Adam Kimelman at NHL.com looks at the teams that failed to make the playoffs last season and why they could make it this year...
Rangers
Why they could get in -- Despite their offensive struggles, the Rangers still went into Game 82 with a chance to make the playoffs, so the talent clearly is there. Frolov should be hungry to return to the goal-scoring form he had earlier in his career with the Kings, plus he's working on a one-year contract. The biggest acquisition, however, could be Biron. While his numbers didn't look good last season with the Islanders, Biron is a competent, veteran goaltender who will make the locker room a better place just by his presence. Also, coach John Tortorella will have the confidence to play Biron 15-20 games during the season, which will make for a more rested Lundqvist -- and when Lundqvist is on his game, there aren't many better in the League.
...the East will again be up in the air so expect the Rangers to be battling for the last two or three spots. Assuming health will be the biggest factor as to whether they make it or not. No Gaborik for a long stretch will mean no playoffs.
While Greg Wyshynski at Puck Daddy writes about why the Rangers won't make it.
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8 comments:
How could you say such a thing Kevin?! You know whay im referring to. It didnt happen last year and hes only healthier. 80 games man.
gaborik is gonna be wrecked by the flyers son
It depends on the health and performance of three key players...Gaborik, Frolov and MZA (all else being equal of course).
50 bucks says Lundqvist has a career year
"The biggest acquisition, however, could be Biron." Yes, but not for the reason he stated, more or less. He could be the most important signing because he'll give Lundqvist mental and physical rest.
Towards the middle and end of last year Hank was on the verge of crying/punching someone in the face during the post game interviews just because he was overworked....losing like 1-0 every other night takes a toll...
Mike Richards runs the other way when faced with a Boogaard body check-LMAO.
Since this is a parity league and all of us are fighting for a PO spot, I see no reason why we should not be fighting with the flygirls for the final PO spot again.
@Jack- I can't see Henrik being a pansy when Blowdeur had the same work load with the same offensively challenged team. The only difference was the R&R boys-come to think of it, you're right Henrik was overworked with such a soft D. LOL
problem would be even if henrik made the playoffs he would have nothing left if he's overworked again. look at brodeur last few yrs in playoffs and look at goalies who went a long way last yr most of them did not get burnt out in season
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