Rangers Recap: Rangers Collapse on 3-0 Lead, Lose in Double OT to Caps; WSH Leads Series 3-1
by Nick Montemagno on Apr 21, 2011 12:15 AM EDT
in New York Rangers Recaps
Email
Print
Let's start this whale of a postgame off by facing the facts. The Washington Capitals deserved to win this game. The Rangers gave up a 3-0 lead in the third period and were outshot 31-20 through the third period and both overtimes. The ending, as it played out, was extremely unfortunate and not the way you want a game that contained such a high level of battle to end, but in this case, the better team won and I think we have to accept that as fans and the players need to do the same.
A three-goal second period gave the Rangers a tremendous lead going into the third that we thought had this series tied at two games apiece. Artem Anisimov got it started at 5:24 of the second when he scored his first career playoff goal by banking a shot in off Matt Hendricks' leg. Marian Gaborik and Brandon Dubinsky followed that up with back-to-back goals that were recorded seven seconds apart. Both goals were a result of the hard work of Ruslan Fedotenko, who retrieved the puck and made something out of it both times.
The inspiring effort by the Blueshirts in the middle frame had Madison Square Garden rocking with chants such as "Boouudreeaauu" and "Can You Hear Us?" in response to Washington's coach's comments about MSG and its fans earlier in the week. The Capitals definitely seemed rattled with all that was going on and I didn't expect a response out of them. I guess I couldn't have been more wrong.
Alexander Semin ignited the rally just 2:47 into the third period on a controversial play. Henrik Lundqvist had originally made the stop and had possession of the puck. With no whistle blown, though, Semin and Arnott continued to poke at the puck until it eventually ended up in the net. Lundqvist was arguing that there should have been a whistle on the play, and he is right, but just like Ovechkin's goal in Game 1, the Rangers need to wipe the crease clean there. Semin should not have been allowed to sit there and knife the puck out of Hank's equipment whether there was a whistle or not.
Less than a minute later, Marcus Johansson tipped Brooks Laich's shot to the back of the net and now all of a sudden it was a 3-2 game and the Garden grew very nervous. At 12:07, the Capitals tied the game as it was again Johansson at the side of the net who got a piece of John Carlson's point-shot to redirect the puck past Lundqvist. So, for the second time in the series, to overtime we went.
Washington controlled play in what would be the first overtime, outshooting New York 13-9 and pinning the Rangers in their own zone for long periods of time. Lundqvist stood tall to keep his team in it, especially when he was forced to stop an Alex Ovechkin breakaway in the second half of the period. That save had Richter on Bure in ‘94 written all over it.
Anyway, the Rangers did produce some good scoring chances in the first overtime, but you have to give Neuvirth some credit for making big saves. Their best chance, though, was probably Dubinsky and Gaborik's 2-on-0 that was ended by referee Paul Devorksi when he collided with Dubinsky just inside the zone. What could have been...
The second overtime was pretty much a replica of the first. The Caps were controlling and both teams were battling hard. The Rangers blew a powerplay opportunity at one point and that came back to bite them in due time. That time came at 12:36, when an unfortunate play would end the game and give the Capitals a 3-1 lead in the series.
A deflected shot bounced in on Henrik Lundqvist and just as he went to jump on the puck to stop play, Gaborik, coming back, poked it away from Hank and right into the body of Jason Chimera. Chimera easily settled the puck and guided it into the net to the utter shock of the Rangers and their fans.
Lundqvist's reaction, I think, said it all. After he raised his arms in disgust, he just sat there in the crease, eyes closed, bobbing back and forth. There really is no way to react to something like that. It stunned the entire hockey world to be honest.
Now let me make it clear that no one, I repeat, no one should be blaming Marian Gaborik for this loss. Yes, he should have backed off and allowed Lundqvist to play the puck there, but it is by no means Gaborik's fault that the team collapsed on a 3-0 lead. Instead, you should be looking at the seven failures to convert on the powerplay. That buried them more than anything.
The other major mistake they made was by entering the third period looking to defend the lead. The Rangers should have wanted more in that third period. Instead, they tried focusing on defense and even continued to do so when the game was 3-2. The Rangers were clinging to the lead, not looking to build on it, and that's where they ran into major trouble.
You have to give them credit for battling most of the way, though. You have Dan Girardi out there blocking nine shots like a freak of nature. You have Marc Staal completely taking Alex Ovechkin out of the game. Fedotenko showed that he is a veteran warrior with his effort. I mean, there were a lot of good things that went on tonight despite the collapse, but unfortunately it doesn't mean much in a game that the Rangers go home losers in, especially in the playoffs.
Now, going into Game 5 on Saturday, New York has to do what they have been doing for months. They have to play do or die hockey for the remainder of the series. Down 3-1, one more loss will end their season. They haven't had a problem responding to devastating losses all season long, so let's hope that holds true on Saturday.
448 comments
|
1 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Ugh. Depressed.
Anyone mention Gabby’s open net in the final seconds of the second period? Would have likely been a knockout punch.
5 bad minutes ruined all the good of the second period.
The crowd deserved to go home with a W. Would have been the start of the city getting behind this team. Now its only a dream and the Rangers may not last through the weekend….
Ugh.
by Ahmad Bradshaw on Apr 21, 2011 12:20 AM EDT reply actions
That’s actually a very good point. Gabby deflected a puck wide of a wide open net in the final seconds of the second period. Sort of went unnoticed by the MSG guys, but obviously would have changed the outcome of this game.
Plenty of “what ifs” after this one though.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers for SB Nation.
The Rangers Tribune: A hockey blog dedicated to covering the New York Rangers.
by Nick Montemagno on Apr 21, 2011 12:24 AM EDT up reply actions
Hated how it went unnoticed, at the time I was stunned by it and kept wanting them to show a replay. I just thought to myself a goal is never meaningless in a hockey game. For them to just roll over something like that is not right. And the way it was kinda discounted gave me a bad feeling that people regarded the game as finished.
by Ahmad Bradshaw on Apr 21, 2011 12:38 AM EDT up reply actions
i am sad, typical rangers roller coaster game
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 12:23 AM EDT reply actions
29-0 after 2 periods in the regular season and then blow a 3-0 lead in a playoff game. unreal. this one hurt
by nyrangerfan521 on Apr 21, 2011 12:25 AM EDT reply actions
Yup - not anymore
I thought of this exact stat as I was getting something to drink @ MSG. Figured no way we’re not winning this one. Could not believe what transpired after the 2nd :(
I can’t believe you actually managed to get a drink. I’ve never seen the place so unmanageable (with the construction and all). Fire hazard to say the least. Meh.
by Wake Up Theo on Apr 21, 2011 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions
Good point
Your right – it was a zoo pretty quickly right when b/w periods started…& by drink I meant Bottled H20 so perhaps I was lucky not to go try to get a beer cause those lines were horrendous like you said. Likely to get worse next year when the renovations are in full swing. It better kick butt when it’s all done, otherwise fans will be pissed – that’s for sure :(
Gaborik
Gaborik didnt lose this game for us however he certainly didnt win it either. An open tap in after 4 games in the playoffs is not what we pay $7mm a year for.
"Shoot the Puck Barry, Shoot the puck !" Bill Chadwick
by RangerFanInChicago on Apr 21, 2011 12:26 AM EDT reply actions
I sure hope I see last years Gaborik next year
I loved that guy
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:30 AM EDT up reply actions
im bummed out right now
idk im kinda pissed we were 0-7 on the PP but it didnt shock me I mean our PP imo is the worst in the NHL
but Gaborik skated fast all game he had a nice goal but wtf was he doing seriously
slap that puck to the left, dont push it back
he saw Hank coming right?
bring out the Run Gaborik Out Of Town posts, they are a coming man
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:26 AM EDT reply actions
Who would have thought the Caps had D
Weird. Now they are going to win a series after leading by 2 games. Geez, what’s next? The cup in the capitol? Who wouldda thunk it?
I don't think
having richards here makes a lick of difference concerning gaborik… his chance in OT he had the whole top of the net open, he shots and hits the upper chest of neurvirth… last season he buries that no questions asked… something is terribly wrong with gaborik…
@clalicata17
good point
last year he curls that shot up high into the corner and in
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Or we spend that money on Richards, and he still misses the net…then who gets the blame?
by wyorangerfan on Apr 21, 2011 12:32 AM EDT up reply actions
the PP needs to be fixed
did I once say Richards?
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:33 AM EDT up reply actions
for the record
I dont blame Gaborik for the loss
go 0-7 on your PP thats everyones f’n fault
thats PATHETIC this is some freckled sissy goalie too not Patrick Roy
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:28 AM EDT reply actions
PP has been atrocious
all season… no just in the playoffs… our offense starts and ends with gaborik, same for our PP if he’s not getting it done our PP suffers, how many wide open chances is he going to get before he buries one? even the tap in goal he had today was flubbed off the bottom of the blade…
he’s either got serious confidence issues or he’s hurt…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:30 AM EDT up reply actions
lets continue to cycle on the PP, that works right
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:32 AM EDT up reply actions
some of our better pp's in this game
where when boyle was planted in front of the net… by doing that one dman had to mark him at all times keeping the caps d from just playing a board game against pp guys… so instead of 2 dmen down low there was one…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:35 AM EDT up reply actions
oh for sure
dude I said afer game 2, please screen the goalie with Boyle or AA
our powerplay has gotten better, their just not getting goals
they make these cute passes, when our passing is awful
or they cycle the puck the whole godamn time along the boards
real teams dont do that 90 percent of their PP
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Christensen does it all the time he tries to switch sides across the box, and it gets deflected out of the zone or intercepted every time…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:39 AM EDT up reply actions
The Caps D was great. 14-0 in tourneys in North America
It doesn’t matter. You have a Patrick Roy in net, it’s just the other 19 on your squad that that sucks balls. Too bad, too. Here’s an official evite again to ROCK THE RED
Nervirth is 14-0.
Lundqvist deserves a better team in front of him. He should go to the Lightening.
but if I was Hank
I would be chewing that team out
dude is amazingly good and his team cannot win him a godamn game
man Prust Feds Dubi played great tonight Staal Girardi too
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:29 AM EDT reply actions
the first goal was MCD. I’ve watched the replay more than once (even when the game was still 3-1), and still have no idea what he was trying to acomplish other than get Wash back into the game – inexcusable = F
The second goal is on Dubi – how can your check be left that open, ahem, IN FRONT OF THE NET! – inexusable = F
The third goal was a little more flukey – shit happens
The OT goal, Gabby could have taken 1 more step to move between Chimera and the net. He could have actually looked around and saw Hank poised to cover the puck. Instead he half assed, lazily poked the puck AWAY from his goalie, and right to Chimera – Inexusable = F
The Caps did not win this game, the Rangers lost it. When 40K fans feel comfortable enough to shout and taunt, and the response is this type of mental decision making, it’s inexcusable. Overall = F
"There are some people who, if they don't already know, you can't tell 'em." - Yogi
by bleed'n blue on Apr 21, 2011 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
There were a lot of if’s and but’s in this game, but you’re correct…it comes down to taking advantage of the PP…As bad as the caps pp looked in the first period, it killed us….One goal on seven chances makes the difference..They played hard but it’s hard to see the man advantage fail so horribly…just an opinion
Oh yes … he certainly sucks as a Goaltender … 17-3 lifetime in all playoff overtimes …. at every level ECHL, AHL, NHL. Yep that’s a brilliant observation. Don’t forget Neuvy is “shakey” too
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Apr 21, 2011 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions
…It is by no means Gaborik’s fault that the team collapsed on a 3-0 lead. Instead, you should be looking at the seven failures to convert on the powerplay.
Heh, I’m glad Gaborik can play like trash for 80% of his playing time and still get support.
"Malik now." "6 foot 6, 238, not a noted goal scorer but he's gonna give it a shot here." "Malik has not scored this year. In on Kolzig, faked it....SCORES"
Gaborik was not responsible solely for losing a 3-0 game, the win and lose as a team, he just happens to be our only pure offensive weapon… there’s no excuse for blowing a 3 goal lead, none…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Not support…Just saying it is not his fault that they lost.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers for SB Nation.
The Rangers Tribune: A hockey blog dedicated to covering the New York Rangers.
by Nick Montemagno on Apr 21, 2011 12:33 AM EDT up reply actions
gotta agree I aint standing up for the dude but I aint blaming 0-7 PP and 3 goal lead blown
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:33 AM EDT up reply actions
True
"Malik now." "6 foot 6, 238, not a noted goal scorer but he's gonna give it a shot here." "Malik has not scored this year. In on Kolzig, faked it....SCORES"
but oh its coming, their gonna run Gaborik out of town man
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:35 AM EDT up reply actions
i wouldn't
be surprised if he was moved this summer… not saying i agree or disagree, just wouldn’t be surprised…
i will say that we need a power forward type player, he would compliment a guy like gaborik… the player i would most like to have is rick nash but thats not happening…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:37 AM EDT up reply actions
wouldnt shock me
and when he goes to LA he will be a superstar again
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:39 AM EDT up reply actions
ill take dustin brown :)
id love him on this team.
"Mr. Madison, what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."
LET'S GO RANGERS!!!
why would anybody in their right mind pick up gabbys contract?
we would have to take some horrible shit back because i cant imagine we could even give him away right now. Then again, Gomez and Roszy got dealt, so who knows
Slats has been ridiculously good at unloading bad contracts…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s true. Now if we can get him to stop signing them in the first place, we’ll be all set.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Where’s the fun in that? If you can’t make a huge splash in free-agency, how will you ever win the cup? Dan Snyder knows this. Waitaminit…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d be very surprised if Gaborik moved this summer after the year he has had. No one would take him and the Rangers get 20 cents on the dollar if someone does take him.
He’ll be back with the Rangers in 2011-12 and he might be back to his old self.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Isn’t Gabby the guy who’s supposed to be SCORING on the PP? Good point Calm Down.
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Dan Girardi needs some kind of award, medal, plaque, mansion, I don’t care. Some kind of recognition for his work this series. What a player.
Follow me on twitter @nyybrandonc
"Blame is just a lazy person's way of making sense of chaos."
"No matter what I talk about, I always get back to baseball."
He gets no respect, especially from Ranger fans from what I see….must go back to the Gaby incident against Philly…Maybe he didn’t do it then, but he has given himself up more then enuff to make up for that lapse in reason…He has been the man this season….I’m proud to be a fan of his
by wyorangerfan on Apr 21, 2011 12:39 AM EDT up reply actions
He’s been a target all year from different sites as well here at the start of the season…not trying to play the blame game…just hope we appreciate the kind of player he is…not flashy but a guy who bleeds for his teammates….don’t mean to step on toes, just a fan of the guy who blocks everything that comes his way…
by wyorangerfan on Apr 21, 2011 12:48 AM EDT up reply actions
If it makes you feel better, I saw him out on the town a few months back with an absolutely slamming woman on his arm…
by Wake Up Theo on Apr 21, 2011 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions
I hope she likes bruises and facial scars
by The Blue Seats on Apr 21, 2011 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions
what more could you ask for out of a season
as far as experience for young players?
There’s been ups, downs, injuries, the playoff run, making the playoffs on the final day, playoffs, one OT, boudreau’s comments, the garden getting on BB, double OT, heartbreak, comebacks…
@clalicata17
yeah
im happy with the year
im expecting big things next year not this year so I agree
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:35 AM EDT up reply actions
i'm looking
2 maybe 3 years down the road…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:37 AM EDT up reply actions
you guys are killing me
maybe im drunk or maybe its because its 130am here, but between clalicata and chiacrack your names for some reason seem to alike at first glance so it looks like youre carrying on an entire conversation by yourself lmao
I’m havin the same problem so you’re not alone there.
"Mes que un club"
-Ahmad Bradshaw is undoubtedly a psychic genius.
by Scratch and Snif on Apr 21, 2011 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions
I just want a real powerplay for the love of god
the cycle is like Torts go to
all right gents cycle on the PP yeah that works
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:34 AM EDT reply actions
Dubi is the man
that stache is awesome
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:38 AM EDT reply actions
Good call...
to make it a point not to blame Gaborik. He does what we have been asking him to do and…a screenshot of that play pretty much typifies his entire season. I try to keep in mind the Caps were #1 and we have a very young team. I am hoping that this kind of loss sticks with them for years in hopes that it inspires them in future games. Ironically, what happened here is what the Rangers need/have needed/will need – guys that can just come down and bury a puck when your team is getting completely outplayed. Its been an issue since Jagr left. A great game by our team that should be overmatched – not so much for the fans. Those OT periods were like sitting in a dentist’s waiting room.
Gaborik does what he has been asked to?
Oh okay, so we wanted our 28 year old superstar player who we signed to a massive contract to score 20 goals a season a post sub 50 point years.
I do agree about Jagr, he should have never been let go and the Rangers have been paying dearly for it since.
Gotta move on
I was at this game. In the bathroom before the 3rd period some guy said, to no one in particular, “Just don’t do what the Kings did last night.” I laughed him off. Guess I forgot that with the Rangers, terrible things can and do happen.
Having said that, shrug it off boys, as tough is it may be, it’s in the books and all we have is Saturday.
And I know the whole team bears the responsibility for the 3rd period, but…I once read a definition of great players as “players who do all the fundamental things in pressure situations.” By that definition, Gaborik is not a great player.
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
by Joe1969 on Apr 21, 2011 12:43 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
gaborik is not
a superstar… he is a sniper, who caught something from Chris Higgins… and can’t finish with a 100$ bill and 2 $ hooker…
Lundqvist is a superstar, our only legit superstar…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:45 AM EDT up reply actions
Hank is the man dude, I feel so so so bad for him
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:46 AM EDT up reply actions
i dont agree
gaborik is in a system that does not work for him. he is not meant to be a grind it out type of player, and yes he is our team offensively,and i actually admire gaborik. he has shown that he WILL backcheck and play defense for the sake of this team. i believe he is a superstar, give him a few role players and i guarentee he will break 100 pts next season
role players?
the whole team is role players. if we had the gaborik from last year, he would have scored 4 goals last night.
"Mr. Madison, what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."
LET'S GO RANGERS!!!
Caps fans
will talk all kinds of trash, but our team which has a lot of “no-name” players has played a tight game with them every game including an OT loss and a 2 OT loss, thats nothing to be gloating about as the number 1 seed playing the number 8… had they come in and steamrolled us in 4 of 5 games different story, we’ve been in each and every one of the games… take away OV’s jam goal, take away Semin’s jam goal, we probably win games 1 and 4 which puts us at 3 -1 in the series, one or 2 plays could easily have changed the outcome of the series and thats not how a number 1 is supposed to have won a series but a few fortunate bounces…
This team has busted there asses, and theres not much more you can ask of them, should they bow out saturday, they should be met with a thunderous applause by rangers fans everywhere because they got heart…
@clalicata17
Caps fans didnt exist Pre-Ovechkin they get no love from me same for the Pre-Crosby Penguin fans, they didnt exist
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:45 AM EDT up reply actions
like Rangers fans Montreal fans Boston fans Philly fans existed before ya know
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:47 AM EDT up reply actions
Caps fans didnt exist Pre-Ovechkin they get no love from me same for the Pre-Crosby Penguin fans, they didnt exist
I have been a Home team fan of all the sports teams in Washington D.C. since the early 70’s. You must realize that this is now a transient town with all the big Govt here. But there are still the Faithful Home team Fan that has stuck with the Caps since the early days through thick and thin and personally I like Peter Bondra better than I like OV. Peter was much quiter and worked a lot harder on Defense. He just wasn’t a big checking forward like OV , but still had the finesse to score goals. We also had some beast players like Dale Hunter, Don Beaupre and Oli the Goalie. I despise ever being called a bandwagon jumper, because along with the good I have rooted for the bad. I am sure as many of you have done for your Rangers. One thing to add, Constantly running into our Goalie is dirty play. If you have to beat us that way then so be it. But don’t ever call the Caps dirty, as the only time a Cap hits your Goalie is when they are pushed into him. We don’t need to cheat to win. Also if you have not noticed since late January the Caps have been a grind it out win team. Winning by 1 goal in reg or even OT. Not the flashy caps of the past few years. I’m done and I will get off my soap box now. Don’t pigeon hole Caps Fans, we are not band Wagon Jumpers. Most of the new Fan base is young adults just getting into Hockey..Give em a brake.
by Bigdaddygohoyas on Apr 22, 2011 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s such an easy take, cause that’s what you read on the blogs, and you just respout it but my first game was in ‘81 and there is a very loyal following. You’re not from here, so you really are just talking out of your ass.
Sure, down years lead to down years in attendance, but this meme just gets so old…
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 21, 2011 6:12 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Congratulations… you and 5 other people have been loyal fans since ’81. I went to a game in ’03 and there was no one there.
Not saying that a sample of 1 is indicative of the greater scene, but enough people have said the EXACT same thing to lend credence to this perception. Don’t delude yourself.
“Enough people” as in a group of rangers, pens, and flyer fans? I could probably find “enough people” who still think the world is flat too, would that make it true?
Keep thinking whatever helps you sleep at night though.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
Why would that help me sleep at night?
It’s fine… when the Caps are bad again you three can sit together and have the place all to yourselves on Saturday nights. You can even take turns blowing that horn and listening to it echo.
Why would that help me sleep at night?
You seem to be clinging to the “caps are bandwagon fans” argument like it’s a security blanket.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
Do you count as a Caps bandwagon fan if you went to all the games mid-90’s, have the old red jersey with the words/stars falling off, then threw your hands up in the air around the turn of the century and gave up and are now a fan again?
are you asking me to pass judgement?
Well then, mid 90’s doesn’t seem that long ago, but it sounds like you only owned 1 jersey, or maybe didn’t do laundry very often so it fell apart … but hey, you “threw your hands in the air at the turn of the century”, lots of folks did that too, especially in DC, the whole Y2K thing. So I’d say, probably not fully bandwagoneer, but running around another team’s blog site after a double OT win asking if your a bandwagon fan screams TROLL.
by The HECKLER! on Apr 21, 2011 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I jyst came on here to see what you guys were saying…you know, different perspective and all. So then I see some jack nut spouting the same old drivel about caps bandwagon fans and decide to chime in. That is all. No insulting of Rags fans, their fans or their tradition.
The fact if the matter is that we have a many fans pre and post #8 as most other teams despite what some one on a blog says. Trolling? Only in NY could that actually be done by the home blogger.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 21, 2011 11:55 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
You just insulted us by calling us “Rags” fans, now get back to following your classless and garbage team.
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 22, 2011 12:59 AM EDT up reply actions
oops
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 22, 2011 6:17 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Right.
Keep your perceptions if you like, but…
But in 2001-2002 (Pre-Ovechkin!) the Caps were 13th in attendance, averaging 17,341. The Rangers averaged a WHOPPING 697 more people a game!
Wow, how on earth did we manage to before Ovechkin?!
17,341 on average in a year when the Caps finished 36-33-11-2 and didn’t qualify for the playoffs.
in 2001-2002 the Caps were fresh from 2 consecutive playoff appearances and a recent (‘98) Stanley Cup Final appearance. The Rangers were mired in 7 consecutive sub- .500 seasons and still out drew the caps by a bit (your #’s). By 03/04 (pre-OV) the Rangers were still out drawing the Caps by an average of 4K/game, but the Caps aura had faded.
Personally, I couldn’t care less about all this crap, but if you’re going to quote numbers, make sure they are accurate, otherwise you’re credibility is, well, not credible.
by The HECKLER! on Apr 21, 2011 5:08 PM EDT up reply actions
by way of comparison, in 03/04 the National Lacrosse League average attendance was about 4K less/game than the caps average. So the difference in attendance between the Caps-Rangers and Caps-NLL was the same. No real point here other than putting in in perspective.
"There are some people who, if they don't already know, you can't tell 'em." - Yogi
by bleed'n blue on Apr 22, 2011 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps fans didn't exist Pre-Ovechkin??
You don’t know what you’re talking about. Have been a Caps fan since 1974, when we won a grand total of 8 games and our “best” player was Yvon Labre. If you’re a real hockey fan, you’ll remember we rode Olaf Kolzig to the Finals in ’99, only to get crushed by the Red Wings. Right now, Caps are better team, but Rangers were the last opponent we wanted in the playoffs. Play us too well. That result last night had to hurt, but at least you guys got to hoist the cup with Messier back in the ’90s.
’98, not ’99
(ducks head)
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve been a Caps season ticket holder since 1985-86. There are many season ticket holders who have had tickets longer than I have. The core fan base has grown (a few thousand to tens of thousands) as the team has improved. But that is the same with every team as things cycle up and down. In the late 1970s, early 1980s, you could walk up the day of a Rangers game and buy 200-level seats at the box office (you had to get them early in the day, but they were available). I know because I was in NYC during a break in college and I bought tickets at the box office. After 1994, there were none of those tickets available.
As for Penguin fans… there have always been thousands of them, esp after 1991 when they won the Cup.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
All playoff games are hard fought. The bottom line here is that we are being dominated. In case you haven’t noticed, the series is 3-1.
We need to play 20 minutes of hockey. The second goal was Dubi’s fault and the second goal was the back breaker.
Lets stop making excuses. The Caps, if they make it past us, will face much stiffer competition because we aren’t concentrating and respecting the skill of our opponent.
d
I'm a Caps fan....
…and will continue to say those hard workin’ sons-a-bitches in New York are a group you should all be proud to support. Lundqvist, Staal, Girardi, Dubinski, Prust, Boyle, Sauer…pretty much the whole lot of them. Busted their rear-ends all season long. Other teams may have more talent, but can’t think of a harder working bunch.
I agree that regardless of what happens the rest of the series, the Ranger team and their fans can hold their heads high. They personafy everything I love about the sport.
by shotfromthepoint on Apr 21, 2011 6:23 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Word.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
take away OV’s jam goal, take away Semin’s jam goal, we probably win games 1 and 4 which puts us at 3 -1 in the series
And if my aunt had balls she’d be my uncle.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
And the Caps would have those three cups by now
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions
if only Semin scored in the MTL series!
If if’s and but’s were ice cream and lollipops we’d live in Candyland….wouldn’t that be awesome. We can debate all day about who’s goal was controversial, or was a lucky bounce, or "if that defensmen stopped that pass, but in the end it all comes down to errors by the players on ice. Just like Girardi’s goal, which was an amazing amount of skill and part luck(its always involved hehe) at the same time one of the 3 WSH defenders should of just hit him off the puck. Or Semin’s goal last night, a Rag should of got him out of the crease.
Kind of like the Mighty Ducks anecdote, 1/2 an inch one way is a goal, 1/2 an inch the other way and you miss completely. Either way, worrying about it doesn’t change the fact you hit the post and all you can do is be proud of the effort you made. And the Rags have been giving all kinds of effort to keep this close.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
Yet, we’re left with ashes in our mouths every season. Hoping against hope that this year is different.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps fan = abusive relationship.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’m not going to start anything but, in the playoffs seeds really don’t matter. The media and fans will always appoint an underdog/topdog but all of the teams in this league are so skilled and close a 1 v 8 seeding doesn’t change that much. You look at president trophy winning teams, and then look at how far they’ve gone into the playoffs….not far.
Detriot and PHX where a 3v6 match up which, according to the seedings, should of been a closer series. But Detriot is a playoff machine, and played Phx in last years playoffs. Phx is still a relatively young team but got destroyed. Mtl is still winning the Boston series despite being the underdog. Phi should be decimating Buff but they stand even. Pitt, despite no Malkin or Crosby, are beating up on a much more talented TBL. —-Point is its all about match ups between teams, and anything goes in the playoffs.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
well
if hockey doesnt work out for Dubinsky he has one heck of a career in x rated movies
that mustache is killer
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:44 AM EDT reply actions
i thought gaborik busted his ass all game tonight
shouldnt everyone else who had a quality shot in the game be blamed for not scoring if we’re really gonna be like this towards gabby? i mean come on. youre not gonna have a perfect shooting percentage. if you really think a crosby or toews hits every shot perfectly youre outta your mind. gabby doesnt backcheck he gets bashed. he gets back to the net tonight and makes what 9 times outta 10 would be considered a good defensive play and he gets bashed. i know we pay him to be superman but frankly theres no such thing.
Ron Dugay for President
he did skate really hard and try hard man for sure
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:46 AM EDT up reply actions
yeah i mean at some point we gotta accept that hes not gonna have a year like last year every year.
Ron Dugay for President
by ragsfan72291 on Apr 21, 2011 12:48 AM EDT up reply actions
i guess.
idk, i mean outside of him, feds, girardi, staal and hank, did anyone else really make themselves noticable?
Ron Dugay for President
by ragsfan72291 on Apr 21, 2011 12:49 AM EDT up reply actions
point being chia....
to be a successful team you need more than 6 guys to control the team. i love this team with a passion, and i couldnt tell you what needs to be fixed cuz honestly who knows anymore, but if you look at the top teams, you see CONSISTENT contributions from the majority of the roster in several ways. we still have too many lulls ya know?
Ron Dugay for President
by ragsfan72291 on Apr 21, 2011 12:53 AM EDT up reply actions
I agree we need scorers imo
but Dubi is the man, seriously
I think Callahan Dubi Stepan Prust Boyle are a big part of the future but we need some scorers badly
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:55 AM EDT up reply actions
i forgot AA but hes done nothing this series
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:56 AM EDT up reply actions
yeah
he needs to put on some weight to truly be a threat. but for now we have one goal scorer (gabby). and we all said last year that teams would give him fits this year. i think we tend to overlook that this year
Ron Dugay for President
by ragsfan72291 on Apr 21, 2011 1:01 AM EDT up reply actions
you mean besides score the first goal yesterday
Adoptive father of 18th round draft pick and future ace, BRANDON ALLEN
by Nnamdi Asomugha on Apr 21, 2011 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions
well...
one 40+ scorer and several 20+ scorers makes for a dangerous offense. Think about it. If gabby had another 40+ season, where would the rangers have finished?
"I've been really working on stick-handling with my head up,"
- Eric Lindros
like i said
pending health, i think he is a perennial 35-40 goal scorer, when you find SOMEONE who clicks with him. if prospal had been here earlier in the year i think gaborik would be at at least 35 goals..give him a break, we live and die by him, we will fight hard in this playoff and if we make it 3 more wins than we deserve it. if we dont, next year will be a great year for this whole team. everyone stop laying into gaborik, hes a top flight sniper who plays decent defense and cares about this team…if only he had passion like callahan or dubinsky or even prospal, hed be at 50 goals every year
nobody doubts his
work ethic, but he can’t score, what good is a scorer who can’t score? is he going to earn 7 mil to bust his ass and not score unless we play the leafs or islanders? his only job is to score and he doesn’t do that or should I say hasn’t done that this year…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:47 AM EDT up reply actions
its not enough from gabby
the guys not paid to be a hard worker like prust or boyle. he is not paid to backcheck (although I recognize it is an important part of the rangers system). he is paid to put the puck in the net. the guys got a monster shot and he often hesitates to use it. He misses the net too often, he shoots it into the chest of the goaltender too often and he gets it stripped away from him too often. Sure, he is working hard. For some other players, working hard is enough to look good, but not for gabby. this mfer has to score.
"I've been really working on stick-handling with my head up,"
- Eric Lindros
Jeremy Roenick
…made a joke just before the game on versus. He started by asking, “Has anyone seen Marion Gaborik?” while he looked around the studio and under the desk. He went on to talk about the Rangers needing him to break out, and how Gaborik makes way too much money to not score important playoff goals. I totally agree. For the entire season, Gaborik has been pathetic. Only scoring goals in moments when we least need them, and disappearing when we are dying for them.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not blaming gabby for the loss. It was a tough play to end the game on. What I am blaming gabby for is the restraint he places on the team by not producing. With as many 20 or near 20 goal scorers that we had this season, a 40+ goal scorer would put this team over the top. Yet Gabby doesn’t score like that any more.
Its not like he hit a scoring slump like so many good players do. He failed to produce for an entire season, and now it has continued into the playoffs. His 20 goals is even deceiving considering how many were scored in multigoal games. Solution? Well considering torts has tried just about every conceivable line combo to get this guy going, i’m not sure there is one. Gabby needs a centerman that can feed him the puck with ease. Passes wrecklessly shoveled off the boards won’t land on gabbys stick where he needs it. What else does he need? To shoot the f’in puck, and to actually hit the net with it. How many times does this guy miss the net high? Un-f’in-believable.
There is too many people defending him, saying he looked good iin this game or that game. In my opinion, gabby isnt lookin good unless he puts it in the net because thats what he is paid for.
"I've been really working on stick-handling with my head up,"
- Eric Lindros
by NYRGrady on Apr 21, 2011 12:46 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Roenick
…was an exceptional hockey player… and is an exceptionally bad analyst…
by AZRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 12:49 AM EDT up reply actions
yeah he kinda sucks
idk there arent too many good ones
Barnaby is ok
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:50 AM EDT up reply actions
Roenick scored a lot of goals for me in NHL ’94. What a reference.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions
i don't
mind roenick… he knows the game hockey players are genrally not prima donas and aren’t really good showmen… their more blue collar kind of guys unlike football and basketball players who chomp at the bit to get as much facetime as possible…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:51 AM EDT up reply actions
nonetheless
a funny poke at the “absence” of gabby
"I've been really working on stick-handling with my head up,"
- Eric Lindros
how many chances has he had with an open lane and hit the boards behind the goalie or shot directly into the goaltenders chest or better yet, PASSED… WTF our sniper passes on open shots theres some real confidence issues going on for a guy who score 40+ last season on a worse team…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:50 AM EDT up reply actions
why do you guys not understand, this system is NOT what gaborik benefits from. how can you expect him to go into scrum piles and take away pucks like these other guys do? thats the only reason im not opposed to richards at a decent price, gaborik will have another top flight player to get a boost from.. yes he was disappointing this year but stop bashing him, you give him either a revamped youngster who finally breaks through for us or a savvy veteran who can keep up with him,he will be dangerous until he retires/dies of a groin injury
Our system hasn’t changed from last year when Gaborik WAS scoring.
by jigblahdah on Apr 21, 2011 8:39 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Sorry folks...
I know the Rangers didn’t officially lose the series tonight, but they sure as hell lost control of the series, which is a goddamned shame considering the position we were in, heading into the 3rd up 3-0, seemingly in control. Still proud of this team for what they’ve accomplished this year, but what a crappy way to (most likely) go out. Like I’ve said on numerous occasions, the disappointment never gets any easier to stomach. I want to believe, but I’d be absolutely stunned if they can even push this thing to a game 6 after such a colossal collapse tonight. Hope they prove me wrong…again.
they
still control their own fate, 3 wins in its done… the odds are against them but unlike needing another team outside their control ala carolina, they control their fate, I didn’t expect a series win, I want a series win, but the realist in me knows this is a building block, the caps are a supposed cup contender, who can barely manage to beat a building team, i’d be more concerned as a cap fan than a ranger fan… this post season is all gravy… that being said i want to knock these bastards out…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:53 AM EDT up reply actions
I wouldn’t be surprised at all if they get it back to the Garden on Monday for a Game 6. This team kills you, makes you stop believing, them pulls a ridiculous win out of their collective ass. They’ve done it all year. And everyone knows how safe a 3-1 series lead is with the Caps. Not.
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
by Joe1969 on Apr 21, 2011 12:54 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Not a caps fan exists who think this series is over.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 21, 2011 6:15 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
well at least we know they can cunt to 4.
by The HECKLER! on Apr 21, 2011 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions
I was getting ready to write something very similar. Tonight was a disaster pure and simple and I, for one, am not gonna sit around and make lame excuses. Every time you get to the Stanley Cup playoffs you are in it to win it. McD’s mistake, I can understand and chalk up to youth. Okay.
But Dubi on the second goal? WTF. We can talk about youth movement, but this was his year to not just improve but to demonstrate that he’s ready to be a reliable second liner. With Cally out that mental error in a playoff series we’re down 2 games to 1 is, quite simply, inexcusable.
For sure Gabby is one of the main reasons the power play sucks. Gabby is only scoring goals that other people work for. He is not creating many opportunities and he is not converting on the chances he’s given. He’s looking better than he did for 90% of the year but that simply isn’t enough to take us through the Stanley Cup playoffs…that’s for sure. And yes, we can blame him for the loss. He essentially poke checked the puck into our own net in double overtime with us facing an insurmountable deficit. You do not pay a guy 7m to do that.
Boyle drives with the puck well, works the corners hard, has surprising speed for a big guy (at times) and is learning how to finish BUT he does NOT see the ice well at all. He is a horrible set up man, rarely passes and ignores his teammates. He must learn how to look three dimensionally.
d
this is what bugs me
we make backup scrub goalies look like Patrick Roy
ever notice this?
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:49 AM EDT reply actions
we just don’t have an offense yet, we have the goaltending and the defense, arguably the two hardest to find, the offense will come, AA Stepan will grow on this year as will others and we will get the offense just have to be patient…
@clalicata17
by Clalicata17 on Apr 21, 2011 12:54 AM EDT up reply actions
yessir
we have zero offense
thats what we need imo
the defense and goaltending is there
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 12:56 AM EDT up reply actions
wtf are you talking about
who is mr byslma??
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 4:48 AM EDT up reply actions
The Coach Byslma references are to the Penguins Head Coach and 24/7. In the game the Caps and Penguins played on Dec 23, during an intermission, Byslma said about Neuvirth “this goalie isn’t good.” Though the Caps lost that game, the next 2 times Neuvirth would start against the penguins he would go one to shut out the Penguins both times this season.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
ohhhh a Caps fan
I bet you became a fan the year Ovechkin became a superstar
LAME
you will choke to the next team you play, enjoy
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 4:50 AM EDT up reply actions
Games Started by Caps Goalies in 2010-11
Neuvirth 45
Varlamov 25
Holtby 12
Sure looks like Neuvirth is the starter to me. In addition the guy’s numbers during the season of .910 save percentage, 2.45 GAA and a record of 27-12-4 aren’t too shabby.
He’s not Lundqvist… none of the Caps goalies are, but Neuvirth isn’t a back up scrub either. He’s a solid NHL netminder who has a tremendous upside (just turned 23).
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s a solid NHL netminder who has a tremendous upside (just turned 23).
by The HECKLER! on Apr 21, 2011 7:49 PM EDT up reply actions
could be the second coming of Ken Dryden
by The HECKLER! on Apr 21, 2011 7:52 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d like to see Gaborik next year with a legitimate center and not Brad Richards, please. Let’s see if we can pry cry-baby Lecavalier away from Tampa now since Stamkos stole his thunder (no pun intended).
I’d like to see Gaborik next year in another teams jersey.
by voice22 on Apr 21, 2011 1:45 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Even if he scores more, it's gonna be more of the same
Disapearing acts when we need. Gabby plays better in a small pond, playing meaningless games, scoring when it suits him. He’s not the answer for our team, his cap space is more valuable then he can be.
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I just don’t like the headlines. “Caps complete furious rally” really makes the observer think differently of the game had he not watched it.
Sometimes I wish I was a journalist.
"Jaromir Jagr.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
- Sam Rosen
"Let me ask you, would you want to play for the Edmonton Oilers...? (laughter)"
-Evgeni Nabokov
"We're not going to win a 1-0 hockey game tonight"
-John Tortorella, before the Rangers 1-0 win over the Canucks.
I'm going to start reading the game thread
…. And stop at the end of the 2nd period
Calmer than you are.
Boswell is primarily a baseball writer… take what he writes with a grain of salt.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions
I only caught a little of the game online via radio
So I didn’t see it… But it sounded like to me that Avery cost us the game with a penelty that allowed the tying goal. I think you guys are too hard on Gabby. He is still a great player who suffers from lots of injuries he can’t help. Plus he didnt have vinny for most of the season who really went well together last year so his goal count could have been a lot higher…
2 real crappy days for NY sports fans
1. Knicks lose their second playoff game in a row in the final minute.
2. Rivera blows a save, Toronto wins.
3. Mets=the worst team in baseball.
4. Rangers punch us in the chest and tear our hearts out.
All in 2 days.
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
by Joe1969 on Apr 21, 2011 1:06 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Its depressing to see Lunqvist getting let down so much…
"I've got this Err"
by Gelatin on Apr 21, 2011 1:17 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Fuck tortorella
2OT game and Wolski only gets 9 minutes?? Guy makes great passes and plays 7 to 10 minutes a game?
He’s been invisible most of the series, and did you see his lack of hustle that could have negated an icing last night? He’s a loafer, that’s why he isn’t playing big minutes.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions
I cant believe there isnt 1 criticism of McCabe on this page. If Im the only one then so be it, fuck him. Our PP still blows. He isnt here to make soft passes and wrist shots from the point to be easily blocked away if they get past the defenders shins in the first place. I dont know why they dont have him on the opposite side where its MUCH easier to rip a fuckin one-timer bomb like we all know he is capable of. When he’s on the left side and wants to shoot he needs to set it up and by that time someone is in front of him and he’s gotta adjust and either pass off or make a move and thats not working. Maybe its Sullivan, I dont know, but it needs to be changed because its beyond stupid to me.
Now more importantly, all of you that have given up and dont care or “hate this team” … good for you, goodbye. This team is a few bounces away from being UP 3-1. They wont go away easily Saturday. Win Game 5 and bring it back to the Garden, think Caps can win here again? I dont. Get it to a Game 7 and 100% of the pressure is on them in their building vs an inferior opponent, an 8 seed that they shouldve dominated but yet again are struggling against because they are weak mentally. I really wish Arnott never went there because he has taught them invaluable lessons and brought actual toughness to that team.
GO PACK GO -- 13 Time World Champions
Let's Go Rangers
yeah he kinda sucks
besides the power play McCabe is a jag
gimme Valentenko next year
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 4:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Agree on every point
Worst Rangers day: April 10, 1984
by Stepan the Ice! on Apr 21, 2011 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions
The whole PP is a mess, it’s obvious we’re trying to feed McCabe, so they over compensate, but none of our forwards have the vision to take advantage of the extra space that creates down lo
He needed to stick with Chimera even if he thought Hank had the puck though. Still, I wouldn’t expect any of our other D to handle it differently
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Truth is, the Rangers work very hard, but so does a washing machine.
They play extremely well when they don’t have the puck, but don’t know what to do with it when they have it.
The PP just amplifies both of those issues. Hard work and great play without the puck doesn’t equal a very good PP.
by The HECKLER! on Apr 21, 2011 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions
This is a loss that really burns
Sitting there in 306, screaming “can you hear us” was such an amazing feeling… 2-2 series… The momentum all behind us as we head down I-95 for game 5… Except wait, that’s right, hockey has 3 periods… Now, I don’t know what to do with myself… liquor stores long closed… Too angry to be tired… too sad to watch low-lights… Work in just a few short hours… I just hope that some of those guys that were out there feel the same way
Were they saying "Boo" or "Boo-urns?"
@SlayerSantana on Twitter
Dude, I was there in 223, and I feel exactly the same way. It’s like the 2nd period was the best high in the world, and then it was like gradually coming off it into the worst low imaginable.
I want to go back in time and smack Gabby in the head before he assists Chimera on the winning goal.
My only cold comfort is that blowing a 3-0 lead in the third period at home and then losing because you’re “superstar” coughs up the puck in front of your all-star goalie, sending everyone home depressed – not sure it gets a lot worse.
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
Too tired from MSG's emotional roller-coaster
Just got home from the game and watching it on my DVR tp try and understand how something so amazing and exhilirating could inexplicably go wrong so badly. I’m too exhausted to type :(
I’m not trying to rub salt here, but y’all should take a look at the GIF dimagus put up on japers re: the first goal. I really don’t see henrik as ever having control of that puck. I watched it like 7 times, and he clearly swats at the puck to keep it from going over the goal line and almost instantly, arnott’s stick is on it and the puck is out of his glove and resting between his legpad and the goal line. From there you know the rest. Have I seen whistles for less control than that? sure. we all have. both for and against our respective squads. but that would’ve been one mighty quick whistle had the ref blown it. I’m sure I’ll get called a homer, but that’s what i saw. now, had i been watching from the rafters of MSG (or verizon if it had happened to neuvirth) i’d probably be crying BS like y’all are now, but the replay is pretty clear cut.
Not trying to rub salt here, but who gives a flying fuck in a rolling doughnut?
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
your moderator gave enough of a flying fuck in said donut to mention it in the recap.
by capsfansteve on Apr 21, 2011 3:13 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Don’t see too many or any of us complain about the whistle or no whistle there. What about the phantom penalty call? Or the refs getting in the way of that outlet pass? 2nd goal was real close to offsides. Most posts on here are talking about what we did wrong. Go troll somewhere else. Still plenty of hockey left.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 3:46 AM EDT up reply actions
+1
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
it's true about not making excuses...
but really. paul devorski did a number in this game. he was a FORCE on the ice against the rangers
Refs, like nets, shitty ice, /fill in the blank/ are all part of the game. Ref was exactly where he needed to be. Get over it.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
he shouldn’t have been anywhere in that area. at all. the linesmen was in perfect position, but the ref was completely out of line.
he was admiring the pass and lost focus. it happens, but dont try to defend him.
next time you lose cause of the refs dont complain. at all. or else you’d be a hypocrite.
"Mr. Madison, what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."
LET'S GO RANGERS!!!
Oh I’ll complain when it happens. You can be sure of that. It’s only human. But I’ll get over it because what else can you do. Move on.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions
He definitely hurt you guys a lot, but made some crappy penalty calls/non-calls against the Caps, too. Regardless, I think the ref was right to not blow the whistle on Semin’s goal—puck was clearly loose next to Lundqvist’s leg.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions
stop farting caps fan
it smells like VASOLINE up in here
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 4:52 AM EDT up reply actions
I didn’t know you could smell on the interwebz. I’m pretty sure the vasoline you’re smelling comes straight from your ChiaCrack.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions
0 for 7 on the PP is the killer.
I love McD but he looked so tentative on the outlet pass that led to the first Caps goal. It was like a replay of Staal’s giveaway in game one OT. Caps have been cutting that pass off all series – they really need to adjust to that. After that, the floodgates opened. The second goal looked like something out of a beer league game – everyone watch the puck while the guy in front is wide open.
Rough way to take a loss. Hope they bounce back but as we all know – these playoffs are a bonus this year.
Manning lobs it, Burress alone, touchdown New York!
For the empty net, Mark Messier... do you believe it?! Do you believe it?! He said we will win game 6 - he has just picked up the hat trick!
yeah McD man
McD and Stepan look really nervous, I cant bash them at all man no matter what
they are sooooo young and played some amazing hockey this year
look at our young talent
McD Sauer Stepan all made the team this year and were better than alot of vets
seriously Sauer is going to be very solid and a career guy here
Stepan and McD are possible star players
I cant bash them at all man I love those two players
by Archie Barberio on Apr 21, 2011 4:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Sauer
Could not agree more – this guy is an extremely intelligent defender, doesn’t look at all like a first-year call up, even in pressure situations. Rarely makes a positioning mistake or blows coverage – and throws his body around like a sledgehammer. Reminds me of Beukeboom. Really – this is a huge bright spot in an otherwise gloomy post-season. He’s a keeper that will only improve.
This loss ranks up there with most painful playoff losses i can remember.
G7 against Caps two years ago, Buffalo before that (Beloved Captain Drury). Worst IMO was losing to the Penguins (92-93 season) I was in eighth grade at the time… Richter gave up two 50 footers late in the game. I sobbed like a bitch for a good hour when it was over.
Not much to say about this group and the game. They play hard and its a great time to be a Rangers fan with a team like this, win or lose. Its clear that Gabby needs to be Robin to someone elses Batman if he’s going to stay in NY, otherwise he has to go back West. That will resolve itself this summer.
This season is already a success. Young team need to learn how to win in the playoffs and this game was a tough lesson. Still love the fight and character of this bunch, upgrade with some proven offensive talent and figure out the PP… next season can’t get here soon enough for me.
by Gabby the Gutless Sniper on Apr 21, 2011 5:05 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
I'm shocked no one else commented on this...
“Henrik Lundqvist had originally made the stop and had possession of the puck.”
I must have been watching a different replay than everyone else because the replays my MSG played clearly showed Hank NEVER had this puck. True, he did pull it off the goal line with his glove but he never had control and the puck was never under his body. It kills me to say it, but this was a great non-whistle by the refs. Now if it happened on the other end of the ice I would completely expect a quick whistle.
by NYdemo on Apr 21, 2011 5:55 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
I agree. What probably pisses people off is that many times it does get a whistle. The ref was in position and must of had a view of the loose puck the entire time. It was the right call, but 50% of the time in a play like that, the ref loses sight and blows it dead.
Yah, like everything else, it’s inconsistent and luck-based. But it sure did seem like the refs have been slow to whistle in this series.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Never had control
What’s so maddening is that 90% of the time (during the regular season) the whistle is blown, WHEN IT SHOULDN’T BE BLOWN. In other words, how many times can you remember complaining about too quick of a whistle? It happens to every team all year long. When it happens, we complain, “why do they always blow the whistle so quickly?. . .they should have let play continue, etc.” We get used to the quick whistle, even though it shouldn’t be blown. Last night we expected a quick whistle, but the ref made the right call. Hank never had control. If he did it would not have popped out for the easy put home. I’m sure the ref was just about to blow the whistle, when he saw it was still loose, so he swalled it. It was regrettably the rare, but right, call.
Worst Rangers day: April 10, 1984
by Stepan the Ice! on Apr 21, 2011 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
when i made that comment, I got called a troll because I like the caps instead of the rangers.
by capsfansteve on Apr 21, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
damn troll! get outta here! =]
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
i blame the ref who broke up the 2 on 0
With a spoon, i scooped out some of the juices inside my pimple, and it tasted like chunky vomit.
M.O.B.
Better position than Carlson was in all night.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Gotta hand it to the fans at MSG — that “Can you hear us?” chant was great — so clear on TV and a damn good response to Bruce’s comments — very well orchestrated.
Good luck the rest of the series, friends.
I like Laich, but I <3 Green
Keep the faith!!!!!!
Yup..great stuff….MSG showed us last night why we love hockey. Bruce asked for it, and you gave it to him.
One of the best hockey moments of the season to date, no doubt. What a great crowd. Bruce was a hair away from being thoroughly embarrassed.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
A few incoherent thoughts in no particluar order...
Very tough loss but phenomenal experience for the kiddies….
Rangers should do an Abby Hoffman and "Trust No one over 30 " next year- McCabe, Prospal, Drury and Gabby gone…..
Fedetenko has been a stud this entire series… Not sure if he ’s over 30 though?
Sauer & McDonagh- out of site good; great going forward
Girardi & Staal- see line above….
Gilroy & Annisimov- need to hit the weights hard this summer-both have very good long term potential but need strength
Dubi- keep the pussy bumper
Cally- man oh man could we have used you last night
All this said I still think we can turn this series around. The Capitals have squeaked by 3 times- they are definitely beatable. Go Rangers !
"Shoot the Puck Barry, Shoot the puck !" Bill Chadwick
by RangerFanInChicago on Apr 21, 2011 8:59 AM EDT reply actions
I feel your loss. Well not really, but what a crazy tilt last night was. That WAS playoff hockey by definition. Love it. That said, I’m very cognizant this series is far from over.
The Rangers have a good crop of young, and hard working talent. Callahan’s presence is certainly missed. Henrik is … well he is King, but he needs support. Gaborik must be maddening as Syomin is to us.
Go Caps.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
Good luck dumping those Drury and Gaborik contracts. I doubt you’ll find any takers. Maybe Redden needs some company?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Drury has a NMC, so he can’t be sent down, and Gaborik, in a terrible year, had 48 points in 62 games. Neither’s going to HFD, but agree, neither is going anywhere.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Barf. Bad contracts are the least enjoyable part of the NHL for fans. I wish they’d get rid of the guaranteed contracts and allow players to move freely, renegotiate contracts, and be cut for shitty performance. The NFL-style model is generally a good one.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Half-wins! Win%, not point%!
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions
tough way to lose a game
im sure we all agree this game is why we all love hockey. a hard faught battle by both teams. rangers taking control in the second period, garden rocking, caps making the comeback in the third.
but in the 2 overtimes, i noticed the rangers were sluggish. could either be from the air deflating their confidence after the caps tied it up, or it it’s because the grinding style the rangers play take a tremendous effect on them after the 60 minute mark. the caps were faster, got to loose pucks faster, defended, made mostly clean passes getting ouf of their own zone. rangers were a step behind, didn’t make clean passes out of their zone, defense was disorganized at times.
hank is gonna blow his fuse real soon. he is without a doubt one of the, if not the best, goaltender in the league. especially considering how many defensive breakdowns the rangers have, due to a young & learning defense, that he has to bail them out of 90% of the time. just imagine what hank could do if he was on a cup contending team???
but overall, if we happen get eliminated on saturday, this team has made us all believe in the youth, have surpassed expectations, and have seen a lot of development in our core (cally, dubi & company). if all goes well, they will develop into even greater players next season. just need to fill in the few pieces this team is still missing (#1 center, a working PP, a PP QB) and we’ll be cup contenders a lot sooner than everyone else expected.
with that said, we gotta give em hell on saturday, bring it back to NY on monday to the sound of 18,200 vuvuzelas to the point where boudreau is so ditracted he can’t even think of what box of donuts to eat before & after the game (dunkin donuts of krispy krere).
and to all the caps fans who were still here lingering, i have a good amount of respect for the talent on your team, would pick ovie anyway over cry-baby crosb*tch, but you guys are a cup contending team with more talent than the rangers. for the series to be as close as it is right now, fortunate bounces one way or the other, the caps were expected to be running away with this series already by this time. but i’m sure most of you can find the same respect of the rangers that they are a hard working, grinding, gritty team that has finally developed an identity this season.
so if the caps make it past the first round, they’re going to have to step it up in order to beat the seeds that are as high up as them.
I have no idea what to say
You can’t blame gaborik solely for the loss, for the whole game he did play pretty damn well just made an all time bad play trying to clear the puck while Henrik tried to cover it
I’m not sure if you could measure how much an impact one player could have on a power play and if so is it richards? Maybe
0 for 7 on the power play and 1 for i think 15 is inexcusable and after the rangers are out of the playoffs (be it saturday or further down the line) there needs to be a hard look at the personnel that run the power play (looking at you Mike McWhiteboard) yes the Caps have a good penalty kill but 0 for 7? McCabe getting good looks but passing up the shots is mind boggling as are these cross ice passes with all four caps players clogging the middle of the ice.
A few guys i feel really bad for:
1) Henrik: I mean come on…49 saves, stopping Ovi on the breakaway in overtime…the guy has done it all
2) Ruslan Fedetenko: This guy has been the Rangers best forward this series in terms of playing solid, two way hockey…this guy has really been a revelation to this young team and I hope he gets one more year
3) Dan Girardi: If anyone deserves one of those whirlpool baths its him…the guy played out of his mind on the PK in overtime blocking two consecutive shots as well as playing the best defense against Ovechkin I’ve seen in a long time
4) Marian Gaborik: Yes, I feel bad for him, he scores a big goal, he’s been skating hard and actually playing better hockey than he has been in this series and one big mistake in the second overtime turned him (wrongfully) the scapegoat of the series
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
I've had it with Gabby, but not b/c of the game winner
What’s pissed me off about him more than anything is he’s played/shot like a 4th liner all series – shooting right into Bebe’s chest or trying to beat guys futily to the outside. Only once did he stop, pull up and cut to the middle ala #99 and get a good shot off that Bebe’ actually had to move for. Other than that, he only scores a gimme. As an entire package, it’s very dfficult to not hold him VERY accountable for the state we’re in – on the PP, shooting, scoring – oh yeah and the final 2OT play to boot.
I can’t believe I’m typing this but I’m thinkin’ even if we get Richards, if Gabby doesn’t learn to consistently cut ot the net and shoot for the corners on teams other that TOR, EDM or NYI, he’s not worth th effort
Fedotenko is a playoff monster. Wish we’d picked him up ourselves.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Tough Loss
Just a heartbreaking loss for the team. But a great lesson for the young guys on this team…the playoffs are a different beast.
Not much to say that hasn’t been said already. Gaborik should not be blamed for this loss; no one player is ever responsible for wins or losses. Little plays before goals are just as big as the goal itself. It was a team collapse in the 3rd. Lots of puck watching instead taking the body and having one’s head on a swivel. One thing, as the game wore on, it sure looked as if the Rangers were gassed compared to the Caps. I noticed a similar trend in the Game 1 OT.
I know it’s difficult to take positives right after this game, but this whole series is a great learning experience for the team. I know it’s a cliche to say “the playoffs are different”, but it seems to hold true. Whatever happens the rest of the way, the young guys will learn to never give up on a play, on a series, that you have to remain focused all the time. This is why missing the playoffs would have been a major disappointment this season. You can’t teach this kind of experience.
Negatives: The PowerPlay. Across different coaches and systems the PP has been lackluster since Jagr left. And that is a clue to what’s wrong. The Rangers lack individual offensive talent. Take a look around the NHL at the good PPs, they all are filled with gifted offensive players. The Rangers have Gaborik and ???. Del Zotto’s decline really hurt the PP this season; he is needed. Gifted offensive players are a necessary, but insufficient condition to a successful PP. It doesn’t guarantee a good PP, but without those players it is very difficult to succeed as the Rangers have been demonstrating for several seasons.
When you pull back from this game and the series, there is a lot to like about this season…but last nights loss was tough.
by NTB on Apr 21, 2011 10:09 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
I like this post a lot.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
When you pull back from this game and the series, there is a lot to like about this season
nailed it…100000000000%
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
by Kevin Power on Apr 21, 2011 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions
I just can't get behind
… posts saying how great a learning experience this was, how this season was on the whole a success, or that the current course (three-year plan or whatever you want to call Tortorella’s intentions) is working. I do agree that the season would have been even more of a bust, though, had they missed the playoffs. Were there good things this season, sure, moments of brilliance, even, but I don’t count this a successful season, not by a long shot, and I don’t find myself contented by the idea the future will obviously be better for us given the current helmsmen and team makeup.
I can respect that. Torts appears to be quite polarizing b/c of his personality. I don’t think the results on the ice or the progression of the youth warrant the hatred some hold for him, but then again, I don’t think coaches impact the game that much either. I just don’t think you can have the Yankee attitude (Stanley Cup or Bust) as a Ranger fan…at least not yet. This team was so poorly managed until a few years ago and under the salary cap, that is a death knell.
You can’t help but be excited about the Rangers D-corp, they have such amazing potential. Yes, the scoring situation is less favorable. However, that is the sort of problem that can be fixed via free agency or trade deadline. And since the Rangers are stock-piling good young players, especially on D, they could land a top scorer when needed. And although we probably all like to discount it, you simply can’t predict the luck that is needed to win the Cup. Often Cup winners are filled with players who have career years, just get super hot during the playoffs..and no GM or Coach or Player can predict when that is going to happen. in the end, winning the Stanley Cup takes a roster full of talent (which the Rangers ARE assembling) and a whole bunch of luck.
My question to you, who do you want running this team? If the current team is so bad, who do you think can improve the Rangers?
Re: PP…maybe they’re exceptions, but I remember teams like Minnesota icing great power plays without a ton of talent. I think it’s all about quick puck movement, shooting, and screens. Obviously, high-end talent has the vision and hands to pull that off, but even lesser talent can. I think the Rangers have that available. Luckily, for whatever reason(s), Torts isn’t just putting Anisimov and Boyle in front of the net with McCabe and Gaborik just bombing away from the point.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions
But a great lesson for the young guys on this team…the playoffs are a different beast.
What young guys? Stepan, AA, McD and Sauer? Dubi, Girardi, and Staal are all playing in their 3rd playoffs as Rangers – and those are the ones who are “core guys” . Wolski is young, but has been there with Phoenix and Colorado. Prust and Boyle are in their first playoffs, but as well as they’ve played this season, they’re still 3rd line grinders at best, and they’ve both been griding all series. The rest of them are vets, a bunch even have rings. We still have some young guys coming up, but the “core guys” and the guys with the letters on their shirts HAVE been here before. It’s not a “learning experience” it’s put up or shut up time. How many years of “learning” do you need?
One thing, as the game wore on, it sure looked as if the Rangers were gassed compared to the Caps. I noticed a similar trend in the Game 1 OT.
I think it was more the Caps pulling it together then us getting flatter. The more we let the game slip away in the 3rd, the worse the team looked. That’s a matter of team leadership stepping up and the coach keeping them on track. It’s also a matter of guys stepping up and KEEPING the game from getting out of hand. Hank was the only one keeping us in that game again.
The Rangers lack individual offensive talent.
Can’t agree with you enough here. Getting that talent HAS TO be our top priority. The guys in our system aren’t going to develop or mature into that level of player, and we have to realize that. Whatever it takes, we have to try to find the top end talent, and fill in the holes with what’s left on the farm, the roster, and veteran FA’s. If you look at the top 10 guys at any position, you’re gonna be able to pretty much agree on the top 6-8 with everyone. After that it gets ALOT murkier. You can have a list of 20+ guys in the discussion for spots 9 and 10. That’s our problem.Outside of Hank, our BEST guys are MAYBE in the list of guys IN DISCUSSION for the 9-10 spots. We need talent.
Since you brought up MDZ, I would say that he’s an example of the idea, that even if we draft guys with elite tools, our system doesn’t seem to be able to turn them into elite players. MDZ, Grachev, Gilroy, recently MZA – I’m not saying it’s ALL our systems fault that they haven’t made the jump just that we do far worse with skill guys then we do with creating grinders.
When you pull back from this game and the series, there is a lot to like about this season
We’re still a LONG way from being contenders, even longer if we are waiting to DEVELOP a home grown team. The only true shinning star has been Hank, who’s played like we expected him too, but how many more years are we going to do it, and without him, how bad would this team look?
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions
dont worry people our savior has arrived
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
how dare you disrespect you gallant and brave Sir Nicholas Nutcracker
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
by Kevin Power on Apr 21, 2011 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions
ouch
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Is this rodent going to battle or protecting himself from a Richard Gere sneak attack?
by Gabby the Gutless Sniper on Apr 21, 2011 10:30 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
He's Sir Nicholas Nutcracker
my expertly trained Squirrel Knight
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
by Kevin Power on Apr 21, 2011 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions
- In response to the Richard Gere comment******
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions
ONLY TWO PROBLEMS TO SOLVE
Regardless of how you portray this series, the 2 unarguable deficiencies have been 1) a power play that has cost us many games before and during this series, and 2) the lack of scoring by Gaborik.
Much as i would like to, I cannot understand what Tortorello sees in this guy. He was traded to the Rangers two years ago supposedly because of a propensity for injuries, and not only has he missed quite a few games due to injury this year, he hasn’t scored at all. I’m tired of the excuses for him——he just can’t score!!!! It doesn’t matter how well he skates, or the creativity he shows, or the moves he has, HE HASN"T SCORED!!!! He’s been in the right place countless times this year and hasn’t been able to do what scorers do——pick the corners, or lift the puck, or get the ugly goal! I’m not saying he has no talent, I just don’t think the entire game plan should have revolved aroung him. He may be a nice guy, he may be trying like hell, he may be snake-bit, but HE AIN"T SCORING! Overall, he has, IMHO, hurt the team more than helped the team this year. Careful consideration should be made about his future with the Rangers. Then he should be traded
As for the power play, there has been very little improvement over the past two years, I think we can all agree. The ultimate responsibility for this rests with Tortorello, but it is the primary job of Mike Sullivan to design and implement the power play. HE HAS FAILED MISERABLY. He should be let go immediately.
I’m quite sure some will respond with statistics that show that we’re not THAT bad compared top the rest of the league, but i’d like to remind all of you that the only true measure of efficiency is the Stanley Cup. I know we’re not a Stanley Cup team yet, but unless we improve the PP we’re never even going to sniff the cup. It’s gotten to the point where I shudder when they get a PP; I’m just waiting to see how much worse they can be than their last PP. I wish we could refuse the penalty, we get way more scoring chances 5 on 5 than on the PP.
I still love the Rangers after 50+ years and I’ll die bleeding Ranger Blue, but I also want the best for the team, so I reserve the right to observe and state my opinions.
Go, Rangers, PLEASE!!!!!!!!
Gaborik was signed as a FA because the Rangers had a lot of trouble scoring the year before. While his injury history is impossible to ignore, it was the only way the Rangers were going to acquire a player with 40 goal ability since they didn’t have anyone on their roster or in their farm system with that sort of offensive talent.
He met and exceeded expectations in his first season with the team, having a hand in nearly 40% of the team’s scoring. Injuries, lack of confidence or what have you derailed him this year, but he still finished 3rd on the team in goals and tied for 2nd in points. So in his two seasons he’s had one exceptional year and one subpar year.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
werd, not like there was an elite 40-50 perennial goal scorer
from atlanta coming onto the open market a year later.
you really would have wanted kovalchuck for 15 years at 100 million? and what if he made the same play last night?
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
by Kevin Power on Apr 21, 2011 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
not even saying i wanted ilya
just saying its not like giving an injury prone gaborik a long term huge deal was the only scenario
Gaborik’s deal is a fraction of the length of players with comparable ability. Look at Hossa and Kovalchuk’s deals. His injury proneness is the reason it’s only a 5 year deal.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions
ill take a heatlhy guy on a monster long term deal that will actually lower the
annual salary and the cap hit over a shorter (but still super long) deal for a guy who has a history of being soft and off the ice. I honestly wouldn’t want any of them but I would after some consideration I would trade Gabby and his contract for Kovy and his.
5 years is not a long deal for premium talent UFAs.
The difference in Gaborik and Kovalchuk’s cap hits aren’t going to preclude the Rangers from retaining core RFAs. If they want to go after a premium UFA like Brad Richards they’ll have to do something along the lines of buy out Drury and trade someone like Wolski.
And pro-rated him and Kovalchuk had a pretty much the same season.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Didn’t sleep very well at all last night, this one is going to eat at me for a long time, unless they have a miracle in them.
Everyone (as usual) has made mostly good points in the thread, so there isn’t much I can add.
Last night I saw a young team come completely unglued after that first goal, call it a life lesson.
I would sure like to see them at least win Game 5, to bring it back to MSG, those fans at the game last night were absolutely amazing, and deserve another one.
Other than that, numbness prevails. Not even ice cream helped last night.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 10:23 AM EDT reply actions
I got up this morning and watched periods 2 and 3 from the Bruins game. I love this team and they are going to show up with resolve for Game 5. This season isn’t going to defined by how it ends, it already been a success whether you view it from an on ice development perspective or fans point of view.
by Gabby the Gutless Sniper on Apr 21, 2011 10:37 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
When taken as an overview absolutely, I think its a successful season in terms of development, experience, and team-building.
But man, it hurts.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions
The team could have used some leadership from its Captain at some point after that first goal. I didnt see him doinganything but maybe thats just the TV cameras not showing him?
"Shoot the Puck Barry, Shoot the puck !" Bill Chadwick
by RangerFanInChicago on Apr 21, 2011 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
yes, you are absolutely right. I simply cannot believe that Chris Drury is the captain of this hockey team. Even if he were all that he’s cut out to be in terms of leadership ability, he missed the whole season. He wasn’t really a part of this club. We are a hard working club with no on ice leadership.
d
Great write up but I’m sorry to be negative…if this isn’t an indication that we have a 7 MILLION dollar a year face off man who only offers the ability to kill penalties also and is desperately in need of a buyout I don’t know what else to say…this team is in serious need of talent…slats should listen to the banter chants of we need talent…overtime was like hanging around watching a man…a team waiting to hang…we did not have the offensive capabilities to win a game in ot…we can grind out goals but we can’t just flat out change a game and that is what lost us this ot but hopefully not the series…RANGER IN 7!!!!!!!!!
by mickeymuffinz on Apr 21, 2011 11:01 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
First off I’ve never been so sick to see so many Caps “fans” in this thread….Yeah all of them say not be mean or rub salt in the wound or all that other bs but really thats their only objective of coming over here, stay at your own blog and rejoice their. Second, I ordered Chinese food last night after the game, the fortune read “You don’t learn from success but rather failure.” So maybe we learned a valuable lesson last night, and can come back and win three straight. I’m being optimistic because I still believe we can win this series, the Caps did it to us two years ago, Montreal did it to the Caps last year. So why not us? Why won’t this team come back to thrill us one more time this season? We’ve seen this team face so much adversity over the course of the season, they can certainly show it to us at least one more time. Come on everybody BELIEVE this team can do it!
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 11:28 AM EDT reply actions
I Believe.
Worst Rangers day: April 10, 1984
by Stepan the Ice! on Apr 21, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah all of them say they’re not being mean or are not rubbing salt in the wound or all that other bs but really that’s their only objective of coming over here. Stay at your own blog and rejoicetheirthere.
FTFY and free of charge.
Um. I never said any of these things. Look if you have a problem with Caps fans trolling here I get that. I’m here to get the perspective of our opponents. I’m a hockey fan first, Caps fan second for what it’s worth. I just want to talk hockey. Will we agree on anything? Maybe. Maybe not. But we can agree to disagree.
The recap by Nick Montemagno is well appreciated from my end. I appreciate that George, one of your own, is over at Japers’ Rink engaging in reasonable and intelligent discussions with us.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Thank you grammer police, but where were all of you guys after game 3 huh? I can’t recall more than one or two of you guys if any in our threads, I can’t talk for anyone but myself and Im just saying I don’t think you guys would be here if we won, to “talk hockey.”
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions
but where were all of you guys after game 3 huh?
Not sure, but I was in the air en route to a business meeting. I think I would have been here regardless if the Caps won or your Blueshirts won.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Good for you, still doesn’t explain any other Caps fans motives to be in this thread.
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 12:13 PM EDT up reply actions
I sure as hell don’t explain other Caps fans motives, nor do I try to if I don’t know them.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m here a lot. Rinkers tend to go visit recaps of the opponent after a game, especially an exciting one.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions
I know your here a lot, Thats why I have no problem with you, or Christoph J for that matter, its the others on here that annoy me especially the clown posting the youtube video of a “history will be made” for last nights game. Those types of people are what piss me off even more after a bitter loss that I lost sleep over.
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Some advice? If you notice they don’t have an avatar, it’s probably a new person that just joined SBN (usually a transplant from Capitals Insider from the Washington Post) and aims to troll. More often than not they’re fair weather fans or bandwagoners.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah I noticed, that clown joined only 10 days ago……
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Also clicking on the name and checking commenting history tends to be helpful.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
FTFY and free of charge.
First sign of an asshole.
Blueshirt Banter *It's just pain.*
"On this team, we fight for that inch. On this team, we tear ourselves and everyone else around us to pieces for that inch. We claw with our fingernails for that inch. Because we know when we add up all those inches, that's gonna make the fucking difference between winning and losing! Between living and dying! I'll tell you this - in any fight, it's the guy who's willing to die who's gonna win that inch."
I don’t even know what the acronym stands for…
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I beg to differ. Asshole? No. First sign of a dick? I’ll agree to that. I’d rather be considered a dick.
See, there’s three kinds of people: dicks, pussies, and assholes. Pussies think everyone can get along, and dicks just want to fuck all the time without thinking it through. But then you got your assholes, Chuck. And all the assholes want us to shit all over everything! So, pussies may get mad at dicks once in a while, because pussies get fucked by dicks. But dicks also fuck assholes, Chuck. And if they didn’t fuck the assholes, you know what you’d get? You’d get your dick and your pussy all covered in shit!
I jest. Ok, yes I can get snarky but it was all in light banter and if I offended you, apologies. You dish it out some hits; expect to take some hits. Regardless. Nice to meet you.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
Well...
I don’t think any self-respecting analyst put Washington in for the ultimate cup winner. Why couldn’t they lose 3 in epic fashion?
Why couldn’t they lose 3 in epic fashion?
There’s still that very possibility!
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Wouldn’t be the first time. In fact, there’s no franchise you’re rather trail 3-1 than the Caps.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
If I’m a Rangers fan, I’m licking my chops and salivating.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
If they get 5, it probably goes 7, IMO.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Game 5 will be just as hard fought as 1-4(unless the Caps take a dump on the ice, which I’m sure Tortorella’s team will NOT do)… This has been a really brutal series. Even if it ends in 5, NYR fans can take solace in having beaten the bloody hell out of the caps physically.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
i've said it before and i'll say it again
I blame Cam Talbot
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
Alexander Semin ignited the rally just 2:47 into the third period on a controversial play. Henrik Lundqvist had originally made the stop and had possession of the puck
Have to disagree. The goal cam shows the puck just sitting on the goal line before Semin poked it across the line.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
Yup, but I’d venture an uneducated guess to say that play gets blown dead, after Lundqvist scoops the puck back from the goal line, a very high percentage of the time, somewhere in the 90% range.
Sure, in super-slo-mo in .gif files you can follow it. Live action, the ref has to be in absolute perfect position there to see that it is loose under the pad (before it exposes when I believe Arnott pokes it out for Semin to tap in). In this case, the ref happened to be.
From a Rangers’ fan perspective, that’s a brutal whistle not to get.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That's twice thus far George
But the Refs sure were fast to blow the whistle in the 2008 playoffs when Straka poked in a clearly lose puck against the Pens
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed.
I thought the Ovechkin one was much worse than last night’s, however. As I said, at least in this one, when you really slow it down, you can see that it was free. Ovechkin’s was under Henrik for enough time before the constant slamming away jammed it through.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Valid argument. That said, if I’m a Rangers fan I’m wondering why the defensemen (Staal) or backchecking forwards (can’t remember whom exactly) are just standing around waiting for a whistle while two Caps players are right at the doorstep unmolested taking whacks at King Henrik.
I’m pretty sure anyone who’s played hockey (or other sports) has always been taught to keep playing until the whistle blows — it sure as hell was chirped in my ear constantly.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions
It was discussed.
Staal and Girardi crashed at the blue line which took Staal out of the play. Girardi got blown up by Ovechkin and took him out of the play. Stepan (the primary culprit) was the one there to do something, and he was standing around. Eventually Staal got himself back and down through, but it way too late at that point.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Yup, but I’d venture an uneducated guess to say that play gets blown dead, after Lundqvist scoops the puck back from the goal line, a very high percentage of the time, somewhere in the 90% range.
Happens all the time in the regular season. I’m with you here. Very situational. Ref definitely was in the right place at the right time, with unobstructed view of the play unfolding. How many times, as fans of our teams, curse, mutter, yell in disbelief when a whistle we think should’ve been blown wasn’t blown? It doesn’t seem so far fetched to say 9 out of 10 times a ref doesn’t have the clear view he had last night during that type of play.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t expect it to be blown dead but the refs have had slow whistles much of the series, its just worked to the Caps benefit so far.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Apr 21, 2011 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
It KILLED me when I only saw the overhead. Knowing the ref was right behind the net, as soon as I saw the low angle, i knew it was legit. Tough break for us.
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions
That was eating at me too. It looks like Hank has it from the top cam, but the low angle shows he never got it. Ref was right there.
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Callahan better duct tape his leg back together, because we’re going to need him for these next three games
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 12:18 PM EDT reply actions
Also did anyone find it a strange coincidence that Boudreau complains about Brian Boyle crashing the net and “contacting” Neuvirth and the next game Boyle gets 2 goalie interference calls and one of which I thought was very weak as Boyle was pushed into Neuvirth by Green, the first one was an ok call although I thought Boyle was trying to stop after driving the net and Neuvirth was outside his crease to the left. I don’t know but to me those calls were directly because Boudreau is a little bitch and can’t keep himself from whining after 1 loss.
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 12:19 PM EDT reply actions
They were penalties.
If it was Lundquist getting run into we would have screamed PENALTY!!! all day long and demanded our skaters stick up for him. Nothing to complain about there except that Boyle needs to avoid those. I don’t mind the 1st, I like the idea of trying to rattle the kid, but the 2nd was unnecessary.
by NYdemo on Apr 21, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Bruce Boudreau disrespected the Garden, Rangers fans everywhere and our legacy and for that he will forever remain the most hated individual in New York Rangers history
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Well played.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 21, 2011 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Potvin is #1, but there are other players Rangers fans will hate more than Boudreau:
Billy Smith
Bobby Clarke
Mike Milbury
Randy Holt (Gotta have one Cap in the list)
Bob Kelly (Ok, two…)
Dave Schultz
Harold Snepsts
Jerry Korab
Terry O’Reilly
Tiger Williams
and if anyone remembers:
Eddie Shore
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 4:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, most teams hate him. But very few teams have had Milbury go into the crowd to beat up one of their fans with their shoe. I think the Rangers are the only team that he’s done that to…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Yea. I started getting into hockey in 92-93.
It all started with a hockey stick my friends and I found and a crushed soda can in a backyard :P
December 1980… I think there is video on Youtube of this too.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 25, 2011 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions
I've had little negative to say about either until now...
Tort’s has done a few odd things but can’t shoulder the blame or credit entirely for the outcomes of the past 2 season but it certainly looked like he changed the system from a 2 man deep forecheck with the D pinching to keep the pressure on to a 1 man deep forecheck and the D backing out. Obviously it was the incorrect thing to do if that was in fact his game plan.
Drury no longer produces that “big” goal, or any goals for that matter. He doesn’t win faceoffs at the same rate as he used to either. If he can’t win big faceoffs and cant’ score big goals, and is not going to be a team leader than he is really not a necessary part of this team. His PK prowess is not enough to justify the space he takes on the bench.
And yes, he has been a great player for NY, just not this NY.
For what it’s worth, Drury was taking tons of defensive zone draws. +15 zone start, by far the most extreme on either team.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 21, 2011 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions
LACK OF LEADERSHIP!!!
I can’t say it any clearer. During the timeout, or delay, not sure what it was couldn’t hear at the bar, when all the momentum was in the Caps favor, Tort’s stood on the back of the bench and didn’t say a word. Clearly nothing needed to be said by him, the team just needed a minute to regroup, but something should have been said by at the very least our captain. Drury sat there with his head down and didn’t say a word. Prospal said something, but not much. It’s that moment that our captain is supposed to speak up and pull this group of young kids together and try to relieve some of the pressure. I’m now convinced Drury is a washed up, useless, has been that needs to be eliminated from this team in any way possible.
Come on man, Drury's been a great player in New York
Unfortunately for us, it was in Buffalo, New York
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Coach and Captain
The two people who need to step up are coach and captain. My thoughts on Torts have been repeated enough times. And Drury hasn’t been a leadership presence in two years. Both of them aren’t all bad, but they’re not what this team needs.
I've had very little negative to say about either until now...
Tort’s has done a few odd things but can’t shoulder the blame or credit entirely for the outcomes of the past 2 season but it certainly looked like he changed the system from a 2 man deep forecheck with the D pinching to keep the pressure on to a 1 man deep forecheck and the D backing out. Obviously it was the incorrect thing to do if that was in fact his game plan.
Drury no longer produces that “big” goal, or any goals for that matter. He doesn’t win faceoffs at the same rate as he used to either. If he can’t win big faceoffs and cant’ score big goals, and is not going to be a team leader than he is really not a necessary part of this team. His PK prowess is not enough to justify the space he takes on the bench.
And yes, he has been a great player for NY, just not this NY.
I don’t know if you can chalk up any of the Caps goals to a lack of Rangers leadership. A poor pass from McDonagh, a whack a mole goal in the crease and a goal coming at the end of a PP?
Drury has not come close to living up to his contract but those plays had nothing to do with a lack of leadership.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions
So when the game’s momentum swung from our favor to the Cap’s favor you would not consider it the coach’s or the captain’s responsibility to pull the team together and provide some type of leadership?
I’ll give you an example of what a leader does. When Boudreau was yelling at the ref, Arnott tugged on his coach’s shirt and said “let it go, let it go” 4 times. He got involved and provided a calming influence.
When our team, most notably the young kids, started to lose focus and confidence it is the captain’s and the coach’s responsibility to regroup them. Not to sit on the bench and stare at the ice with a blank expression.
Agreed, the cause of the 1st goal was an errant pass, and the 3rd goal was a deflection off the opposition, but the general mentality of the team had changed and that is why Washington took control.
I understand what you’re saying, but even if Drury had made the greatest speech ever given on the bench it was still up to the guys on the ice to get it done.
Believe me, I haven’t been a fan of his play most of his Rangers tenure, but I think Drury’s effectiveness as a captain (or any captain for that matter) would be more pronounced if he was on the ice more often.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions
“I think Drury’s effectiveness as a captain (or any captain for that matter) would be more pronounced if he was on the ice more often.”
AGREED, but that is why he should not be the captain AND that is why we have a lack of leadership. It’s his job as the captain to know what buttons to push, what to say AND when to say it to help hold the team together and not let the momentum swing to the other side. Whether he does it with a speech or with his actions doesn’t matter, so long as he does it. Drury doesn’t do it with either.
What you want is for Tort’s to recognize things are not going well and to call a timeout before we hit rock bottom. He’s done this well several times throughout the season. Then you want Tort’s or Drury, or some other leader to do or say something to get them back on track. When Tort’s stares across the ice without saying or doing anything, and Drury stares at the back of the boards, without saying or doing anything, then there clearly is no leadership.
He’s had a very solid non-professional career, but Stepan has very little professional experience and admitted he was very nervous earlier in the series. He played well in the 1st 2 periods but looked confused and timid in the 3rd. He’s a perfect example of someone that needed a calming influence. What do you think McDonagh needed after that pass? I say he needed Callahan to come calm his nerves.
Fortunately … the Caps don’t have that problem……
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Apr 21, 2011 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
inb4frankiec
Lowly Rangers suck
Trade Gaborik for Jarret Stoll,
Tyuts, and Jared Boll…
One mistake and people are ready to run Gaborik out of town. One down year and they want his head on a stick. Give him an offseason to recover and we’ll see what we get out of him next season. If he still declines, then we have reason to worry.
It was, and will undoubtedly be used against the Rangers tomorrow night.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions
saturday afternoon
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
In Prust We Trust
"Kovalev would work with Tortorella like a kitty would work in a microwave.
A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
Follow me @8kpower
Then too
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Two days off between games REALLY messes with my head
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s what you keep telling me
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Doubt it… Caps fans will be too nervous clenching their butt cheeks with worry over another playoff collapse with a 3-1 lead.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions
There’s a “History Will Be Made” commercial in there…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Stepping in here
Couple of quick things:
1. Caps fans, as with fans of all teams, are welcome here, unless they are just causing trouble, which from what I see they are not. So let’s not have any piling on from our people. If they want to join the discussion, and do it intelligently, there’s no problem whatsoever.
2. Anymore homophobic references will result in an automatic ban. End of story. The guilty parties have been warned, and comments deleted. Some of you are just making all of us look ignorant, and I can do that without anyone’s help.
3. We are all frustrated, depressed, mad, you name it, and while we’re all adults, and use adult language, if you can’t write a sentence without using foul language, there’s a problem. I like to keep things loose here, but I’m seeing way too much foul language, tone it down, please.
If anyone spots anything going on that maybe I’ve missed, feel free to email me and I will take care of it.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 1:42 PM EDT reply actions 4 recs
My only question is why? I agree that the majority of caps fans here have indeed been intelligent and respectful, but why come here in the first place? I would feel like a complete ass going to another team’s blog after they JUST lost a heartbreaker, but maybe that’s just me. I just don’t see how any good can come of it.
Regarding the Banter, Jim and co always keep this place running smoothly and professionally so listen to the man!
And this series ain’t over.
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 2:06 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Bomber, I agree with you wholeheartedly, but it is what it is.
Blueshirt Banter: Covering the New York Rangers
Big Blue View: Unofficial New York Giants blog
by Jim Schmiedeberg on Apr 21, 2011 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I realize this is just demonstrating what you don’t like, my apologies.
I think that a lot of us come over here because our community (Japers’ Rink) prides itself on not only enjoying the Caps, but the sport of hockey as a whole. Now reading comments on JR is nice, but it can’t paint the entire picture. I came over here because I’m guaranteed a completely different viewpoint on the game. It’s clear that we agree on some parts and disagree on others.
With the exception of the trolls (please banninate them forever), I’d like to think that we aren’t trying to stirr any shit up. We just tossed in our .02 when appropriate. I would guess that you haven’t visited our site, but you’re more than welcome to — win or lose. I know there are several of your fans that have regularly contributed during this series. We’ve enjoyed talking with them.
(Seriously – ban the living crap out of the Caps fans trying to troll. They piss you off and make us look like idiots. Ban away!)
by TheBored on Apr 21, 2011 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Yah, I’m just here because I’m a compulsive SBN commenter, and the different perspective is nice to have. Lots of fans from other teams frequent Japer’s Rink, so I feel free to stop by other blogs.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
My only question is why?
To get a different and fresh take on the series? Because everyone once in a while I get bored hearing the same old, same old on Japers’ Rink maybe? (And I’m not knocking on Japers’ Rink because I believe it’s one of the best hockey/sports blogs out there on the Washington Capitals.) Because I think there are other interesting discussions and hockey fans to be found that share the same love and passion for the game I do?
Look. You’re not a complete ass going to another team’s blog after they JUST lost a heartbreaker. Your very own, George, came and participated which I appreciate. I went over to Eyes On the Prize to say chapeau for their achievement in knocking the Caps out last year. Had lots of great discussions over there during the Habs-Caps series … as much as that one stung my heart.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
Well if that were true, you can just read the comments. Some of the comments posted were offensive to Ranger fans, and some of the comments posted to Chia were down right disrespectful. If I go to Japers, I find things I agree with and that is all. I call BS. You can read without posting or antagonizing. This is our sandbox.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not saying anything personal against you guys, it’s obvious you want to have an intellectual conversation and that you’re not dicks. I definitely notice and respect that.
But you cannot deny that even if you go to another team’s blog and make a totally appropriate and discussion-worthy comment people are going to hate on you simply because you are different. That’s not right at all, but it’s probably going to happen. I just feel like when you come over after loss such as last night’s, that hostility is going to be multiplied and therefore it might not be worth coming over at all because it could just dissolve into idiotic personal attacks.
No offense meant fellas
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
What do we have to say? Hm…we wish it was 3-1 Rangers?
We appreciate respectful commenters from rival teams, just understand we’re pretty PO’ed right now.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Understood. I was just curious more about what you guys thought about the way certain people played and how close it was to the way Caps fans thought.
I’ll say this. I friggin’ LOVE Tortorella and always have. I wish Bruce was as rough and candid with the reporters the way Torts is.
Objectively my thoughts on the high profile Caps:
Ovechkin: a force every time he’s on the ice. Probably should have at least 3 or 4 more goals if not for Lundqvist.
Semin: I’ve had the feeling that he’s as divisive as Gaborik is for Rangers fans. I actually think Semin is more frustrating because he can be baited into taking undisciplined penalties. He’s floated at times, but he at least makes you think about where he is on the ice.
Backstrom: Jeez, I like this guy but in this series he’s been a ghost.
Green: If he’s not producing from the blueline, he’s an average defender at best. I think he’s very easy to intimidate with tough forechecking.
Carlson/Alzner: Studs, the occasional mistake, but nothing overly costly.
Neuvirth: Good, hasn’t had to be the better goalie but he’s made stops when necessary.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Semin doesn’t get baited into the penalties. That’s the most frustrating part. I think the example from yesterday of his boarding call surprised Caps fans more than anything. Usually he just gets shy or scores a goal — a physical response is very rare.
His frustrating penalties are obstruction (hooking, holding, tripping) penalties, often in the offensive zone on a backcheck. Those are the first component of the Sasha Hatty ™.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 21, 2011 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Let me shoot this at you guys….
What’s the consensus amongst rangers fans on Avery? Do you guys think he’s a good player? DO most of you wish he would stay or go? Most Caps fans here in DC hate the guy but I love watching him play. I love hearing him speak even more.
Two camps of thought.
There are those that think he’s a sparkplug (as well as a lightning rod). That he’s been neutered by the coaching staff and the league has it out for him.
Then there are those that recognize that he has some raw skill but low hockey IQ (a lot of offsides). He’s a liability because of poor D and can be a penalty magnet.
Truth is, he’s probably somewhere in between. Games 2 and 3 he was more like the former description, game 4 he was more like the latter.
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not super familiar with the Rangers, has Tortorella ever given his reasons for benching Avery so frequently? Are they the same reasons as your second point?
Avery is getting benched because our level of dirty grind hockey has risen to his level of contribution. He’s a great spark plug and a great attitude guy to have on the team. I personally think Avery is a fantastic guy to have around and I wish him all the best. But since getting Prust and since Boyle raised his game and since we have a lot of bodies hitting, we simply cannot spare the penalties because we’re a low scoring team. Its that simple. We kill ‘em off well, but we can only play with fire so often and our scoring is erratic. Speaking of erratic scoring, without checking his numbers, it always seemed to me that Avery was good for 13 to 15 goals…but this year he couldn’t hit the side of a friggin’ barn. lots of shots that go wide and wrap around to the far defense…
d
Funny how many people showed up here to “get a fresh take on the series” after the Rangers blew a 3-0 lead. Now I know there’s a few folks here who would do the same thing if things were reversed (and IMO it’s being a total ‘dick’), but please don’t come here under the guise of trying to broaden your hockey horizons with some outlandish statement like your some innocent bystander that’s above the simple pleasures of gloating.
We choked a lead with a few semi-legit gripes about the officiating. The Capitals of previous years probably pack it in, but this year have a much better core of leadership and understanding what it takes to win. There really isn’t much gray area here.
Blueshirt Banter *It's just pain.*
"On this team, we fight for that inch. On this team, we tear ourselves and everyone else around us to pieces for that inch. We claw with our fingernails for that inch. Because we know when we add up all those inches, that's gonna make the fucking difference between winning and losing! Between living and dying! I'll tell you this - in any fight, it's the guy who's willing to die who's gonna win that inch."
but please don’t come here under the guise of trying to broaden your hockey horizons with some outlandish statement like your some innocent bystander that’s above the simple pleasures of gloating.
I did the same with Montreal last year. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with just wanting to know what you guys think. I haven’t talked any shit on this board. I think the Rangers have played a hell of a series, ESPECIALLY without Callahan. I’ve been reading the posts here since the start of the series. Just didn’t decide to post until now.
+1 caerid
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions
SBN is a community… we’re one big happy family of sports fans first. :)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions
+1 sir
despite the differences indeed we are sir, though “happy” is debatable depending on the time lol
hell, i go to BU and I’m a die hard NY fan, especially the Yankees, and my freshman roommate turned best friend is a die hard Sox fan so that’s just how it goes
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Lighter note from the intermission report...
If you read this site semi frequently you will know that everyone gives ‘Frankiec’ a hard time, and sometimes for good reason, for some of his draft pick/staal vs girardi posts. However, did anyone catch what Keenan said during the intermission; it was like he was channelling his inner Frankie..
He was asked about the NYR defense and the first line out of his mouth was “The New York Rangers rely very heavily on Dan Girardi to lead that defense. In the first two periods he had 6 blocked shots and 7 hits and was a plus 1.”
Not really relevant, but I got a bit of a kick out of it….
by Peter North Stars on Apr 21, 2011 2:04 PM EDT reply actions
I’ve always thought Frankie sometimes makes several good points that get overlooked, namely girardi’s value. Girardi had a hell of a game last night.
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 2:19 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Its that he says Girardi is better than Staal which gets everyone all up in arms, which is understandable.
by CrazyRangerFan on Apr 21, 2011 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Even I’d have a hard time arguing it (though I would still typically try) for this season. Staal’s very clearly the better d-man though.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 3:08 PM EDT up reply actions
I write this post as I reflect on the fact that I just received my signed Gaborik jersey in the mail. Do I go out side and burn it or keep it and frame it? Nobody is perfect. We are human, and no human is perfect. He is having an underperforming year, which is not uncommon. 
This is what my TV looked like after that play. I thin it was poor communication or lack there of. Somebody, anybody should of yelled," look out" or “man on” or “I got it.”Looked like a rookie mistake. Anyways, anyone can have a bad season. But getting paid 7 + million dollars would be all the coinfidence I need. Saying that……………
“Why do they keep shooting him like that?” “Because, as long as he still breathes, he still carries the message.” That’s how I feel about this team. As long as there is still hockey left to be played there is still hope. There is still life, and they can do this. There is still a message toe be carried. We can still win, it is not over.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
sorry for grammar and spelling errors.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s guy from the Caps blog will be here shortly to fix it. Be careful, he might start charging soon.
Blueshirt Banter *It's just pain.*
"On this team, we fight for that inch. On this team, we tear ourselves and everyone else around us to pieces for that inch. We claw with our fingernails for that inch. Because we know when we add up all those inches, that's gonna make the fucking difference between winning and losing! Between living and dying! I'll tell you this - in any fight, it's the guy who's willing to die who's gonna win that inch."
by Caerid112 on Apr 21, 2011 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Caps are 0-3 under BB when up 2 games in a series.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
Do you think that will continue?
It’s a tough uphill battle. The rangers have never won a series after going down 3-1. Something has to give!
Indeed. Last night, Caps record when scoring 3 and Rangers when leading after 2 clashed, Caps won. I suppose that means this time it’s the Rangers turn.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps haven’t led at all in regulation during 3 of the 4 games. I think the Rangers can absolutely still win this series. Whether they actually will, who the hell knows.
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
+1
This team does not give up, and when presses as in 3-1 they can pull it off.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Impossible. They haven’t had 3 different 2 game leads in series under BB. They went up 2-0 on PIT and lost, and went up 3-1 on MTL and lost… Am I missing one?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 21, 2011 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Game 3 of this series?
Blueshirt Banter - Where Rangers' Fans Matter
Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
Twitter: RangerSmurf
by George E. Ays on Apr 21, 2011 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
reverse mirror of '09
As Eddie Big Mouth pointed out on Banter radio this series has in a couple of ways been the exact opposite of 2009. At this point last year, the only game they had won was Game 3. Also, that year Torts made an ass of himself, this year was Boudreau. Let’s hope this opposite thing continues to play out and we get a game winner in Game 7 from, oh, I don’t know – since it was Fedorov in 2009, let’s say Fedotenko in 2011.
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
Caps fan here, posting for the first time on this site.
I’m not going to troll or anything, just looking to have a conversation with people of a different perspective.
I just have to say, that game last night could have easily gone either way starting in Overtime. Chimera’s goal was lucky . There’s no way he could have expected the rebound fro his initial shot to get cleared to his chest
But that’s just the thing. It was a rebound off a SHOT. The Caps had way more shots. The magic period where you guys scored was the ONE period in that entire game where you had more shots.
The skill level seemed about even. If the Rangers would have gotten more shots on net they could have easily won it.
People need to relax.
I haven’t felt this positive about the team and organization in almost 20 years. These playoff games are a treat. Last night felt like a kick in the nuts but move on people. This team knows how to keep fighting and I expect a great effort next game. Why can’t that be enough right now?
Ignore the Caps fans that are trolling. If you look at the 2nd period thread for them last night you can see they eat their own. I’m not sure if any of them would be able to deal with the bipolar posts here period to period, let alone game to game.
Everyone relax…please, its easter (almost).
by Gabby the Gutless Sniper on Apr 21, 2011 3:19 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
From your name I’m going to take it you’re not a big Gaborik fan eh?
I feel your pain. As a Caps fan back in the 90’s we went through a lot of double OT’s in the playoffs only to lose. Feels like such a gyp. Not the loss, but the fact that you stayed up SO DAMN LONG just to watch a loss.
Capital islanders game late 80s playoff triple OT, watched every minute without volume so as not to wake up parents.
by Gabby the Gutless Sniper on Apr 21, 2011 5:08 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
And the NHL keeps getting more and more crazy
It’s official, the WINNIPEG JETS ARE BACK! Who would’ve ever thought we’d see the Jets back in the NHL
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 3:35 PM EDT reply actions
According to Yahoo
A deal that would send the Coyotes back to Winnipeg is extremely close to being finalized. It’s not offical but it’s close
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Well you said it was official, but now you’re saying it’s not?
by MyFavBaseballSquadron on Apr 21, 2011 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions
The article is a posting at Puck Daddy by Justin Bourne… he’s speculating. I am sure there’s something in place to move the Coyotes back to Winnipeg if the Hulsizer deal falls through. Hulsizer was at the game and he’s saying the deal will happen. For him, the price of the Coyotes is pocket change. He’s just trying to get a more favorable deal…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 21, 2011 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Just a couple things to mention from me here. I have not taken the time to read all 400 or so comments so if I repeat anything that has been mentioned already, I apologize.
First, Gilroy wants a contract. Whether he deserves one or not and what to give him besides is still up for debate, but you cannot argue this guy has stepped up his game for the playoffs. For a third pair D-man paired with a guy who can’t skate, I think he has had a great series. How many other Rangers have a goal right now?
Second, our beloved work-ethic is our Achilles heal in OT. When this team gets tired, the lack of talent is a glaring problem. We can out-work teams, and out-compete teams for 65-70 min, but when we don’t have that same push for the puck in OT, talent takes over and our collective 12 forwards just simply can’t compete there.
Third, Oh my freakin’ God Gabby needs help out there. We have no one on this team other than him even close to being called a top 3 forward. Hell, we only have a handful of guys who could scratch being called top 6 forwards. I can tell Gaborik is trying, but he is right now a one man band trying to be heard over a rock concert. Will Brad Richards be the answer there, I sure as hell hope so because you can tell he is frustrated.
Fourth, for those saying Gabby isn’t entirely to blame for this loss, that’s true. We thought three goals were all we needed, and played like that was all that was needed, unfortunately, it wasn’t. One PP goal could have changed this series entirely, and I am not just referring to 0-7 last game either. But you can’t argue Gabby was the bullet that shot the dog. In all of my years watching hockey, I can’t recall a more boneheaded play then that one. It’s late in the period and we have actually had some success in the circle, why, why wouldn’t you just let the goalie freeze the puck? Why? Just tell me why damn it!
Lastly, we have some dead weight on this team we need to do something about pronto. Drury, I have been a fan of yours your entire career, from our hometown of Trumble and the little league World Series till now, but enough is enough. If you were getting paid 2 mill. a year, I wouldn’t have anything to say, but as we all know, you are one of the highest paid players in the entire bloody league. Do something, anything, to earn that pay-check. EC, I have said it before and ill say it again, I will do a little dance and sing a song when we finally get rid of this pap-smear. This guy does not care; the KHL is calling ya, time to suck on the teats of those Russian oil tycoons. Wolski, your free pass for getting Rozival off this team is up. Do something, or just book your plane ticket to Russia with EC. You can sit next to him on the plane and discuss how you both don’t give a rat’s ass about winning a Stanley cup.
It’s hard not to be short sighted after taking a TKO punch to the liver from one of your own like that but the fact of the matter is, the only people picking the Rangers to win this series to begin with were on this board. Yet we have been right there for every game. A couple of bounces this way, or just one God damn power-play goal, and we have a completely different picture to look at. The simple fact is that for this team…. THIS team to be that close against the #1 team in the East is just amazing. Yeah I’m still sick to my stomach but if we can just back up for a moment, and take a look at the complete body of work from Oct till now, it’s hard not to be damn proud no matter what happens. I am already giddy over next season if someone could just stuff Sather in a closet over the summer.
Gilroy, EC and Drury don’t deserve to be back next season. Gaborik is in serious need help and Richards is just what the doctor ordered. The have the potential to be a Lemieux-Jagr like combo, they’re that talented
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Too bad EC, Drury, Wolski are all under contract for next season
Especially Drury, unless bought out, isn’t going anywhere. I think he’s been doing his job nicely in this series. If you noticed, he’ll take the defensive zone faceoff & head over to the bench. He’s doing everything he’s been asked for exceptionally well. Unfortunately, you’re right in that he shouldn’t be getting paid like a #1 center to play 7 minutes a night.
I think Wolski has been playing really well this postseason. He had huge assists on the goals in games 1 & 3 and he was hitting everything that moved & made some great passes last night. Would like to see a G on the scoresheet though.
Wolski has potential and I am willing to give him another shot next year, if he fails to produce next year then he’ll have to be traded.
Blueshirt Banter - "The Worlds Greatest Entertainers"
Pinstripe Alley - "The Kings of the Ring"
The Phinsider - "As Long as we finish ahead of the Jets, the season is a success"
by The Last Shall Become First on Apr 21, 2011 4:36 PM EDT up reply actions
I think his contract is only up throught next season
But someone will have to verify that one…so if he doesn’t do it next season, he’ll be a FA anyways.
I am sick and tired of people that “have potential” on this team. We go from one project right to the next guy with a bad attitude and all the ‘potential’ in the world but can’t put it together at the professional level. The guy is making almost 4 million a year, has been in the league 5 years now. The time for potential is past, this is the playoffs, put the damn puck in the net. We do not need any more 3rd line or role players on this team. His role is to score, period.
by Ranger84 on Apr 21, 2011 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Why is everyone so worried about EC?
He’s the LEAST of our problems. The guy only makes 900k. He can watch every game from the press box and, should someone go down, he’s there to step in. I’m not saying he’s an everyday answer, but I think his game translates well to being the “extra guy” – particularly if there is an injury in the top 6.
by BuckarooClub on Apr 21, 2011 8:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Brutally honest and spot on.
Some very poor hockey plays…. Gabby’s play, and I also yelled at the tv when the puck was stuck on the back of the net and it was freed, which eventually resulted in the Stepan penalty. The faceoff would have been out of the zone.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
Response to Ranger 84 post.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 21, 2011 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions
http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=110071
Still gotta love this. Nothing like MSG……
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
People need to get over the past misses on 1st round picks.
Look at the talent pool at every level of the organization (largely due to recent drafts and trades for prospects). IMO you are rehashing old stories at this point. The concern should be about free agency and how Glen decides to throw the Cheddar around this summer. Needs to be smart about it and show more discipline than in prior years. Bidding against himself is his fatal flaw.
by Gabby the Gutless Sniper on Apr 21, 2011 5:28 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Guys, just wanna repeat, because I know it’s been mentioned before.
This thing really ain’t over. Time and time again this team has proven that we should never stop believing. And I won’t stop believing now.
We win Game 5 in their building then bring it back here for a HUGE game 6… the possibilities are there. We could force this thing to 7, and then it’s just a toss-up with the momentum in our favor, home ice in theirs. Could get reeeeeeeal interesting.
You don’t think Gabby wants more than ANYTHING to go off and take over this series? Just saying don’t count it out. Don’t count this team out.
And that mentality that is being built of ALWAYS fighting and playing until it’s over? Yeah that’s the mentality our youth is learning and that is going to be a staple of the hopeful Cup contenders over the next few years. Making these playoffs is going to be HUGE for this team in the future, win or lose.
Let’s Go Rangers!
I listen to Enter Sandman before taking exams. I wear the exact same jersey every Giants game. The Rangers goal song goes off in my head when I achieve small successes in life.
HEN-RIK
by BombersGmenBlueshirts25 on Apr 21, 2011 10:30 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
+10
I mean # 10.
Torts pregame speech to Gaborik, "You know, when you were a baby in your crib, your father looked down upon you and had one wish: “Someday my son will grow up to be a man”. Well look at you now; You just got your asses whipped, by a bunch of Goddamn nerds! NERDS !! Well, if I were you I would do something about it. I would get up and redeem myself in the eyes of my father, my Maker, and my COACH!"
We will definitely see where his heart is at. I am sure it is in the right place. Now, like BGB stated, we will win the next game. Bring it on home to MSG and deflate them some more. Game 7 win in DC. Round #2 baby. We can do this.
PRUSTOSTERONE!!!
by nathansfamous on Apr 22, 2011 12:51 AM EDT up reply actions
Just get it back to the Garden. That’s all they gotta do, that’s the only focus now. These Caps are soft. Rangers in 7.
"To everybody else we're underdogs, but we go in thinking we can handle any team in the NHL."
Brandon Prust, #8, New York Rangers
by Joe1969 on Apr 22, 2011 1:50 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
We are taking this in 7!!!
BELIEVE!!!!
In 94 I thought i could die in peace... Now I watch a ranger game and just want to die.
by RangerFan5 on Apr 22, 2011 12:12 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Blueshirt Banter
Related FanShots on Blueshirt Banter
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
Rangers Schedule
Next 5 Games
New Jersey
|
Sun 05/27 | TBA |
Last 5 Games
|
@
New Jersey
|
Fri 05/25 | OT - L 2 - 3 |
|
New Jersey
|
Wed 05/23 | L 3 - 5 |
|
@
New Jersey
|
Mon 05/21 | L 1 - 4 |
|
@
New Jersey
|
Sat 05/19 | W 3 - 0 |
|
New Jersey
|
Wed 05/16 | L 2 - 3 |
SBNation.com Recent Stories
In Association With
Latest Puck Daddy - NHL from Yahoo! Sports
- Eulogy: Remembering the 2011-12 New York Rangers
- Stanley Cup Final: 5 keys for New Jersey Devils and Los Angeles Kings
- Friday’s Three Stars: Devils head to Final; Brodeur, Kovalchuk the difference in Game 6
- Devils eliminate Rangers in Game 6, ending fear of the past, setting course for the future
- Adam Henrique sends New Jersey Devils to Stanley Cup Final with OT goal vs. Rangers (VIDEO)
