No, I am not referring to George Costanza's unique idea for a baby's name. Nor am I referring to that movie where Gwyneth Paltrow's head ended up in a jar.

I am referring to the MAGIC NUMBER. That's right, ladies and gentlemen, the New York Rangers have a Magic Number, and it is 7. Any combination of seven points gained by the Blueshirts or lost by the ninth-place Atlanta Thrashers will mean a clinched playoff spot for the first time since Spring 1997.

I don't want to jump the gun or anything, but they could potentially clinch a spot by this Saturday. The Rangers will play two games by then, and the Thrashers will play two games. Not saying it will happen, just saying it could.

Tonight is must-see event. Never mind that it's the Islanders, which is reason enough to tune in. How great would it be if Jaromir Jagr sets the single season records for points and goals against the Fishsticks? I was in MSG on Monday, and if Jaromir had scored another goal I think the roof would have blown off. But, if it has to happen on the road, I can't think of a better place than Nassau.

Henrik Lundqvist will have the opportunity to set the rookie record for wins by a goaltender as well. He will reportedly make the start tonight, and I can't say I agree with Tom Renney here. I would have put Weekes right back in net, first for his confidence, and second to give Henrik some rest. This is a fairly clear signal, however, that Weekes is pretty much done until the Rangers clinch a berth, and maybe until they secure some home-ice advantage. I hope Kevin doesn't start to feel like a Randy Johnson love-child, because he deserves better. He ain't great, but he has been pretty darn good at times.

Reports also indicate that Darius Kasparaitis will return to the lineup this evening. Sandis Ozolinsh, however, may be suffering from a case of "centralitis". No word on if he will miss any time.

Andrew Gross covers some very important aspects of playoff hockey - the growing of the beards. I am worried about team chemistry though, because I don't think Petr Prucha can even grow a beard.

The Official Website has a daily prospect playoff update.

Around the league:

The Islanders were shutout by the Canadiens last night in Montreal, dropping the 'Sticks to ten points out of the last playoff spot. TSN also highlights a couple of Long Island guys playing for the Habs.

The Maple Leafs did a favor for us, beating the Flyers and keeping them two points back in the race for the Atlantic Division title.

CuJo passed Tony Esposito for sole possession of sixth place in the all-time wins list. He and the Coyotes beat Nashville 5-3.

Tonight is a big game for a myriad of reasons. It's the Rangers and the Other-New-York-Team in the Coliseum. The puck drops at 7:00 pm EST. Let's go Rangers.

HDH

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