Blueshirt Banter, a New York Rangers community

Vincent Lecavalier....clinched his 12th straight season of at least 20 goals. I don't think people appreciate how difficult it is to achieve that kind of consistency. Know who never had 12 straight 20 goal seasons? Mario Lemieux? Never had 12 straight, just 6. Mark Messier? Never had 12 straight, just 10. Steve Yzerman? Sorry boss, you never did it either. The best Stevie Y did was 8 straight seasons. And, remember, Vinny didn't play in the roaring 80's where the NHL looked like the QMJHL defensively.

Brandon Worley from Defending Big D sat down with Mark Messier to discuss the Messier Project. Have to admit, I'm a little ticked that we weren't asked to participate in this, but it's a good article.

In case you haven't seen this, the Daily News has a gallery of pictures of all the Ranger captains, thought you guys might like to see it.

When you get to the picture of Vic Hadfield, pay special attention to the nameplate on the locker next to him over his right shoulder.

Boston’s Zdeno Chara, Pittsburgh’s Sidney Crosby and Calgary’s Jarome Iginla are the three finalists for the 2008-09 Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award presented by Bridgestone, the National Hockey League announced today.

The award recognizes an individual as a superior leader in hockey and as a contributing member of society. It honors an individual who leads by positive example through on-ice performance, motivation of team members and a dedication to community activities and charitable causes.

Mark Messier solicits suggestions from club and League personnel and NHL fans in compiling a list of potential candidates. However, the selection of the three finalists and the ultimate winner is Messier’s alone.

15 years ago today: The Rangers defeated the Washington Capitals 3-0 in Game 3 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Semifinals, giving the Rangers a 3-0 series lead. Mike Richter posts his third shutout of the playoffs, Messier, Leetch, and Larmer provide the scoring.