SB Nation - Marc Staal

Rangers withstand storm beat Hurricanes 3-1

Joe Fortunato — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 03:16:09 -0000

More photos » by Karl B DeBlaker - AP

2 days ago: Carolina Hurricanes' Brandon Sutter (16) dives for the puck between New York Rangers' Marc Staal (18) and and goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period of an NHL hockey game in Raleigh, N.C., Monday, Dec. 21, 2009. (AP Photo/Karl B DeBlaker)

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Coming off their first 2 game winning streak since forever, the New York Rangers walked into North Carolina to take on the last place Carolina Hurricanes. Matt Gilroy was back in the line-up along with Ales Kotalik and Wade Redden who were surprise picks to play tonight to say the least. The Rangers were looking for their first three game winning streak since the 7-1 glory days of the beginning of the season, and they found it.

The Rangers obviously packed the same fire and flare that they brought to Philadelphia and brought it with them to North Carolina. The Rangers came out flying, in a very open, first period which saw the two teams trade odd-man rushes more times then you could count. Marian Gaborik and Brandon Dubinsky both had various chances that were snuffed out by Cam Ward. Chris Higgins also had a notable first period but couldn’t find the net—what a surprise. Henrik Lundqvist continued his magnificent play making some great saves early and often.

The Rangers and Hurricanes traded goals in the second period with Gaborik netting his 25^th off a broken defensive play by the Hurricanes. By the way not is a great time to point out that Gaborik now has more goals in 34 games than any Ranger did all of last year. It’s in bold because it’s pretty important; the man is a God plain and simple. The Rangers got into penalty trouble—and incidentally got no help from the referees—but were able to kill them all off and walk into the third tied at 1.

In the third Brandon Dubinsky found the back of the net for his 4^thgoal of the season, a beautiful one from Gaborik and Vaclav Prospal. Again the Rangers saw themselves trading scoring chances with the Hurricanes but Lundqvist stood on his head and continued keeping the Rangers in the game. Marc Staal accentuated his great game by scoring the empty netter to give the Rangers a 3-1 victory.

Empty Netters:

Michael Rozsival is playing the best hockey of this season. He played a brilliant game and saved what would have been a tying goal for the Hurricanes late in the third.
Marian Gaborik continued his brilliant play with a goal and an assists. I love him.
Henrik Lundqvist has found his game again, and wow is he impressive.
Artem Ansisimov continued his impressive play and like I said on my radio show, he shields the puck and makes space just like Jaromir Jagr.
Like we have been talking about for the past few weeks if the Rangers want momentum now is the best time to get it. Let’s hope this continues.
I think that Wade Redden bounced back from his benching with a solid game. Let's hope to see more of this.
I also think that Matt Gilroy played a great game in his return to Ranger blue. It's nice to see since we all agree that he is a fan favorite.

Well let’s hear your praise in the comments boys!

By the way after Tuesday's radio show Jim won't be around much over the next few days so if you have any questions or concerns please e-mail me at Joe@blueshirtbanter.com. I will get back asap. Thanks guys!

Rangers vs. Islanders: "The Little Brother Syndrome", everything to lose, nothing to gain

Jim Schmiedeberg — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:37:59 -0000

Little brother comes to town tonight (photo courtesy of LIfe.com)

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New York Sports is replete with inner rivalries. The Yankees and Mets, the Giants and Jets, the Rangers and Islanders, and even the Knicks and Nets, although I can't say I've ever heard anyone ever get really excited for a Knicks-Nets game.

But each of these rivalries has a big brother-little brother complex to them. The Yankees have been around over 100 years, average a championship every 4 seasons, and have a worldwide fan base, while the Mets haven't had a team identity in over 20 years, and have just two measly banners to their credit, and years of futility and underachievement in their history.

The Giants and Jets follow a very similar path, with the Giants being one of the oldest teams in the league, numerous championships, and really only one prolonged bad stretch in their history (the 70's). The Jets have always lived in the shadow, and continue to live off a championship that happened forty years ago. (Yes Joe, we've heard the "Guarantee" story, at this point I can tell it better than you.)

That brings us to the Rangers-Islanders. The Rangers, with their 80-plus years of history, the flashy names, the bright lights of Broadway, and when newspapers pay attention to hockey: the headlines. The Islanders? Sure, they had their amazing dynasty in the early 80's, but they still suffer the same fate as the Mets, Jets, and I guess the Nets. I call it "The Little Brother Syndrome".

If you have younger siblings, remember when you used to play games with them? You'd beat them, usually by a wide margin, but you were supposed to. You were the big bad brother or sister: older, smarter, and presumably with more tools and resources for defeating your younger opponent. It felt good to win, it usually does, but there was also something missing because you felt like you were just doing what you were supposed to.

When the Yankees and Mets play, if the Yankees win, the Yankee fan mostly takes it in stride, its just another day at the office for them. Same goes for the Giants when playing the Jets, and Rangers when playing the Islanders. It's just big brother doing what big brother does.

But when little brother gets the best of you, your life becomes a living hell. Jet fans live to beat the Giants, and some Met fans would be ok with the Mets being 6-156 as long as those 6 wins came against the Yankees. Same rule applies for Islander fans; when the Isles beat the Rangers it makes their whole year. If you've ever been around an Islander fan after they've beaten the Rangers, you will know what I mean.

And in the case of the Islanders, baby bro is catching up to the Rangers. They are a hard working team that has played better than their record, and they have a flashy new toy in John Tavares. Meanwhile, big brother is struggling right now, his head isn't quite screwed on straight, like his girlfriend dumped him or something. But the Isles are still the little brother, and a couple of games against little brother may be just what the Rangers need to get their confidence going again.

Let's hope so, because nothing is worse than losing to your little brother.

Also, we are doing a Special "Blueshirt Banter Radio Rally" at 5:30 PM, leading up to the game. You can click the link below to listen to the show:

Blueshirt Banter Radio w/Mouth and Jim

Who Should Be Canada's Olympic Defenders?

Chemmy — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:29:45 -0000

The question is simple; who are your seven guys to play defense for Team Canada at the Olympics? The defenders invited to the Canada camp are:

Francois Beauchemin, Jay Bouwmeester, Dan Boyle, Brent Burns, Drew Doughty, Mike Green, Dan Hamhuis, Duncan Keith, Scott Niedermayer, Dion Phaneuf, Chris Pronger, Robyn Regehr, Stephane Robidas, Brent Seabrook, Marc Staal, and Shea Weber. Click a player's name for stats.

I discussed my picks with Godd Till of Zambonic Youth and PPP, check out our picks after the jump.

Chris Pronger

#20 / Defenseman / Philadelphia Flyers

Height: 6-6

Weight: 214

Born: Oct 10, 1974

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Chris Pronger	4	14	18	9	41

Pronger can score points, shut down talent even at age 35 and has a documented mean streak. Pronger's the grit and the jam that dominant teams need to make playing against them no fun at all.

Shea Weber

#6 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-4

Weight: 230

Born: Aug 14, 1985

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Shea Weber	6	9	15	-4	4

Nashville's Shea Weber is an excellent defender in his own end who can also put up points. He hits as hard as your January credit card bill and isn't afraid to drop the gloves.

Duncan Keith

#2 / Defenseman / Chicago Blackhawks

Height: 6-1

Weight: 196

Born: Jul 16, 1983

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Duncan Keith	5	18	23	6	16

Fresh off of inking a lifetime deal that was well earned Duncan Keith is having a fantastic season. Another guy who can put up points and plays well in his own end Duncan Keith is an obvious lock for this team along with...

Brent Seabrook

#7 / Defenseman / Chicago Blackhawks

Height: 6-3

Weight: 218

Born: Apr 20, 1985

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Brent Seabrook	3	10	13	8	15

... his defensive partner Brent Seabrook. In addition to being an excellent player on his own, having Keith's defensive partner will give Canada an elite d-pairing that are familiar with each other. This is a huge advantage in a tournament where players are hastily thrown together.

Robyn Regehr

#28 / Defenseman / Calgary Flames

Height: 6-3

Weight: 225

Born: Apr 19, 1980

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Robyn Regehr	0	10	10	5	23

The definition of defensive defenseman, Regehr hits good hockey players hard and often. He's on this team to hit Ovechkin, Kessel and Parise.

Dan Boyle

#22 / Defenseman / San Jose Sharks

Height: 5-11

Weight: 190

Born: Jul 12, 1976

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Dan Boyle	6	19	25	4	20

Dan Boyle's our pick for puck mover / PP specialist on the back end. If you'd prefer Bouwmeester or Mike Green go ahead, I'm not too concerned with any of the three.

Drew Doughty

#8 / Defenseman / Los Angeles Kings

Height: 6-0

Weight: 211

Born: Dec 08, 1989

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Drew Doughty	7	15	22	9	18

Is Drew Doughty the seventh best Canadian defender in the league? Honestly he might be, but what's important here is the future. Doughty will be the seventh guy and only see action if guys get hurt. Obviously you could do a lot worse than Doughty as an injury fill in which speaks to Canada's enormous depth at defense.

I picked Doughty looking forward to 2014. Doughty will be 25 and about to hit his prime. He got an invite to Olympic camp this year based on his ability as a player and I think bringing him along to Vancouver would be a big step for a young kid in the NHL. Let him have a taste of the team he's going to need to be a big part of in four years.

Those are our picks, let us know yours in the comments.

Rangers Analysis: Grading the Blueshirts thus far (Update)

Joe Fortunato — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:27 -0000

More photos » by Frank Franklin II - AP

23 days ago: New York Rangers' Vaclav Prospal (20) and teammates celebrate after a goal by Marian Gaborik, of Slovakia, as Pittsburgh Penguins' Jay McKee (74) and Marc-Andre Fleury (29) skate away during the second period of an NHL hockey game Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

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Since we are literally one-third through this season it's about time to grade the Rangers. Here is a list of every player, coach, and general manager of the team; their grade and the reason why (in no particular order):

Marian Gaborik : There isn’t too much more the guy can do aside from pad up and step between the pipes. His 21 goals lead the league and his 37 points are tops among all NHL players (he has only played in 25 games mind you). He is doing everything the Rangers expected him to when they gave him the 7.5 million dollar contract in July. Grade: A+

Vaclav Prospal: When you think about offense on the Rangers two names come to mind and one of them is Prospal’s. His play with Gaborik has been outstanding and his effort on both sides of the puck is commendable. Prospal has also shown up as a leader on this team which is huge since the Rangers have very little leadershipOne of the few bright spots on this suddenly average team I have no problem rewarding Prospal’s play with a good grade. Grade: A.

Brandon Dubinsky: In the time that we got to see him thus far (18 games) he notched 3 goals and 10 points, and really solidified the top line. His penalty killing was fantastic and currently the Rangers are really hurting without his face-off prowess. On my radio show last night Steve Zipay said he should be back in 10-14 games (you can download the podcast here) and the Rangers couldn’t be any happier. Grade: B to B+.

Ryan Callahan: While I am a huge fan of Callahan and he is a huge fan favorite there is no arguing that he is having tons of problems with his game. Thus far through 27 games he has 4 goals and 4 assists and has simply not looked anything like the Ryan Callahan of last year. While he is giving every shift his all and he is leaving his heart on the ice his play is hurting this team. While normally I would give him a pass because of his hear filled play I can’t, he was expected to be an offensive force this year and currently he simply isn’t. Grade: C.

Chris Higgins: Many people (myself included) expected Chris Higgins to be an offensive force this year. Yet again the Ranger faithful found themselves disappointed as Higgins is also having an off year. With just 2 goals and 5 assists in 26 games it seems as though he is playing horrible hockey. He’s not, he is just as snake bitten as I have ever seen a player in my life. Regardless his lack of goals is hurting this team but unlike Callahan he is at least generating scoring chances. Grade: C+.

Join me after the jump.

Ales Kotalik: In the beginning of the year Kotaliklooked like the steal of free agency, now that he has foundlevel ground Ranger fans are pretty sick of him. While his shot from the point is unbelievable and his shootout prowess is invaluable his five on five play is atrocious. He is also a minus 12 on the year and can’t seem to click with any of the line-mates he is paired with; still he makes the power play lethal and without the power play (even if it is bad right now) the Rangers would be much worse than they are now. Grade: C+.

Michael Del Zotto: Michael Del Zotto hit Broadway like a bang and quickly became the Rangers hottest defenseman. Currently he has 5 goals and 12 assist for 17 points and is a monster on the power play. While his numbers have slowed down a little of late he may actually be the hardest hitting D man on the team. Also his defensive game has come along quite nicely. He is another one of those few bright spots on this team; plus he is only 19. Grade: A.

Marc Staal: Usually the backbone of the Rangers defense this is the first year where Staalseems to be finding level ground. He is suddenly making mistakes he never made before, giving the puck away in the defensive zone and losing his control of the neutral zone. While there have been some blemishes he has still been reliable at the back. Grade: B.

Sean Avery: In the beginning of the year he wasn’t playing his normal brand of hockey but currently he is back on track. When he is on he is one of the most effective players in the league. Grade: B to B+.

Dan Girardi: Had an awful start to the year but has shored up his defensive game considerably. While his offensive game isn’t where we want it to be he is playing better. Grade: B-.

Wade Redden: While he will never live up to his contract he has really played very well defensively compared to last year. He is a solid second pairing defensemen who has played pretty well of late. Grade: C+.

Michael Rozsival: I have nothing to say. Grade: F.

Matt Gilroy: Coming straight from the NCAA I was not sure how effective he would be but he is actually playing quite well and has adapted to the NHL game quite nicely. His offensive game is finally starting to catch on and his defense is coming along nicely as well. He has flashes of brilliance and hopefully we will see more of it soon. Grade: B.

Donald Brashear: While I didn’t expect him to be the next coming of Wayne Gretzky I did expect him to be more effective. He is losing pretty much every fight he gets into and when he does fight it is often at inopportune moments that don’t change the momentum of the game. Grade: D.

Aaron Voros: He goes through stretches where he plays really well and then stretches where he is invisible. His fighting has improved though. Grade: C.

P.A Parentenau: Is a monster in the shootout and has been good five on five. Has earned a spot on this team in my opinion and has been solid of late. Grade: B.

Artem Anisimov: Hard to get a good read on him since he sees so little top line (1^st or 2^nd) time. I like what I see thus far though. Grade: B.

Brian Boyle: I expected more scoring out of him and currently he is doing little more than taking the body occasionally. He always talks about how he needs to score / more but he only has 2 goals. Grade C-.

Chris Drury: I honestly don’t know what to say. He is not playing good hockey right now, and seems like he will never break free. Like Jim said "if Drury is not winning face-offs he brings nothing to the table." Let’s just say he isn’t winning face-offs. Grade: D.

Henrik Lundqvist: Lundqvist has not been the Lundqvist of old and maybe he is taking more time to adjust to the Tortorella system than originally thought. He is still an all-world goaltender and although he has let in more soft goals than usual his play has still kept the Rangers in a lot of games. Can’t go too low on him. Grade: B to B+.

Glen Sather: Can’t blame him for Higgins, Drury and Callahan not scoring. The moves for Gaborik, Gilroy and Prospal were nothing short of brilliant. Still he needs to make some moves to fix this team and he hasn’t. Grade: B.

John Tortorella: In my opinion is trying to force feed this system to some players and has not been the fiery coach we expected. I also have a sneaking suspicion that this team is starting to tune him out. I do like him as a coach though so here is to him turning it around and for him to stop being stubborn. Grade: C.

Update: How did I forget Enver Lisin and Stephen Valiquette?

Enver Lisin: Personally I am a pretty big fan of Lisin. Regardless of whether you like him or not you can't deny that he is a huge upgrade over Lauri Korpikoski. Still he hasn't been great offensivley and I think the injury has hurt him more than we thought originally. Grade: B- to B.

Stephen Valiquette: Again I am unsure what to say here. We all epected alot out of him but his skill simply wasn't there this year. He looked out of place most games and gave up more soft goals than I can count. Find your game again Vally hope we see you soon. Grade: D.

Mike Sullivan: As far as I know he is responsible for the penalty kill which is close to tops in the league. Grade: B+.

SBNation's 2010 Winter Olympics Coverage: Rangers Edition

Joe Fortunato — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:00:18 -0000

More photos » by Paul Beaty - AP

4 months ago: Chicago Blackhawks player Patrick Kane looks on before reading a statement to the media before the U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Orientation Camp in Woodridge, Il., Monday, Aug. 17, 2009. AP Photo/Paul Beaty)

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Continuing with SBNation's awesome coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver today we bring you the potential Rangers who could find themselves playing for their countries come February.

Pack your bags:

Marian Gaborik: It should be no surprise that Gaborik will represent his native country of Slovokia for the Olympics. He joins a star stuttered cast along with Marian Hossa, Zdeno Chara, Pavol Demitra and Andrej Meszaros although of the entire team he is by far the most productive thus far this year. Gaborik is at the top in the NHL in goals and second in points and the Rangers couldn't be happier; and neither can Slovokia.

Henrik Lundqvist: Again this should be no surprise, especially after Lundqvist back-stopped Sweden to a goal medal four years ago in Italy. Lundqvist isn't having the greatest of starts but that is in no way a reflection of his play. He has been his usual all-world self and has kept the Rangers in nearly every game they play. He has been brilliant (even though his numbers wont attest to it) and will be starting for Team Sweden in 2010.

Chris Drury: Yeah a shocker here but what can you say? Drury is having his worst statistical year ever (by a mile) and is doing few things right for the New York Rangers. But on a personal note his face-off prowess and his defensive game along with the potential for him to score big goals (maybe it's the Rangers) puts him on the roster. Plus he brings much needed leadership to the table and after his performance last year in the Victoria cup I'm not going to argue with his international play.

Nearly a Lock:

Vaclav Prospal: Prospal is having one of the best years of his career in the NHL working with perennial superstar Marian Gaborik. Although this truly is a star stuttered team, including former Ranger superstar Jaromir Jagr, I think Prospal might be playing himself into a spot. Since Prospal is a swing-man, can play both LW and C, I can see him making this team pretty convincingly.

In a Battle:

Ryan Callahan: Although his play isn't much different than last years (his heart and his hustle) his numbers are in severe decline. John Tortorella attests it to him being "snake-bitten" and I hope that's the case but he may actually be playing himself off the American team with his current numbers. Here is one Ranger fan hoping that doesn't happen.

Brandon Dubinsky: Was on pace to break his record for points in a season (barley) before his injury. Currently he has been out for over two weeks and he will probably be out another two weeks before hes playing again. He was being looked at before the injury but he will have to work real hard to make the squad.

Work to do:

Ales Kotalik: On a personal note his five on five play will be the Achilles heel to his chances of making the Czech Republic team. While he is on pace to have one of the best years of his career, and has been a power play monster he has been horrible at even strength. I doubt he makes the team, there is too much talent on that roster to fit him, but he has a chance.

Marc Staal: Was invited to the team Canada's national team try-out. His play has dropped off a little this season (although it is currently on the upswing) and his offensive numbers might hurt his chances. Although at the end of the day, there are simply so many defenseman for team Canada it is difficult for anyone to make the squad. I say in four years he makes the team but right now I don't see it happening.

Chris Higgins: Too bad he is having a rough year stat's wise because his play has been much better than his numbers show. Regardless I don't know if he is even on team U.S.A's radar but if he is he is going to need to start scoring some goals and soon.

Moving up:

Michael Del Zotto: There ~~is no~~ isn't much of a chance that he makes the Canadian team this year although if he keeps up at this pace he might be really considered in four years. Plus he will only be 23 then and will be much more mature. Keep it up Zots!

Moving Down:

Sean Avery: Not for lack of skill (or if you are not a Rangers fan effectiveness) on the ice I doubt Avery ever makes an Olympic team, especially team Canada's. I have always wanted to see him in the Olympics however and I am always disappointed after.

Michal Rozsival: Not sure I need to go too deep into details here. His play has dropped off the map considerably, and has dropped off enough to put him out of contention for the Czech Republic's blueline. Sorry Rozy.

Rangers News: Lines for tonight, Lisin scratched (as in not in uniform this time)

Jim Schmiedeberg — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:40:03 -0000

by Mike Carlson - AP

This picture says it all, from Prospal's confusion to Tortorella's ire to Drury's indifference.

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From Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants, here are the lines for tonight, subject to change after everyone's first shift:

Sean Avery-Vinny Prospal-Marian Gaborik
Christopher Higgins-Artem Anisimov-P.A. Parenteau
Donald Brashear-Chris Drury-Ryan Callahan
Ales Kotalik-Brian Boyle-Aaron Voros
Matt Gilroy-Bobby Sanguinetti
Marc Staal-Michal Rozsival
Michael Del Zotto-Dan Girardi

Can't wait to see Drury and Callahan get it going with Brashear on their line.

Also, Enver Lisin will be scratched this evening, I guess at this point we can call him "Enver Lesson" (ba-dum-bump)

Henrik Lundqvist in goal, in case you had any doubt, and if you did, why?

Be here all week folks........

Hat trick on hat night; Pens spank Rangers 8-3

Hooks Orpik — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 04:29:55 -0000

More photos » by Gene J. Puskar - AP

Amazingly, John Torture-rella's head didn't explode during the course of this game.

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Rangers vs Penguins coverage - Rangers vs Penguins boxscore - SB Nation blog Blueshirt Banter

On a night when we welcome back three very important players (defensemen Alex Goligoski and Kris Letang and forward Tyler Kennedy) the Penguins kicked it back into high gear. Maybe it was that they were mad about a poor performance yesterday in Long Island, but Pittsburgh showed what they're capable of, ringing up right goals on poor Stephen Valiquette. That's right, it's hard not to feel a little sorry for Valiquette after the barrage he faced.

Marc Staal opened the scoring swooping in and beating birthday boy Marc-Andre Fleury. The Penguins would close the period very strongly, scoring three goals before intermission: Evgeni Malkin started things off, Sidney Crosby scored on a crazy angle and then Maxime Talbot got his first of the year. Crosby got the assists sandwiched around his goal, giving him a three point period.

The second period saw two defensemen for either team notched goals; Matt Gilroy got the Rangers within a goal before Mark Eaton got what would eventually be the game-winner. Thirty three seconds into the third period, former Penguin Michal Rozsival again brought NYR within a goal, when he made it 4-3. Sidney Crosby scored his second of the night to bring the Pens up 5-3 and then the wheels really fell off on the Rangers.

Pascal Dupuis literally scores on a knucklepuck from way out. Bad goal for Valiquette to allow. Then on the next shift, Matt Cooke hit Artem Anisimov away from the puck and was assessed a deserved minor for interference. This drove the Rangers for vengeance, as the Rangers really picked up the extracurriculars. Goon Donald Brashear tried to fight Cooke, but the Monster wasn't looking to go up in weight class. Big Brash was slapped with 4 minutes in penalties and Crosby got his hat-trick goal in the ensuing PP, 7-3 Pens. Tyler Kennedy tipped a Kris Letang shot to close the scoring on the back-end of that double minor penalty.

Cooke would drop the gloves with Ryan Callahan to atone for his hit, both earning a 10 minute misconduct to ensure their nights would be over. Then Aaron Voros tried to pick a fight with Jordan Staal and Sean Avery, being Sean Avery, basically jumped Ruslan Fedotenko from behind when the play went the other way for whatever reason. Avery got an instigator and a misconduct for his troubles, and Fedotenko wasn't penalized at all.

Hat trick on hat night. That Crosby sure has a knack for timing.
It was good to hear the crowd going crazy for Fleury; chanting his name and happy birthday for him in the closing moments of the game. Fleury had a couple flashy saves, but he wasn't the star of the show tonight so it was interesting to see the fan's love affair with him extend to a game where he wasn't the main storyline.
Five points is Crosby's highest single game total since he got six [1g, 5a] against Philadelphia on December 13th 2006.
Nice to see Cooke answer the bell with his scrap with Callahan. He's often been a guy to hit and run, with only now six fights since the lockout. The Code said he owed a Ranger a fight after the hit on Anisimov, so good to see him get it out of the way. We'll cut him a break for not responding to Brashear, right? I wouldn't want to fight that big guy either.
Craig Adams has now gone 35 regular season games as a Penguin without a goal (he does have three playoff goals). It's been since last December 16th -- when Adams was a Chicago Blackhawk -- since his last regular season goal. Goal scoring isn't a key tenet of Adams' game, but it seems like he's been getting good chances lately. The red light may be coming on sooner than later for him.
Two assists each for Kris Letang and Alex Goligoski. Tyler Kennedy got his goal and attempted 8 shots on the night. Welcome back, boys.
Michael Del Zotto -- a legit contender for the Calder Trophy -- caught a tough one tonight; ringing up a -5 in the plus/minus column. That'll sting.

In a great twist of scheduling, the Penguins travel to Manhattan for a Monday night game, the next for both teams. Tonight's game got really chippy at the end, it'll be interesting to watch if any of the post-whistle activities carry over. The tension is sure to be at playoff-level intensity. The Rangers surely won't be throwing out old Valiquette again, it'll be the King. And you know coach John Tortorella is gonna be pissed and have his boys ready to bounce back.

Blueshirts are the Pitts: Crosby and Pens crush Rangers, 8-3

Jim Schmiedeberg — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 03:50:12 -0000

More photos » by Gene J. Puskar - AP

Rangers Head Coach John Tortorella shows RW Ales Kotalik which way the ice is during last night's game against the Penguins

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After giving up 13 goals in two nights to the Lightning and Penguins, the Rangers are long on questions and short on answers. Very little is working for this team right now, and their coach, for all his tough talk and arrogance seems to have absolutely no clue what to do about it.

The Good Ship Tortorella is sinking Ranger fans, and the Skipper seems powerless and/or unable to stop it. The water is coming up over the bow, and most of the team is bailing with Dixie cups.

They still aren't playing hard for 60 minutes, they still aren't getting scoring from forwards not named Gaborik or Prospal, and they are still making far too many defensive mistakes to be considered even a mediocre hockey team.

Plenty of excuses, no answers.

On to the recap, although I can't fathom how anyone would even want to read this, because I didn't even want to write it.

Recap after the jump.......

The Rangers drew first blood on a beautiful backhand goal by Marc Staal, but after that the Penguins came roaring back, with three goals in a span of less than four minutes, and by the end of the night, Sidney Crosby had a hat trick, and the Pens had a 8-3 victory at the Igloo in Pittsburgh. Evgeni Malkin, Maxim Talbot, Tyler Kennedy, and former Ranger Pascal Dupuis also scored for the Pens.

The Rangers flirted with attempts to make a game out of it, but the Penguins had an answer every time. After Matt Gilroy made it 3-2 with a goal with five minutes left in the second, Mark Eaton scored a goal as time expired in the second period. A review of the goal showed that it crossed the goal line with 0.4 seconds remaining in the second.

The Rangers answered quickly in the third, with Michael Rozsival scoring his first goal of the season just thirty three seconds into the period. It ended a long scoring drought for Rozsival, who hadn't scored in 42 games. But again, the Penguins came back fast, came back harder, and put the game away for good.

The luckiest Ranger of the night? Enver Lisin, who was dressed and on the bench, but didn't get on the ice once. MSG announcers talked about Lisin "being taught a lesson" by head coach John Tortorella. Yeah, you sure showed him Torts.

Final Thoughts:

Michael Del Zotto had an especially tough night, finishing -5 for the evening. Can't say I can ever recall a defensemen having a +/- that bad.
Defensive breakdowns notwithstanding, Stephen Valiquette was awful in this game, just flat out awful. He is making it harder and harder for the Rangers to give Henrik Lundqvist nights off.
I almost feel bad for Christopher Higgins, I really do. He's doing all the little things, and getting plenty of chances, the puck just refuses to go in the net for him.
Donald Brashear had a power play shift in this game.......I'll just let that sink in.
Chris Drury had a terrible night as well: -2, a woeful 1 for 6 on defensive zone face-offs, and 6 for 14 on face-offs overall. Boys and girls, if he isn't winning face-offs, he is of no use to the Rangers.
I think Artem Anisimov has earned more playing time. Put him on the first line, and see what happens. What is the worst that could happen, the Rangers lose?
Towards the end of the MSG telecast, John Giannone said the Rangers would be an "angry team" on Monday night for the rematch with the Penguins. I want John to tell me what Ranger team he is watching, because the one I'm watching doesn't get angry.

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Rangers Recap: 2-1 Rangers (SO) the "we don't need no secondary scoring edition"

Joe Fortunato — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 03:15:08 -0000

More photos » by J Pat Carter - AP

28 days ago: Florida Panthers' Dominic Moore (19) misses a chance at goal as New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist, of Sweden, defends during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Sunrise, Fla., on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009. (AP Photo/J Pat Carter)

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Well at least not tonight, but it continues to be a problem that we will have to keep an eye on. The Gaborik's blew a 1-0 lead late in the third but won it in the shootout starting off their three game road trip on the proper notes. Say what you will, this was a gut check win for the Rangers; a win you can build on. The story of the night for MSG was the return of Rangers captian Chris Drury, who actually played a pretty brilliant game.

Wade Redden was injured in the first half of the first period, leaving the Rangers with five defensemen for the rest of the game. Then in the third period Matt Gilroy got into a fight to defend Vaclav Prospal and took a misconduct removing him from the game. As a result Michael Del Zotto, Marc Staal, Dan Girardi (who had a great game), and even Michael Rozsival played over 20 minutes each.

Henrik Lundqvist was brilliant throughout the game, making big stops when the Rangers needed him to; especially in the third period when the Rangers took back to back penalties. He helped the Rangers win this game, especially in the third period when the Rangers D was tired and overworked. The only goal he gave up was to former Ranger Dominic Moore,and he was screened pretty bad by Girardi.

Marian Gaborik extended his 7 game point scoring streak to 8 games, scoring his 19th goal of the year off of an unbelievable pass from Drury. Gaborik took the NHL lead in goals away from Dany Heatley, and continued helping the New York Rangers offensively. Its games like this when you really wish Higgins would score some goals, the Rangers have lost a bunch of one goal games this year and any contributions from Higgins (or Callahan) would be nice.

Now time for your empty netters:

Man Chris Higgins simply cannot score. He hit two posts tonight and had multiple scoring chances. If he keeps playing like this the goals will come in bunches.
I think today was Michael Rozsival's best day defensively, that's not to say he didn't make the occasional horrific "I wouldn't have even made that" play.
I also thought that Artem Anisimov and Sean Avery played awesome games.
I was one of the first people to say that I was not excited about Chris Drury coming back tonight, but if he plays like this every night I will be eating my words very soon. Here's to hoping that I eat my words.
After the end of regulation John Tortorella patted Sean Avery on the back, which drew some ire from a few Rangers fans I know. The Florida goal wasn't his fault, the pass handcuffed him and Lundqvist was screened.
Michael Del Zotto is the real deal, his power play prowess is just awesome to watch.
The power play did look a little de-fanged if you will without Ales Kotalik. He might be pretty bad five on five but he helps make that power play dangerous.
P.A Parenteau had his best game as a pro. He has earned a roster spot in my eyes, although it's not my eyes that matter. And boy does he have a set of hands on him, did you see that shootout goal? It was sick. He has become a bit of a shootout specialist going 2 for 2 in his career thus far.
Henrik Lundqvist has the twin towers on the back of his helmet. Maybe it's just me but I love that he embraces New York City, classy move in my eyes.

Rangers Gameday: News and Notes, Scouting the Blue Jackets

Jim Schmiedeberg — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:06:32 -0000

More photos » by Bill Kostroun - AP

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As the Rangers get ready for the BJ's tonight at the Garden, here is what's going on today:

Andrew Gross has a lot of info today. First off, the line combos for tonight:

Higgins-Prospal-Gaborik
Sean Avery-Artem Anisimov-P.A. Parenteau
Enver Lisin-Callahan-Ales Kotalik
Donald Brashear-Brian Boyle-Aaron Voros
Marc Staal-Dan Girardi
Michael Del Zotto-Michal Rozsival
Wade Redden-Matt Gilroy

Henrik Lundqvist will make his 5th straight start.

Meanwhile, Chris Drury skated for the third straight day and, for the first time since suffering a concussion he went through contact drills after Tortorella put his team through a non-optional morning skate (typically Tortorella prefers optional morning skates, particularly as the season progresses).

Pregame notes from the Rangers:

Marian Gaborik leads the Rangers with 11 goals and 18 points in 22 career regular season games against Columbus; Michal Rozsival leads all Ranger defensemen with five assists and six points in seven career appearences vs. the Blue Jackets.

All Time – Rangers vs. Blue Jackets
Overall: 3-5-1-0
At MSG: 1-1-1-0
At Columbus: 2-4-0-0

More after the jump..................

Jeff Rimer's Blue Jackets blog from BlueJacket.com

Blue Jackets F Dorsett on IR after Neal boarding (AP)

For more on the Blue Jackets, check out their SBNation home at The Cannon

Blue Jackets Leading Scorer:

Rick Nash

#61 / Left Wing / Columbus Blue Jackets

Height: 6-4

Weight: 218

Born: Jun 16, 1984

	G	A	P	+/-	PIM
2009 - Rick Nash	14	11	25	-7	16

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