TheNYRBlog Has Moved

After three years of running The New York Rangers Blog here at Blogger I have moved over to Bloguin.

The new url is: http://www.nyrangersblog.com/.

The url will be the only thing different at the new address. The New York Rangers Blog will continue to be the one spot stop for all your Rangers news and I encourage everyone to bookmark the new url.

If things are half as great over at Bloguin as they were at Blogger then we're all in for a great time.

Remember to follow me on Twitter & Facebook or e-mail me at nyrfan94@yahoo.com.

No Suspensions, Maybe Fines for Brawl (Updated)

Update, 9:20 p.m.:
This is how Oilers player Theo Peckham saw the events unfold before he went after Avery per Jesse Spector at the Blueshirts Blog...

“I watched my teammate (Ladislav Smid) ask a guy to fight, and Avery turned around and said, ‘No, no, next shift,’ and then Avery turned around and suckerpunched him,” Peckham said. “Then he skated by our bench laughing. I definitely made a little mistake and went a little wonky there, but we’re a family and sometimes you have to make a stand.”

...if true that confirms the sucker punch. Love that Avery laughed at the bench though.

Original Post:
EJ Hradek at ESPN tweets...

To be clear. I'n hearing there will be no suspensions from today's EDM-NYR game. There likely will be fines.less than a minute ago via TweetDeckEJ Hradek
EJHradek_ESPN

...i don't care what anyone says that was a sucker punch by Avery. Smid asked Avery to fight, Avery turned it down and when Smid went to skate away Avery punched him in the chops. There are codes in hockey and Avery just broke one.

...having said that I still love Avery and what he did worked as the Rangers just poured it on afterward. I hope he does the same thing to Crosby tomorrow.

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Video: Game Highlights & Torts

Updated, 9:02 p.m.:
Since the game highlights didn't include the brawl here it is...



Original Post:

Rangers vs. Oilers highlights

Rangers head coach John Tortorella speaks to reporters about the Blueshirts' 8-2 rout of the Edmonton Oilers here.

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Rangers 8, Oilers 2

The New York Rangers (9-7-1) defeated the Edmonton Oilers (4-9-3) by the score of 8-2, today. For box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.com.

...i can recap today's game in two words: Marian Gaborik.

...welcome to the season Alex Frolov.

...first time we saw the real Boogaard. He was throwing bombs against another big tough enforcer.

...EC looks like he wants to stay on a line with Gabby with three assists and a +5.

...nice to see the refs not take a goal away from the Rangers for once (see Anisimov goal).

...anyone still want to tell me Boyle's not all star?

...cheap shot from Avery, but loved the old school scrum afterward.

...this is going to be a looooong season for Tom Renney.

...Biron looked like he was going to have a tough day after the second goal but kudos to him for toughning up and holding the Oilers scoreless the rest of the way.

...loved the snarl from Staal today. Would love to see him play like that more often.

...more good afternoon periods today than the last three years combined.

...in what should be a much more competitive game the Rangers head to Pittsburgh to face Cindy and the Pens tomorrow.

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Rangers vs. Oilers (Game 17) - Updated

Update, 11:22 a.m.:
Jesse Spector tweets that Derek Boogaard is back in the lineup with Todd White a healthy scratch. Torts had said yesterday he wasn't going to change the lineup, but I guess he had a change of heart.

Original Post:
The New York Rangers (8-7-1) host the Edmonton Oilers (4-8-3) today at MSG starting at 12:30 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo Sports.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: MSG; Radio: 970AM The Apple, XM204

Probable Lines:
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Frolov-Christensen-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Avery-Stepan-Boogaard

Staal-Girardi
Del Zotto-Eminger
Gilroy-Sauer

Goaltenders:
Martin Biron - 2-2-0, 2.26 gaa, .912 sv%, 0 so.

Nikolai Khabibulin - 4-8-1, 3.64 gaa, .890 sv %, 1 so

Opponent Notes:
- Edmonton is 4-24-5 away from home since winning five straight road games last December.

- Nikolai Khabibulin is 1-4-0 with a 4.15 goals against average over his last five games and is 2-5-0 with a 2.42 GAA lifetime at Madison Square Garden.

- The Oilers defeated Tom Renney's Rangers 3-2 in their last visit to New York on Nov. 10, 2008.

- 2010 #1 pick Taylor Hall has just one point (an assist) in the last four games and is a minus 7. Hall has 3g, 4a so far this season.

- D Ryan Whitney has 13 points (all assists) on the season, which ties him for the team lead.

- Former Ranger Jason Strudwick has zero points and is a minus 4 in 10 games this season.

2010-11 Season Series:
Nov. 14, Rangers vs. Oilers at MSG

Opponent Blog:
Low on Oil

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McIlrath Suffers Knee Injury

Jess Rubenstein at The Prospect Park reports that Rangers 2010 first round pick Dylan McIlrath suffered a knee injury in the 3rd period of his Moose Jaw Warriors game against the Lethbridge Hurricanes last night.

Rubenstein adds that initial reports were not encouraging and he will undergo further testing today.

...let's hope those initial reports are wrong. If this is a serious knee injury that requires surgery it will set his development back at least a year.

...McIlrath wasn't ready to contribute to the Rangers for at least two years so the injury isn't a killer for the Blueshirts, but you have to feel for the kid.

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Sunday Headlines

Bergen Record - Renney returns, Lundqvist is out

New York Post - Ill Lundqvist out again

Daily News - Dubinsky line centers Blueshirts offense

Newsday - Ex-Rangers coach Renney returns to MSG

Newsday - Lundqvist will miss Rangers-Oilers game

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Expanded Role for Eminger Leads to Improved Play

Jesse Spector at the Blueshirt Blog has this quote from Steve Eminger on his increased minutes leading to improved play...

“What’s different is, when you play those minutes, rather than 12-13, is you’ve got to focus yourself on the bench playing less minutes,” Eminger said. “There’s times where you’re sitting there for five or six minutes and your legs are kind of seizing up on you. You’ve got to stay focused on what you’re gonna do when you get out there so you’re sharp. When you’re playing 20 minutes, you don’t really have time to think. Things are just rolling, and you get into a groove that way.”

...when I'm wrong I admit it. Eminger has been a steady presence on the blueline this season and right now it seems the rangers made the right call keeping him with the big club while sending McD and Valentenko to Hartford for more seasoning.

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Heritage Week Towel

TheNYRBlog reader Desmond sent me this pic of the towel the Rangers were handing out during the third jersey unveiling ceremony last night...

...another pretty awesome third jersey for the Rangers would have been if they used the Heritage Week logo from the towel as a crest on the chest instead of the "New York". Similar to the Wild's jersey, which personally I think are one of the best in the league.

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Biron Back In Tomorrow

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports Martin Biron will get his second straight start as Henrik Lundqvist is still feeling the effects of head congestion/sinus issues...

“Henrik will not be playing, Biron’s going,” Tortorella said. “He’s still sick so we’ll go with Biron. If Henrik was healthy enough he would play but on the backside of it we feel very good about Marty’s game and he gave us a really good chance to get to that overtime, he made some key saves in the third period. He’s played well. This is what’s good when you have a veteran guy like him to help you out in these type of situations. He’s a good teammate. That’s one thing when we signed him, we knew he was a good teammate and guys pull for him. A backup needs to play games. We’re going to play him but he also needs to win but he’s found his way here so he’ll get another start.”

...i bet this decision was made a lot easier knowing Tom Renney and the struggling Oilers are in town tomorrow.

Gross also reports that Tortorella said he would most likely keep the lines together from Thursday, meaning Derek Boogaard will be a healthy scratch for the second straight game.

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Reminder: I'm Moving on Monday

Just a quick reminder that the blog will be moving over to Bloguin on Monday.

The new url is http://www.nyrangersblog.com

I've been cross posting everything over at the new location for the last few days so you can get a good feel of what it will look like. Which is pretty much the same.

The only difference is the comments sections. Which Bloguin is actually upgrading later this month. For now instead of needing to input a word verification code you'll have to input your e-mail address to comment.

Also, Bloguin gives their readers the option to register their own user name to stop imposters from commenting under their alias. The only problem is if a reader from another blog registered the name "Jack" none of my non-registered readers can use "Jack" when commenting meaning you'd have to choose "Jack1" or something else.

Again, that will change when they upgrade later this month.

As always, I'd love to hear any and all comments on the new digs and I will do all I can to address any issues.

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Heritage Week Continues with Public Skating Sessions with Alumni

Newyorkrangers.com reports that Heritage Week continues with fans being invited to free public skating sessions at Rangers partner rinks throughout the tri-state featuring alumni, fan giveaways and raffles including a Heritage jersey at each location.

Locations and times:

•Floyd Hall Arena -- 1:15 to 3:15 p.m., featuring Ron Duguay

•Danbury Arena -- 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., featuring Vic Hadfield

•Brewster Arena -- 3:00 to 4:30 p.m., featuring Vic Hadfield

•World Ice Arena -- 12:00 to 2:00 p.m, featuring Eddie Giacomin

•Staten Island Skating Pavilion -- 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., featuring Nick Fotiu

•Stergiopoulos Ice Rink -- 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., featuring Eddie Giacomin

For more on last night's jersey unveiling click here and here.

For Lundqvist's thoughts on the jersey watch video here.

Finally reader Beth sent me this picture from last night's ceremony...

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Saturday Headlines

Bergen Record - Gross: Tom Renney has plenty of praise for Glen Sather

New York Post - Lundqvist in mix for mantle of top goalie

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Watch Third Jersey Unveiling Ceremony (Updated)

Update, 10:59 p.m.:
Newyorkrangers.com has great pics of the new jersey as well as an interactive 85th Anniversary page...

Original Post:

The Rangers are making tonight's third jersey unveiling ceremony available through UStream, which you can watch right here starting at 6:30 p.m...



...awesome job by the Rangers using this social media platform to allow fans to watch the ceremony.

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Three Rangers on All Star Ballot

Update, 3:40 p.m.:
Steve Zipay at Blue Notes has the rest of the ballot.

Original Post:

Henrik Lundqvist, Marc Staal, Marian Gaborik are the #NYR players on the 100-candiate NHL All-Star ballot.less than a minute ago via HootSuiteJesse Spector
NYDNRangers

...is it me or should Dubinsky, Boyle and Callahan be on that list ahead of all three of those players?

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An Old Friend Returning to MSG

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports on Tom Renney's return on Sunday when his Oilers invade MSG...

Renney on his return...

“It’ll certainly be different than any other visit I’ve had there,” said Renney, who coached the Canucks for a season-plus before joining the Rangers organization in 2000. “There’s a certain amount of excitement attached to that. But it’s about the two points. That doesn’t allow too much time to get too sentimental.

“I’m there on business,” Renney added. “I have a high regard for the people I work for in Edmonton and I want to do a good job for them. I am going to allow myself the opportunity to bump into people and see the mechanism of you people (the media) and how you choose to chronicle my visit there. I’ll get the opportunity to thank the organization and I hope you convey that. They (the Rangers’ organization) are phenomenal people. As much as it’s a love-hate thing (being fired), I never thought it was so bad I couldn’t walk in with my head up.”

...as much as I killed Renney towards the end of his tenure with the Rangers, I cannot deny what he did for the Rangers organization. Coming out of the lockout they were a laughing stock and he along with Jagr and Lundqvist helped bring this team back to respectability.

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All Star Game: Play Ground Style

I've been negligent in posting about the new All Star format for this season, so here's a piece from Adam Kimelman at NHL.com on the newest concept to revive the game...

"A new format for this year's festivities will see the conference vs. conference approach replaced by a player draft, conducted by the All-Star players themselves, to determine the rosters for each team.

The 2011 NHL All-Star Fantasy Draft will be Friday, Jan. 28, to kick off All-Star Weekend, which will be hosted for the first time by the Carolina Hurricanes.

Captains for each side will select from a pool of players chosen by a combination of fan balloting and the NHL Hockey Operations Department. The change in format is a joint effort by the League and the NHL Players' Association."

...not a big fan of gimmicks (although I am a fan of the shootout, so who knows) but the player draft should pretty intense.

...i also like that the teams will be named Wales and Campbell. Sort of doesn't make sense with players not playing for their conference anymore but still a big fan.

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Rangers Tougher Than Flyers

In this week's Fox's "Tough Guy" Tracker they score victories for Derek Boogaard and Brandon Prust for their bouts against the Flyers last week...

7. New York Rangers vs. Philadelphia Flyers While the Flyers may have beaten the Rangers up on the scoreboard Thursday night at The Wac, New York's tough guys, Derek Boogaard and Brandon Prust, skated away winners, besting Philly ruffians Jody Shelley and Daniel Carcillo in individual tussles.

...while it's nice that they won their fights, I would have rather the Rangers won the game.

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Lundqvist Almost Had to Play Last Night

Rick Carpiniello at Ranger Rants reports that Martin Biron was actually shaken up during warmups last night and the sick Henrik Lundqvist almost need to suit up...

"Lundqvist was in about half his uniform the whole game, just in case Biron got hurt. And during warmups, Artem Anisimov fired one off Biron’s sternum, and it stung and Biron went and told Lundqvist he might have to put on the full uniform."

...not sure the severity of Lundqvist's illness but how awesome would it have been to watch him make a save and then turn into the net and lose his lunch?

Carp also drops this stat on us: Biron = 2 wins. All of Lundqvist’s backups last year = 3 wins.

...i said it all offseason, Biron could end up being the most important signing of the summer.

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Rangers Trade Byers

I briefly touched on this last night, but yesterday the Rangers dealt away Dane Byers to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Here's part of the Rangers official announcement...

"New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the club has acquired forward Chad Kolarik from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for forward Dane Byers. Kolarik, 24, has registered four goals and six assists for 10 points, along with 18 penalty minutes in 13 games with the Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League (AHL) this season. He ranks third on Springfield in scoring with 10 points, is tied for second in assists and ranks fourth in goals. He also leads the team and ranks 14th in the AHL with 46 shots on goal, and is tied for the team lead and ninth in the league with three power play goals."

...was really hoping Byers would get a shot with the big club as the fourth line center this year, but Boyle obviously beat him out and we all know how well that's working out for the Rangers. But still, I liked his toughness and I hope for the best for Byers.

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Third Jersey Unveiling Ceremony Tonight

Just a reminder that the Rangers will be unveiling their third jersey tonight at The Rink at Rockefeller Center starting at 6:30pm as part of their Heritage Week.

The ceremony will be followed by an open skate with numerous Rangers alumni.

...unfortunately I won't be able to attend tonight, but if anyone goes please send me pictures so I can post them on the blog. E-mail them to nyrfan94@yahoo.com.

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Friday Headlines

Bergen Record - Rangers cut down the Sabres in OT, 3-2

Bergen Record - Rangers notes: Ruslan Fedotenko waved off again

New York Post - Anisimov's OT goal propels Rangers

New York Post - Backup Biron gets it done on short notice

New York Post - Ref incorrectly waves off Fedotenko goal

Daily News - Anisimov's OT goal lifts Rangers at home

Journal News - Gritty Rangers still dependent on stars

New York Times - With Pieces in Place, Rangers Still Need Overtime

Newsday - Rangers beat Sabres on Anisimov's OT goal

Newsday - Rangers to unveil 85th anniversary jersey

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Video: Rangers vs. Sabres Game Highlights

Game highlights here.

...for some reason I haven't been posting game highlights this season. I'll be doing a better job of it moving forward.

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Rangers Talk Win vs. Sabres

Here are quotes released by the Rangers after the game...

John Tortorella on Marty Biron…

“We don’t get it into overtime without some of his saves. That is good news for us, not just tonight but for the future.”

Marian Gaborik on tonight’s game…

“It wasn’t a pretty game to watch but it was a tight game. We got two points and that’s the most important thing. Marty (Biron) was great in net and I think everybody chipped in and everybody helped the team to win.”

Ruslan Fedotenko on tonight’s game…

“He (Biron) came out really good. I thought the whole team played really well. I thought we did much better in the second period and I thought in the third period we found a way to win.”

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has more quotes including this from Fedotenko on his disallowed goal...

“It was not covered yet,” Fedotenko said of tonight’s play. “I was just trying to put my stick on it. I wish they reviewed it to see if the whistle blew.”

Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report transcribes Tortorella's post game press conference.

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Rangers 3, Sabres 2, OT

The New York Rangers (8-7-1) defeated the Buffalo Sabres (5-9-3) by the score of 3-2 in overtime, tonight. For a recap and box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.com.

Attendance: 17,848 (98.1% full)

...wow that was an exciting overtime. Loved the back and forth. Oh yeah and Anisimov's goal helped.

...Anisimov had quietly been struggling on the top line and it was nice to see him break out tonight.

...three out of four solid starts from Biron to start the season. Can't ask for more out of your backup goalie.

...nice return from Gaborik. His skill level is just so much better than anyone else on the ice.

...saw lots of comments the last two days wondering why Fedotenko was still on the team. Assuming I won't see those tomorrow.

...third straight game with the refs stealing a goal from the Rangers. Who's coffee did Torts spit in?

...poor Frolov. The guy has the game winner on his stick and a Buffalo defenseman is able to deflect it out of mid air into Enroth.

...i liked Gilroy's game tonight. He was tough on the puck and joined the offense when needed. Very noticeable. Should be good for his trade value.

...what? No hat trick against the Sabres again from Stepan. Heck he's begging for a secondary assist at this point.

...big fan of the lines tonight. Lots of balance.

...loved Torts' reaction to the game winner. He was fired up. As was I.

...couple of days off then Tom Renney and the Oilers are in town Sunday afternoon.

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Rangers vs. Sabres (Game 16) - Updated (Lundqvist Out)

Update, 6:26 p.m.:
Jesse Spector tweets that Martin Biron will get the start as Henrik Lundqvist showed up at the rink ill.

...h/t to reader DT.

Earlier Spector tweeted that that Rangers traded Dane Byers to Columbus.

...i'll have more on this later.

Original Post:
The New York Rangers (7-7-1) host the Buffalo Sabres (5-9-2) tonight at MSG starting at 7:00 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo Sports.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: MSG; Radio: 1050AM ESPN Radio, XM204

Probable Lines:
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Frolov-Christensen-Gaborik
Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust
Avery-Stepan-White

Staal-Girardi
Del Zotto-Eminger
Gilroy-Sauer

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist - 6-5-1, 2.68 gaa, .918 sv%, 2 so.

Jhonas Enroth - 2-1-0, 3.63 gaa, .870 sv %, 0 so

Opponent Notes:
- The Sabres are 2-0 on their current three game road trip.

- Jhonas Enroth, filling in for the injuried Ryan Miller, has won his last two starts, making 51 total saves through overtime plus six more in the shootouts.

- Derek Roy leads the Sabres with eight goals and nine assists, including two of each over the last two games. The center has three goals and one assist in his last four meetings with the Rangers.

- Tyler Myers had a goal and two assists in the Sabres 5-4, SO win vs. the Devils last night. They were his first points since Oct. 26.

- Jason Pominville scored his first goal of the season last night.

2010-11 Season Series:
Oct. 9, Rangers 6, Sabres 3 at Buffalo
Nov. 11, Rangers vs. Sabres at MSG
March 1, Rangers vs. Sabres at MSG
March 30, Rangers vs. Sabres at Buffalo

Opponent Blog:
Top Shelf

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Black-and-Blueshirts

Kevin Clark at the Wall Street Journal takes a look at the Rangers shot blocking prowess...

"This season, the Rangers have developed into a gang of kamikaze defenders who excel in blocking shots. They have done it 277 times, 26 more than anyone else in the National Hockey League. There are less painful ways of winning hockey games, but few are more effective than this."

Dan Girardi on his shot blocking technique...

"You have to get in the lane where he'll shoot it or else he'll just shoot around you,'' he said. "I make sure I know where the net is, try to be in the right spot and be already down when he's taking the shot. It is a matter of timing and positioning."

...double edge sword with all the blocked shots. Sure it's great to stop a scoring attempt, but look at the injuries the Rangers have suffered this season. These guys will be lucky if they make it to the end of the season with the way they're blocking shots.

...h/t to Puck Daddy.

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McDonagh's Going to Be a Shutdown Defenseman

Rory Boylen at The Hockey News has a great piece on Rangers prospect Ryan McDonagh....

Gordie Clark on what is expected from McDonagh...

“He’s just a smaller version of Marc Staal,” Clark said. “We did not have him as a point-producing guy. In the NHL, this guy is going to be a shutdown defenseman with his skating ability.”

...not a bad comparison. Hopefully, McDonagh plays a little tougher than Staal.

Clark also says that during his time at the combine, McDonagh’s been the single most impressive guy ever.

...wow!!!

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Gaborik's Excited to Play

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has this quote from Marian Gaborik on returning to the Rangers lineup tonight...

“I like to skate,” said Gaborik, who’ll make his return to the lineup after missing 12 games - or four weeks minus one day - with a separated left shoulder. “I’m looking forward to this game, obviously it’s been a while. I’m excited to play. I played pretty much for only two games so, definitely, it feels like the start of the year for me. I’m excited. I don’t know who I’m going to play with, Torts hasn’t decided yet. I don’t care. I’m just excited to be back and help the team win. It’s the first game back, hopefully everything will go well. I’m ready to go all out."

...we're excited to Marian.

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The New TheNYRBlog Launch is Monday!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, boys and girls I will officially be moving The New York Rangers Blog to Bloguin on Monday.

The new url address is http://www.nyrangersblog.com/.

For the rest of the week, I'll be cross posting some of my posts over at the new blog to give everyone a bit of a feel for the new home. Sort of like a soft opening.

I never felt that TheNYRBlog was my blog, to me it is our blog. So if there is anything I'm missing or you want me to change at my new address, please let me know (nyrfan94@yahoo.com) and I will do everything I can to accommodate.

Can't wait for my new digs!!!!

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TheNYRBlog Reader Hangs with Graves

TheNYRBlog reader MZ sent me this amazing recap and photo of his day hanging out with Ranger great Adam Graves...

At the Rangers Garden of Dreams Casino Night benefit in February, I was the winning bidder for a day with Adam Graves at the Rangers practice facility (the casino night was a ton of fun with unbelievable access to the players and I plan to go again).

What a great time. I arrived at the Tarrytown facility at 11:45 a.m. with my dad and checked in. Five minutes later out walks Adam with a friendly smile. Right from the start, he was so gracious and made us feel completely comfortable.

We chatted for a few minutes and he led us into the practice rink. Practice was already going strong and pucks were clanging loudly off the glass as we walked in. The proximity to the action was surprising – the rink essentially took up the entire room, surrounded by glass, with a little sitting area. We were at ice level, leaning into the glass watching the guys practice literally inches away from us.

Albert is the Voice of a Generation

TheNYRBlog reader Cory Twibell of The Hockey Writers puts together a great piece on Rangers radio play by play man Kenny Albert...

"Kenny Albert went from calling games in the stands at Madison Square Garden as a kid, to a $5 per week sportswriting job at Anton Newspapers in high school, to eventually becoming one of the most recognizable and beloved voices in professional sports."

Albert on calling games in the stands at MSG as a kid...

“I received a tape recorder for my fifth birthday. I started calling games off television, and when I became old enough to take it to Madison Square Garden (MSG) or Shea Stadium, I would call games into the recorder from the stands. The people around me probably thought I was crazy,” said Albert, who grew up in Sands Point and covered sports for Anton’s Port Washington News.

...could you imagine sitting at a game and seeing a kid next to you doing that? I absolutely would have thought he was nuts.

...i don't listen to many games on the radio, but I have to say Albert and Maloney are one of the best radio teams in the New York market.

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Thursday Headlines

Bergen Record - Rangers' offense receives a boost

New York Post - Gaborik to return, but Rozsival out for Rangers

Daily News - Gaborik returns, plans to protect home ice

Newsday - Rangers get Gaborik back, but Rozsival sidelined

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Gaborik Probably A No Go Tomorrow (Updated - Nevermind He's In)

Update, 7:46 p.m.:
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports that Tortorella confirmed that Gaborik is a go for tomorrow night, however, Rozsival is out for the next 7-10 days.

Update, 1:19 p.m.:
Jesse Spector now tweets that Gaborik isn't a certainty to play tomorrow as he and Torts have yet to talk.

...i'm sorry, if Gabby says he's good to go no way is Torts holding him back for another game.

Update, 1:13 p.m.:
In other good news, Zipay also tweets that Rozsival could miss tomorrow's game meaning Matt Gilroy's return to the lineup.

Update, 1:02 p.m.:
Steve Zipay tweets that Gaborik said he is "good to go tomorrow."

...disregard the below info.

Original Post:
Andrew Gross tweets...

If Gaborik is in yellow jersey working as extra on fourth line, probably an indication about his status for tomorrow's game vs. #Sabres.less than a minute ago via HootSuiteAndrew Gross
AGrossRecord

...oh well let's target Sunday.

@thenyrangers tweets that Michal Rozsival is not on the ice.

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More Third Jersey Pics

Icethetics posts more pics of the Rangers third jersey which will be officially unveiled on Friday during Heritage Week...

....i'm still a big fan. What do you guys think?

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Video: Torts Talks Loss to Caps

To view John Tortorella's post game press conference click here.

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Rangers Deserve Credit for Recent Drafting Prowess

Rory Boylen at The Hockey News takes a look at how the Rangers drafting has improved tremendously post lockout...

"The Rangers have a total of 10 homegrown players on their NHL roster with 2004 picks Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan leading the team in scoring, while stars Chris Drury, Vaclav Prospal and Marian Gaborik recover from injuries. While the team’s management takes a lot of heat for how they handle (or mishandle) the salary cap, GM Glen Sather’s squad deserves credit for how it has patiently brought along its youth and allowed them to rise to prominent roles, a theme that will become more apparent as the post-lockout group of prospects develop."

Gordie Clark, Rangers' Director of Player Personnel, describes the change...

“When I sat down with Glen (Sather) and Don Maloney at that time they clearly made it evident that with the way everything was going with the cap and the future, everybody is going to be somewhat equal now,” said Rangers director, player personnel Gordie Clark, who runs draft day for the team. “(Sather) made a real decision to say the way you can try and outdo the opposition is hopefully draft properly and then raise them.”

...glad it only took Sather five years to figure that out. In all seriousness for all the bad free agent signings you have to give Sather (ok mostly Clark) lots of credit for stockpiling the Rangers organization with top prospects.

...although as Clark points out the reason the Rangers might be drafting better is because the team is struggling and they are getting higher picks which equals better players. So I guess Sather still stinks.

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Wednesday Headlines

Bergen Record - Derek Boogaard's first goal in 235 games not enough in Rangers 5-3 loss to Caps

Bergen Record - Rangers notes: Ruslan Fedotenko's goal waived off

New York Post - Rangers outlasted by Capitals, 5-3

New York Post - Rolling Boyle pots two goals in Rangers' loss

New York Post - 'Boogie' night goal can't bail out Blueshirts

Daily News - Caps extend Rangers woes on Broadway

Journal News - Rangers continue to struggle at home

New York Times - A Rare Goal in Another Loss to a First-Place Team

Newsday - Rangers come up short against Capitals

Newsday - Staple: Boyle one of few Rangers going forward

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Rangers Talk Loss to Caps

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has numerous post game quotes...

Brandon Dubinsky on the game...

“We played the ideal game,” Brandon Dubinsky said. “Obviously, we had a couple of breakdowns that ended up in the back of the net. It’s tough. We’ve still got to generate more (offense). We needed that key goal and we couldn’t find a way to come up with it.”

Ruslan Fedotenko on the disallowed goal...

“The ref said I just made a collision with the goalie,” Fedotenko said. “It happened so fast. I didn’t really think so but I didn’t see a replay. I was trying to cut in front of him but the defenseman was there.”

Derek Boogaard on ending his 235 game goalless streak...

“So I shot,” said Boogaard, whose cell phone is already filling up with messages. “Hopefully I won’t get on a another streak like that.”

Steve Zipay at Blue Notes has more including this from Henirk Lundqvist...

“We did a lot of good things but it comes down to winning,” said Henrik Lundqvist, who was strong in the first when the Capitals fired 14 shots. “We can’t be satisfied even though we managed to keep their top players away from their big chances. They’re good. They don’t need much. And we come up short again here at home.”

Finally, Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report has John Tortorella's press conference including this quote on the disallowed goal by Fedotenko:

“I have no opinion.”

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Capitals 5, Rangers 3

The New York Rangers (7-7-1) lost to the Washington Capitals (11-4-0) by the score of 5-3, tonight. For a recap and box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.com.

Attendance: 18,200 (100.0% full)

...that was a night of missed opportunities as the Rangers could not bang home anything. They had numerous wide open chances on the doorstep all night and either missed the net or hit the defenseman. Having said that, very entertaining game.

...where has Boogaard been hiding that shot his entire career?

...i was ready to bury Boyle in Hartford before the season started now he could be headed to the All Star game if he keeps this up.

...starting to get tired of Del Zotto's giveaways leading to opponent goals. And that was his fault not Rozsival's on the winner.

...can someone tell Dubinsky he's the league's second leading scorer and the Rangers don't need him breaking his hand in a fight.

...Sauer just gained a whole mess of respect in the locker room.

...Lundqvist is just not good against the Caps.

...Staal and Avery are still looking for their jocks after Ovechkin danced around both of them before Knuble's goal.

...hate to get on the refs again, but man that's a second straight awful game by the zebras. How does Fedotenko's goal not count? He got pushed into the crease!!!

...no points from Frolov, but I thought him and Stepan were a lot better tonight. FYI, as noted by reader Riley, Frolov has only one more goal than Boogaard. Yikes.

...back at it Thursday night against the Sabres.

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Rangers vs. Capitals (Game 15)

The New York Rangers (7-6-1) host the Washington Capitals (10-4-0) tonight at MSG starting at 7:30 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo Sports.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: Versus; Radio: 970AM The Apple, XM205

Probable Lines:
Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan
Avery-Boyle-Prust
Frolov-Stepan-Fedotenko
Boogaard-Christensen-White

Staal-Rozsival
Del Zotto-Girardi
Eminger-Sauer

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist - 6-4-1, 2.55 gaa, .924 sv%, 2 so.

Michal Neuvirth - 8-3-0, 2.41 gaa, .914 sv %, 1 so

Opponent Notes:
- The Capitals have won four straight games.

- D Mike Green has eight points in the last five contests including a four-game goal streak.

- Alex Ovechkin has seven goals and five assists in his last seven games at MSG, including the 2009 playoffs and has 16 goals and 13 assists in 27 career games overall against the Rangers.

- Washington is 8-1-1 in their last 10 regular-season meetings against the Rangers.

- Alexander Semin has scored in four straight games.

- Former Ranger Tom Poti (lower body/groin) is questionable for tonight.

2010-11 Season Series:
Nov. 9 Rangers vs. Capitals at MSG
Dec. 12 Rangers vs. Capitals at MSG
Jan. 24 Rangers vs. Capitals at Washington
Feb. 25 Rangers vs. Capitals at Washington

Opponent Blog:
Capitals Kremlin

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Gaborik Will Be Back Thursday or Sunday

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has this quote from Marian Gaborik on when he expects to be back in the lineup...

"Yesterday was my first practice. Obviously, there were some battles. I felt it was a pretty good day. Tomorrow is going to be another day and we’ll see how it goes and we’ll go from there. I’m hopefully shooting for Thursday or Sunday.

“Everyday is harder and harder,” Gaborik added. “When I shoot, it feels good. I feel my shot is pretty good. I got into some contact and battle drills yesterday, it wasn’t too much. I need to feel comfortable enough to play.”

...get ready Ranger fans our star player is on the verge of getting back in the lineup.

As for tonight's game, Derek Boogaard, who did not practice yesterday due to illness, said he was still feeling somewhat iffy, however, he will almost certainly be in the lineup since the Rangers have no extra forwards.

...way to think ahead guys. I guess if Boogaard can't go they'll just put Gilroy on the wing.

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Pursuing Richards Would Mean End for Dubinsky or Callahan

Lyle Richardson at The Hockey News revives the Stars' C Brad Richards to the Rangers talk by stating that Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan's outstanding play this season has upped their price when they become RFAs next summer meaning the Rangers will have less money to pursue Richards.

Unless, as Richardson points out, the Rangers decide to sign the UFA Richards this summer over Dubinsky and/or Callahan.

...Richards (6g, 12a) is a stud player, but would signing him be worth losing Dubinsky (who looks to have turned a corner this season) and/or Callahan (the heart and soul of the team)? I'd say if Dubinsky can continue with the season he is having no way they let hom go and Callahan is obvious. At least to me he is.

...i think bringing in the 30-year-old Richards also flys in the face of the Rangers "youth movement." Plenty of young centers in the pipeline. Stay the course Glen, stay the course.

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Power Rankings

CBS Sports ranks the Rangers #17 in their latest power rankings...

17. Rangers - Madison Square Garden is still obviously a very tough place to play -- for the Rangers that is. New York has won only two of seven at home so far.

ESPN.com (#16), TSN (#15) and The Hockey News (#14) also released their power rankings.

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Tuesday Headlines

Bergen Record - Derek Stepan eager to contribute

New York Post - Gaborik back at practice

Daily News - Gaborik return can tip balance for Rangers

Newsday - Rangers must get creative until Gaborik returns

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Gaborik Back Thursday Night?

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants says there's a good chance Marian Gaborik will be back in the Rangers lineup Thursday night against the Sabres...

"Gaborik expects to skate again tomorrow morning at the Rangers’ optional, then participate again in Wednesday’s practice. If all goes well, that could lead to Gaborik returning for Thursday’s game the Sabres, which would put him just one day shy of four weeks since he separated his left shoulder. Coach John Tortorella also seemed to indicate that Thursday might be a possibility."

Here's Torts on Gaborik...

“He’s been cleared for contact,” Torotrella said. “We didn’t have a grinding type practice today but we played a small game in a closed area in our last drill and he handled himself well. He’s been cleared to start practicing and now we’ll put him through his paces tomorrow conditioning wise. We’ll have another practice after the Washington game and I’ll just wait for the trainer to let me know he’s ready to go and play in a game.”

...you've got to be psyched if your holding tickets for Thursday night's game.

...hopefully Gaborik gives the offense a nice shot in the arm because they need it.

Gross also reports Boogaard sat out today's practice with a bug that is making it's way around the locker room.

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MZA Scores Hat Trick

Bruce Berlet at CTWhale.com reports that Mats Zuccarello scored a hat trick as the Hartford Wolfpack/CT Whale snapped a nine game losing streak with a 7-1 win over the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (Islanders) last night.

G Chad Johnson on MZA...

"I remember a game last season when the Rangers were kind of going through the same thing, and (former Wolf Pack wing) Ryan Callahan was just flying one game and got two goals. It’s like that one guy who sort of steps up and leads the way. Tonight it was Zuccarello. He was just all over the place, in the right place defensively and getting pucks."

MZA, who also had an assist last night, now has seven goals on the season.

...looks like the kid is starting to come around. Also nice to hear he was also responsible on the defensive end.

Here's video of the hat trick...



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Grachev Back to Hartford

Update, 12:43 p.m.:
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has more from practice including new lines with Stepan and Frolov reunited.

Original Post:
Arthur Staple tweets...

#NYRangers send Evgeny Grachev back to Hartford before practice. Marian Gaborik will practice fully, but not expected to play tomorrow.less than a minute ago via webArthur Staple
StapeNewsday

...while Gaborik won't be playing tomorrow this move is obviously in anticipation of his return. Add in the fact that Torts only gave him four minutes last night, which really doesn't do much for his growth.

...while I'd like to see a little more offense, I actually liked what I saw in Grachev's brief appearances. Nice to see the Rangers gave him a few weeks to prove himself.

...h/t to Declan over at Puck Central for the headsup.

Staple also tweets that Boogaard wasn't on the ice this morning.

...probably had a splinter in his butt from sitting on the bench the entire third period. Owwwww.

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Mr. Mom

I'm going to ask you guys to bare with me this week as my baby sitter (aka my mother) is taking a much needed vacation and my wife isn't able to take off from work. Which leaves me to take care of the kids. God help them.

So when I get a spare minute between diaper changes, mommy and me library classes, feedings and school drop off and pickups, I'll do my best to update the blog.

If you guys see something out there that I miss, please e-mail it to me at nyrfan94@yahoo.com.

Thanks.

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Stepan 8th in Calder Poll

Kevin Forbes at Hockey's Future posts the results of their Staff Calder poll with Derek Stepan at #8...

8. Derek Stepan, C - New York Rangers
DOB: June 18, 1990
Drafted 51st overall (2nd round) in 2008

The New York Rangers lack of depth down the middle has paid off early on in the season for Derek Stepan. A former standout with the University of Wisconsin and the captain of Team USA's gold-medal winning World Junior squad last winter, Stepan's in his first year of professional hockey and already seeing big minutes and big responsibility with the Blueshirts. He's already started his NHL career with a bang as only the fourth player to score a hat trick in his first NHL game. Faced with the impossible task of continuing that pace, Stepan currently has five points in 13 games for the Rangers. The 20-year-old has already seen his ice time dwindle from a high mark of more than 20 minutes early in the season down to an average of closer to the 10 minute mark over the last five games. Playing alongside Marian Gaborik prior to the Slovakian's injury, Stepan will be worth keeping a close eye on if he regains his star line mate when Gaborik returns to the lineup.

...it's definitely been a learning experience for Stepan since the opening night hat trick. But playing less minutes on the fourth line isn't always a bad thing as he gets to learn the NHL game at a little slower pace. Instead of putting him in a position he may not be ready for.

...having said that, in the third period last night he showed some chemistry with Frolov as they immediately connected on a scoring chance and I fully expect him to be centering the third line tomorrow night against the Capitals.

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It Doesn't Make Cents for the Rangers

Ken Campbell at The Hockey News takes a look at some financially related things this season that make you scratch your head including these two beauties from the Rangers...

- Veteran Wade Redden will earn $6.5 million playing in the American League. Pro rookie Kevin Shattenkirk, who will probably be a better defenseman than Redden in the minors, will make 1/100th of that total. So Redden will make more in one game than Shattenkirk does all season.

- If Duncan Keith and Derek Boogaard have the same number of fights this season as last, Keith will make $8 million per fight ($8 million for one tilt) and Boogaard will earn $183,333.33 per fight ($1.65 million for nine scraps).

...sure Boogaard may be a bit overpaid but at least Ranger players aren't taking vicious head shots or hits from behind. ;)

...and not sure why Campbell is hating on Redden he's tied for second on the CT Whale with nine points (1g, 8a). So I think his being paid more in one game than Shattenkirk makes all year is more than justified.

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