It was an entertaining game, but frankly I found it hard to distinguish with who was the team shooting for the top and who was the team in the dregs of the NHL. It was hard to believe that the Rangers were 33 points better than the Coyotes. After the 'Yotes took a 3-1 lead after one period it was more baffling. Another early goal, 41 seconds in, and here we go again. Arizona got 17 shots on goal in the first period. Where was the Ranger D? What is it with this quick opening game goals?
But, that was it for the Rangers and Talbot settled down. He made 37 saves, 23 in the last two periods. The Arizona goalie, Mike Smith, had 34 saves and gave up two key goals to Kreider and Stempniak, the game winner, on rebounds he couldn't control. In frustration he shattered his stick after Kreider's goal, which tied the game at three with twelve seconds left in the second period. It wasn't his fault. Kreider torched the Coyote defense.
There is a food fight among Ranger loyalists over Cam Talbot's performance. It is a non-issue. The Rangers haven't collapsed with the loss of The King and in fact have gone 9-1-2 with Talbot and Skapski (one game) in the nets. Sure, Talbot has given up a couple of softies, but haven't all goalies?
The Rangers are now on top of the heap in the Metro, tied in points with the Islanders, having two games in hand. New York, New York. But, it gets to be fun coming up. The Flyers in Philadelphia on Saturday. The NHL's best, Nashville, at home Monday and then the "old rival" Red Wings at Hockey Town on Wednesday. And then.......the Islanders.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Hey! Look Who Is On Top
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You forgot Chicago (away) after the Red Wings too. In fact, the entire month March looks to be a HUGE test for the Rangers... LGR!
Well, we will find out what we are made of. Huge test for Talbot.