Any fears that the loss of Cam Talbot would be devastating, are just about gone. Raanta is the real deal. He came within 4.8 seconds of recording his second shutout in winning his third game of the year, 4-1, over the hapless Coyotes. He made 39 saves, many brilliant, in leading the Blueshirts to their fifth straight win and first place in the Metro.
Other good news was the awakening of Kreider and JT Miller, each scoring their second goals of the year. The other goal scorers were Fast and Hayes and yes, Rick Nash was not missed as he sat out his second straight game with an injury.
The Rangers are chasing the Canadiens for first in the Eastern Conference and it looks like a long chase. Le Habs have put together a 50's style team with speed, power and toughness. The Rangers must toughen up to challenge Montreal and that is the challenge for the new GM.
Meanwhile enjoy this stretch. The Rangers are playing well, spearheaded by a strong defense with outstanding goaltending. But it's a long season and hopefully the defense will not wear down against the more physical teams in the league. There is time to correct that, but do it now from a position of strength, not weakness.
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