Honestly, I just don't know what to think anymore. One thing is for certain though, and that is since Sean Avery came aboard, this team looks completely different. Now, I refuse to give him too much credit, because let's be fair, he did absolutely nothing to help the Kings.
But that's old news. The new news is the Rangers look legitimate, as far as the last few games go. The power play is working, they are more physical, and Henrik looks solid (even though he wasn't really tested last night). My fear, of course, is a possible let down over the weekend against far inferior teams, and then a tough work week with a home-and-home against the Devils.
The Blueshirts are still in 11th place in the Conference, but the chances are looking better as the games go by.
On to the news:
NY Daily News: Suddenly, after four months of flailing around in search of an identity, the Rangers seem to know who they are and where they're going.
NY Post: The [playoff] race is beginning just as the Rangers are beginning to play with chemistry and confidence. They're taking care of the small things for the most part; keeping shifts short, making safe plays. The puck is moving. The Blueshirts look quick. Last night they were quicker and harder on the puck than Carolina.
NY Newsday: Although it seems the Rangers (28-24-5, 61 points) may be running just to stay abreast of the competition, coach Tom Renney senses a breakthrough. "We may have found a formula," Renney said. "Notwithstanding the fact that we made some roster moves and possibly created some more depth, I think we've recognized that being a smart, efficient team, staying out of the penalty box and capitalizing on our own man-advantages is important . . . I guess that's what maybe comes about in maturing as a team."
NY SportsDay: The Rangers will get a chance to get four points this weekend. Two winnable games come to the Garden with the Peter Forsberg-less Flyers skating on Saturday and the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday . . . “If we're not playing good now, our season's pretty much over,” Cullen said to reporters. “This is our playoffs. If we don't win these games, we're done.”
The Hockey Rodent, and his thoughts.
As you already know, the Flyers dealt Peter Forsberg to the Nashville Predators for some young talent and picks. While I am certainly glad Foppa won't be around for tomorrow's match, I worry that a young, nothing-to-lose Flyers team could take the Rangers by surprise. I'm less worried about Sunday's tilt against the Blackhawks, except for the wear and tear on Lundqvist. Word is Steve Valiquette could start, but again, it would only be his fourth NHL appearance since the lockout.
Still, looking forward to a busy hockey weekend.
HDH
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