The New York Rangers (22-17-4) defeated the Florida Panthers (13-24-6) by the score of 6-1, tonight. For a box score go to Yahoo! Sports.
...what's amazing is that despite the 6-1 win, except for the final five minutes, the Rangers really didn't play a great game. If they play anyone but that putrid Panthers team they probably lose. Having said that, who cares? With just five games left, two points are two points and that was a HUGE win.
...for the first time in about a decade, Rangers fans were able to experience how power play goals can actually help a team, not playing at their best, win.
...what impressed me the most about Brassard's game tonight, other than the obvious two goals, was the passion he showed after scoring. The guy is relishing his opportunity to play in New York and he's filling a tremendous emotional hole the Rangers have.
...as if we weren't loving Moore already, now he's fighting? Team seemed to gain a ton of energy from his dust-up. Funny how that works.
...in the grand scheme of the game, Brad Richards' 1g, 1a really weren't all that big, but for a guy in desperate need of a major confidence boost, it was huge.
...Zuccarello finally starting to find the back of the net.
...if that Steven McDonald pre-game speech isn't played by Tortorella before the remaining five games, he should be fired. I know it pumped me up:
“We need one shift, one play, one block, one goal. To make this season a memorable one. So get it done.”
...speaking of Steven McDonald, yes, Callahan deserved the award. Stepan is having a great season, but it's the "extra effort" award and no one brings more effort on a gamely basis than Callahan.
Alex Nunn at Pro Hockey News
