Malik Strikes Again

Greg Wyshynski at Puck Daddy reports on former Ranger Marek Malik, now playing in the Swiss Hockey League, scoring an own goal in Game 3 of his team's current playoff series. Luckily for Malik his team went on to win the game 6-3.

To see the video click here.

...almost as bad as his giveaway in Game 2 of the Rangers/Sabres Eastern Conference Semi-Finals in 2007. Unfortunately, that one did cost his team the game. At 1:58 mark.

It's All Sather's Fault

With all 546 votes counted in my most recent poll, you guys have overwhelmingly blamed GM Glen Sather for the Rangers disappointing season with 62% of the vote (339 votes).

Coming in second was John Tortorella (21% - 115 votes) and the players (16% - 92 votes) were the least to blame.

...it's funny that the ones who actually play the games are blamed the least. How does that make sense?

With only six games remaining and the Rangers only four points out of a playoff spot, my newest poll asks the obvious question, do you think the Rangers get in? Poll to the right.

Zipay Live Chat @ 1pm

Steve Zipay at Blue Notes will host his weekly web chat today at 1 p.m. To participate click here.

No Help from Devils Again

After losing 5-1 to the Flyers on Sunday, the Devils were again no help to the Rangers last night as they lost 1-0 in OT to the 8th place Bruins (82 pts.).

In other bad news, the 9th place Thrashers (80 pts.) defeated the Maple Leafs 3-2.

With the Flyers (6th - 82 pts.) and Canadiens (7th - 82 pts.) idle last night along with the Rangers (78 pts.) win, the Blueshirts are actually just four points out of sixth place. See full standings here.

...i honesty think the Devils are losing these games on purpose just to keep the Rangers out of the playoffs.

Wednesday Headlines

Bergen Record - Rangers rally to beat Islanders, 4-3, and stay in the playoff hunt

Bergen Record - Rangers notes: No progress for Sean Avery's injury

New York Post - Rangers climb out of 2-0 hole to top Islanders

New York Post - Voros provides a booster shot

New York Post - Rangers' Jokinen lets bygones be bygones

Daily News - Rangers rally to fend off Islanders

New York Times - Playing With Passion, Rangers Stay in Playoff Hunt

Newsday - Jokinen, Voros come alive in Rangers' win

Newsday - Staple: Rangers get help to keep hopes alive

Video: Highlights, Torts & Analysis of Win vs. Islanders

Rangers @ Islanders highlights here.

John Tortorella speaks to reporters about the Blueshirts' 4-3 victory over the Islanders here.

Ron Duguay looks back at the Blueshirts' 4-3 come-from-behind victory over the Islanders here.

Rangers 4, Islanders 3

The New York Rangers (34-32-10) defeated the New York Islanders (31-35-10) by the score of 4-3, tonight. For a recap and box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.com.

...despite a shaky Lundqvist, the Rangers were able to take care of business and live to fight another day. For once the offense came to the aid of their goaltender.

...and that offense was led by Prospal who got the Rangers going with a ridiculous top shelf goal. Not to mention his +3.

...first goal in 15 games for Jokinen. No wonder Calgary wanted him out of there. Should have known something was up when they took Kotalik and his three year, $9 million contract for him. Having said that, if the Rangers brought him back with a two-year, $4 million contract I wouldn't complain.

...Rangers might be smart to start Auld in one of the two games down in Florida. Lundqvist looks like he needs a rest.

...2a and a combined +4 for Parenteau and Voros. Now that's stepping up when players go down with injuries.

...congrats to Gaborik on his 40th. Don't know where this team would be without you.

...i thought the Rangers brought up Locke to play tonight? Was he a last minute scratch?

...for some reason I missed this in Toronto. The Rangers gave Rozsival an "A"?

...i get so mad watching Streit on the Islanders knowing the Rangers passed on him to sign Redden. The Rangers couldn't use him on the point on the power play right now.

...no help tonight as both Boston (Are the Devils losing on purpose?) and Atlanta won.

...Rangers hope to keep this rolling (3-0-1 in their last four games) in Florida starting Friday night in Tampa.

Rangers @ Islanders (Game 76)

The New York Rangers (10th, 33-32-10 - 76 pts.) visit the New York Islanders (12th, 31-34-10 - 72 pts.) tonight at Nassau Veterans Memorial Colisium starting at 7:00 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo! Sports.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: MSG; Radio: ESPNRadio (1050AM)

Probable Lines:
Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik
Prospal-Locke-Drury
Voros-Jokinen-Parenteau
Shelley-Anisimov-Prust

Staal-Rozsival
Del Zotto-Girardi
Redden-Eriksson

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist - 30-26-9, 2.44 gaa, .919 sv%, 3 so.

Dwayne Roloson - 23-17-6, 2.90 gaa, .910 sv %, 1 so

Opponent Notes:
- The Islanders are 5-2-1 in their last eight games.

- Dwayne Roloson has been in net for all five games against the Rangers this season, going 3-2-0 with a 2.77 GAA.

- Kyle Okposo leads the Islanders with 46 points.

- Mark Streit has five points in his last five games.

Season Series:
Oct. 28 Rangers 1, Islanders 3 at Uniondale
Dec. 16 Rangers 1, Islanders 2 at MSG
Dec. 17 Rangers 5, Islanders 2 at Uniondale
Dec. 26 Rangers 2, Islanders 3 (OT) at MSG
March 24 Rangers 5, Islanders 0 at MSG

Opponent Blog:
Islanders Point Blank

Voros Could Be Very Important Guy

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has this quote from John Tortorella on Aaron Voros being re-inserted into the line-up...

“It’s been a long road,” Tortorella added of Voros. “I’m not sure how he was before I came but I haven’t played him a lot. He’s just been the odd guy out. He’s never complained. He’s always handled himself tremendously as far as how many times he’s been skated after practice. He’s a good teammate. I thought he brought us some good energy the other night. he did some good things with the puck. We need to get that consistently out of him. With so few games left, he could be a very important guy for us here as far as creating offense with forechecking and grinding.”

Jim Cerny at newyorkrangers.com tweets this quote from Voros on being a Ranger...

"I love being a Ranger...don't take anything for granted...worse situations u could be in than being on outside of lineup"

...i'm a big Voros fan and believe he should be in the line-up (4th line) every night. This quote says it all about his commitment to the team.

Gross also says that Avery is day-to-day and has tonight's line-up...

Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik

Prospal-Locke-Drury

Voros-Jokinen-Parenteau

Shelley-Anisimov-Prust

Help Callahan Win Messier Leadership Award

Newyorkrangers.com reports that Ryan Callahan is among this week's three finalists to enter a group that will be considered for the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award.

His competition this week (Week 5) includes New Jersey Devils captain Jamie Langenbrunner and Colorado Avalanche captain Adam Foote. Voting runs from now until April 4.

The Week 5 winner will join Buffalo's Ryan Miller, Detroit's Nicklas Lidstrom, Philadelphia's Mike Richards and Washington's Alex Ovechkin as finalists for this year's award.

Messier will select the award's winner at the conclusion of the regular season.

To vote for Callahan click here.

...would be pretty cool to have Callahan win the award. Vote now and vote often.

What If the Rangers Didn't Win the Cup in '94?

Here is one of the commercials the NHL will be rolling out come playoff time asking the question Rangers fans don't ever want to think about.

Rangers Sign Goaltender Talbot

Newyorkrangers.com reports the Rangers have agreed to terms with free agent goaltender Cameron Talbot.

Talbot, 22, was named the 2010 College Hockey America (CHA) tournament MVP and selected to the CHA All-Tournament Team after backstopping the University of Alabama-Huntsville Chargers to their second CHA tournament championship.

Talbot appeared in 33 games with the Chargers (CHA) this past season, posting a 12-18-3 record, along with a 2.60 goals against average, a .925 save percentage and one shutout. He established career-highs in games played, wins, goals against average and save percentage this season. His .925 save percentage led all CHA goaltenders and tied for sixth overall in the NCAA, while he ranked second in the conference in wins and goals against average.

...you can never have enough good goaltending.

Viewing Party @ Mulcahy's Tonight

Mulcahy's in Wantagh will be hosting a viewing party for tonight's Rangers/Islanders game starting at 6pm.

Alumni in attendance will be Nick Fotiu, Ron Greschner and Pete Stemkowski. For more information click here.

...maybe next year during one of these viewing parties I'll setup a 'The New York Rangers Blog' get together. Not sure if anyone would be interested.

Kreider, Stepan & McDonagh Head to Frozen Four

Rangers 2009 #1 draft pick Chris Kreider and Boston College defeated Yale 9-7 on Sunday to earn a birth in one of Thursday, April 8th's Frozen Four Semi-Finals against Miami of Ohio.

While other Ranger prospects Derek Stepan & Ryan McDonagh along with their Wisconsin teammates will join Kreider in the Frozen Four against Rochester Institute after they bested St. Cloud on Saturday 5-3.

For more on the Frozen Four go here.

For more on Kreider, Stepan and McDonagh head over to The Prospect Park.

...both of the semis will be on ESPN2. So any Ranger fans interested in checking out the team's future should make it a point to check these games out.

Rangers Playoff Chances Get a Shot in the Arm

The Rangers fading playoff chances improved tremendously last night as the 8th place Bruins lost to the Sabres and the 9th place Thrashers were defeated by the Hurricanes.

The Rangers are just four points out of the final playoff spot with seven games to go. The Rangers have a game in hand on the Thrashers. Full standings here.

...does anyone want to make the playoffs?

...i really thought the Rangers only chance of getting in was through a Flyers collapse, but Boston is giving the Rangers another opening.

Video: Torts, Players Talk Islanders

Erik Christensen, Brandon Dubinsky, Jody Shelley and Marc Staal discuss tonight's game against the Islanders here.

John Tortorella speaks to reporters following a March 29 practice at the MSG Training Center to prepare for tonight's game against the Islanders here.

Corey Locke speaks to reporters after his first practice with the Blueshirts on March 29, while P.A. Parenteau and coach John Tortorella discuss Locke's role here.

Latest Power Rankings

ESPN.com drops the Rangers one spot to #22 in their latest power rankings...

22. Rangers - The Rangers are 2-0-1 in their past three games, keeping their playoff hopes alive, but the loss of Sean Avery to a knee injury will be costly and blowing a lead en route to a loss to Toronto on Saturday may be psychologically damaging. They finish with home-and-home against Philadelphia, which could prove interesting.

While CBS Sports moves the Rangers up from #23 to #20...

20. Rangers - Losing Sean Avery is a tough break for a team that is barely staying alive in the East playoff race.

The Hockey News and TSN have also released their power rankings.

Tuesday Headlines

New York Post - Torts: Locke could be key for Rangers

Daily News - John Tortorella says if New York Rangers make playoffs, it will be because of Henrik Lundqvist

Newsday - Gilroy sits as Rangers seek answers on offense

Bergen Record - Corey Locke's long journey to NHL ends with spot on Rangers

Bergen Record - Rangers up next: Rangers at Islanders

Just Play

That's the instructions John Tortorella gave Corey Locke when he arrived today from Hartford according to Mark Herrmann at Blue Notes.

P.A. Parenteau added...

"The only thing I can tell him," Parenteau said, "is do what you do, but do everything a little quicker. The main thing with the AHL and NHL is, it’s the same game it’s just that everything is a little quicker."

Herrmann also posts that Sean Avery (leg), Ryan Callahan (leg) and Matt Gilroy (healthy scratch) are all out tomorrow on Long Island.

On the second straight healthy scratch for Gilroy, Torts said...

"it's part of the process"

...how about starting the process of accountability and sitting Redden.

Another Reason to Hate the Devils

Last night, the Philadelphia Flyers (6th place - 82 pts.) lambasted the New Jersey Devils 5-1, stretching their lead over the Rangers (10th - 76pts.) to six points. The Rangers do have a game in hand.

Boston (80 pts.) now occupies the 8th spot, with Montreal (82 pts.) in 7th. Atlanta is in the 9th hole with 78 pts. Full standings here.

...to me, a Philadelphia collapse is still the only way the Rangers get in and that win last night hurts.

Get Redden Out

Lyle Richardson at The Hockey News talks about the different avenues the Rangers can get rid of Wade Redden's horrendous contract...

"The Rangers can certainly afford to bury Redden’s salary in the minors, but that doesn’t mean they’re keen to consider the possibility.

A buyout is another possibility, but it wouldn’t be cheap. As per capgeek.com, Redden’s actual salary is $6.5 million for each of the next two seasons and $5 million per season for the final two years. That translates into a buyout cap hit of just more than $1.9 million per season in the first two years, more than $3.4 million over the next two and back to $1.9 million for four more seasons after that."

...i didn't think it was possible, but Redden has actually gotten worse recently. Only four years left Ranger fans.

Rangers Recall Locke; Callahan, Avery Receiving Platelet Therapy

Newyorkrangers.com reports that the Rangers have recalled Hartford Wolf Pack leading scorer Corey Locke.

Locke, 25, has registered 11 points (five goals and six assists) in the last nine games with Hartford, including a season-high six-game point streak from March 10 at Worcester to March 21 vs. Providence. He has tallied 29 goals and 51 assists for 80 points in 73 AHL contests this season.

Locke's recall obviously has to do with the Sean Avery (not season ending) and Ryan Callahan injuries.

According to Mark Herrmann at Blue Notes both players are receiving platelet therapy to accelerate healing.

...nice to see Locke finally recalled. It's not like the Rangers could have used Hartford's leading scorer at any point this season.

Monday Headlines

New York Post - Rangers need Gaborik to be a star again

Daily News - Like Ranger playoff hopes, Avery ailing

Video: Lowlights, Torts & Analysis of Loss to Leafs

John Tortorella speaks with reporters following the Blueshirts' 3-2 overtime loss at Toronto here.

The hosts of MSG's "Hockey Night Live" take a look back at the Blueshirts' 3-2 overtime loss to the Maple Leafs here.

Rangers @ Maple Leafs lowlights here.

Avery Injured

Larry Brooks at the New York Post reports that Sean Avery injured his knee last night and had to the leave the game at 12:45 of the second period last after in a collision with the Leafs Luke Schenn.

Here's John Tortorella on Avery...

"Sean has been playing his best hockey of the year," coach John Tortorella said following the 3-2 OT defeat to the Maple Leafs. "It's a tough break, not only for him, but more importantly for the hockey club."

...the Rangers need every point they can get right now and to have Avery out, on top of Callahan already being out, is going to make it virtually impossible for the Rangers to make the playoffs.

Sunday Headlines

Bergen Record - Rangers blow late lead, fall in OT

Bergen Record - Rangers notes: Defenseman Anders Eriksson makes debut at age 35

New York Post - Rangers lose more ground after OT defeat

Daily News - Rangers feel pain with loss to Toronto

New York Times - Rare Lapse by Lundqvist Costs Rangers

Newsday - Maple Leafs tie Rangers in third, win in OT, 3-2

Maple Leafs 3, Rangers 2, OT

The New York Rangers (10th, 33-32-10 - 74 pts.) lost to the Toronto Maple Leafs (15th, 28-35-12 - 68 pts.) by the score of 3-2 in overtime. For a recap and box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.

...not even a loss of that magnitude can wipe the smile off my face from the Butler University Bulldogs making it to their first Final Four.

...now to the game, that's as bad as it gets folks. With the Flyers and Canadiens also losing the Rangers missed a huge opportunity to gain some major ground. Add in the fact that both Boston and Atlanta won and the Rangers are probably one more loss away from being out of the playoffs.

...wonder if Carp is going to ask Torts about using three forwards in OT again.

...as I said pregame, why would Torts drastically change the line-up when the team was finally showing some chemistry? Got to put tonight's loss at his feet.

...Lundqvist was again ridiculous, but it seems like he's been giving up some weak, back-breaking goals lately (See Boston game).

...wouldn't mind seeing Parenteau stay in the line-up over Lisin and Voros for the rest of the season.

...-3 for Girardi. Yikes!!!!

....shocked that Shelley and Orr didn't get at it.

...season on the line Tuesday on Long Island.

Rangers @ Maple Leafs (Game 75)

The New York Rangers (10th, 33-32-9 - 73 pts.) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (15th, 27-35-12 - 65 pts.) tonight at the Air Canada Centre starting at 7:00 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo! Sports. For a preview video go to MSG.com.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: MSG; Radio: ESPNRadio (1050AM)

Probable Lines:
Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik
Avery-Prospal-Drury
Shelley-Anisimov-Prust
Voros-Jokinen-Parenteau

Staal-Rozsival
Del Zotto-Girardi
Redden-Eriksson

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist - 30-26-8, 2.43 gaa, .919 sv%, 3 so.

Jonas Gustavsson - 15-13-8, 2.86 gaa, .902 sv %, 1 so

Opponent Notes:
- Jonas Gustavsson has won six straight games, posting a 1.92 GAA.

- Phil Kessel has seven goals and three assists over his last nine games.

- Former Ranger Jamie Lundmark has 1g, 2a in 12 games as a Maple Leaf.

- Toronto is 7-3-0 in their last 10 games.

Season Series:
Oct. 12 Rangers 7, Maple Leafs 2 at MSG
Oct. 17 Rangers 4, Maple Leafs 1 at Toronto

Opponent Blog:
Bitter Leaf Fan

Shelley vs. Orr Tonight

I can pretty much guarentee that Jody Shelley will be fighting former Ranger Colton Orr tonight. But the question is, Ranger fans, who you rooting for?

Orr was hugely popular during his tenure with the Blueshirts and Rangers fans have gain an appreciation of his value this season as the Rangers have lacked toughness all year.

Orr will also be looking for some revenge on Shelley for this...



...i don't care how popular Orr was he's not on the team anymore, so I'm rooting for Shelley.

Whole Sale Changes

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports that Aaron Voros, P.A. Parenteau and Anders Eriksson will all be in the line-up for the Rangers, who will be where road blues tonight in Toronto.

Out are Ryan Callahan (right leg), center Brian Boyle (left foot/ankle) and healthy scratches Enver Lisin and Matt Gilroy.

Here are tonight's line combos...

Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik
Avery-Prospal-Drury
Shelley-Anisimov-Prust
Voros-Jokinen-Parenteau

Eriksson will be paired with Wade Redden.

Voros on being back in the line-up...

“I’ve just got to keep it simple, I’m excited, obviously,” said Voros, who has one goal and two assists in 33 games. “I felt I was playing some of my best hockey before I came out. Obviously, they needed to get more scoring with a different lineup.”

...the Rangers finally start playing well and what does Tortorella do? He changes the entire line-up. I know Callahan is injured, but how about just replacing him with Parenteau. I like Voros but the team has been better since Lisin was re-inserted in the line-up. I just don't get this.

...the Rangers go with Gilroy all year and with nine games left they decide he's not ready? If they felt this way why wasn't Eriksson brought up as soon as the Ranger acquired him at the deadline. And as reader bpette said yesterday, how does Redden get a pass over Gilroy? Again a head scratcher.

Jonas Gustavsson will be in goal for the Maple Leafs tonight.

Saturday Headlines

Bergen Record - Blueshirts' mantra: 'Do it again'

New York Post - Rangers' playoff run hinges on tightening D

Daily News - Rangers trying to keep in playoff hunt

Newsday - Beat-up Rangers face Leafs on the road

Rangers Call Up Parenteau & Eriksson

Newyorkrangers.com reports that forward P.A. Parenteau and defenseman Anders Eriksson have been recalled from the Hartford Wolf Pack.

Parenteau has 20 goals and 25 assists for 45 points, along with 63 penalty minutes and a plus-15 rating in 35 games with Hartford this season.

Eriksson, 35, has registered three assists in eight games with Hartford since being acquired by the Rangers on March 3 from the Phoenix Coyotes in exchange for goaltender Miika Wiikman and a seventh round selection in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

...assuming this is insurance if Callahan can't go tomorrow in Toronto.

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants says Eriksson may have been called up because Torts is losing faith in Gilroy's defensive ability.

Rangers Chances of Making the Playoffs Up to 20%

On Monday, I posted that the Rangers chances of making the playoffs were a paltry 7.2%.

Now just four days later, Greg Wyshynski at Puck Daddy says those chances have ballooned to 20.9%. A number which is actually higher than the 14.7% for the ninth place Thrashers.

...they had to string us along. Couldn't they have just put us out of our misery these last two games. Now I'll start getting excited again that the Rangers might actually make the playoffs then bam a home-and-home sweep at the hands of the Brian Boucher-led Flyers to end the season and their chances of making the big dance.

Former Ranger Coach Low Mugged, Hospitalized

Slam Sports reports that former Ranger Coach Ron Low is still recovering in a hospital after a St. Patrick's Day mugging in Calgary.

After leaving a meeting with fellow former Oilers player Dave Hunter, Low was the victim of a blindside attack at about 9 p.m. on March 17.

Low, 59, managed to make it to his hotel and was able to call an ambulance.

Low is a salesman for Smith Tools in Edmonton after stints as head coach of the Oilers (1995-99) and New York Rangers (2000-02). Low was 69-86-9 as Rangers head coach failing to make the playoffs both years.

...while I'm sure plenty of Ranger fans threatened physical violence towards Low during his tenure with the Rangers, I think I speak for all of us in wishing Low a full and speedy recovery.

...h/t to Carp at the Rangers Report.

Callahan on His Injury

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants spoke with Ryan Callahan after last night's game on re-injuring his leg...

“I re-aggravated it when a Devils defenseman fell on my leg there behind the net,” said Callahan, who did not know which Devil it was, though there’s some thought it was actually center Rob Niedermayer. “That was it, it wasn’t happening. It’s the same injury, the same thing. We’ll see how it feels in the morning. To be honest, I’m not sure if I re-aggravated it or injured it more. It’s just tough. I want to do everything to be out there and help the team. I just want to get back as soon as possible, especially at this time of the year.”

...if Callahan is to miss any significant time it would be a huge blow to the Rangers now revived playoff hopes.

Kreider, Hagelin Players to Watch in NCAA Tourney

Hockey's Future previews the 2010 NCAA tournament and has this to say about two Ranger prospects...

One player to watch on this Boston College team is freshman Chris Kreider (NYR). After a slow start to his first collegiate season, Kreider really picked things up in the second half. Since returning to the Eagles lineup after the World Junior Championships, he has posted 10 points (nine goals, one assist). Kreider, a Hockey East All-Rookie Team selection, comes into the tournament having posted 24 points (14 goals, seven assists) in 34 games.

******

Two Wolverines to keep an eye are junior Carl Hagelin (NYR) and freshman Chris Brown (PHO). Hagelin, a CCHA All-Tournament Team selection, has been the most consistent player for Michigan this season and is enjoying his best year in the Maize and Blue. He leads Michigan with 47 points (17 goals, 30 assists) playing in all 43 games. His 47 points also rank tied for 13th in the nation as well.

Wisconsin University's Derek Stepan and Ryan McDonagh will also be representing the Rangers at the NCAAs.

...looks like the Rangers prospects are better than most of the current players.

Friday Headlines

New York Post - Rangers still alive after beating Devils in shootout win

New York Post - LARRY BROOKS: Rangers are riding Henrik

Daily News - Desperate New York Rangers best New Jersey Devils in shootout, 4-3

Bergen Record - Rangers battle back to beat Devils, 4-3, in shootout

Bergen Record - Rangers notes: Artem Anisimov more comfortable

Newsday - Dramatic win keeps Rangers in playoff hunt

Newsday - Rangers' Anisimov on the fourth line again

New York Times - Season in Balance, Rangers Are Saved by Rally

Video: Torts Goes at it with Carp

John Tortorella, who normally saves his verbal spars for Larry Brooks, this time goes at it with Rick Carpiniello of the Journal News. (Starts at the 1:30 mark)

Earlier this month, Carp criticized Torts for playing it safe in OT and recommended possibly using three forwards. Well tonight Carp decided to ask Torts if he ever considered this idea.

Torts didn't take too kindly to the suggestion and fired back with a “I know you’ve talked about that. You do a lot of … you throw a lot of things out there and you really don’t think. You really don’t think.”

Carp has more on the exchange here.

...Torts all but admits he reads Carps blog, which makes me wonder if any players or members of the Rangers organization read this blog. If so, how about dropping a comment for us.

More Video

Mike Keenan takes a look back at the Blueshirts' stirring 4-3 OT shootout win over the Devils here.

Rangers @ Devils highlights here.

Rangers 4, Devils 3, SO

The New York Rangers (33-32-9) defeated the New Jersey Devils (43-25-5) by the score of 4-3 in a shootout, tonight. For a recap and box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.com.

...before I get to the Rangers, I've got to give it up to my alma mater the Butler University Bulldogs for upsetting the #1 seed Syracuse Orangemen to move on to the Elite 8.

...its too bad this team finally decided to start playing with some passion with only nine games left in the season. If they would have done this a month ago we'd be talking about what seed they're going to end up with not if they're going to make it.

...15th best goaltending? I think not. Lundqvist was out of his mind tonight.

...Captain Clutch citing.

...did anyone else think that Jokinen was a better player than this?

...who knew Jody Shelley would make Anisimov a better player. I don't think we're going to see Brian Boyle back in the line-up anytime soon with the chemistry on the fourth line right now.

...amazing what Avery can do for this team when Torts takes the reigns off him.

...here's hoping Callahan isn't that injured. That guy is a warrior.

...i can't take Redden anymore. Is this guy even trying out there? You're getting paid $6 million a year. At least act like you're interested.

...big night as Boston, Atlanta (in OT) and Philadelphia (in OT) lose. Rangers now just three points out of eighth and five out of seventh.

...Rangers look to keep this going in Toronto on Saturday night.

Rangers @ Devils (Game 74)

The New York Rangers (10th, 32-32-9 - 71 pts.) visit the New Jersy Devils (4th, 43-25-4 - 90pts.) tonight at the Prudential Center starting at 7:00 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo! Sports. For a preview video go to MSG.com.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: MSG; Radio: ESPNRadio (1050AM)

Probable Lines:
Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik
Avery-Drury-Callahan
Jokinen-Prospal-Lisin
Shelley-Anisimov-Prust

Staal-Rozsival
Del Zotto-Girardi
Redden-Gilroy

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist - 29-26-8, 2.42 gaa, .919 sv%, 3 so.

Martin Brodeur - 40-23-3, 2.34 gaa, .914 sv %, 7 so

Opponent Notes:
- Zach Parise has scored three of his team-leading 35 goals this season against the Rangers.

- Martin Brodeur notched his eighth 40-win season on Monday but is 2-3-1 with a 2.45 goals-against average in his last six home games versus the Rangers.

- Ilya Kovalchuk has six goals and 16 points in 17 games as a Devil.

- Jamie Langenbrunner has gone seven games without a goal.

- Brian Rolston has one goal in the last 10 games, two in the last 19.

Season Series:
Oct. 5 Rangers 3, Devils 2 at New Jersey
Oct. 22 Rangers 2, Devils 4 at MSG
Jan. 12 Rangers 0, Devils 1 (SO) at MSG
Feb. 6 Rangers 3, Devils 1 at MSG
March 10 Rangers 3, Devils 6 at New Jersey

Opponent Blog:
Pucks and Pitchforks

Same Line-up vs. Devils

Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants reports that the Rangers will use the same line-up as last night against the Devils tonight at the Rock, meaning Brian Boyle and Aaron Voros will be healthy scratches.

...i've liked how Boyle has progressed as the season has gone on, but I thought lines were more balanced with Lisin being the re-inserted and Anisimov centering the fourth line. Glad to see Torts finally staying with a line-up.

Gross also has this quote from Tortorella on the Rangers pushing Marian Gaborik to play through pain this season...

“I think that’s been a little bit of a change from the way he’s been handled in Minnesota to here,” Tortorella said. “We’ve tried to keep him on the ice, we’ve tried to push him on the ice. ‘Yeah, you’re sore, so is Cally, so is Dru. Get on the ice and skate the soreness out.’ He’s been really good that way.”

...wow. That is some interesting insite from Torts. I wonder how Gaborik feels about this treatment. If he is unhappy he hasn't shown it.

Torts also talks line balance, while Anisimov gives his thoughts on being back on the fourth line.

It's Time for Sather to Go

Lyle Richardson at Spector's Hockey says after a decade as general manager of the Rangers, it’s time for Glen Sather to go...

"Sather’s had nine seasons to turn the Rangers into a Stanley Cup contender. He’s failed. It’s time for a change in their front office, preferably someone outside the organization like Steve Yzerman (if he’s available) or perhaps someone else with more experience rather than a Sather crony like Messier."

...c'mon Richardson you had a great article going that would have had every Ranger fan cheering your name, then you go and ruin it by calling Messier a Sather crony. I almost didn't post this after that comment.

...although, I do agree if Sather was to to step down (the only way we're getting rid of him) Messier is not the answer. No need for Mess to come in, not know what he's doing and become the Isiah Thomas of the NHL.

Video: Torts, Keenan Talk Win vs. Islanders

John Tortorella speaks to reporters following the Blueshirts' dominating 5-0 victory over the Islanders here.

Mike Keenan takes a look back at the highlights of the Rangers' 5-0 win over the Islanders here.

Rangers Goaltending Named 15th Best

TSN ranks team goaltending and has the Rangers at #15...

15. NEW YORK RANGERS
Henrik Lundqvist remains a consistently strong starting goaltender, one that could probably use some offensive support and the addition of Alex Auld is an upgrade to the backup position, though he's only started once since coming over from Dallas on waivers. Prospect Chad Johnson played well in five midseason appearances, so he could be part of the team's future plans.

Teams are ranked based on the statistical value of their current goaltenders, with a significantly higher portion of the ranking allocated to the starter's performance.

...15th? 15th? say what? They actually have the Blackhawks, Red Wings and Bruins ahead of the Rangers.

...TSN's criteria is that the rankings are based on the statistical value of the goaltenders. Who has more statistical value to their team than Lundqvist?

Prust Named Tough Guy

Fox Sports' weekly "Tough Guy" tracker honors Brandon Prust for his beatdown of a much bigger opponent...

7. Brandon Prust, New York Rangers
On March 18 at MSG, size didn't matter in a fight between the Rangers' Brandon Prust and the Blues' Brad Winchester. Even though he gave away five inches and over 30 pounds to Winchester, Prust handled the St. Louis giant with relative ease.

...i've liked Prust so far and won't be against the Rangers re-signing him this off-season. At a cheap price of course.

Thursday Headlines

New York Post - In 3-D game, Rangers end 3-game skid

New York Post - Fans, players give thumbs up to 3D broadcast

New York Post - Lotto win more likely than playoffs for Rangers

New York Post - JAY GREENBERG: Future looks bleak for Blueshirts

Daily News - New York Rangers stop three-game skid with 5-0 victory over Islanders

Daily News - Mark Messier, Adam Graves and others thrilled with New York Rangers' 3D broadcast at Garden

Daily News - Donald Fehr wanted for NHL Players' Association executive director job

Bergen Record - Rangers rout Islanders, 5-0, at the Garden

Bergen Record - 3-Delightful! Rangers, MSG enter broadcasting’s new dimension

Newsday - Gaborik scores twice as Rangers blank Isles, 5-0

Newsday - ARTHUR STAPLE: Rangers alive, but is that a good thing?

Video: Rangers vs. Islanders Game Highlights

Rangers vs. Islanders highlights here.

Rangers Talk Win vs. Islanders

Steve Zipay at Blue Notes has these postgame quotes...

Marian Gaborik on the quick start...
“From the get-go we started off very good,” said Gaborik, “and especially when we get a lead, it’s way better, we have some jump, and then we just kept on playing. It was a great 60 minutes, and a great effort by everyone. We’re still alive and we believe, we just have to carry this over to tomorrow night.”

Henrik Lundqvist on what went right...
“When we are where we are, confidence is a big thing,” said Lundqvist. “We didn’t complicate it and we didn’t get stuck in our own end too much. The key for us is to follow up a good game with another really good game. Hopefully we can get some confidence from this; when you lose, it’s easy to start thinking too much, but a win like this, maybe we can relax a little.”

John Tortorella on Ryan Callahan shaking off his leg injury and playing tonight...
"It doesn't surprise me. That is why he is wearing a letter."

Torts on Avery...
"He has kept his discipline, but also has been physical, has been around the puck and has drawn a lot of penalties for us."

Rangers 5, Islanders 0

The New York Rangers (32-32-9) defeated the New York Islanders (29-34-10) by the score of 5-0, tonight. For a recap and box score go to Yahoo! Sports and newyorkrangers.com.

...can Torts tell the team that the rest of the games this season will be televised in 3D?

...where has this effort been the last four months? I'm almost more angry than happy knowing the team has this type of effort in them and we're just seeing it now.

...welcome back to the season Marian.

...loving the new shot happy Del Zotto.

...nice to see Avery make his weekly appearance.

...2 goals, 4 assists and a +6 from the Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik line. Would have been nice seeing that stat line the last few months, wouldn't it "Mr. I Like to Change the Line-up Every Game."

...i see the extensive work on the power play finally paid off (2-for-6). If they didn't cash in tonight I was going to call for the re-hiring of Perry Pearn. I kid Rangers fans, I kid.

...bottom line is those were two huge points to keep the Rangers faint playoff hopes alive and I'm telling you the Flyers tough schedule (Final nine games include Wild, Pens, Devils, Habs, Red Wings and Rangers twice) to go along with the rest of their problems makes them a prime candidate to tank.

...rivalry week continues as the Rangers head to Newark to take on the Devils tomorrow night.

Rangers vs. Islanders (Game 73)

The New York Rangers (10th, 31-32-9 - 71 pts.) host the New York Islanders (14th, 29-33-10 68pts.) tonight at MSG starting at 7:00 p.m. For a preview go to Yahoo! Sports.

Rangers Game Notes

TV: MSG; Radio: ESPNRadio (1050AM)

Probable Lines (No word on Callahan so I'm saying he's out):
Dubinsky-Christensen-Gaborik
Avery-Prospal-Drury
Jokinen-Anisimov-Lisin
Shelley-Boyle-Prust

Staal-Rozsival
Del Zotto-Girardi
Redden-Gilroy

Goaltenders:
Henrik Lundqvist - 28-26-8, 2.46 gaa, .918 sv%, 2 so.

Dwayne Roloson - 22-16-6, 2.85 gaa, .910 sv %, 1 so

Opponent Notes:
- The Islanders have lost 10 of their last 11 road games.

- John Tavares has three goals and four assists in the last three games.

- Matt Moulson leads the Islanders with 26 goals.

- Trent Hunter has no goals in 16 games since Jan. 19.

- Jeff Tambellini, a healthy scratch in more than half of the Islanders' 72 games, also hasn't scored in 16 appearances since Nov. 23.

- Rick DiPietro was placed on the injured list March 2 and is out indefinitely after experiencing swelling in his surgically repaired left knee. (How many more years left on that contract?)

- Former Ranger Doug Weight underwent season-ending surgery March 18 to repair a torn labrum and rotator cuff in his left shoulder.

Season Series:
Oct. 28 Rangers 1, Islanders 3 at Uniondale
Dec. 16 Rangers 1, Islanders 2 at MSG
Dec. 17 Rangers 5, Islanders 2 at Uniondale
Dec. 26 Rangers 2, Islanders 3 (OT) at MSG

Opponent Blog:
Lighthouse Hockey

Rangers to Use 'New York' Jerseys?

Chris over at Icethetics takes look at new uniforms being prepped for the 2010-11 season including this third jersey for the Rangers...

"Reebok doesn't specify, however, Rangers blogger Greg Caggiano recently claimed to have the inside track on the new thirds. He says he's been told they'll be nearly identical to the current home jersey with NEW YORK replacing RANGERS across the front...The Rangers previously wore a blue jersey with NEW YORK on the front from 1978 to 1987. The team's home and road sweaters will not change next season."

...the Statue of Liberty jersey was wildly popular, but if this report is true I'd be happy to see the Rangers paying tribute to a part of their history by bringing this look back.

...to tell you the truth I would love the Rangers to use the 1970s throwback jersey they brought back during the first year Jagr came on board. (see below)

...h/t to Puck Daddy.

Rangers Selling Redden on Amazon.com?

Looks like the Rangers are taking the unusual step of trying to sell Wade Redden on Amazon.com as a way to rid them of his salary. Here is the product description which is tough to read.

Product Description
An NHL defenseman...kind of. Was pretty darn good the last time we scouted him, which was in 2001. Brings every ounce of the mental and physical toughness you'd expect from a guy who spent most of his career with the Ottawa Senators.

Buy now and get free shipping. In fact, we have plenty of fans who are willing to personally drive him to the airport.

...h/t to blog reader Steven for this hilarious pic.

Despite Good Health Rangers Still Stink

Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report is baffled by the Rangers play despite their relatively good health while other teams are able to succeed despite a rash of injuries...

"One thing that continually amazes me is how other teams get ripped apart by injuries (or trade away players, i.e. Atlanta and Carolina) and stay afloat. Other teams—Boston and perhaps now Philly—can’t handle the massive injuries they’ve suffered. Meanwhile the Rangers have maintained this miserable pace while remaining remarkably healthy for two years."

...what's funny is that the only time I saw this team play with any kind of urgency or desperation was when Gaborik was out with an injury. Go figure.

Poll: Who Do You Blame?

With the success of my last poll (342 responses), I figured I'd get another one going.

There's lots of blame to go around for the Rangers disappointing season, but who do you blame the most: Glen Sather, John Tortorella or the players.

The poll is in the right hand column.

How to Watch Tonight's Game in 3D

Tonight's Rangers-Islanders game marks the first ever sporting event to be televised in 3D. So how can you watch it?

According to MSG.com, to view the game in 3D at home you will need a 3D television (who the heck has a 3D television?). Next, the three Ranger fans that do have this 3D television can tune in to iO TV Channel 1300.

As far as where to get the glasses, I have no idea. I don't see anywhere on MSG.com that says where to get them. I'm assuming you can pick them up at any Cablevision store in the area.

Or you can save yourself a lot of trouble and just go to the 3D viewing party at The Theatre at Madison Square Garden.

...while the idea seems pretty cool, unless you're going to the viewing party or have a 3D television you can't watch it in 3D. So basically MSG and the Rangers are doing this for about 500 people. Sounds like a waste of money. Which the Rangers have grown accustomed to doing (See Redden, Rozsival and Drury's contracts).

Good News, Bad News

The good news for the Rangers is that the injury riddled Flyers (6th Place 79pts.) lost their third in a row last night to the Ottawa Senators 2-0 and have lost leading goal scorer Jeff Carter for the rest of the regular season with a fractured foot.

The bad news is that the 8th place Bruins (78 pts.) defeated the 9th place Thrashers last night 4-0 to build a seven point lead over the Blueshirts (71 pts.) for the final playoff spot.

...with the Flyers down to Brian Boucher in goal and now losing their leading scorer, not to mention the Rangers possible four-point pick-up on Philly during the home-and-home to end the season, I've got to think the best chance for the Rangers to make the playoffs is through a Flyers collapse. Which seems more and more realistic every day.

Wednesday Headlines

Daily News - New York Rangers in make or break mode as playoffs continue to slip away

Daily News - New York Rangers put their fading playoff hopes on the line against the Islanders Wednesday

Newsday - Rangers' power play losing spark at wrong time

Bergen Record - Rangers-Islanders in 3D

Bergen Record - Rangers aren't done yet

New York Post - JAY GREENBERG: Blueshirts pray for miracle

3D Glasses & T-shirt Contest

Courtesy of the New York Rangers Twitter account, here is a pic of the 3D glasses needed for tomorrow's first ever 3D sporting telecast when the Rangers take on the Islanders.

...very Risky Business looking.

Rangers are also holding a contest for a 3D t-shirt.

Avery Back, Cally Still Out (Updated)

Update, 2:06 p.m.:
Andrew Gross at Ranger Rants has this quote from Ryan Callahan on his leg injury...

“It feels a lot better today than yesterday,” Callahan said. “I had a good bike ride today, the next step is getting on the ice. We’ll see how it feels in the morning. It could’ve been a lot worse. Right now it’s day to day. If there’s a way for me to be out there, I want to be out there. The swelling’s not bad. Yesterday it was sore because it was the day after.”

Gross also reports on practice where the Ranger players were "loose" and working on the power play. Again.

Here's Brandon Dubinsky on the team's mindset...

“I think, the last two days, we’ve loosened up a little bit, in a good way,” Brandon Dubinsky said. “Obviously, we know what’s at stake right now. Somebody said it best, we still have an eighth of the season. We’ll take it one game at a time. No matter what happens, until there’s that tiny asterisk besides eight teams for a playoff spot and we’re not one of the teams, we’re not going to quit. A lot of people have counted us out. All we have is the 22 guys in here and the coaching staff to lean on.”

...its easy to play loose when you have nothing to play for.

Original Post:
Andrew Gross and Arthur Staple tweet that Sean Avery (leg) returned to practice this morning, while Ryan Callahan (leg) missed his second straight.

...while the Rangers are technically not out of it, I see no reason for them to play Callahan tomorrow and further injure himself.

Zipay Live Chat @ 1pm

Steve Zipay at Blue Notes will host his weekly live web chat at 1pm today. To participate click here.

Grachev Cracks Top 20 Prospects List

In the second installment (11-25) of Hockey's Future's Top 50 prospects, Evgeni Grachev makes an appearance...

18. Evgeny Grachev, LW – New York Rangers
Height: 6'4, Weight: 220
Selected by the NY Rangers in the third round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Grachev was considered to be a steal by organization brass. The OHL Rookie of the Year for 2008-09, Grachev adjusted well to the North American game and was very impressive in Rangers training camp. Currently a member of the AHL Hartford Wolf Pack, Grachev got off to a slow offensive start this season. However, his size, strength and scoring ability make Grachev’s success seemingly inevitable. Expect him to compete for a roster spot in New York next fall.

...while he's obviously not ready for the NHL right now, with the Rangers virtually eliminated from playoff contention, I'd like to see the Blueshirts bring him up for the final two weeks of the season to get his feet wet. What's the downside?

Slats to Retire?

Rick Carpiniello at the Rangers Report says he is hearing that Rangers GM Glen Sather will retire at the end of the season...

"The source claims to have knowledge of this, from a better source. I’m not sure if I believe it, and I’m certainly not sure Sather would be sharing such info with some people, and not with the people I asked. So I’m very skeptical."

...doubt this is true, but this would be so much better than making the playoffs.

Making MSG 3D

For more video on the 3D setup click here.

Viewing Party & Tweetup for Tomorrow's 3D Game

Just a heads-up on a few events for tomorrow's Rangers/Islanders 3D extravaganza...

First, the Rangers will be hosting a 3D viewing party starting at 6pm at The Theatre at Madison Square Garden. Special appearances by Mark Messier, Adam Graves, Ron Duguay, Nick Fotiu, Dan Blackburn and Ron Greschner. For more info click here.

Also, there will be a Tweetup at the ESPNZone in Manhattan from 5:30pm - 11pm. A special area will be reserved for NHLTweetup and all attendees will receive a $10 gift card to use in ESPN Zone’s Sports Arena. For more infor click here.

And next week, Mulcahy's in Wantagh will be hosting a viewing party for the Tuesday, March 30th Rangers/Islanders game starting at 6pm. Alumni in attendance will be Nick Fotiu, Ron Greschner and Pete Stemkowski. For more information click here.

Rangers Slide in Power Rankings

ESPN.com drops the Rangers four spots to #21 in their recnt power rankings...

21. Rangers - What's that they say? Stick a fork in 'em, they're done? The Rangers have lost three straight and won just twice in their past nine games. Five points out of eighth as of Monday. They are cooked.

While CBS Sports drops the Blueshirts from 320 to #23...

23. Rangers - Their season may have ended with a four-minute power play against Boston that didn't produce a scoring chance. New York has lost seven of its past 10 on the road.

TSN and The Hockey News have also release their power rankings.

Tuesday Headlines

New York Post - Postseason math grim for skidding Rangers

Newsday - Rangers must end skid as playoff hopes dim

Rangers Have 7.2% Chance of Making Playoffs

Greg Wyshynski at Puck Daddy breaks down the chances each playoff bubble team has of getting in.

The Rangers have a 7.2% chance of making the playoffs with a 1% chance of getting the 7th seed and a 5% chance of getting the 8th seed.

...so you're telling me there's a chance.

Getting to Know Dave Maloney

Mark Malinowski at The Hockey News was able to sit down with former Ranger defenseman and current TV color commentator for MSG Dave Maloney. Here is an excerpt...

Most Painful Moment: "Was probably when I got traded; got traded to Buffalo. I'm not sure painful...it's a little bit...I've always been aware that you get traded. It's a little bit sobering and kind of melancholy-ish…Coming back down in the locker room and the locker was all packed up. And I was like, OK, I guess that's 10 years. And that's it (smiles). But like I said, I always had recognition that that was part of the business. And Boston opted not to sign Bobby Orr and traded him to Chicago. So, if Orr could get traded, I sure as hell could get traded."

Maloney also talks about his favorite movies, television shows, arena, uniforms and more.

Stepan a Top 50 Prospect

Hockey's Future has their first installment of the Top 50 NHL prospects counting down 50-26...

44. Derek Stepan, C – New York Rangers
Height: 6'0, Weight: 168
Stepan was an unknown when the Rangers drafted him out of Shattuck-St. Mary’s in the summer of 2008. The Rangers loved his natural scoring ability, leadership ability, and hockey mind when they selected him in the second round. Since then, Stepan has performed well in his two seasons with the University of Wisconsin, but his biggest play has been on the international stage. As the captain of the gold medal-winning U.S. team at this year’s U-20 WJCs, Stepan recorded four goals and 10 assists in seven games, which made him the tournament scoring leader. Expected to return to Madison next fall, Stepan is two to three years away from an NHL career.

...with the Rangers season history, it's nice to see that the organization's future looks bright.

Rangers sign defenseman Baldwin

Newyorkrangers.com reports that the Rangers have agreed to terms with free agent defenseman Lee Baldwin.

Baldwin, 21, skated in 32 games with the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves this season, registering one goal and nine assists for 10 points, along with 51 penalty minutes.

...i find it ironic that the Rangers added defensive depth to the Hartford Wolf Pack all season long, but have stubbornly refused to bring up a seventh defenseman for the big club.