This is the series that I’m really looking forward to in the 1st Round. The Rangers have dominated Pittsburgh in the regular season and will be looking to win four more against them. Most of this Rangers team hasn’t been to the playoffs before while they play a Pittsburgh team where most of the players have been to the playoffs numerous times. This should be a fun and long series which kicks off from Madison Square Garden at 7:00 pm on Tuesday night.
The Penguins wrapped up their regular season with a good note by beating Columbus 5-3. The Pens top line is playing really well right now and they’re going to be the fuel for this team. This year, goaltending will be important for the playoffs. Jarry struggled last year around this time so it’s important for him to bounce back and shut down a stellar Rangers offense. Jarry will be missing at least for the 1st two games so that means Casey DeSmith will have to make some important saves at MSG. In the season series, they struggled to score goals vs New York. They have to get the puck past Igor Shesterkin and challenge him. They are talented and they have what it takes to beat Gerrard Gallant’s team. Will Sidney Crosby lead this team to another Stanley Cup?
The Rangers just look different than last year. Last year, they missed the playoffs while this year they finished 2nd in a very tough Metropolitan Division. They are clicking and everything is going in the right direction. Chris Kreider has been on fire this campaign and on the power play, he’ll be important. It is hard not to like this team because of the spirit and will they have. The passing is top class and they make plays for others. I’ve really been dazzled by Frank Vatrano. He came from Florida at the deadline and has fit right in. He’s been making plays and has added extra to this team. In this series, I think in this series, New York has to shut down the Pen’s top line and force them to use their other lines. It will be a good experience for these players and I don’t think they’ll disappoint the fanbase of New York.
I believe that the Rangers will win this series in 6 games. They thrive against Pittsburgh and I believe that success will continue into the playoffs. Igor Shesterkin is a Vezina Trophy candidate and he has leveled up the Ranger’s goaltending. The way the Rangers are playing, Pittsburgh won’t be able to beat Adam Fox and the Rangers.
Two rivals who don’t like each other battle each other in the 1st Round. Can the Rangers knock out the elite Sidney Crosby or will the Penguins upset New York and take a step towards another Cup? We’ll find out starting Tuesday evening from New York City.
THE END