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.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
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.
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)
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?
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.
-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.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
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.
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.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
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
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
Thursday, October 20, 2011
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)
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.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
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
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Rupp-Newbury-Christensen
McDonagh-Girardi
Del Zotto-Erixon
Eminger-Woywitka
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.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
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.
-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.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, October 14, 2011
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...
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...
Thursday, October 13, 2011
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.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
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.
-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.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
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.
-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.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
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.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
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.
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 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.
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