Are the New York Rangers finally gaining momentum? It is a great question and hopefully it becomes more of a reality as the team continues on for the remainder of the season. The Rangers have shown glimpses of greatness, and yet they find themselves losing games in overtime or in shutouts. One would figure coach Alain Vigneault is preaching consistency to his team.
The Rangers are never not in a position to win, but they can’t quite find that winning formula to close out games. Either way, fans must like what they are seeing early on from the team. The talent is their and one of their biggest strengths, defense, seems to be lacking. It is bizarre, but hey, it’s hockey.
Looking on the bright side, the NY Rangers won two straight shutouts, the first against the Philadelphia flyer and the second to the Montreal Canadiens. Against the Flyers and with backup goaltender Cam Talbot, New York notched a 2-0 win giving Cam his first win on the season. The following game against the Canadiens, New York scored five goals with each forward recording a point on the night. Talk about balanced scoring and lines. If the Rangers can find a scoring balance like this on a consistent basis they can be a very dangerous team. With each line finding productive minutes and points, opposing teams will have their hands full preparing for an onslaught of fire power.
Only pointing out the NY Rangers for their stellar play would do a disservice to another team in the region that has been in a dark place behind the Blueshirts for what seems like an eternity. The New York Islanders are sitting quietly at the top of their division with an exceptional record early on. The fan base is kicking and screaming in joy after losing seasons year after year. It is great to see such a dedicated fan base respond to their team. You can’t help but love that about sports. If you’re team is winning, naturally everyone is going to be happy and no questions will be asked. Hopefully the Islanders keep it up. If so, they will win over their fans, which will only bode well for them as they make the move next season to the Barclays center.
