NEW YORK RANGERS
As this post goes to "press," the Blueshirts have the best record in hockey by a longshot. But alas, let's not be fooled. The Rangers have also played more games than any other team (as they opened the season with two wins against the lowly Lightning in Prague).
Will the Rangers prove they can play without Sean Avery and Jaromir Jagr? Are these guys for real?
The short answer is that it's too early to see. On the surface, Rangers fans have to be pleased with the team's 6-1-1 record through the first 8 games. The team has a whole has played well, and the two goaltenders - Valiquette and Lundqvist - have split the duties quite well. The question is, should they be happy or nervous that most of the team's offense has come from - gasp! - Aaron Voros?
That's right - Aaron Voros. The longest season he's played in the NHL so far was 55 games last year for Minnesota (in which he scored 14 points). This year, he's on his way to more than surpass that total. He's also one of the toughest skaters to play on Broadway since, well...Sean Avery. When Voros hits the ice with his linemates Brandon Dubinsky and Nikolai Zherdev, we see the fire in his eyes. When he scores, his emotions seem to get the better of him, as he's been known on multiple occasions to push opponents or hit the glass with his fists after lighting the lamp.
The bottom line: Rangers fans have to realize in the back of their minds that one day, the team will need its major acquisitions -- such as Chris [different player in New York] Drury and Markus [best years in Vancouver] Naslund -- to step up a bit more. The Voros plan is nice, but let's be honest - no one expected it from this guy.
So, are the Rangers for real? We'll have to wait and see. At this point, despite the awesome record, it seems the midseason slump is inevitable in New York once Voros ceases to amaze.
ST. LOUIS BLUES
What's this? America's most forgotten team is 4-1?
Through five games, the Blues' theme has been the presence of VETERANS.
The club has found a solid goalie in Manny Legace, who has won each of his four starts while allowing ten goals. Paul Kariya has also been a solid force, with a goal and eight assists to show through the first five. Brad Boyes, Andy McDonald, Keith Tkachuk have each contributed to the Blues' strong showing up front.
Looking at the Blues' opening cinco, it seems the only place they truly dissapointed was a 5-2 loss to the Islanders. The highlight - without a doubt, was the club's convincing 6-1 victory over the Dallas Stars.
Thus, while Sean Avery may think he's the best, he's no match for the St. Louis Blues.
Could this be the beginning of a return to the playoffs in St. Louis?
Taking a glance at the Blues' roster, one would say no. However, none can deny that the club has looked quite impressive in the opening games of the season. While the Wings will almost certainly take the Western Central division this year, it won't be a cake walk like usual. This season, the theme of the division is Blue, as the Blues and Blue Jackets won't be trampled all over anymore.
The bottom line: Will the Blues make the easiest postseason tournament to make in all of pro sports? I think so.
QUICKIES
TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING
Their fans hope these guys aren't for real. What is the deal with Barry Melrose and his troops? I would hate to see the man with the mullet lose his job so early on, but this is ridiculous. Five games, and still nothing in the win column.
This week, I put out a challenge to the Tampa Bay Lightning, who I predicted to be a "pretty good team" before this season began.
See if you can guess what the challenge is.
PHILADELPHIA FLYERS
So much for the Broad Street Bullies. I knew something was up when Philly lost to its minor league affiliate in the preseason (did no one else think that was strange?)
As of tonight, the Flyers are still winless. Same challenge goes out to them. [That video is of their most inspirational performer!]
WASHINGTON CAPITALS
The Caps, despite some goaltending issues, have been solid through the first five. Alexander Semin has led the way with 10 points. The Ted Leonsis youth movement is finally going in the right direction. Look for these guys to take the Southeast (that part'll be easy) and more.
MINNESOTA WILD
Through four, undefeated. The Wild have always posted a solid regular season club. Look for nothing less this season (even without Aaron Voros!) As for the playoffs, we'll just have to wait and see...
EDMONTON OILERS
Not all of the Oilers' players are injured anymore, and it's showing. The club's undefeated record through four gives Kevin Lowe bragging rights over Brian Burke...at least for now.
RYAN HOLLWEG
Another suspension? Maybe the Leafs' offer of a late round pick for this bruiser was too much. I don't think anyone in Ranger land misses Hollweg at this point.
And yes - he is for real. Don't expect him to change.
