Wednesday, April 9, 2008

ESPN Suddenly Hockey Central


ESPN, who normally doesn't want anything to do with hockey, has these features today...

Terry Frei looks at each playoff teams' odds of winning the Stanley Cup...

New York Rangers -- 22-1
They've got to get past the Devils first, but either here or anywhere the odds are for more than entertainment purposes. These guys just won't go away as the best what-the-heck "long shot" choice. Chris Drury is going to get a clutch goal or two … or more. Jaromir Jagr might even be coaxed into paying attention in the postseason as he likely sticks with rookie center Brandon Dubinsky and adds to the Rangers' three-line balance. Plus, Henrik Lundqvist got over his personal playoff hump a year ago.

...22-1!!! Where's my bookie's phone number?

John Buccigross gives his final thoughts on all 30 teams...

New York Rangers
They do it on sheer will, and they were lucky they were healthy. Jaromir Jagr, Chris Drury, Brandon Dubinsky, Daniel Girardi and Fedor Tyutin didn't miss a game. Scott Gomez missed one. Michal Rozsival and Marc Staal missed two. They will need to stay healthy during the rugged playoff season as well, or they could hit a wall hard and fast. Will and goaltending can take you a long way, though.

...its been awhile since I heard an analyst say the Rangers had the will to win. That's great to hear.

David Amber ranks all 16 playoff goaltenders...

5. Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers
When this guy is good, he's unbeatable. A league-best 10 shutouts has Rangers fans excited about their chances with "King Henrik" between the pipes. At just 26, Lundqvist has proved he can win the big games against the best players. In 2006, he led Sweden to the gold medal at the Torino Olympics. Last season, he led the Rangers to the second round with a 2.07 postseason GAA. This time around, he hopes to shine again on hockey's grandest stage. Don't be surprised if he does.

...not sure how much stock I can put in Amber's opinion when he ranks Pittsburgh's Marc-Andre Fleury #6!!!. But I do agree that Lundqvist is definitely in the top 5. Just a heads-up don't look at whose ranked #1, it'll just make you angry.

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