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.