Cautious optimism- it sounds so calm. So reasonable. Almost promising. But is that not just the nicest possible way to describe pessimism?
Oh yes, we've seen hot starts before. We've witnessed the Blueshirts come storming out the gates. We've watched as Henrik Lundqvist carried this team to premature expectations and promises that quickly crash into oblivion Pelle Lindburgh style. (Too soon? Sorry. RIP.)
But this? This I haven't seen much of. As we've passed the midway point of this season and entered the All-Star break, there's something noticeably different about these Rangers. The way they play the game has changed. The demeanor of the players, and around the organization, has changed. Watching them play even feels different.
Ranger fans used to look at an upcoming schedule and say, "That'll be a loss.. should beat that team.. loss.. toss up.. maybe a win". Now the schedule reads, "Win.. Win.. Should win.. Win.. Tough game but winable.." The only fear is that the Blueshirts stoop to the level of a lesser opponent (Montreal), and suffer the dreaded "let down" game. No Team is too strong. No attacking forward too elusive. No goalie unbeatable.
For nearly four months I've wondered when they were going to slip. How long could they persevere through injuries to three of their top six defensemen for extended periods of time? How long until the distractions (Europe, MSG renovations, HBO, Winter Classic) overwhelm the young roster? How long until the Powerless play costs them points in the standings? (OK, still haven't figured that one out yet).
It hasn't happened. Through road trips, injuries, conspiracies and some inconsistent play from their stars, Gotham has persevered. This team expects to win a hockey game every night they hit the ice. And with good reason.
For behind their new Captain (who leads by example with every shift), A world class goaltender (who provides the chance to steal two points on any given night), and a demanding, stubborn, and motivated head coach, the New York Rangers have developed something they have long been missing- an identity. When a team is matched up against Torts' minions, they know that they're in for a war. Every loose puck will be a battle. The Rangers are going to hit you, they're going to block shots, and they're going to make you work for every inch.
If they falter, hey, they always have that Swedish guy between the pipes.
With that kind of attitude (and goaltending), and players who have committed to their coach's philosophies, New York is now an undeniable force in the National Hockey League.
Having reached the All-Star break, lets discuss the performances of the first half: Ladies and Gentlemen, your New York Rangers.... (alphabetically, and by position).. Grades are based mostly on expectations for that player.
FORWARDS
#17 Brandon Dubinsky#42 Artem Anisimov
11-12 stats: 46 GP ( 7G, 15A ) = 22 Points
It has been an up and down year thus far for the 23 year old Rooski. Moved to the wing, Arty was the defensive conscience of the team's top line for much of the season, playing alongside Marian Gaborik and Derek Stepan. With the "GAS" line running out of steam and the rest of the roster struggling to produce offensively, players were moved around and Anisimov slid down the depth chart. He has struggled to find chemistry with new linemates, and is currently pointless in 13 straight games. Perhaps trade bait for the deadline, Arty is a dependable 2-way player, but he isn't going to meet expectations without getting ice time (He is currently stranded on the 4th line). Lets not forget his classic "sniping" goal celebration which started a melee, and made for one of the best highlights of the 24/7 series.
Grade: C+, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10f26McaFVM
#16 Sean Avery
11-12 stats: 15 GP ( 3G , 0A ) = 3 Points
The Grate One began the season in the minors, but was soon recalled by Coach Tortorella after howls from the Blue Seats at MSG, and a lackluster start to the season by the Rangers. The Blueshirts then went 11-3-1 with Avery in the lineup. After being scratched and watching from the pressbox for several weeks, (and asking if the orange juice was "unlimited" on national television), Avery was banished back to Connecticut where he was suspended for violating the team's dress code of all things (so much for that fashion career). Still, the Rangers' record with Aves in the lineup is not merely a coincidence. He works hard on the ice (which fits this team's personality), has an underrated skill set, and adds a dimension that can be important when rivals come to town. Yet it is unlikely we will see him in blue again given the team's success and Tortorella's child-like grudge against him. Tell me what John Mitchell is doing in this lineup that Avery doesn't do better? You can't.
Grade: INCOMPLETE
#22 Brian Boyle
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 3G , 8A ) = 11 Points
While Boyle has caught the ire of many Ranger fans, much of that anger should not be aimed at him, but rather his coach. Torts has a hardcore man-crush on BB, and as a result, the gentle giant gets an inexplicable abundance of ice time. The guy is a very good penalty killer. He works hard. He plays the body (sometimes). But you know what, so did Jed Ortmeyer, and he didn't get a free pass when he didn't produce offensively. I don't mind Boyle on this team because of his PK work and he seems to be a nice fit in the locker room, but his icetime must be cut down, or he must start putting the biscuit in the basket if the Rangers are to sustain their record.
Want to play a fun drinking game? Chug every time Boyle: 1. Falls down, 2. Misses a pass, 3. Is skated around, 4. Turns the puck over. *Please drink in moderation
Grade: C
#24 Ryan Callahan
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 17G , 19A ) = 36 Points
Captain Ryan "The Right Way" Callahan takes his job, and his nickname, very seriously. While some worried that the added weight of that stitched "C" on his jersey may hurt his play, the 26-year old has instead used this new responsibility as motivation. No player better exemplifies the character, attitude, and overall identity that the Rangers have developed. Cally has never taken a shift off, hits everything in sight, scores clutch goals, and blocks howitzers in the defensive zone. The ceiling of his offensive production is still very much unknown at this point. This guy is the heart and soul of the Rangers.
Grade: A-
11-12 stats: 46 GP ( 7G, 15A ) = 22 Points
It has been an up and down year thus far for the 23 year old Rooski. Moved to the wing, Arty was the defensive conscience of the team's top line for much of the season, playing alongside Marian Gaborik and Derek Stepan. With the "GAS" line running out of steam and the rest of the roster struggling to produce offensively, players were moved around and Anisimov slid down the depth chart. He has struggled to find chemistry with new linemates, and is currently pointless in 13 straight games. Perhaps trade bait for the deadline, Arty is a dependable 2-way player, but he isn't going to meet expectations without getting ice time (He is currently stranded on the 4th line). Lets not forget his classic "sniping" goal celebration which started a melee, and made for one of the best highlights of the 24/7 series.
Grade: C+, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10f26McaFVM
#16 Sean Avery
11-12 stats: 15 GP ( 3G , 0A ) = 3 Points
The Grate One began the season in the minors, but was soon recalled by Coach Tortorella after howls from the Blue Seats at MSG, and a lackluster start to the season by the Rangers. The Blueshirts then went 11-3-1 with Avery in the lineup. After being scratched and watching from the pressbox for several weeks, (and asking if the orange juice was "unlimited" on national television), Avery was banished back to Connecticut where he was suspended for violating the team's dress code of all things (so much for that fashion career). Still, the Rangers' record with Aves in the lineup is not merely a coincidence. He works hard on the ice (which fits this team's personality), has an underrated skill set, and adds a dimension that can be important when rivals come to town. Yet it is unlikely we will see him in blue again given the team's success and Tortorella's child-like grudge against him. Tell me what John Mitchell is doing in this lineup that Avery doesn't do better? You can't.
Grade: INCOMPLETE
#22 Brian Boyle
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 3G , 8A ) = 11 Points
While Boyle has caught the ire of many Ranger fans, much of that anger should not be aimed at him, but rather his coach. Torts has a hardcore man-crush on BB, and as a result, the gentle giant gets an inexplicable abundance of ice time. The guy is a very good penalty killer. He works hard. He plays the body (sometimes). But you know what, so did Jed Ortmeyer, and he didn't get a free pass when he didn't produce offensively. I don't mind Boyle on this team because of his PK work and he seems to be a nice fit in the locker room, but his icetime must be cut down, or he must start putting the biscuit in the basket if the Rangers are to sustain their record.
Want to play a fun drinking game? Chug every time Boyle: 1. Falls down, 2. Misses a pass, 3. Is skated around, 4. Turns the puck over. *Please drink in moderation
Grade: C
#24 Ryan Callahan
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 17G , 19A ) = 36 Points
Captain Ryan "The Right Way" Callahan takes his job, and his nickname, very seriously. While some worried that the added weight of that stitched "C" on his jersey may hurt his play, the 26-year old has instead used this new responsibility as motivation. No player better exemplifies the character, attitude, and overall identity that the Rangers have developed. Cally has never taken a shift off, hits everything in sight, scores clutch goals, and blocks howitzers in the defensive zone. The ceiling of his offensive production is still very much unknown at this point. This guy is the heart and soul of the Rangers.
Grade: A-
11-12 stats: 44 GP ( 5G , 16A ) = 21 Points
After scoring just ONE goal in the team's first 31 contests, Dubinsky then posted 8 points in the next 8 games. Since then he is pointless in his last 5. Coming into this season, I had Brandon penciled in for about 25G, 35A= 60 points. At this point in the season he is well off that pace. Duby has struggled to get himself into scoring areas, or to get himself may quality scoring chances. Nonetheless, he remains a reliable 2-way player and is still effective along the boards. If he can rediscover his drive towards the net and find his place on the scoresheet, Dubinsky can play a big role for this team come playoff time. If not, he may be tradebait at the deadline.
Grade: C
#26 Ruslan Fedotenko
11-12 stats: 46 GP ( 6G , 7A) = 13 Points
Feds is the quintessential pro. He is a relentless forechecker, trustworthy in the defensive zone, and is an important veteran leader on the ice. Rusty knows what it takes to succeed in the playoffs, and he will be help this team maintain focus on the stretch drive and playoff grind that lies ahead. Still, it would be nice to see a little more production.
Grade: B-
#10 Marian Gaborik
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 25G , 14A ) = 39 Points (leads team in G and P)
I told you bringing Brad Richards would reinvigorate Gaborik! All Gabs needed was that #1 center feeding him the puck and... oh wait jk. After a season of injuries and inconsistencies, Gaborik has regained the scoring touch that has made him one of the league's most dangerous snipers (when healthy) since his draft day. He has found some nice chemistry with Derek Stepan, and his 25 goals at the break is already more than the 22 he tallied all of last season. Just as important, he has managed to stay healthy, appearing in all 47 games thus far. That explosive first step is back, and Gabby looks like the gamebreaker NYR thought they employed two seasons ago. He will need to stay healthy and consistent if the blueshirts are going to have continued success. His all-star nod is well deserved! Fun Fact: nearly half (13) of Gaborik's goals have come in the 3rd period or Overtime.. including 6 game-winning goals.
Grade: A-
#62 Carl Hagelin
11-12 stats: 29 GP ( 8G , 8A ) = 16 Points
This kid can flat out FLY. Every time this guy carries the puck, or even races towards it for that matter, the Garden crowd buzzes like it did for Leetch or Bure, or does currently for Gaborik. (The glorious blonde locks that flow through the air behind him certainly don't hurt). The former University of Michigan captain has impressed since his call-up with his speed, hockey sense, board work, and 2-way play. Recently moved up alongside Gaborik and Stepan, the rookie is being given increased responsibility, and has not yet disappointed. An injury replacement for the rookie all-stars in Ottawa this weekend, the future is bright for this young Swede.
Grade: A
#34 John Mitchell
11-12 stats: 29 GP ( 5G , 6 A ) = 11 Points
Called up from Connecticut at the same time as Hagelin, Mitchell, 27, is good at everything, but great at nothing. Another player who fits the mold of hard-workers and responsible 2-way forwards, Mitchell provides forward depth on the roster. He does more with his limited icetime than say, Wojtek Wolski would, but I fail to see what he provides that Sean Avery doesn't do better. Still, there is little to complain about, and with 3 goals in his last 5 games, at least he is contributing.
Grade: B-/B
#8 Brandon Prust
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 2G , 9A ) = 11 Points
Pruster is a true warrior, and the definition of a grinder. An expert forechecker and penalty killer, BP has also become a fan favorite for his team-first attitude and his penchant for defending his teammates. A large contributor to the Rangers' league leading 38 fighting majors, Prust, who leads NY skaters with 92 PIMs, sacrifices his body to no end for the "W'. Unlike Boyle, he often gets an appropriate amount of TOI per game.
Grade: B
#19 Brad Richards
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 16G , 17A ) = 33 Points
Richie was cast on Broadway in order to create the league's most dynamic duo alongside Marian Gaborik. After two weeks of chemistry-less play, that experiment was quickly nixed by John Tortorella and his impatience with line combinations. Since that time, Richards has played with everyone from Callahan and Dubinsky to Prust and Fedotenko. More than once this season he has been stuck in Torts' doghouse, seeing little icetime in the 3rd periods of close games. While he has chipped in 6 game winners - including a phenominal buzzer against Phoenix- the Rangers need more offensive consistency from their big free agent pickup (His garbage-time goal vs Winnipeg snapped an 8 game goal-less streak). As much as it pains me, Richie has reminded me somewhat of Scott Gomez, who, when signed, was supposed to instantly click with Jaromir Jagr. The two struggled together, and Gomez put up disappointing numbers over two seasons at MSG (70 points, 58 points). I am not yet calling Richards a bust, but for the money he was given, the Rangers need him to produce- and produce often. Still, Richards was also brought here for two other reasons: 1. To lead. There is no question that Brad is looked to as a veteran in the locker room. The Broadway Hat, which is a form of team bonding, was his idea. He is also credited with a large influence on the resurgence of Michael Del Zotto. 2. To come through in the clutch. Richards' 6 game winners are a good start, but we will reserve judgment for playoff time. The Conn Smythe Award (2004 Playoff MVP) in BR's trophy case was a big reason he was brought in. Produce when it matters and you'll be a legend at the Garden.
Grade: B-/B
#71 Mike Rupp
11-12 stats: ( 4G , 0A ) = 4 Points
Sure, he's only scored four goals.. But two of them were as important as any other so far this season: On hockey's second biggest stage- the Winter Classic. His Jagr-esque salute to the Philly crowd (mixed in with many, loud Ranger fans) was a thing of beauty, and won me over into his corner. But let's not kid ourselves, Rupper was brought in to turn faces, not goal lamps, RED. his pounding of Tomas Kopecky after the cheap shot on Del Zotto was just as impressive to me as either goal outdoors* (exaggerating). His calling out of Jody Shelley as "irrelevant" on 24/7 was as hilarious as it was spot on. Rupp is another guy Sather brought in for his leadership, toughness (take some of the load off Prust, and in wake of Boogy's passing), and playoff experience. Hartnell made a joke on 24/7 that Rupp "only has 2 goals in his career". Interesting... I can name two (other than in the classic) off the top of my head, do you know when they were? Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals for New Jersey.
Grade: B
#21 Derek Stepan
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 10G , 21A ) = 31 Points
D-Step has continued to develop just the way the NYR brass and faithful were hoping. With an extra level of hockey sense, and impeccable vision on the ice, Step has the ability to not only see plays developing ahead of time, but the skill to get the puck to the open area. Unafraid of physical play and calm with the puck, Stepan reminds me a lot of former Ranger and current concuss-ee Marc Savard.. or on a grander scale, Adam Oates. Savard had Kovalchuk, Oates had Hull, Stepan has Gaborik. When Derek comes into the offensive zone, he is always looking for Gabby. That is NEVER a bad idea, and that is how you rack up points. After fading a bit at the end of last season, here's hoping Stepan can sustain his play over the stretch run.
Grade: B+/A-
DEFENSEMEN
Grade: A#41 Stu Bickel
11-12 stats: 17 GP ( 0G, 5A ) = 4 Points
With their blueline depleted by injuries to Marc Staal, Michael Sauer and Steve Eminger, Tortorella/Sather needed somebody who was going to bring a tough, physical edge to their bottom pairing. Somebody who was going to make it uncomfortable for opposing forwards to stand near Henrik's goal. They picked Stu Bickel. He certainly didn't hurt his stock any after recording points in his first 3 games! (though none since). A Sauer-Lite prototype, Bickel has dropped the gloves when called upon, and has also been a steady force on the back line. Though often riding pine late in games, Bickel has done an admirable job standing in, and has shown he has potential to be a regular NHL defensemen. However, where he fits in when Sauer and Eminger return remains to be seen.
Grade: B/B+
#4 Michael Del Zotto
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 5G , 19A ) = 24 Points, +22
What a difference a year makes! After looking completely overmatched offensively and defensively in 47 games last season, DZ was sent down to the minors. Far from a lock on the big-league roster at training camp, "Del Zaster" came to camp in shape, and on a mission to reclaim the roster spot and great potential that was his during his rookie season. Originally slotted for the third defensive pairing, injuries to Marc Staal and Michael Sauer vaulted the kid back up the depth chart and into big-time minutes nightly. He has not disappointed. MDZ resides the top echelon of the league in the +/- category (+22, big deal after his combined -25 in his previous 1.5 seasons in NY), and leads Blueshirt defensemen in points. He has been decisive with the puck, and a physical force against others who carry it into his territory. People often forget the kid is only 21 years old. Easily could have been an all-star this season.
Grade: A
#44 Steve Eminger
11-12 stats: 30 GP ( 2G , 2A ) = 4 Points
After an up-and-down first year, Eminger played a strong 30 games before falling victim to a separated shoulder on December 17. He had developed an admirable snarl in his game, and, at 27 years old, was the "veteran" presence on this young defensive unit. He has resumed skating in practices (with limited contact), though there is no real timetable for his return as of yet.
Grade: B
#5 Dan Girardi
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 4G , 13A ) = 17 Points
When Superman goes to sleep at night, he puts on his Dan Girardi pajamas. When it was determined that Marc Staal would miss an extended period of time to begin the season, NY fans feared that the squad lacked a true #1, shutdown defenseman. Little did we know that Dan Girardi would rise so illustriously to the challenge. The guy is #1 in icetime per game league wide. Top-5 in hits. Top-5 in blocked shots. He goes toe-to-toe with the league's best every night, takes and receives a beating, takes a quick breather and goes at it again. If Callahan represents the heart and soul of this team with his play as a forward, Dan Girardi is the.. achem.. guts. His play and character epitomizes what the New York Rangers stand for. Arguably the most important player for the good guys in the first half, no player league-wide was more deserving of the all-star nod he received.
11-12 stats: 17 GP ( 0G, 5A ) = 4 Points
With their blueline depleted by injuries to Marc Staal, Michael Sauer and Steve Eminger, Tortorella/Sather needed somebody who was going to bring a tough, physical edge to their bottom pairing. Somebody who was going to make it uncomfortable for opposing forwards to stand near Henrik's goal. They picked Stu Bickel. He certainly didn't hurt his stock any after recording points in his first 3 games! (though none since). A Sauer-Lite prototype, Bickel has dropped the gloves when called upon, and has also been a steady force on the back line. Though often riding pine late in games, Bickel has done an admirable job standing in, and has shown he has potential to be a regular NHL defensemen. However, where he fits in when Sauer and Eminger return remains to be seen.
Grade: B/B+
#4 Michael Del Zotto
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 5G , 19A ) = 24 Points, +22
What a difference a year makes! After looking completely overmatched offensively and defensively in 47 games last season, DZ was sent down to the minors. Far from a lock on the big-league roster at training camp, "Del Zaster" came to camp in shape, and on a mission to reclaim the roster spot and great potential that was his during his rookie season. Originally slotted for the third defensive pairing, injuries to Marc Staal and Michael Sauer vaulted the kid back up the depth chart and into big-time minutes nightly. He has not disappointed. MDZ resides the top echelon of the league in the +/- category (+22, big deal after his combined -25 in his previous 1.5 seasons in NY), and leads Blueshirt defensemen in points. He has been decisive with the puck, and a physical force against others who carry it into his territory. People often forget the kid is only 21 years old. Easily could have been an all-star this season.
Grade: A
#44 Steve Eminger
11-12 stats: 30 GP ( 2G , 2A ) = 4 Points
After an up-and-down first year, Eminger played a strong 30 games before falling victim to a separated shoulder on December 17. He had developed an admirable snarl in his game, and, at 27 years old, was the "veteran" presence on this young defensive unit. He has resumed skating in practices (with limited contact), though there is no real timetable for his return as of yet.
Grade: B
#5 Dan Girardi
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 4G , 13A ) = 17 Points
When Superman goes to sleep at night, he puts on his Dan Girardi pajamas. When it was determined that Marc Staal would miss an extended period of time to begin the season, NY fans feared that the squad lacked a true #1, shutdown defenseman. Little did we know that Dan Girardi would rise so illustriously to the challenge. The guy is #1 in icetime per game league wide. Top-5 in hits. Top-5 in blocked shots. He goes toe-to-toe with the league's best every night, takes and receives a beating, takes a quick breather and goes at it again. If Callahan represents the heart and soul of this team with his play as a forward, Dan Girardi is the.. achem.. guts. His play and character epitomizes what the New York Rangers stand for. Arguably the most important player for the good guys in the first half, no player league-wide was more deserving of the all-star nod he received.
#27 Ryan McDonagh
11-12 stats: 47 GP ( 4G , 15A ) = 19 Points
Well, folks, it was going to take more than just Dan Girardi (and The King) stepping up in order for this team to maintain it's prominence in the goals against department without its All-Star, #1 defenseman. Enter Ryan Mcdonagh. "Mac Truck", after an impressive 40 game stint with the big club last season, stepped into the top pairing to start the year, and he did not miss a beat. An excellent skater who is calm and skillful with the puck under pressure (though once in a while, prone to a bad in-zone turnover), MCD can start the rush up-ice just as easy as he goes off the glass to clear the zone. Still yet to play a full NHL schedule, we'll see if Mac can stand the long grind of the second half without wearing down. Either way, this kid has a very bright future on Broadway. Gave everybody a big scare going into the boards against the Penguins. We really acquired him as a throw-in in the Gomez deal? Unbelievable. Thanks Bob Gainey.
Grade: A-
#38 Michael Sauer
11-12 stats: 19 GP ( 1G , 2A ) = 3 Points
With Staal's injury for the long-term (Yes, that injury was a big deal. It shook up the defensive depth chart entirely), Sauer began the season anchoring the second defense pairing. A smart, rugged, simple-play making blueliner, Sauer is a true, steady rock to have on the back-end. Unfortunately, a heavy hit put on him by Dion "Sloppy Seconds" Phaneuf knocked the kid out, and he has remained out of the lineup for the better part of the season. While he had started skating without contact in recent weeks, he stopped his workouts last week after suffering a setback. Hopefully he will recover fully and provide an important defensive boost come March or April.
Grade: INCOMPLETE
#18 Marc Staal
11-12 stats: 11 GP ( 0G , 0A ) = 0 Points
This grade is probably the most obvious incomplete that I will give, but Staal is still a player who I want to address (unlike Wolski). It is obvious through his first 11 games that Staal is not yet his normal self. His -4 through only 11 games is concerning, but it is important to realize that he is still getting his bearings back. He has to readjust to the speed of the game, to reading plays in the defensive zone, and to regaining his confidence with the puck. While he played a season low 12+ minutes against Winnipeg last game, the fact that he had gone back over 20+ minutes prior to that is a good sign. I think this all-star break will be a nice relief for him, and I look for him to regain his composure defensively before we see any numbers on the stat sheet. The Rangers have a little bit of room to play with with regards to allowing Staal to get comfortable in the lineup.
Grade: INCOMPLETE
#32 Anton Stralman
11-12 stats: 24 GP ( 1G , 6A ) = 7 Points
A player who was signed after the injury but bit the blueline, Stralman, who was cut by New Jersey in the preseason, has stood in admirably thus far. Though he hasn't provided as much offense as originally thought/desired, Stralman has actually been fairly solid in his own zone, posting a +10 rating through his 24 games played. If/when Sauer and Eminger return, Stralman will likely serve as the extra (7th) defenseman in the lineup.
Grade: B/B+
#6 Jeff Woywitka
11-12 stats: 26 GP ( 1G , 5A ) = 6 Points
Originally a "Who?/Why?" singing, the Rangers went 19-6-1 with Woywitka in the lineup. Getting bottom pairing minutes, but playing mostly solid, though unsensational hockey, Jeff had one bad gaffe in a game against Dallas that cost the Rangers at least one point. He suffered a foot injury late in December, and, despite probably being healthy enough to re-enter the lineup he hasn't played since due to the solid play of Stralman and Bickel.
Grade: B
GOALTENDERS
#43 Martin Biron
11-12 stats: 9-2-0 , 1.88 GAA, .927 SV%, 2 SO
Biron may be the most important player for the Rangers down the stretch of the season. He is valuable not only in that he provides the Rangers with a body capable of substituting in for Henrik now and then, but he allows the Rangers to do so and still fully expect to pick up two points. Not since the days of Glenn Healy have the Rangers employed a backup goaltender who had the full confidence of his coaches, fans, or teammates. Marty has proven himself more than worthy of that trust. While one cannot rightfully expect him to maintain such gaudy numbers, if he can continue to be reliable and play 25 games this season, Lundqvist will be that much fresher for the games that matter. His injury (and Callahan's) surely played a large role last season.
Grade: A
#30 Henrik Lundqvist
11-12 stats; 22-10-4 , 1.87 GAA , .937 SV% , 5 SO
We call him "The King" for a reason. This guy is really good at hockey. 3rd in the league in Goals Against Average (ridiculous 1.87). 3rd in the league in Save Percentage (astounding 93.7%). Those are Vezina (and perhaps Hart- MVP) worthy numbers. He has given up more than 3 goals just three times this year, and never more than 4 in a game. A big reason the Rangers can hit the ice with such confidence every night is knowing that if they do slip for some reason, if coverage falters, if the puck takes a bad bounce, Henrik Lundqvist will be there to cover up their mistakes and thwart the opposition. His penalty shot save in the Winter Classic was as clutch as they come. The guy loves to win, and he is ready for big-time success come the second season. With the assistance of Biron, he should be fresher than ever come April, May, and June. With The King between the pipes, the Rangers have a chance to win every game they play.
Grade: A+, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlL_kDIJ5oM
COACHES
Head Coach- John Tortorella, Asst. Coach- Mike Sullivan
11-12 stats: 31-12-4 (66 Points), 1st in Atlantic Division, 1st in Eastern Conference
While I seem to have taken some shots at Tortorella's coaching in this blog, one cannot deny the great job that he and his staff have done here to the All-Star break. (Torts will actually be coaching Team Alfredsson/Lundqvist in Ottawa this weekend). It is clear that he is still waiting for some of the right pieces to his puzzle (perhaps through trade or simply players stepping up), but he has truly made this team perform greater than the sum of its parts. This only happens when a locker room completely buys into a coach's mindset, strategies, and attitude. The brash, in-your-face, hard-working identity of this Ranger team is directly related to the personality of its coach, and the values he has instilled into the roster. Each player (other than Boyle ;-)) is held accountable for his actions on the rink. And, for the most part, the best players on any given night are the ones who get the ice time. HBO's 24/7 series brought us into the locker room, and gave us a glimpse of the dynamic that exists between the players and their leader. And after watching that show, it's hard not to like the guy as a person, and as a hockey coach. Still, Torts can be stubborn to a fault, and he admittedly has to know when to push his players, and when to back off. He also must learn when to stick with his lines combinations, and when to change things up (Brad Richards is wasted on a line with Prust and Feds). Also, not fixing the PP WILL bite this team in the ass eventually. Nonetheless, at this point we're all hard pressed to complain... he's doing something right isn't he?
Grade: A-
11-12 stats: 31-12-4 (66 Points), 1st in Atlantic Division, 1st in Eastern Conference
While I seem to have taken some shots at Tortorella's coaching in this blog, one cannot deny the great job that he and his staff have done here to the All-Star break. (Torts will actually be coaching Team Alfredsson/Lundqvist in Ottawa this weekend). It is clear that he is still waiting for some of the right pieces to his puzzle (perhaps through trade or simply players stepping up), but he has truly made this team perform greater than the sum of its parts. This only happens when a locker room completely buys into a coach's mindset, strategies, and attitude. The brash, in-your-face, hard-working identity of this Ranger team is directly related to the personality of its coach, and the values he has instilled into the roster. Each player (other than Boyle ;-)) is held accountable for his actions on the rink. And, for the most part, the best players on any given night are the ones who get the ice time. HBO's 24/7 series brought us into the locker room, and gave us a glimpse of the dynamic that exists between the players and their leader. And after watching that show, it's hard not to like the guy as a person, and as a hockey coach. Still, Torts can be stubborn to a fault, and he admittedly has to know when to push his players, and when to back off. He also must learn when to stick with his lines combinations, and when to change things up (Brad Richards is wasted on a line with Prust and Feds). Also, not fixing the PP WILL bite this team in the ass eventually. Nonetheless, at this point we're all hard pressed to complain... he's doing something right isn't he?
Grade: A-
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It sure is a lot of fun to go to NHL.com, or the hockey website of your choice, and stare at those standings isn't it?
While I don't think the Rangers will fall completely off the mountain, it is important to enjoy the view from the tippy top while it lasts. If only gets harder from here, kids. Your Rangers will no longer be taking any team by surprise. In fact, the Rangers will now serve as a measuring stick for each and every team they play against who believes they can contend in the playoffs. Every squad from here on in is going to give the Blueshirts their very best in order to prove their worth.
Torts' and his minions seem prepared for the long haul. They dismiss talk and dreams of Stanley's Cup. They seem alert and aware of potential let downs in the schedule. Take the schedule one game at a time is, and must remain, the mantra at MSG.
This team is very good, but there are flaws and issues that must be addressed (i.e. The Powerplay). There are players who need to start producing offensively, and provide this team with offensive depth (Richards, Dubinsky, Boyle Anisimov). And there is the question of the playoff push- do you risk messing with chemistry and make moves for a top-6 forward/PP Defenseman?
And for the rest of us... Is it better to be confident, or cautiously optimistic?
Please leave any questions or comments below
-Rif
