixon gets a little more accustomed to the game. 
• The call on the Dubi and Perry non-fight was ridiculous. They got 2 for slashing and 2 for roughing because the refs didn't want to throw Perry out of the game. If they had gotten 5 for fighting, Perry would have been given a game misconduct because his jersey was over his head. 
• The refs also didn't call slashing when an Anaheim player broke Gaborik's stick, even though the Rangers did go on the power play soon after for a different slashing penalty. 
• The boarding call on Callahan was crazy, as was the call on MZA last night. You can even see Callahan say to the ref that he let up. 
• Ryan's high stick on Girardi before the face off should have been more that 2 minutes, but wasn't because there wasn't any blood. I want to know what Girardi did to Ryan that made him do that, because I didn't see anything. 
• It seemed liked the refs had a vendetta against Dubinsky this game as he was getting called left and right for almost nonexistent penalties, like the goaltender interference call. 
• Also, Dubinsky didn't have a very good game. Maybe it was the penalties, but when he wasn't in the box, it seemed like he made bad passes and gave the puck away a lot. 
• During the third period, Tortorella broke up Richards and Gaborik, possibly because they weren't getting any quality chances. Richards was put on a line with Stepan and Christensen and Gaborik was with Callahan and Dubinsky.
• Del Zotto had several horrible shots on the power play, shooting right at the Anaheim players' skates. 
• During a fight along the boards during the third period, the refs missed a penalty (again) when an Anaheim played grabbed the puck and a Ranger's stick. 
• Richards earned his first goal as a Ranger, assisted by McDonagh, at a crucial time for his second point of the season (he had an assist yesterday). 
• During overtime, Del Zotto skated backwards for almost no apparent reason, and almost gave the Ducks a scoring chance. Del Zotto continues to show that he isn't NHL ready. 
• during the entire game, the Rangers only had 15 shots on goal.
• Didn't the Rangers keep Christensen because he was great in the shootout? He sure didn't show it. Zuccarello also missed, which doesn't happen often. 

The Rangers next game is on Saturday night against the Islanders on Long Island. Maybe the Rangers can get their first win of the season against their regional rivals.

Derek Stepan

Hello!
This is my first post, and appropriately it is at the start of the 2011-12 hockey season. I decided to do a post on each Ranger. First off is center Derek Stepan. He was drafted by the Rangers in the 2nd round (51st overall) in 2008 and played two years at the University of Wisconsin. Stepan was the captain of the 2010 World Juniors USA hockey team, which won the gold medal when they beat the Canadian team in overtime. He lead the tournament in scoring with four goals and ten assists in seven games. He left Wisconsin and joined the Rangers in 2010 and made a good impression at camp. In his first NHL game, he scored a hat trick against Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabers, becoming just the fourth player in NHL history to do so. This year, many hope Stepan and avoid a "sophomore slump" and help the Rangers have a great season. So far this season, he has played on a line with Mats Zuccarello and Wojtek Wolski.

This a video I made.