Straying out of the ordinary a little bit, the 4th times a charm. After losing the first 3 games, each by a goal, the Rangers finally pulled it out. And it came at the dispense of laughing at Rick DiPietro every time he gave up a goal. Each time he gave a goal, he seemed to have a spasm attack, and acted like he could never give up a goal. It was truly funny to watch, well atleast to me it was. The big 3 all had good games tonight. Jagr and Drury each had a goal and an assist, and Scott Gomez also scored a goal. The other goal was scored by Brandon Dubinsky. The Rangers very well and in reality they only gave up 1 goal. Michal Rozsival kicked the other one in when there was a scramble in front of the net.
There is now a 1st place tie between the Flyers and Rangers, and they have to keep rolling. Ottawa is up next, and they are coming off a 6-5 loss to Nashville at home tonight. And you know they aren't taking that lightly. With the strong play from a returning Ryan Callahan, and without Sean Avery for atleast the next 10 days, the Rangers have to find a way to win until then.
Game Notes:
-Bill Guerin has not scored in his last 12 games.
-Ryan Callahan returned to the lineup after missing 16 straight games.
-Chris Drury and Scott Gomez finally combine for over 10 goals (11).
Friday, November 30, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Big blow to Blueshirts as Averys goin under the knife
Rangers winger Sean Avery will be getting surgery on his left wrist to repair a fracture. He has been dealing with it since last years playoff series versus the Sabres. He opted not to have it done in the offseason. Since he had that fight with Darcy Tucker on November 10th, and the shot he took off the wrist from a Brendan Shanahan slapshot, this has to get done. It isn't known on how much time Avery's going to miss, but any amount of time is too much. Last season the Rangers went 17-6-6 with him in the lineup. This season the Rangers are 9-4-1 with him in the lineup. Without him they are 4-5-1.
"As much as we don't want him to miss a single game, the best thing we can do for him and our hockey club is to address that and take care of this thing quickly and have him not miss too much," Rangers coach Tom Renney said. Well I guess its better than Avery going down in April. The Rangers are going to have to play through it, and win without him. Its not an easy feat not having him in the lineup. Hes seems to be the backbone of this team, to get them sparked up and going. Luckily it looks like Ryan Callahan will be ready for tomorrow's game vs the Islanders. Its just a tough time the Rangers have to get through, and if they play good enough to keep 1st place, when Avery gets back it will make it whole lot easier.
"As much as we don't want him to miss a single game, the best thing we can do for him and our hockey club is to address that and take care of this thing quickly and have him not miss too much," Rangers coach Tom Renney said. Well I guess its better than Avery going down in April. The Rangers are going to have to play through it, and win without him. Its not an easy feat not having him in the lineup. Hes seems to be the backbone of this team, to get them sparked up and going. Luckily it looks like Ryan Callahan will be ready for tomorrow's game vs the Islanders. Its just a tough time the Rangers have to get through, and if they play good enough to keep 1st place, when Avery gets back it will make it whole lot easier.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Callahan most likely to return for the battle of NY
Winger Ryan Callahan is the only starter left on the Rangers IR. Martin Straka returned Friday night against the Florida Panthers. Straka hasn't recorded a point since his return though. Hopefully, Callahan can put a spark into this team, with his gritty play, and speed. Even though he has only 1 goal on the season in 8 games, he brings a little extra to the team. With the Isles visiting the Garden this Thursday, Callahan is arriving just in time, to give the Rangers a boost, and keep the Icelanders where they belong, 3rd place.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
A hard to swallow loss for fans today as Rangers lose 3-2 to Stars
In a game from beginning to end, when the Rangers had Dallas on their heels just about all game, hit the brick wall. The name of the brick wall is Mike Smith. Mike Smith looked more like Mike Richter today, as he made a career high 39 saves on a career high 41 shots against. He was dominate from beginning to end. The Rangers threw everything at him except the kitchen sink, but if they did throw that, he would probably stop that also. Jaromir Jagr scored the 1st goal of the game 6 and a half minutes in. Jussi Jokinen followed up for Dallas with 52 seconds left in the first, beating Lundqvist on a breakaway.
Through 2 periods the Rangers were outshooting the Stars 29-9. The score though was 2-2. Loui Eriksson scored on another breakaway in the 2nd, and Brendan Shanahan tallied a goal early in the 2nd as well. In the 3rd, the Stars looked a lot like the real Dallas Stars, and they took a 3-2 lead on a great pass from Mike Ribiero to Brendan Morrow, after Ribiero made a nifty move skating by a flat-footed Dan Girardi. The rangers mustered up another 12 shot period, but could not manage another goal. The Rangers ended up outshooting the stars 41-18. (Dallas has also pulled off another win like this. Earlier in the season they were outshot by San Jose 38-12, but won the game 3-1). Goalie Mike Smith stopped everything thrown at him, as he won the game for the Stars. He did earn 1st star of the game honors followed by Mike Ribeiro at 2nd star and Brendan Shanahan earned himself a 3rd star of the game (thanks to his goal and his fight with Steve Ott).
Other Game Notes:
-Jaromir Jagr scored his 3rd goal in his last 14 games, giving him 5 on the season.
-This was Brendan Shanahans 1st fight of the season.
-Lundqivst gave up 3 goals or more in 7 of his 22 starts this season, including this one.
-The Rangers outshot Dallas 41-18.
Through 2 periods the Rangers were outshooting the Stars 29-9. The score though was 2-2. Loui Eriksson scored on another breakaway in the 2nd, and Brendan Shanahan tallied a goal early in the 2nd as well. In the 3rd, the Stars looked a lot like the real Dallas Stars, and they took a 3-2 lead on a great pass from Mike Ribiero to Brendan Morrow, after Ribiero made a nifty move skating by a flat-footed Dan Girardi. The rangers mustered up another 12 shot period, but could not manage another goal. The Rangers ended up outshooting the stars 41-18. (Dallas has also pulled off another win like this. Earlier in the season they were outshot by San Jose 38-12, but won the game 3-1). Goalie Mike Smith stopped everything thrown at him, as he won the game for the Stars. He did earn 1st star of the game honors followed by Mike Ribeiro at 2nd star and Brendan Shanahan earned himself a 3rd star of the game (thanks to his goal and his fight with Steve Ott).
Other Game Notes:
-Jaromir Jagr scored his 3rd goal in his last 14 games, giving him 5 on the season.
-This was Brendan Shanahans 1st fight of the season.
-Lundqivst gave up 3 goals or more in 7 of his 22 starts this season, including this one.
-The Rangers outshot Dallas 41-18.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Game winning goal by..............Colton Orr?
Yes, the title is indeed true. Colton Orr was credited with the game winning goal tonight in Tampa Bay. The Rangers went on to win the game 2-1. Rangers lit the lamp first about midway through the 1st period. Fedor Tyutin went 5-Hole on Johan Holmqvist to give the Rangers a 1-0 lead. Rangers got started quick firing shots at Holmqvist, but he did make some great saves along with his countryman Henrik Lundqvist. Lundqvist was one again, named first star of the game. He made 32 saves and Holmqvist made 27 saves.
Moving on later into the game, Colton Orr scored on a one bouncer going blocker side on Holmqvist, to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead. Ivan Baranka, playing his 1st NHL game, recorded an assist on the goal. Orr has 3 career goals, 2 of them coming against the Lightning. Later in the 3rd Sean Avery left the game, with an apparent hand injury, after taking a huge slapshot from Brendan Shanahan while the Rangers were on the power play. Avery was in a great deal of pain, and left the ice with Medical Trainer Jim Ramsay. Shanahan also saved Henrik's shutout to that point, by pushing the puck under Henrik after it was trickling right over the goal line. The refs reviewed it and determined the puck did not completely cross the line. Lundqvists shutout was ruined with a mere 16 seconds left in the 3rd, when Filip Kuba threw a shot at the net, deflecting off the stick of Michel Ouellet.
Other notes:
Jason Strudwick now has 2 points in his last 3 games.
Jaromir Jagr has only 1 goal in his last 8 games. He also has only 9 points in his last 15 games.
Michal Rozsival did not play due to a knee injury.
Greg Moore, along with Ivan Baranka made their respective NHL debuts tonight.
Moving on later into the game, Colton Orr scored on a one bouncer going blocker side on Holmqvist, to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead. Ivan Baranka, playing his 1st NHL game, recorded an assist on the goal. Orr has 3 career goals, 2 of them coming against the Lightning. Later in the 3rd Sean Avery left the game, with an apparent hand injury, after taking a huge slapshot from Brendan Shanahan while the Rangers were on the power play. Avery was in a great deal of pain, and left the ice with Medical Trainer Jim Ramsay. Shanahan also saved Henrik's shutout to that point, by pushing the puck under Henrik after it was trickling right over the goal line. The refs reviewed it and determined the puck did not completely cross the line. Lundqvists shutout was ruined with a mere 16 seconds left in the 3rd, when Filip Kuba threw a shot at the net, deflecting off the stick of Michel Ouellet.
Other notes:
Jason Strudwick now has 2 points in his last 3 games.
Jaromir Jagr has only 1 goal in his last 8 games. He also has only 9 points in his last 15 games.
Michal Rozsival did not play due to a knee injury.
Greg Moore, along with Ivan Baranka made their respective NHL debuts tonight.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Where's Jaromir?
When we all open up the papers and check out the Rangers stats, we see something very unfamiliar to our eyes. Jaromir Jagr has less points than games played. It seems like an eyesore, but it is reality, and there are a few factors that I have seen recently that has attributed to this. His linemates have given him nothing to work with. In a combined 38 games between Marcel Hossa and Brandon Dubinsky, they have scored 2 goals and 5 assists..........combined. Jagr is still putting up a decent season so far with 17 points in 22 games, but with THAT lack of production from the others, thats the main factor. Hossa has played 17 games this season. He had 3 points in his 1st 3 games, and since then in the other 14, Hossa has not recorded a point. So far in my eyes, Hossa has to be the frontrunner to get sent down when Straka returns. He has not done much, if anything this season to be playing on the first line. This is where Tom Renney should be questioned with this decision.
Is there also a hidden injury we don't know about? He is 35, and age may be catching up with him. His strides are a little slower, and that wrist shot does not seem to have the lift it did back in 2005-2006. Is his shoulder fully healed? His shot pct. is considerably lower this year and and last year as well, compared to other years. This year it is at 7.1 pct, last year 9.3 pct. With a career shooting pct of over 14 pct, you have to wonder if that shoulder is healthy and at 100%.
Then again this is all speculation, and who knows what is going on through Jaromir's mind. Maybe he isn't giving 100%, because he has had a history of doing so. Maybe theres a hidden injury. Finally, maybe he is missing Straka from his line. We all know the chemistry Nylander and Jagr had but its all history now. Jagr just does not seem to be the Jagr we have seen in the past, and sooner or later something has to turn around for him, or something has to be done.
Is there also a hidden injury we don't know about? He is 35, and age may be catching up with him. His strides are a little slower, and that wrist shot does not seem to have the lift it did back in 2005-2006. Is his shoulder fully healed? His shot pct. is considerably lower this year and and last year as well, compared to other years. This year it is at 7.1 pct, last year 9.3 pct. With a career shooting pct of over 14 pct, you have to wonder if that shoulder is healthy and at 100%.
Then again this is all speculation, and who knows what is going on through Jaromir's mind. Maybe he isn't giving 100%, because he has had a history of doing so. Maybe theres a hidden injury. Finally, maybe he is missing Straka from his line. We all know the chemistry Nylander and Jagr had but its all history now. Jagr just does not seem to be the Jagr we have seen in the past, and sooner or later something has to turn around for him, or something has to be done.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Defense is the best offense as Rangers take over 1st place in Atlantic
Defense is the key to championships in all major sports, and if the Rangers keep this up, the cup may be hoisted by the Blueshirts for the first time since 1994. All 4 goals were scored by Rangers D-Men tonight, as it took overtime to defeat the Penguins 4-3. Michal Rozsival scored twice early in the 2nd to bring the Rangers back. The Rangers went down 2-0 in the 1st period thanks to Sidney Crosby, scoring and assisting on both goals. The Penguins however could not hold on to that lead.
"We had a two-goal lead early and weren't able to build on it," Crosby said. "Lundqvist held them in the game. We get that third goal, we bury them." Not so fast Sidney. The Rangers have won 9 out of their last 10 games, and with the momentum in their favor, odds are they would have come back against a sometimes lackadaisical Pittsburgh defense.
Scott Gomez also tallied an assist, to bring his points scoring streak up to 9 in a row now. Also to note, Ryan Hollweg had an assist, and defenseman Jason Strudwick both recorded their first points of the season. Strudwick though, had the most important goal, the game winner 1 minute and 40 seconds in. he scored an easy tap in from a Paul Mara pass, after getting past defenseman Sergei Gonchar.
Scoring 4 goals and having them all scored by defensemen is a rare feat in hockey, and coach Tom Renney wouldn't mind having a little stretch like that if the team keeps winning.
"When you have tight hockey like that, often times those defensemen are very much part of the offense," Rangers coach Tom Renney said. "Under the circumstances, it is a little unique but I don't care if the trend continues."
Henrik Lundqvist has also won 7 of his last 8 starts, and the rangers have sole possession of first place for the first time this season. They are currently 12-7-1, and at one point this season they were 3-6-1, and have come from a 7 point deficit in the division, all the way back to 1st. We can all thank the stellar defense and goalie Henrik Lundqvist early in this streak, but he has allowed 6 goals in his last 2 starts, and the Rangers have won. The offense looks like its coming around, so if Lundqvist has some mediocre starts, the Rangers wont have to press because the offense is gelling now, and with the returns of Marty Straka, and Ryan Callahan, things can only look even further up for the Blueshirts.
"We had a two-goal lead early and weren't able to build on it," Crosby said. "Lundqvist held them in the game. We get that third goal, we bury them." Not so fast Sidney. The Rangers have won 9 out of their last 10 games, and with the momentum in their favor, odds are they would have come back against a sometimes lackadaisical Pittsburgh defense.
Scott Gomez also tallied an assist, to bring his points scoring streak up to 9 in a row now. Also to note, Ryan Hollweg had an assist, and defenseman Jason Strudwick both recorded their first points of the season. Strudwick though, had the most important goal, the game winner 1 minute and 40 seconds in. he scored an easy tap in from a Paul Mara pass, after getting past defenseman Sergei Gonchar.
Scoring 4 goals and having them all scored by defensemen is a rare feat in hockey, and coach Tom Renney wouldn't mind having a little stretch like that if the team keeps winning.
"When you have tight hockey like that, often times those defensemen are very much part of the offense," Rangers coach Tom Renney said. "Under the circumstances, it is a little unique but I don't care if the trend continues."
Henrik Lundqvist has also won 7 of his last 8 starts, and the rangers have sole possession of first place for the first time this season. They are currently 12-7-1, and at one point this season they were 3-6-1, and have come from a 7 point deficit in the division, all the way back to 1st. We can all thank the stellar defense and goalie Henrik Lundqvist early in this streak, but he has allowed 6 goals in his last 2 starts, and the Rangers have won. The offense looks like its coming around, so if Lundqvist has some mediocre starts, the Rangers wont have to press because the offense is gelling now, and with the returns of Marty Straka, and Ryan Callahan, things can only look even further up for the Blueshirts.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Rangers reach 1st place by defeating Flyers 4-3 in a shootout
Even though its 19 games through the season, tonight's game had that playoff atmosphere feel to it. It just may be that these two teams meet in April or May, but the fight for first was on. Newly signed Flyer Daniel Briere was ready to play and knew to be.
"I hear about it around town and those are the games that are exciting to play. They're easy to get motivated for and tonight was a good, exciting game for the fans to watch."
Scoring got started early, with the Flyers lighting the lamp first, with none other than Jim Dowd giving the Flyers a 1-0 lead. He shot it from a bad angle, and managed to bank it off Lundqvist's pad. Later in the 1st, Fedor Tyutin, tied the game at 1 after a great feed from Scott Gomez gunning a wrist shot hitting the top shelf. Each team scored a goal a period. With the game going to OT, the teams played more conservative, but the Rangers got the best chances. Goalie Martin Biron made some huge saves in the 2nd to keep the game close and did the same in OT to bring it to a shootout. Chris Drury tipped off Lundqvist about Danny Briere's tactics in the shootout, and low and behold Lundqvist poke checked a surprised Briere. The tip off by Drury must have worked.
The lone goal in the shootout was scored by Brendan Shanahan, who also scored a goal in regulation. He now has 5 goals in his last 9 games. The addition of Scott Gomez is paying off as well, as he added 2 assists giving him 14 points this season. Sean Avery also had 2 assists in the game. Once again, King Henrik was great in between the pipes and he has won 6 of the last 7 games he started. His last loss, along with the Rangers as a team came against the Islanders, last week. The Rangers have won 8 of 9 and 4 in a row, to pull to a first place tie with the Flyers.
The road trip continues for the Rangers, as they head west to Pittsburgh for a meeting with the Penguins Saturday night. The Pens beat the Islanders 3-2 tonight, so they hope to carry that momentum into Saturdays game against the Rangers. They will definitely need it as the Rangers are riding high right now, and they are playing up to their expectations, and are finally scoring goals. The last 9 games they have scored 25 goals, and only given up 14, so the Pens will have to try to solve the defensive prowess of the Rangers and the unstoppable netminding of Lundqvist.
"I hear about it around town and those are the games that are exciting to play. They're easy to get motivated for and tonight was a good, exciting game for the fans to watch."
Scoring got started early, with the Flyers lighting the lamp first, with none other than Jim Dowd giving the Flyers a 1-0 lead. He shot it from a bad angle, and managed to bank it off Lundqvist's pad. Later in the 1st, Fedor Tyutin, tied the game at 1 after a great feed from Scott Gomez gunning a wrist shot hitting the top shelf. Each team scored a goal a period. With the game going to OT, the teams played more conservative, but the Rangers got the best chances. Goalie Martin Biron made some huge saves in the 2nd to keep the game close and did the same in OT to bring it to a shootout. Chris Drury tipped off Lundqvist about Danny Briere's tactics in the shootout, and low and behold Lundqvist poke checked a surprised Briere. The tip off by Drury must have worked.
The lone goal in the shootout was scored by Brendan Shanahan, who also scored a goal in regulation. He now has 5 goals in his last 9 games. The addition of Scott Gomez is paying off as well, as he added 2 assists giving him 14 points this season. Sean Avery also had 2 assists in the game. Once again, King Henrik was great in between the pipes and he has won 6 of the last 7 games he started. His last loss, along with the Rangers as a team came against the Islanders, last week. The Rangers have won 8 of 9 and 4 in a row, to pull to a first place tie with the Flyers.
The road trip continues for the Rangers, as they head west to Pittsburgh for a meeting with the Penguins Saturday night. The Pens beat the Islanders 3-2 tonight, so they hope to carry that momentum into Saturdays game against the Rangers. They will definitely need it as the Rangers are riding high right now, and they are playing up to their expectations, and are finally scoring goals. The last 9 games they have scored 25 goals, and only given up 14, so the Pens will have to try to solve the defensive prowess of the Rangers and the unstoppable netminding of Lundqvist.
The rooks show the book to NJ, as Rangers beat the Devils 4-1
It was the night for the young stars to shine for the Rangers. They showed up for a big game, ready to play, and make an impact. Boy did they make one. Just 35 seconds in the Devils took a quick 1-0 lead on a Jamie Langenbrunner goal, making his season debut. Just 50 seconds later, rookie Nigel Dawes scored, tying the game at 1. That was all the scoring in the 1st period, and it was evenly matched between both teams. For the rest of the game though, the Rangers dominated Brodeur and the Devils putting up 2 in the 2nd period. Again the Rangers scored early with Brandon Dubinsky slamming home the rebound off a Jagr wrist shot to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead. The Rangers scored in the first 5 minutes of all 3 periods tonight, with their last goal being scored by rookie Marc Staal. He laced a perfect wrister right over Brodeur's glove early in the 3rd, for his 1st NHL goal.
There weren't any shenanigans from each side either tonight. There were no scrums in front of the net, and there were no fights. In the lieu of Saturdays incident with Avery and the Leafs, I'm sure Coach Renney had a little something to say to the fierey Avery before tonight's game. With tomorrow nights game against Philadelphia, Avery is probably saving his fighting hands for the surplus of goons on the Flyers. Only difference is with Avery, he has skill unlike the Philly fighters. This is also an important game as well. With the win tonight, the Rangers are now only 1 point behind 1st place Philly, and with a win tomorrow, the Rangers will have sole possession of first place in the Atlantic, as they are becoming a more polished, consistent team. Ottawa is currently in 1st place in the Eastern Conference with a 14-2 record for 28 points. The Rangers are only 7 behind them with tonight's win, but Ottawa has played 2 less games than NY. The next game against Ottawa is Saturday December 1st.
There weren't any shenanigans from each side either tonight. There were no scrums in front of the net, and there were no fights. In the lieu of Saturdays incident with Avery and the Leafs, I'm sure Coach Renney had a little something to say to the fierey Avery before tonight's game. With tomorrow nights game against Philadelphia, Avery is probably saving his fighting hands for the surplus of goons on the Flyers. Only difference is with Avery, he has skill unlike the Philly fighters. This is also an important game as well. With the win tonight, the Rangers are now only 1 point behind 1st place Philly, and with a win tomorrow, the Rangers will have sole possession of first place in the Atlantic, as they are becoming a more polished, consistent team. Ottawa is currently in 1st place in the Eastern Conference with a 14-2 record for 28 points. The Rangers are only 7 behind them with tonight's win, but Ottawa has played 2 less games than NY. The next game against Ottawa is Saturday December 1st.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Sean Avery denies making cancer related remarks towards Jason Blake in Toronto; may file lawsuit against Toronto radio station
TORONTO (AP) -- Sean Avery of the New York Rangers denied making cancer-related comments to ill Maple Leafs forward Jason Blake before a pregame altercation between the clubs last weekend.
Avery exchanged words and shoves with Blake and his Toronto teammate Darcy Tucker during warmups before New York's 3-2 shootout victory over the Maple Leafs on Saturday night.
The FAN 590, an all-sports radio station in Toronto, reported Monday that an unnamed Rangers player said Avery started the pregame scuffle with comments directed against Blake, who was recently diagnosed with a form of leukemia.
"I am extremely upset and hurt that false and damaging comments were attributed to me regarding Jason Blake," Avery said Tuesday in a statement released by the Rangers. "I made no such comments. I have lost two grandfathers to cancer and have been a consistent contributor to multiple cancer-related charities, first and foremost, Hockey Fights Cancer."
Avery is considering legal action against the radio station.
"I am unable to comment further, as the matter is now being addressed by legal counsel," the statement concluded.
Avery met with NHL disciplinarian Colin Campbell on Tuesday in Toronto to discuss his altercation with Tucker, and both players and teams were fined by Campbell later in the day.
The Rangers were given a $25,000 fine, while the Maple Leafs were hit with a $10,000 penalty. Avery will have to pay $2,500, and Tucker was slapped with a $1,000 fine.
The pregame confrontation seemed to be sparked by Avery, who was yelling at Tucker before shoving Blake, who is playing while being treated for his illness. Tucker then slashed Avery before they got face-to-face in a heated exchange.
A week earlier, Avery -- just back from a 10-game absence because of a shoulder injury -- was involved in another pregame skirmish when he jawed at New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur. Devils forward David Clarkson stepped in then.
"The unprofessional conduct of Avery in initiating this altercation, less than a week after being involved in an incident in the pregame warmup against New Jersey, is the basis for this discipline," Campbell said. "Tucker also bears some responsibility for his inappropriate response.
"Both organizations must also be held accountable for the players' actions."
The longtime adversaries, known as much for their agitating abilities as their on-ice prowess, were sent off together in the first period for unsportsmanlike conduct and fought 8 seconds after they left the penalty box.
Avery and Tucker continued to jaw at each other while serving their penalties.
"He has no sense of class and you know, what goes around comes around in this game, eventually," Tucker said Monday.
This is not the first time Avery has been accused of making inflammatory remarks.
The brash forward received a league reprimand in September 2005 when he made derogatory comments about French-Canadian players after then-Phoenix defenseman Denis Gauthier hit former Kings teammate Jeremy Roenick in an exhibition game. Avery issued an apology.
"There are some things that should never be said, especially when it has to do with someone's well-being or someone is ailing with something," Roenick said Tuesday. "That's hard enough as it is without having to deal with banter.
"Obviously somebody's ethnic background, or their religion or just their race, there is no need for that."
During a game against Edmonton the next month, then Oilers forward Georges Laraque, who is black, accused Avery of using a racial slur. Avery denied the allegation.
Avery also was outspoken a few months later when he received a fine for diving during a game. He complained about the punishment, which resulted from a second offense, and drew a second $1,000 fine. He suggested that the NHL singled him out because of his earlier comments.
As part of his protest to the diving fine, Avery chastised union members on the league's competition committee for agreeing to such penalties that aren't subject to appeal in the collective bargaining agreement.
Avery also caused a stir in April 2006 with an obscenity-laced tirade at Anaheim Ducks television commentator Brian Hayward.
"He definitely toes the line closely, but to understand him is to know him," Roenick said. "He lives and breathes off of the way he energizes himself. ... You don't have to agree with it, but that's what gets him going.
"It's unfortunate because he is a tremendous, tremendous, hockey player with a lot of talent that does a lot of good things for a team."
Avery was acquired by the Rangers from the Kings last February and provided a key spark in New York's run to the second round of the playoffs.
He and Tucker also fought late last season during a game at Madison Square Garden.
"Darcy has always been a whiner," Avery said after the April 1 game. "You say you don't like his hair and he'll be upset."
Tucker declined to get into a verbal fight then.
"I'm going to take the high road in this one," Tucker said. "He is what he is. He'll have a comeback for everything."
Rangers begin road swing tomorrow in New Jersey
The NY Rangers make their first trip to the Prudential Center tomorrow night. This is one of 5 road games in the next 6 days. After the game against New Jersey, they travel south a little more and take on the Flyers Thursday. Henrik Lundqvist should start both of those games, since he is coming off 5 days rest. Valiquette started, and won Saturday night up in Montreal. This is a critical stretch for the Blueshirts, who have done awful on the road this season, compiling a 1-5-1 record for only 3 points in 7 road games. They have to show up on road ice this time around as they are fighting for first place in the division, and since Philly is in first place, and they have a few extra games at hand against New York, it makes these games that much more important.
Avery and Tucker pre game incident not going unnoticed
Well Sean Avery is a pot stirrer. We all know it. You hate him if hes against you, and you love him if he plays for you. Last Saturday, at Air Canada Centre, the Leafs and Rangers went at it, physically and apparently, verbally. During pre-game, Avery and Leafs winger Darcy Tucker, got into a little bit of a verbal showdown. Avery ended up shoving Jason Blake also. He said a few things, and then that lead to the shoving. According to Tucker though, those words weren't directed towards hockey.
"You know, call us bad hockey players or whatever but when you start bringing other people into it, that's definitely crossing the line.”
Tucker acknowledged Avery's remarks but did not get into the details.
"He has no sense of class and you know, what goes around comes around in this game, eventually," said Tucker at the Maple Leafs practice on Monday.
The NHL is going to further investigate the situation that took place, according to a Canadian source. Of course, its going to be looked into. If the Rangers would have lost this game, this whole situation would have never brought up. Since Canada lost this battle on the scoreboard, and on the ice, they will have to come up with some sort of excuse why they lost the game.
"You know, call us bad hockey players or whatever but when you start bringing other people into it, that's definitely crossing the line.”
Tucker acknowledged Avery's remarks but did not get into the details.
"He has no sense of class and you know, what goes around comes around in this game, eventually," said Tucker at the Maple Leafs practice on Monday.
The NHL is going to further investigate the situation that took place, according to a Canadian source. Of course, its going to be looked into. If the Rangers would have lost this game, this whole situation would have never brought up. Since Canada lost this battle on the scoreboard, and on the ice, they will have to come up with some sort of excuse why they lost the game.
Messier relives as he is enshrined into hockey history
Years down the road, when I am aging and my grandchildren will be growing up, they will get to relive and remember a player who was so dedicated, so focused, and most of all, so helpful to everyone all over the world. Mark Messier will be remembered forever by all of our generation. What about the next generation?. They will remember also. From this day forward, Mark Messier will be plastered all over the NHL Hall of Fame in Toronto. To Messier it's humbling.
"It starts at home with the efforts put forth by your mother and father for all those early morning practices," he said before Monday night's ceremony. "All your minor-league hockey coaches who picked you up when your parents couldn't get there, your brothers and sisters, and all the players and coaches that helped you along the way."
"When people go through this hall 75 years from now, our plaques will be up there," Messier said. "That's pretty humbling."
Messier though, does not want to put hockey behind him.
"There's no imminent plan, I'm not pursuing anything at this particular time, but I'm definitely going to be looking to step back in some capacity, probably sooner rather than later."
What a moment it will be, when Messier decides to step behind the bench, or upstairs to take GM role. What ever team ends up with him, should be ready to win, because that's the only attitude Messier ever had on the ice. That's playing hard, and playing every minute like it is your last. The team that lands Messier, will be at the least very lucky.
Also to Join Mess today, was longtime NJ Devils defenseman Scott Stevens, defenseman Al MacInnis, and center Ron Francis. All 4 of these legendary players made it on the first try, and there shouldn't be any argument as to why they were all first ballot HOF'ers. They were all superstars who knew how to win, and we can officially call them legends.
"It starts at home with the efforts put forth by your mother and father for all those early morning practices," he said before Monday night's ceremony. "All your minor-league hockey coaches who picked you up when your parents couldn't get there, your brothers and sisters, and all the players and coaches that helped you along the way."
"When people go through this hall 75 years from now, our plaques will be up there," Messier said. "That's pretty humbling."
Messier though, does not want to put hockey behind him.
"There's no imminent plan, I'm not pursuing anything at this particular time, but I'm definitely going to be looking to step back in some capacity, probably sooner rather than later."
What a moment it will be, when Messier decides to step behind the bench, or upstairs to take GM role. What ever team ends up with him, should be ready to win, because that's the only attitude Messier ever had on the ice. That's playing hard, and playing every minute like it is your last. The team that lands Messier, will be at the least very lucky.
Also to Join Mess today, was longtime NJ Devils defenseman Scott Stevens, defenseman Al MacInnis, and center Ron Francis. All 4 of these legendary players made it on the first try, and there shouldn't be any argument as to why they were all first ballot HOF'ers. They were all superstars who knew how to win, and we can officially call them legends.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Avery and Co. spark rangers to first road win this season
It took 7 games, but the Rangers have that road bug out of their system. They defeated the Maple Leafs 3-2 via the shootout tonight. It didn't come easy of course, as the maple Leafs fought back to tie the game up late in the 2nd. The 3rd period did not fare easy for the Rangers as their defense didn't play at its best and the Leafs had many quality chances. Steve Valiquette got his first start of the season tonight and looked stellar. He kept the Rangers in the game in the 3rd period, making many game saving stops. Alexei Ponikarovsky scored both Leafs goals, while Avery and Shanahan scored and assisted each other for both Rangers goals.
It didn't end there though, as Sean Avery and Darcy Tucker had their little meeting during pre-game warmups, and it didn't take them long to drop the gloves. Both men received unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in the 1st, and about 10 seconds after they left the box, the gloves dropped.
"They're pot-stirrers," Shanahan said. "They're very rare -- guys that are talented and can agitate. They play with big hearts. They had their run-ins last year, too. They're the same player. Sean's a younger version of Darcy."
Sean Avery now has 4 points in his last 2 games and has 2 G and 3 A in 7 total games this season. Valiquette also notched his first win of the season, and first shootout win of his career, stopping 32 of Toronto's 34 shots.
"For Steve Valiquette to get a win, in a shootout, in his hometown was great," said Shanahan.
"I was as calm as I could be under the circumstances -- with all the pregame stuff and the magnitude of the game," Valiquette said.
The Rangers also looked good in front of future hall of famer and Ex-Ranger Mark Messier tonight. All of the inductees were in the building tonight, as a season high of 19,530 jammed the Air Canada Centre. Mark was definitely proud of his teams and goalies showing tonight, as he should be because he and all of us know that this team can acheive almost anything and everything.
It didn't end there though, as Sean Avery and Darcy Tucker had their little meeting during pre-game warmups, and it didn't take them long to drop the gloves. Both men received unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in the 1st, and about 10 seconds after they left the box, the gloves dropped.
"They're pot-stirrers," Shanahan said. "They're very rare -- guys that are talented and can agitate. They play with big hearts. They had their run-ins last year, too. They're the same player. Sean's a younger version of Darcy."
Sean Avery now has 4 points in his last 2 games and has 2 G and 3 A in 7 total games this season. Valiquette also notched his first win of the season, and first shootout win of his career, stopping 32 of Toronto's 34 shots.
"For Steve Valiquette to get a win, in a shootout, in his hometown was great," said Shanahan.
"I was as calm as I could be under the circumstances -- with all the pregame stuff and the magnitude of the game," Valiquette said.
The Rangers also looked good in front of future hall of famer and Ex-Ranger Mark Messier tonight. All of the inductees were in the building tonight, as a season high of 19,530 jammed the Air Canada Centre. Mark was definitely proud of his teams and goalies showing tonight, as he should be because he and all of us know that this team can acheive almost anything and everything.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Rangers have to put road woes behind them to be successful in Toronto
With scoring a total of 6 goals total on the road this season, the Rangers have to do something to spark them up away from MSG. They are 0-5-1 this season, only recording 1 point on the road. They have been shut out 3 of the 6 times they have been away from home this season. The road woes have also effected some of the top players. Jagr has yet to score a goal on the road in 6 games, and Gomez and Drury have combined for only 2 G and 3 A on road ice.
Whats even more ugly to look at, is the fact that Lundqvist has a 2.16 GAA on the road.........and an 0-5-1 record. With a road GAA like that, he should be well over .500. Toronto though hasn't been stellar at home this year, going 3-4-1 at Air Canada Centre. They have lost 3 in a row there, and have given up more than 5 goals in that span. The Rangers will have to break out of this funk on the road to continue to be a contender. If they don't they just may up being the laughing stock of the league, again, just like they were a few years back.
Whats even more ugly to look at, is the fact that Lundqvist has a 2.16 GAA on the road.........and an 0-5-1 record. With a road GAA like that, he should be well over .500. Toronto though hasn't been stellar at home this year, going 3-4-1 at Air Canada Centre. They have lost 3 in a row there, and have given up more than 5 goals in that span. The Rangers will have to break out of this funk on the road to continue to be a contender. If they don't they just may up being the laughing stock of the league, again, just like they were a few years back.
Gomez heating up. Its only a matter of consistency now
It took roughly 15 games, but it seems like Scott Gomez feels very comfortable now. He has recorded points in 5 consecutive games now. Gomez has 2 G and 4 A in the last 5 games. New York Rangers fans were growing frustrated early in the season, which is very common for NY fans in general. It doesn't matter which sport it is, if you don't produce the fans will make it miserable for you. Gomez has finally won over the fans of New York for now. He just has to stay consistent enough, and the NY fans will embrace him, like they do with players like Sean Avery, Jaromir Jagr and Henrik Lundqvist. These guys come out to play every night, and it may not show on the scorecard for some of the guys like the Hollwegs, and Orrs. As long as you show the effort and consistency you will be embraced.
Scotty Gomez has enough skill to make you stare in amazement with the preciseness of his passes, and his blazing speed. I'll be the first to tell you though, don't expect a ton of goals. 25-30 tops for Gomez. he hasn't netted more than 33 in any season of his career, but has piled up the assists, so it just evens itself out in the end. Gomez is a great addition to this team, because of the sharpshooters like Shanahan, and Avery, Jagr and Prucha. Just be patient Rangers fans, it looks like this is money well spent.
Scotty Gomez has enough skill to make you stare in amazement with the preciseness of his passes, and his blazing speed. I'll be the first to tell you though, don't expect a ton of goals. 25-30 tops for Gomez. he hasn't netted more than 33 in any season of his career, but has piled up the assists, so it just evens itself out in the end. Gomez is a great addition to this team, because of the sharpshooters like Shanahan, and Avery, Jagr and Prucha. Just be patient Rangers fans, it looks like this is money well spent.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Rangers go postal on Pittsburgh, beating the Pens 4-2
Sorry for the late post game wrap-up.......I had to get rid of corrupted files on my computer due to a nagging virus.
It seems as if this is getting like a broken record every time we all watch the Rangers. Post after post after post. Granted they did score 4 goals tonight, the most since opening night against the Panthers, but they could have had 6, 7 or even 8 of them tonight if they got lucky on all of them. It was another solid effort tonight at the Garden as the Rangers are now 8-2 at home this season, tied for the league lead for most points at home, with the Colorado Avalanche, and Ottawa Senators.
The opening goal was scored by Scott Gomez assisted by Avery after he missed a shot wide of the net and it deflected off the boards seemingly to Gomez's stick, and he slammed the puck to the back of the net past the flailing Fleury. Avery was at his best tonight, as he got under the skin of one of the leagues best tough guys, Gary Roberts. Roberts usually controls himself with his anger, but not tonight, he ended up taking a double minor thanks to the agitating Avery, and that lead to a power play goal from Michal Rozsival, with a great pass in the slot by Gomez.
Avery wasn't done yet, as he tallied a goal also, on the power play giving the Rangers a 3-1 lead in the second period.
Also, to note, Brandon Dubinsky finally scored his first NHL goal, backhanding a shot past Fleury, after a great pass from his good buddy Nigel Dawes. It was surprising to see that it was Dubinsky's first NHL goal, as hes played solid all season long, going from the 4th line all the way to centering Jaromir Jagr on the first line, and finally recording his first goal in his 22nd career game. Thats one of many more to come, because with this kids talent level, he will be a dominating force for the Rangers for years to come.
It seems as if this is getting like a broken record every time we all watch the Rangers. Post after post after post. Granted they did score 4 goals tonight, the most since opening night against the Panthers, but they could have had 6, 7 or even 8 of them tonight if they got lucky on all of them. It was another solid effort tonight at the Garden as the Rangers are now 8-2 at home this season, tied for the league lead for most points at home, with the Colorado Avalanche, and Ottawa Senators.
The opening goal was scored by Scott Gomez assisted by Avery after he missed a shot wide of the net and it deflected off the boards seemingly to Gomez's stick, and he slammed the puck to the back of the net past the flailing Fleury. Avery was at his best tonight, as he got under the skin of one of the leagues best tough guys, Gary Roberts. Roberts usually controls himself with his anger, but not tonight, he ended up taking a double minor thanks to the agitating Avery, and that lead to a power play goal from Michal Rozsival, with a great pass in the slot by Gomez.
Avery wasn't done yet, as he tallied a goal also, on the power play giving the Rangers a 3-1 lead in the second period.
"I'm kind of used to the unnerving part, so getting the first (goal) out of the way I think was bigger," Avery said. "I definitely think teams want me to do poorly, they probably want me to get hurt, and want me to take penalties and generally not play well.
"That's part of the thing that motivates me."
Also, to note, Brandon Dubinsky finally scored his first NHL goal, backhanding a shot past Fleury, after a great pass from his good buddy Nigel Dawes. It was surprising to see that it was Dubinsky's first NHL goal, as hes played solid all season long, going from the 4th line all the way to centering Jaromir Jagr on the first line, and finally recording his first goal in his 22nd career game. Thats one of many more to come, because with this kids talent level, he will be a dominating force for the Rangers for years to come.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Messier goes to Hall, Rangers vs Pens later that night.
Its a day of celebration tomorrow. The Blueshirts hero, that guaranteed a Game 6 win vs the Devils in the Semis in 1994, and the man that lead the Rangers to their first cup in 54 years, Mark Messier will be enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame tomorrow in Toronto. He was a dedicated player, and most of all, a true hero to all people in general. There are too many words to describe Messier on and off the ice. He was a true legend for the sport, making people Oooh and Ahhh every single game, making blind passes or slamming home a rebound, or wristing a shot right over a flailing goalies glove. Don't get me wrong here, he didn't just have immense skill, he also was a hard nosed, get dirty, start a brawl type of player.
Off the ice was the gentler Mark Messier, the guy who helped out a ton of kids all over the United States and Canada, opening up his own youth organizations, having multiple charities for sick kids. there is just too much that Messier has done for the game of Hockey and also touching many, many people all over North America. Mark Messier will be elected to the Hall of Fame tomorrow, but he should be in a class of his own. I am just thankful, for being around when he played the game of hockey, and was lucky enough to see him at MSG, and lucky enough to see him raise the cup on Garden ice. He is a true legend, and most of all, a great human being. He will be missed.
Later that evening, hockey will be played. The Rangers are facing off against the penguins, who are coming off a 3-1 defeat tonight, thanks to those pesky Flyers. The Rangers and Pens will be fighting for that ever important one game winning streak. It seems as if Henrik will get the start.....again. He has played every game , and every minute this season, putting up eye popping numbers. Hes 7-7-1 with a 1.59 GAA, and an awesome .940 save pct. He is coming of an effort of allowing 3 goals to the Isles Tuesday night, getting beat up high for 2 of the 3 goals. That was a little bit of a hindrance last year, and the year before, but he hasn't been nothing but spectacular this season, being very stingy in allowing that puck to cross the line. He will be tested tomorrow night with the likes of Sid the Kid, malkin, Staal, Recchi and Roberts, as the Pens try to get back on track.
Off the ice was the gentler Mark Messier, the guy who helped out a ton of kids all over the United States and Canada, opening up his own youth organizations, having multiple charities for sick kids. there is just too much that Messier has done for the game of Hockey and also touching many, many people all over North America. Mark Messier will be elected to the Hall of Fame tomorrow, but he should be in a class of his own. I am just thankful, for being around when he played the game of hockey, and was lucky enough to see him at MSG, and lucky enough to see him raise the cup on Garden ice. He is a true legend, and most of all, a great human being. He will be missed.
Later that evening, hockey will be played. The Rangers are facing off against the penguins, who are coming off a 3-1 defeat tonight, thanks to those pesky Flyers. The Rangers and Pens will be fighting for that ever important one game winning streak. It seems as if Henrik will get the start.....again. He has played every game , and every minute this season, putting up eye popping numbers. Hes 7-7-1 with a 1.59 GAA, and an awesome .940 save pct. He is coming of an effort of allowing 3 goals to the Isles Tuesday night, getting beat up high for 2 of the 3 goals. That was a little bit of a hindrance last year, and the year before, but he hasn't been nothing but spectacular this season, being very stingy in allowing that puck to cross the line. He will be tested tomorrow night with the likes of Sid the Kid, malkin, Staal, Recchi and Roberts, as the Pens try to get back on track.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Rangers finally fall.....Isles get the best of the Blueshirts, defeating the Rangers 3-2
In what was another low scoring affair, a game where one team didn't carry the momentum for an extended period of time, it was exciting, and had you on the edge of your seat at times. The goaltending was brilliant from both ends, Lundqvist and DiPietro making highlight reel saves at some points during the game. The Islanders though bested the Rangers later in the game. The Rangers carried their 1-0 lead into the third period, after Chris Drury broke the scoreless tie in the 2nd period, scoring a power-play goal assisted by Jagr, and Mara.
The third period seemed to awaken the Isles, and a minute and eight seconds in Trent Hunter tied the game wristing a laser beam right over Lundqvist's glove. Shortly after that, the Rangers regained the 1 goal lead, with Mara redirecting a beautiful pass from Sean Avery, right past DiPietro. Avery played very well tonight, his game was there, especially his passing. They were all tape to tape and thats the best passing I've seen from Sean Avery in a long, long time. That 1 goal lead didn't last, as Ruslan Fedotenko tied the game at 2, scoring a power-play goal on a cross slot pass from center Mike Comrie. Miro Satan provided the heroics a little later, giving the Isles the lead, which they did not relinquish.
"I think that our mental sharpness left something to be desired over the course of three periods," Rangers coach Tom Renney said. "We weren't as crisp as we needed to be, weren't as precise as we needed to be."
The Rangers remain winless on the road this season, at 0-5-1 so far. They have to improve that if they want to contend for a playoff spot, in the powerful eastern conference.
"We've got to find a way to finish the job," forward Sean Avery said. "We didn't get it done. It's just upsetting sitting in this locker room with a loss."
The task doesn't get any easier for the Rangers, as they host the Penguins Thursday night. They have just come off a dominating win in NJ Monday night, pounding the Devils 5-0. Martin Brodeur was pulled the 2nd time this season, being relieved by Ex-Ranger, Kevin Weekes. It seems as if Henrik Lundqvist will start against Pittsburgh, as it will be his 15th straight start to start the season off, with Steve Valiquette not recording one minute of playing time this season.
The third period seemed to awaken the Isles, and a minute and eight seconds in Trent Hunter tied the game wristing a laser beam right over Lundqvist's glove. Shortly after that, the Rangers regained the 1 goal lead, with Mara redirecting a beautiful pass from Sean Avery, right past DiPietro. Avery played very well tonight, his game was there, especially his passing. They were all tape to tape and thats the best passing I've seen from Sean Avery in a long, long time. That 1 goal lead didn't last, as Ruslan Fedotenko tied the game at 2, scoring a power-play goal on a cross slot pass from center Mike Comrie. Miro Satan provided the heroics a little later, giving the Isles the lead, which they did not relinquish.
"I think that our mental sharpness left something to be desired over the course of three periods," Rangers coach Tom Renney said. "We weren't as crisp as we needed to be, weren't as precise as we needed to be."
The Rangers remain winless on the road this season, at 0-5-1 so far. They have to improve that if they want to contend for a playoff spot, in the powerful eastern conference.
"We've got to find a way to finish the job," forward Sean Avery said. "We didn't get it done. It's just upsetting sitting in this locker room with a loss."
The task doesn't get any easier for the Rangers, as they host the Penguins Thursday night. They have just come off a dominating win in NJ Monday night, pounding the Devils 5-0. Martin Brodeur was pulled the 2nd time this season, being relieved by Ex-Ranger, Kevin Weekes. It seems as if Henrik Lundqvist will start against Pittsburgh, as it will be his 15th straight start to start the season off, with Steve Valiquette not recording one minute of playing time this season.
Rangers call up Greg Moore
The Rangers have just called up winger Greg Moore. Moore is being called up from the Wolf Pack and appears to be making his NHL debut Tuesday night against the Islanders.
So far this season, Moore has tallied 5 goals and 5 assists for 10 points in his 11 games played. He leads the Pack in scoring.
No word though, on his going to be sent down or scratched.
So far this season, Moore has tallied 5 goals and 5 assists for 10 points in his 11 games played. He leads the Pack in scoring.
No word though, on his going to be sent down or scratched.
Henrik notches 4th shutout as Rangers beat Philly 2-0
Anticipation was the appropriate word for tonight's game at MSG. All the fans were waiting and the raucous crowd was going from the drop of the puck. It took 54 seconds into the opening period till a fight broke out. Sean Avery vs Mike Richards. They had a few kind words to exchange during the pre-game skate around, and it didn't take long for them to meet up for a quick scrap. It was an even fight that was an exciting one to watch. 7 minutes later it was Jason Strudwick vs. Riley Cote. Cote seemed to get the best of Jason, but overall that was a decent fight as well. Now to hockey since that was the game of choice to be played tonight. The Rangers came out like freight trains and were all over Martin Biron in the first period. They threw 22 shots on goal his way, but only one hit the back of the net and that came off the stick of Jaromir Jagr with roughly 30 seconds left in the first, after pin pointing the right corner for a wicked wrister from the hash marks.
The Rangers second goal came off the stick of Brendan Shanahan, much later in the 3rd period, after slapping a one timer fed to him by Jaromir Jagr. That was the only scoring of the night for the Rangers..........and Flyers as well.
Overall the Rangers had 45 shots on goal, only scoring 2 though. Martin Biron kept the Flyers in the game the whole way, but Philly couldn't solve the Rangers or King Henrik. He notched his 4th shutout of the year, now only 1 behind goalie Pascal LeClaire of the Blue Jackets.
"I don't know what to say," the 25-year-old Swede said. "Going into the season everybody was talking about our offensive game. But we've been playing a really strict game, defensive hockey, smart hockey. The good part is it starts to pay off."
Henrik made some outstanding saves, robbing Scottie Upshall on a shorthanded breakaway in the second, and denying Joffrey Lupul late in the third, sweeping it away with his left pad.
The Rangers have now won four straight, and the only way to solve the Rangers right now is.........well there doesn't seem to be a way to solve them, with the great defense, and the better goaltending by Lundqvist, and the offense looking more organized, it's just a matter of time, when the Blueshirts put up 4 on the board, regularly.
The Rangers second goal came off the stick of Brendan Shanahan, much later in the 3rd period, after slapping a one timer fed to him by Jaromir Jagr. That was the only scoring of the night for the Rangers..........and Flyers as well.
Overall the Rangers had 45 shots on goal, only scoring 2 though. Martin Biron kept the Flyers in the game the whole way, but Philly couldn't solve the Rangers or King Henrik. He notched his 4th shutout of the year, now only 1 behind goalie Pascal LeClaire of the Blue Jackets.
"I don't know what to say," the 25-year-old Swede said. "Going into the season everybody was talking about our offensive game. But we've been playing a really strict game, defensive hockey, smart hockey. The good part is it starts to pay off."
Henrik made some outstanding saves, robbing Scottie Upshall on a shorthanded breakaway in the second, and denying Joffrey Lupul late in the third, sweeping it away with his left pad.
The Rangers have now won four straight, and the only way to solve the Rangers right now is.........well there doesn't seem to be a way to solve them, with the great defense, and the better goaltending by Lundqvist, and the offense looking more organized, it's just a matter of time, when the Blueshirts put up 4 on the board, regularly.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Rangers heating up as Philly is next road block
Philadelphia - 8W-4L-0 OTL 16PTS 3rd in East
NY Rangers - 6W-6L-1 OTL 13PTS 8th in East
The Rangers are rolling smoothly, and it seems as if winning is coming a lot easier nowadays. There isn't any more lulls in their play, posts being hit, and bad coaching decisions. They are currently on a 3 game winning streak, and are only 3 points out of 1st place in the division, and isn't it great that the first place Flyers visit MSG tomorrow night. The Flyers have come out of the gate strong this season, and have been lead by their big splash free agent signing, Daniel Briere who has 15 PTS in his 12 games this season (5 G10 A), and Mike Richards (8 G 6A for 14 PTS). Winger Simon Gagne has been cleared to play by doctors and will most likely return tomorrow night, after suffering from concussion like symptoms, smashing his jaw against the shoulder of Florida Panthers defenseman, Jay Bouwmeester in an October 24th game.
On the other hand, the Blueshirts have gotten their act together, and have won 3 in a row now, and 4 of the last 5, defeating the Devils Saturday night 2-1 in a shootout. Petr Prucha had the only goal in the shootout, and Scotty Gomez tallied his first goal against his former team, and played an all around great game. He was called for an imaginary hooking penalty also when he lifted the stick of Zach Parise on a great defensive play, but according to the refs eyes, he apparently hooked Parise instead of the stick. Henrik Lundqvist has also been stellar all season, making 28 stops against the Devils, and earning the first star of the game Saturday night, his GAA is now a stingy 1.61, and he just keeps getting better and better, but expect him to have the night off against the Isles Tuesday of the Penguins Thursday, as he played every single game this season, since the Rangers have 3 games in the next 4 nights.
Game time is 7 PM tomorrow and it will be nationally televised on Versus.
NY Rangers - 6W-6L-1 OTL 13PTS 8th in East
The Rangers are rolling smoothly, and it seems as if winning is coming a lot easier nowadays. There isn't any more lulls in their play, posts being hit, and bad coaching decisions. They are currently on a 3 game winning streak, and are only 3 points out of 1st place in the division, and isn't it great that the first place Flyers visit MSG tomorrow night. The Flyers have come out of the gate strong this season, and have been lead by their big splash free agent signing, Daniel Briere who has 15 PTS in his 12 games this season (5 G10 A), and Mike Richards (8 G 6A for 14 PTS). Winger Simon Gagne has been cleared to play by doctors and will most likely return tomorrow night, after suffering from concussion like symptoms, smashing his jaw against the shoulder of Florida Panthers defenseman, Jay Bouwmeester in an October 24th game.
On the other hand, the Blueshirts have gotten their act together, and have won 3 in a row now, and 4 of the last 5, defeating the Devils Saturday night 2-1 in a shootout. Petr Prucha had the only goal in the shootout, and Scotty Gomez tallied his first goal against his former team, and played an all around great game. He was called for an imaginary hooking penalty also when he lifted the stick of Zach Parise on a great defensive play, but according to the refs eyes, he apparently hooked Parise instead of the stick. Henrik Lundqvist has also been stellar all season, making 28 stops against the Devils, and earning the first star of the game Saturday night, his GAA is now a stingy 1.61, and he just keeps getting better and better, but expect him to have the night off against the Isles Tuesday of the Penguins Thursday, as he played every single game this season, since the Rangers have 3 games in the next 4 nights.
Game time is 7 PM tomorrow and it will be nationally televised on Versus.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Rangers look to get the best of the Devils in 2nd matchup of the season, later tonight
NJ Devils - 5W-6L-1OTL 12 PTS 12th in East
NY Rangers - 5W-6L-1OTL 12 PTS 11th in East
Game 2 of 9 insues later tonight again at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers bested the Devils in the first game 2 weeks ago, defeating them 2-0 with Henrik Lundqvist recording the shutout. He now has 3 on the season, all coming in the last 6 games.
"I think for any team, your goaltender always gives you a chance to win," Rangers forward Brendan Shanahan said. "(Lundqvist) has certainly been great from the very start of the season."
Lundqvist has played all 12 games this season going 5-6-1 and posting a 1.67 GAA and .937 sv pct. His nemesis Martin Brodeur hasn't had his usual success to start the season. He is 4-6 with a 2.92 GAA with an Un-Marty like .889 sv pct, and no shutouts after posting a league high 12 last year. He has gotten much more consistent lately, only allowing 8 goals over his last 4 games.
The Rangers will have their hands full as usual, with Pandolfo shadowing Jagr, and Madden and Clarkson, going with their defense first perspective. Madden and Pandolfo however combine for 11 of the teams 31 goals, which is pretty impressive on what they both have to every night.......shut down each teams best offensive lines. Now it seems the Rangers have to shut them 2 down, since they have been the Devils best offensive threats all season long, along with fellow teammate Zach Parise. Its going to be another one of those high intensity, high anticipation Devils, Rangers games.......get ready, game time is at 7 PM on MSG, and FSNY.
NY Rangers - 5W-6L-1OTL 12 PTS 11th in East
Game 2 of 9 insues later tonight again at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers bested the Devils in the first game 2 weeks ago, defeating them 2-0 with Henrik Lundqvist recording the shutout. He now has 3 on the season, all coming in the last 6 games.
"I think for any team, your goaltender always gives you a chance to win," Rangers forward Brendan Shanahan said. "(Lundqvist) has certainly been great from the very start of the season."
Lundqvist has played all 12 games this season going 5-6-1 and posting a 1.67 GAA and .937 sv pct. His nemesis Martin Brodeur hasn't had his usual success to start the season. He is 4-6 with a 2.92 GAA with an Un-Marty like .889 sv pct, and no shutouts after posting a league high 12 last year. He has gotten much more consistent lately, only allowing 8 goals over his last 4 games.
The Rangers will have their hands full as usual, with Pandolfo shadowing Jagr, and Madden and Clarkson, going with their defense first perspective. Madden and Pandolfo however combine for 11 of the teams 31 goals, which is pretty impressive on what they both have to every night.......shut down each teams best offensive lines. Now it seems the Rangers have to shut them 2 down, since they have been the Devils best offensive threats all season long, along with fellow teammate Zach Parise. Its going to be another one of those high intensity, high anticipation Devils, Rangers games.......get ready, game time is at 7 PM on MSG, and FSNY.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Dawes may be fighting for a spot in a few weeks
With the return of Sean Avery either Saturday against the Devils, or Monday night against the Flyers, roster spots are getting gobbled up. Jason Strudwick will be the guy to go after Avery gets back, but what happens when Marty Straka and Ryan Callahan return? Sources say Nigel Dawes. That my friend is a big mistake. He has shown what he can do with his play this season. He was a 25+ goal scorer in the minors, and although we know its a huge gap that seperates the big boys from the little boys Dawes is the real deal, he shows speed his ability to pass and shoot as well. There are a few more options, besides Dawes that can sit. I say lets go through them........
LW - Marcel Hossa: A possibilty that may be the odd man out if Dawes continues to play well. Outside of being on the Jagr line, Hossa as basically done nothing production wise. Jagr opens up a lot of space for Marcel and he did well last year, but this year, hes done marginal at best, and when hes not on the 1st line he basically does nothing. Hes a guy thats expendable.
RW - Colton Orr: A tough guy that the Rangers need, but not every night. Theres 2 guys named, Francis Lessard and Mitch Fritz that are in the minors who are bonafide tough guys, and are able to move the puck better than Orr, who seems like he has 2 left feet most of the time. Fritz is huge at 6 foot 8 and weighing 265 lbs, but with a guy that big, can he be able to be a successful puck handler? We will see. Francis Lessard looks like a better option at this moment over fritz.
LW - Ryan Hollweg: A guy that has a lot of grit, and heart and plays hard every night. Even though he is small, he can throw a hit and get into a scrap once in a while. He also has surprising speed at times, and showed Rangers fans a couple of flashy moves this season. He has to stay regardless because he gets the home crowd going, and seems to shift momentum at times during games, even though it seems like his name will be thrown into the hat when all come back healthy.
C - Blair Betts: I may get some comments for this one, but I say this should be the guy to go back to the minors for a little while. He has 0 points this season, and is a minus 2. The Rangers as of right now, have 3 guys who have recorded no points. Hollweg, Orr, and Betts. Of those 3 Betts seems the most unappealing to me. Orr can fight, and hit, Hollweg can fight, hit, and skate. Betts hasn't done much of any of that this season. Hes been good on the penalty kill, but coaching can find a guy that can replace him. Straka and Avery sound good on the penalty kill, and have done well in the past. Betts is very expendable at the moment.
LW - Marcel Hossa: A possibilty that may be the odd man out if Dawes continues to play well. Outside of being on the Jagr line, Hossa as basically done nothing production wise. Jagr opens up a lot of space for Marcel and he did well last year, but this year, hes done marginal at best, and when hes not on the 1st line he basically does nothing. Hes a guy thats expendable.
RW - Colton Orr: A tough guy that the Rangers need, but not every night. Theres 2 guys named, Francis Lessard and Mitch Fritz that are in the minors who are bonafide tough guys, and are able to move the puck better than Orr, who seems like he has 2 left feet most of the time. Fritz is huge at 6 foot 8 and weighing 265 lbs, but with a guy that big, can he be able to be a successful puck handler? We will see. Francis Lessard looks like a better option at this moment over fritz.
LW - Ryan Hollweg: A guy that has a lot of grit, and heart and plays hard every night. Even though he is small, he can throw a hit and get into a scrap once in a while. He also has surprising speed at times, and showed Rangers fans a couple of flashy moves this season. He has to stay regardless because he gets the home crowd going, and seems to shift momentum at times during games, even though it seems like his name will be thrown into the hat when all come back healthy.
C - Blair Betts: I may get some comments for this one, but I say this should be the guy to go back to the minors for a little while. He has 0 points this season, and is a minus 2. The Rangers as of right now, have 3 guys who have recorded no points. Hollweg, Orr, and Betts. Of those 3 Betts seems the most unappealing to me. Orr can fight, and hit, Hollweg can fight, hit, and skate. Betts hasn't done much of any of that this season. Hes been good on the penalty kill, but coaching can find a guy that can replace him. Straka and Avery sound good on the penalty kill, and have done well in the past. Betts is very expendable at the moment.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Henrik shuts Caps out, Rangers win 2-0
In what seems to be a turning point for the Rangers now, Henrik Lundqvist earned his 3rd shutout of the season, tonight, with the Rangers defeating the Capitals 2-0. Chris Drury scored his 2nd goal of the season, and also added an assist, notching the 10 point total with 2 G and 8 A. Marc Staal assisted on Drury's goal, recording his first NHL point of his young career. It also marked the first time this season the Rangers were outshot. Washington outshot the Rangers 31-28. Lundqvist stopped all 31 shots, including a beauty on Center Viktor Kozlov in the first period, having the big Russian shaking his head.
Michal Rozsival also added a goal tonight, scoring on a 5 on 3 power play in the third period. He is tied for the team lead in goals, with Jaromir Jagr, and Nigel Dawes, each scoring 3 a piece. Also to note, Marek Malik left in the 3rd period with an undisclosed injury after falling into the boards on an offensive rush. Malik played one shift after that, and headed for the locker room afterwards. Dan Girardi was also hit with the puck a little later in the period, after a clear in deflected off his stick and hit him near the left eye, cutting the bridge of his nose. Girardi was OK after getting hit, but he did spend a minute on the ice after it happened.
The Rangers next game is the 5th of the 6 game homestand, facing the NJ Devils for the second time in 2 weeks. They defeated the Devils 2-0 in their last meeting, with Nigel Dawes scoring both the goals. That game will be at 7 PM on MSG.
Michal Rozsival also added a goal tonight, scoring on a 5 on 3 power play in the third period. He is tied for the team lead in goals, with Jaromir Jagr, and Nigel Dawes, each scoring 3 a piece. Also to note, Marek Malik left in the 3rd period with an undisclosed injury after falling into the boards on an offensive rush. Malik played one shift after that, and headed for the locker room afterwards. Dan Girardi was also hit with the puck a little later in the period, after a clear in deflected off his stick and hit him near the left eye, cutting the bridge of his nose. Girardi was OK after getting hit, but he did spend a minute on the ice after it happened.
The Rangers next game is the 5th of the 6 game homestand, facing the NJ Devils for the second time in 2 weeks. They defeated the Devils 2-0 in their last meeting, with Nigel Dawes scoring both the goals. That game will be at 7 PM on MSG.
Nylander returns to Garden to face Blueshirts
NY Rangers: 4W-6L-1 OTL 9PTS 13th in East
Washington: 5W-6L-0 OTL 10 PTS 11th in East
Washington, is looking strong coming into tonights game, after posting a 7-1 victory over the Maple Leafs in their last game. They did that without goal scorers Chris Clark, and Alexander Semin, both 30 goal scorers last season. They also were missing power play point man, Tom Poti. Tonight though, will be a lot tougher facing the Rangers, who are stingy with giving up goals. It seems it isn't hard to put a 7 spot on the Maple Leafs this year, but just about impossible against the Rangers, who have allowed only 22 goals in their 11 games played. Their highest goals allowed this season is 5 in 1 game against the Thrashers, allowing 16 in the other 10.
Alex Ovechkin has been picking up the slack lately, with Clark and Semin being hurt, tallying 4 G and 5 A for 9 PTS in his last 4 games. Michael Nylander has 7 PTS (2G 5 A) in a 5 game point streak. The Rangers come in looking a lot better, winning 2 of their last 3, with Jagr and Shanahan each having a goal and assist last game against the Lightning. Lundqvist will most likely make his 12th start in a row to start the season tonight against the Caps facing off against goalie Olaf Kolzig.
Washington: 5W-6L-0 OTL 10 PTS 11th in East
Washington, is looking strong coming into tonights game, after posting a 7-1 victory over the Maple Leafs in their last game. They did that without goal scorers Chris Clark, and Alexander Semin, both 30 goal scorers last season. They also were missing power play point man, Tom Poti. Tonight though, will be a lot tougher facing the Rangers, who are stingy with giving up goals. It seems it isn't hard to put a 7 spot on the Maple Leafs this year, but just about impossible against the Rangers, who have allowed only 22 goals in their 11 games played. Their highest goals allowed this season is 5 in 1 game against the Thrashers, allowing 16 in the other 10.
Alex Ovechkin has been picking up the slack lately, with Clark and Semin being hurt, tallying 4 G and 5 A for 9 PTS in his last 4 games. Michael Nylander has 7 PTS (2G 5 A) in a 5 game point streak. The Rangers come in looking a lot better, winning 2 of their last 3, with Jagr and Shanahan each having a goal and assist last game against the Lightning. Lundqvist will most likely make his 12th start in a row to start the season tonight against the Caps facing off against goalie Olaf Kolzig.
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