The past two games have been quick and easy for the New York Rangers.
Tonight's game probably wont be on the same mold.
The Rangers opponent tonight, the Anaheim Ducks, are also viciously fighting for a playoff berth, expect they're fighting in the jam packed West. Just to prove how close the West really is, take a look at the standings. The Ducks are in 11th place just two points out of eighth and four points out of sixth.
The Rangers got some good news last night with both the Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils and the Toronto Maple Leafs taking regulation losses. The Rangers still hold a two-point lead over the eighth-place Sabres, but Buffalo still has two games in hand.
The Rangers also hold a three-point lead over ninth-place Carolina, but the Hurricanes hold two games in hand as well.
It's become clear that New York will need some help to make the playoffs, and that means other teams losing games. That was the case last night, and it will have to be the case moving forward for the Rangers.
A win tonight, coupled with a Carolina loss, will do wonders for the Rangers current playoff standings.
Notes:
- The Rangers will still be scoreboard watching tonight, with the Carolina Hurricanes taking on the Atlanta Thrashers tonight. The Rangers simply need to hope for a regulation win here, probably by the Thrashers.
- Henrik Lundqvist will get the start again tonight, this will be a reoccurring until Martin Biron comes back this season.
- Marian Gaborik and Ryan McDonagh will be playing in their second straight games since their returns from injuries. Keep an eye on their playing time (especially Gaborik) tonight.