Kotsy's Korner: Rangers in Control

About Kotsy's Korner

Hello, my name is Chris Kotsopoulos. I am a retired National Hockey League player. During my NHL career I played for the New York Rangers (once a Ranger, always a Ranger), Hartford Whalers, my hometown Toronto Maple Leafs, and finished off with the Red Wings.

During the 2007/2008 hockey season, I was given the opportunity to do the radio color commentary for the Quinnipiac Bobcats University Mens Hockey team in Hamden Connecticut and I am continuing to do so.

I am an avid Ranger fan and a die-hard San Francisco 49ers fan. I love to talk hockey and give my opinion.

Thank you for taking the time to read this as well as my blog and make sure to check back for updates, site links (located at the bottom of the page), and responses to fans comments!

With a 5-3 victory Wednesday night, the New York Rangers have taken a 3-1 series lead over the New Jersey Devils. I stated a few posts ago that the Rangers have had a hex on the Devils all season long and it has continued in the playoffs.

This series is exactly what I thought it would be, close checking, great hitting, and some awesome goaltending by Lundqvist and Marty Brodeur. Each game really has been a toss-up, but the Rangers have continued to frustrate the Devils in the end (7-1 in the regular season, 3-1 in the playoffs - a 10-2 total domination). With game 5 Friday in Newark, it's going to be an uphill battle for Brent Sutter's crew. Personally, I think it's over, but you never know!

The best moment of the night (aside from the game itself) was a particular fan that had caught my eye. The fan was wearing an authentic Rangers jersey with the number 94 on it. It made me think, "Okay, that's nice - remembering the Stanley Cup squad in '94". But, when he turned his back towards me, it read "DEVILS FANS SUCK" - I burst out laughing! I've seen all the jerseys from various fans, but never have I seen a fan quite as creative as that. Just thought I'd share this little story.

Lastly, on a more personal note - my condolences go out to the family and friends of long time sports reporter Randy Smith. Smith had covered the Hartford Whalers when I was a player there and kept on going well after I was gone. He worked for the Manchester Journal Inquirer covering everything from hockey to golf. I was fortunate to have played golf and poker with him, as well as sharing a few beers and watching some Super Bowls back in the early 80's. He was one of a kind.

Rest In Peace, Randy. You will be missed.