Islanders put in their place

The Rangers managed to grab 3 points out of 4 against the Islanders in their home and home Tuesday and Thursday. This landed the Rangers in 6th place, 2 points ahead of the Boston Bruins, which have 1 game in hand on NYR. The Bruins host the surging Washington Capitals Saturday at 1, and then travel to MSG Sunday for a 3 PM date with the Rangers. This game is another “get a point” game in order to start separating from the bottom tier of the conference. But that’s looking a little ahead, here are some quick hits on the home and home with the Isles:

- Henrik was sketchy Tuesday, but dominant Thursday at Nassau. He played an absolutely spectacular 2nd period to keep the Rangers in it as they decided to take a cat-nap for twenty minutes. People were questioning his confidence and abilities after Tuesday, but I trust him. I believe he is slightly fatigued, but when it counts down the stretch and in the playoffs in 2-3 weeks, he’ll be right there being the backbone he has always been. Plus, to defend Hank, 3 of the Islander goals over the home and home were deflection goals that went of two players before getting to Lundqvist.

- Avery, my boy. Tuesday he was missing in action, but he redeemed himself Thursday with a big goal in the 2nd and the empty netter to ice the game. I’ll let the picture speak for itself relating to his performance Thursday:

- With the increased offense lately, the solid defense has become slightly sloppy. Puck control and defensive coverage has been very spotty at times, which has led to trouble getting out of the zone. Look for the defense to return Sunday though for a complete game.

- Looking ahead: After Sunday with the Bruins, the Rangers go visit the third Empire State team out in Buffalo. Finally, after that they travel to Florida to visit the Panthers and the Lighting for spring break. Look for Valiquette to get his final ice of the season unless Hank chokes against the Flyers again.

Not much for now, but I had a busy week. More after Sunday against the Bruins. – Rob