Rangers vs. Panthers Preview

Tonight the New York Rangers (37-24-9) visit the Florida Panthers (33-31-8). The red-hot Rangers look to extend a 13-game point streak and move closer to the top of the Atlantic Division. Reaching the All-Star break with a record of 28-24-7 and in danger of missing the playoffs was not what the Rangers had in mind following an offseason in which they signed high-scoring centers Chris Drury and Scott Gomez to long-term contracts. New York, though, went 1-0-1 in its final two games before the break and 9-0-2 in 11 contests since to move into sole possession of sixth place in the Eastern Conference. The surge has pulled the Rangers within five points of New Jersey for the Atlantic Division lead. The Rangers are 2-0-1 this season against the Panthers (33-31-8), including a 5-0 victory at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 24. The Panthers are making a late-season push for their first playoff berth since 1999-2000, winning five straight to get within five points of eighth-place Philadelphia. Tomas Vokoun has struggled in two of three starts this season against the Rangers, allowing five goals in his each of two losses while stopping 28 shots in a 3-2 shootout win on Nov. 23. Panthers captain Olli Jokinen, the team leader in goals (30), assists (36) and points (66), has no goals and only three assists in his last nine games against New York. For a full preview go to Yahoo! Sports.

...the Rangers better be ready tonight, because the Panthers and their fans are fired up. The Miami Herald says this game will have a playoff atmosphere.

...not sure who will be in goal tonight for the Rangers. My money is on Lundqvist, but I'd rather Valiquette for three reasons 1) I'd like to see Vally start at least one of the back-to-backs 2) Lundqvist is coming off an illness 3) Despite Florida's strong play of late, I think Tampa (who has scored 11 goals in their last two games both victories) has more fire power.

...I'd like to see the power play ratchet it up tonight. Pearn has had three days of practice to get it straightened out. That should be enough. Although, he hasn't been able to do anything all year, so I guess I shouldn't hold my breath.

...from what I've seen on-line expect the same lineup tonight, which, when your team is undefeated in regulation in 13 straight, is probably a good idea.