tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39687602027117986072024-03-05T19:12:31.167-05:00Kotsy's KornerKotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.comBlogger200125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-66937283081099823992012-04-10T18:42:00.002-04:002012-04-10T18:43:55.676-04:00Kotsy's Playoff PicksThe second season begins Wednesday and Thursday for the NHL. The teams that made into the top 8 in their respective conferences will do battle for the right to hoist up Lord Stanley’s Cup. It’s really the best time of the year for players, coaches, and last but not least- the fans. There is no feeling like playoff hockey. It’s just an major rush of adrenaline, energy, and emotion all mixed into one for a player. It’s simply put, one of the greatest feelings you could have knowing that every play could be the play that makes you or breaks you. I for one can’t wait , let’s get it going already!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxBgZKenMOLFc9j_gkhXo5itJckANLXC66xjZHRqCNHhyphenhyphen4voe_qNAwgUGFoZYo5SJzoRKORS2fh2gnmH4UMKUMYSUl3oKvBgFObGH4fvUv9ifOM3ihyRZN8pb-eOHXkyt_UsuOKXp-eA_I/s1600/175px-Stanley_Cup_no_background.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 78px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxBgZKenMOLFc9j_gkhXo5itJckANLXC66xjZHRqCNHhyphenhyphen4voe_qNAwgUGFoZYo5SJzoRKORS2fh2gnmH4UMKUMYSUl3oKvBgFObGH4fvUv9ifOM3ihyRZN8pb-eOHXkyt_UsuOKXp-eA_I/s200/175px-Stanley_Cup_no_background.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729906538872731058" border="0" /></a>Okay now for my “Expert” picks in this years playoffs. Here we go!<br /><br />NY Rangers/Ottawa Senators. I got the Rangers in six. If the Rangers play their game of tight defensive hockey and score first I see no problem. The Rangers cannot get into a shootout type game. I know that they have struggled with Senators this year, But it’s the playoffs and it’s totally different. Lundqvist as always will be the key. Senators are dangerous offensively and have plenty of talent, But I don’t see the upset here. Call me a homer LOL.<br /><br />Boston Bruins/Washington Capitals. Bruins in 5. Unless Alex Ovechkin and his merry men have found their hearts and game, I don’t see them beating the Bruins. Boston are tried and true. They are solid in all areas up and down the roster and Tim Thomas is a huge advantage. Washington’s roster isn’t especially in goal.<br /><br />Florida Panthers/NJ Devils. Panthers in 7. Okay if you want to call this an upset go ahead, But I’m going with Kevin Dineen’s squad. Devils are good, no question however the feeling here is the Panthers will continue their remarkable year and advance.<br /><br />Pittsburgh Penguins/Philadelphia Flyers. The Penguins in 6. This is the one a lot of people are waiting for. Some fans are expecting a blood bath and are salivating for it to begin. The Flyers have owned the Penguins lately and feel real good about themselves. Pitt is finally healthy and Crosby and Malkin the two dirty whiners (Not my words just some coaches around the league’s words) will be handful. I still feel there is too much talent with Pitt for the Flyers to deal with.<br /><br />Vancouver Canucks/ LA Kings. Vancouver in 6. How much longer are the Canucks going to be knocking on door of Lord Stanley’s Cup? If not now when? I think the Canucks have one last run left in them, and this is it. The Sedin twins must put up or just fade away. Too many times you would have and could have. It’s getting old. The Kings struggled most of the year and I liked this team going into the season, not now… they don’t have what it takes.<br /><br />St. Louis Blues/ SJ Sharks. I’m going with the Blues in 7. I don’t fully trust this team, but head coach Ken Hitchcock has done a fantastic job since he took over ( Probably saved John Davidson’s job). The Blues are tough at home and don’t lose often. San Jose is kind like Vancouver to me, Last chance for redemption of being touted year after year? I know one thing this will be a physical series.<br /><br />Phoenix Coyotes/Chicago Blackhawks. I’m going with the Coyotes in 7. This one was tough for me. I played with both head coaches Dave Tippett and Joel Quenneville. Chicago’s been there and done it and has a load of talent there is no questioning that. How can you not love the way Phoenix continues to persevere with all the crap it go’s through with NHL and it’s pending sale or relocation? It’s simply amazing.<br /><br />Nashville Predators/Detroit Redwings. Going with the Preds in 6. Nashville continues to be the NHL’s under the radar team. You don’t get much news or highlights on TV about them. Barry Trotz is one of the best coaches no one has ever heard of. His team the same. As for me going against Detroit? If I have to explain myself, then you don’t know me too well.<br /><br />I would like to end it with the hope of a great playoff hockey. One that is not disturbed by uneven officiating. Call the obvious, but for the most part let the players decide the outcome of the games.<br /><br />Remember to check out my website for some interesting stuff and tune in Wednesday nights 8:30 for the Instigators Hockey Show with myself and Pauly D. That’s it feel free to agree? Disagree? Or give me your picks if you dare. I’ll be waiting. Over and out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ChrisKotsopoulos.com Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.chriskotsopoulos.com/">http://www.chriskotsopoulos.com</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-25962934143317607302012-02-15T22:39:00.004-05:002012-02-15T22:43:01.267-05:00Hail to the King!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyDcK_FXjlgIQAMzVWeRhfDQNZ7nKyoagmiXLVT1lNn9w5b1dElzwuMHUTFxZF2mwXICXOkAxERLu2AGxgsNzuTrr7DfR-iU6cL9l147nRMd_q7MyQc0uBr8uodixsbrZC0m7eo2VN6-p/s1600/kk_01.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyDcK_FXjlgIQAMzVWeRhfDQNZ7nKyoagmiXLVT1lNn9w5b1dElzwuMHUTFxZF2mwXICXOkAxERLu2AGxgsNzuTrr7DfR-iU6cL9l147nRMd_q7MyQc0uBr8uodixsbrZC0m7eo2VN6-p/s200/kk_01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709573480786135746" border="0" /></a>Let’s get this one started with a bang. Is there anyone in the league playing their position better New York Ranger goal tender Henrik Lundqvist? I seriously doubt it. First I’ll deal with his own team. With all due respect to the high quality of play by the Ranger team overall this year (A well deserved respect I might add) players like Ryan Callahan, Marion Gaborik, Dan Girardi, MDZ are all having super seasons and you can’t disregard that. Anyone who has watched the Rangers this year knows that Lundqvist has been absolute backbone to this team with his spectacular play. He has, by himself, stole games for the “Boys in Blue”. To me it’s not even close Lundqvist is hands down the MVP of the Rangers team. But I’m going further than that. He in my opinion is the MVP of the league. Just look at the numbers: 42GP-27W-11L-4OTL-75GA-1.77GAA-941SV% and a league leading 7 shut outs. I realize that players like Evgeni Malkin, Steven Stamkos, Pavel Datsyuk, Claude Giroux, and many more are all having great years. Each one in their own way are key to their respective teams and I don‘t discount that. However, not one of the above mentioned or who ever you may feel is deserving in this debate can be counted on as heavily by his team than Lundqvist. In the end there can only be one who stands alone as to who has the greater importance to his team and that my friends is the “King Henrik Lundqvist”. To all Rangers fans and pure hockey fans ask yourself this question… “Where would the Rangers be with out him”? Case closed!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEGdM3imbr_MJrd9YOLTXIaG8GOOrJ_hdpUDa05x58wjBry17HaZD-qKWciFk-nUQSgJz9dej1qKPVyAx-MCEzkNdSB6sxtX9Dn9hgosZ9wyrcK2H1P2VgPY_WyqCoVYeuCC2r_4uJ37q/s1600/kk_02.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEGdM3imbr_MJrd9YOLTXIaG8GOOrJ_hdpUDa05x58wjBry17HaZD-qKWciFk-nUQSgJz9dej1qKPVyAx-MCEzkNdSB6sxtX9Dn9hgosZ9wyrcK2H1P2VgPY_WyqCoVYeuCC2r_4uJ37q/s200/kk_02.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709573677329575122" border="0" /></a>As for the Rangers themselves, they are sitting a top of the Eastern Conference Standings with 79 points. There’s lots of hockey to go but I’m beginning to feel like it’s theirs to lose. With 27 games left and 7 point spread over the Boston Bruins. People have been waiting all year to see the Rangers fall and it hasn’t happened and probably won’t. It will be interesting to see what if anything happens at the trade deadline with names like Rick Nash, Jeff Carter, and even Ryan Smyth being thrown around. The Rangers certainly could use a proven scorer and a big shot from the point on the PP. Will anything happen? At what price? and what cost? is the only question…Stay tuned .<br /><br />Some other news around the NHL former team mate of mine in Hartford. Joel Quenneville is apparently under pressure in Chicago. The Blackhawk’s have lost 9 in a row. All of sudden people want to blame Joel? Really? It’s not like he’s forgotten how to coach, But some people want you to believe that. I believe it’s a bunch of crap! How about pointing the fingers at the less than stellar goaltending by Corey Crawford and Ray Emery. As well as the lackluster play by the players during this losing streak. This is on the players, Not the coaching plain and simple.<br /><br />Not a big fan of the Detroit Redwings, but I have got to give them their props for setting an NHL record of 21 straight wins at home. Impressive. They are leading the west at this moment but it will be a dogfight down to the end as Vancouver and San Jose are not going away in the west.<br /><br />Anyhow that will just about do it for this post. Agree to disagree please post your thoughts on the blog itself. I dare you! Also please check out my new website chriskotsopoulos.com I think you will enjoy it! It was built by my son Cody Kotsopoulos of Kotsy’s Designs and what a fantastic job he did! I’ll be away this weekend doing the Quinnipiac Bobcats at RPI game on Friday. Saturday it will be the Bobcats at Union. I’ll doing the game with my play by play partner extraordinaire Bill Schweizer so check us out! One last thing make sure you check out and tune in to the Instigators Hockey show” every Wednesday night 8:30. Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ChrisKotsopoulos.com Link</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.chriskotsopoulos.com">http://www.chriskotsopoulos.com</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-54372938461325435402012-01-30T16:21:00.003-05:002012-01-30T16:48:50.723-05:00I'm Back... Again!It’s been awhile since my last post. No, I have not given up Kotsy’s Korner and I apologize for taking so long to get back in the swing of things again. I have been busy and lazy at the same time so that’s my excuse and I’m sticking with it! I am in the process of launching my own personal web site “ChrisKotsopoulos.com” thanks to my brilliant son Cody Kotsopoulos whose work is incredible (You can check his website here: <a href="http://www.kotsysdesigns.com/">http://www.kotsysdesigns.com</a>). There will be plenty of nice surprises so be sure to check it out when it’s launched.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj980SkikQ_6hEgOGdKFVllfG4Mv39FnubExRHo7FSRX6REXKvCCMI-j6LL-m7JXAqvTOKhfwZ6GqoWfewT8wdCJijPhmBFTwNYhJNZwfWr5U-nJvioMLDrNukWTPx6BPJWZc6PZhcSXAnt/s1600/allstar1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj980SkikQ_6hEgOGdKFVllfG4Mv39FnubExRHo7FSRX6REXKvCCMI-j6LL-m7JXAqvTOKhfwZ6GqoWfewT8wdCJijPhmBFTwNYhJNZwfWr5U-nJvioMLDrNukWTPx6BPJWZc6PZhcSXAnt/s200/allstar1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703539193643042850" border="0" /></a>Okay now let’s talk about the New York Rangers and the wonderful season they have going on so far. With 10 weeks to go the Rangers are sitting nicely at the top of the Eastern Conference with 66 points. Home record is 15-5-2 while on the road this team has a NHL best of 16-7-2. Backed by a stingy defense and great goaltending the Rangers have allowed a league best of 96 goals against. The goals for at 132 is right in the middle of the pack and has been sufficient for now. Things are looking good for the Boys in blue and I think going forward the Rangers are a serious contender for the cup. However I feel that they need to do a couple of things in order for that to happen. One is picking up a proven scorer at the trade deadline (Jeff Carter anyone)? They also need to think about picking up a true PP blue liner who can make a difference. How about Ryan Suter or Shea Weber? They should at the very least be explored as to what it might take acquiring one of the two. When you are this close to winning a Stanley Cup, sometimes you have to sacrifice some of the future or prospects so you can go for it. It’s a cruel world, but let me remind you a chance at a cup doesn’t come along that often. Therefore, you look at all options to make your team better. I’m pretty sure Glen Sather and his staff are looking into the possibilities and will make something happen when the times right.<br /><br />Other musings from the NHL. First I want to add my name to list of potential buyers of the Phoenix Coyotes. I hear there are 3 potential buyers according to Gary Bettman. Well I want in … as long as the NHL is willing to loan me the money to purchase the Coyotes. I don’t think I could make the situation any worse than it has been? Right? Just a thought!<br /><br />I have no problem with Tim Thomas and his refusal to show up at the White House with the rest of the Boston Bruins. Look, no man or woman has a right to tell another person what to do. It wasn’t a “Mandatory” team function it was an invite. He chose not to go. Get over it people.<br /><br />I see Mr. Ovechkin declined to participate in the NHL All Star game this year in Ottawa. The fans vote you in and you pull a no show? Funny… when the star was shining brightly on Ovechkin he slurped it up and bathed in it big time. Pure arrogance at it’s best.<br /><br />Trouble brewing in Pittsburgh? Sidney Crosby and his agent Pat Brisson apparently aren’t too happy with the team doctors on the Penguins staff. Word is they have mishandled Crosby’s concussion and neck problems. Not a good for the Penguin brass. Boy! The last time a high profile name complained about team doctors was Eric Lindros when he was with the Flyers and we all know how that worked out don’t we!<br /><br />Well that’s it for now. Don’t be afraid to give your opinion and remember to check out the “Instigators Radio Show” with Pauly D and I every week for the best in hockey news. Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-40361801559210132542011-11-10T15:21:00.003-05:002011-11-10T15:31:10.638-05:00Rangers on a Roll, Joe FrazierWell, well, well, how things have turned around for the New York Rangers from what many were calling, and I’ll be nice a “Slow Start”. Not only did I have to hold hands with some Ranger fans, I also had to walk them gently off the cliff. Their record is now 8-3-3. The Rangers are on a roll (5 wins) and you can attribute much of this to the maturing of players not named Gaborik, Richards or Lundqvist. Starting with Ryan Callahan, Brandon Dubinsky, Derek Stepan, Artem Anisimov have all stepped up their games (Dubinsky’s goals will come trust me). On the backline how good has Dan Girardi been? With the Marc Staal situation not looking too good, Girardi has turned into a super all around D-man and leader of the D-Corps. Michael Del Zotto finding his offensive game and Ryan McDonaugh blossoming into a upcoming star. This is what most in the organization has projected from these players and it’s now happening before our very eyes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0p5bIcVjA2VGYsHxt55TVO5QDiYDWD6ibo1fcGcFXjg_1WT9N2oheRi0q2MADvmqpBXMwCVRcZRKp25Nx4GePlu2zZ-tUhRyo8sa-MRVEMtKcWOjoq39osCZepyFMEo9tnYZ52XZ9ysLD/s1600/gaborik_01.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 146px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0p5bIcVjA2VGYsHxt55TVO5QDiYDWD6ibo1fcGcFXjg_1WT9N2oheRi0q2MADvmqpBXMwCVRcZRKp25Nx4GePlu2zZ-tUhRyo8sa-MRVEMtKcWOjoq39osCZepyFMEo9tnYZ52XZ9ysLD/s200/gaborik_01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673465445285155218" border="0" /></a>I’ve said it all along for the Rangers to be successful this year and compete with the elite they will have to have contributions from others. There can be no more excuses about them being too young. It’s all a learning process for these players. They need to understand that you are on the roster for a reason and are important to the team and must contribute.<br /><br />Couple of things that are bothering me… first, when a player decides to drop the mitts with a shield on please take your helmet off. What happened to Andre Deveaux and Jared Cowen in their tussle in Ottawa is cowardly. Sorry, just that’s how I see it. The NHL must step in and hand out an extra 2 minutes, an ejection, or something. With all the rules they have put in over the last few years why not this one? It only makes sense to add that one.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69BG_ICi7s95r3r43-ot9_wE2f5SD4Sc_iAXSZnGfhCSo4_46XkKDSKl9zKyK6iDnAHvL12INz_TUIH8pZypRZqU4Y8GyjkhZi4yo_h6TMMyYAku_RZfcwU5hCgHfMfX3rhc40z3zWQ_h/s1600/ottawawin_1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69BG_ICi7s95r3r43-ot9_wE2f5SD4Sc_iAXSZnGfhCSo4_46XkKDSKl9zKyK6iDnAHvL12INz_TUIH8pZypRZqU4Y8GyjkhZi4yo_h6TMMyYAku_RZfcwU5hCgHfMfX3rhc40z3zWQ_h/s200/ottawawin_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673465547142632546" border="0" /></a>The other thing that’s bothering me is how is a gargantuan of a player like Andy Sutton or a Zdeno Chara, for example, going to make a clean body check on a player who is half their size? It’s almost impossible by the rules today. I know the NHL has sent videos to all teams about what is legal and what is not about head hits and hits from behind etc. Where’s the video of one of these monsters hitting a Marty St. Louis for example? Just asking…<br /><br />I will be in Hamden CT. Friday (7:00) and Saturday (4:00) as the Quinnipiac Bobcats will take on Clarkson and St. Lawrence in two big home ECAC conference games. The Bobcats gave away precious points to Dartmouth and Harvard last weekend and need a bounce back big time. If you’re in the area come on by and check out it out. It’s really entertaining hockey!<br /><br />One last thing, Smokin’ Joe Frazier, one of my favorite heavyweight boxers of all-time has passed away. His battles with Muhammad Ali are legendary and the first fight in 1971 at MSG was as historical sporting event as there ever was. A piece of my childhood has left me with Joe’s passing. We will miss you Joe… rest in Peace.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-10449738789917553872011-10-21T15:50:00.002-04:002011-10-21T15:59:21.912-04:00Scratchin’ and Clawin’After a sluggish start with 2 losses in Europe (Shoot out/OT) and the first game on US soil against the hated Islander’s (4-2 loss) the New York Rangers have scratched and clawed their way to 2 straight wins.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyON1GJ_axk9BE057ibAJRXD32GP4fCWhh8yWkcrdKqikk5N_Oq_lNeH63BnDbBEX9o0wmVijgV1VuHyPt4IGBfOtXcwc799h21k2z5AbN_DF3TqLop_QZgsLadtTBiRJ4JBLGtgEuGn5k/s1600/mcdgoal.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyON1GJ_axk9BE057ibAJRXD32GP4fCWhh8yWkcrdKqikk5N_Oq_lNeH63BnDbBEX9o0wmVijgV1VuHyPt4IGBfOtXcwc799h21k2z5AbN_DF3TqLop_QZgsLadtTBiRJ4JBLGtgEuGn5k/s200/mcdgoal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666037187606215010" border="0" /></a>On a 4 game swing through western Canada, The Rangers shut out the Vancouver Canucks 4-0 (Lundqvist stole the game) and dropped the Calgary Flames in OT, 3-2. Before I get too carried away I had to talk (Basically yell at) a few close friends and Rangers fans off the cliff about the Rangers slow start. I reminded them that 3 games into the season, and you are already chirping? Please! Passionate as they are, as Ranger fans, I believe they jumped the gun way to early. Look, it’s a long season and the Rangers have a ton of work to do that is clearly obvious. Ugly or not, give them credit for scratching out the wins out west.<br /><br />So far here’s my take on what I‘ve seen. The offense needs work. You got give the King Henrik Lundqvist some help and how do you do that? By scoring goals, it’s that simple. The Rangers must get the power play going in this “New NHL” (Seems like every year I say that) penalties are being called by the bushel full and that can be a deadly weapon. Getting the team healthy would help, especially on the D (Staal and Sauer). What the Rangers have got out of their young D is quite remarkable. When you think about the ages of Ryan McDonagh, Michael Del Zotto, Tim Erixson they are gaining valuable experience. In the end though, they are going need Marc Staal, Michael Sauer, Dan Giradi to be the Rock solid foundation.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcVKZq_rUkSUvPiPR69Ho_ZbwujYjwvLi6h6H2QAvG_qhKaqLWkLszFikoUK-N6c1q1G0QbHJ5D5n1SYx2JAIhJYpkiw59A8udohs4gJX9imYJj4Jx1MMx8fIUjXeSo8ZDX8GOqtXPlfmd/s1600/ruppfight.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcVKZq_rUkSUvPiPR69Ho_ZbwujYjwvLi6h6H2QAvG_qhKaqLWkLszFikoUK-N6c1q1G0QbHJ5D5n1SYx2JAIhJYpkiw59A8udohs4gJX9imYJj4Jx1MMx8fIUjXeSo8ZDX8GOqtXPlfmd/s200/ruppfight.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666037276494694402" border="0" /></a>Some other thoughts. Love the Kris Newberry call up. If you are not going have Sean Avery (One of my favorites) in the line up then Newberry is a decent replacement. He’s got a little edge to him and will drop his gloves for his teammates. Something the Rangers need, in my opinion. Also what about the offensive production out of Ryan McDonagh? Those close to me know that I kind of predicted this. He got his feet wet last year and now feels comfortable with the speed of the game. In turn, he now has the confidence to join in on the rush which is something the Rangers have lacked in a long time. Still has a little trouble in his own end with giveaways, but I can live with that and I’m sure the coaching staff can as well. 2 games to go on the western road trip. Edmonton Oilers are up first and then the Winnipeg Jets (Doesn’t that sound good?) to finish the trip up before the home opener next Thursday at the new improved MSG against the Toronto Maple leafs.<br /><br />Remember to check out the Quinnipiac Bobcats D1 Hockey team, who are off to a great start, and tune into the “The Instigators” radio show every Tuesday night 8:30 (subject to change). That’s it for now but feel free to opine if you agree or disagree. I might even answer back, you never know! Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span><br /><a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-12947274405470534602011-10-04T16:17:00.002-04:002011-10-04T16:25:30.066-04:00I'm BackAlright everybody, I’m back, which could only mean one thing it must be Hockey time again. I apologize for the long wait of my first posting on Kotsy’s Korner and hope my followers will continue to check it out and opine. Unfortunately it’s been a very dark off season for the NHL and Pro Hockey in general with all the tragic events that occurred this summer. I’m not going to get into the how’s and why of what happened, But I do want send my condolences to all the friends and family of all players who passed away. It has to be a hard time for them and we in the hockey world feel for you.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuQi9Gh5quewQ-rg_srsI4aGvxsRJ0-ZZctPF1c5PnNPgwqidiQKJ3_2aAtikDDdTFL2Axb6I2c-Hfemo8jB37DV9y8Z0Qo5NxCjsNRgPgEy_UNqmGve4yQDC1KniP_MbgD5SVFWsByPj/s1600/NewYorkRangersLogo.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuQi9Gh5quewQ-rg_srsI4aGvxsRJ0-ZZctPF1c5PnNPgwqidiQKJ3_2aAtikDDdTFL2Axb6I2c-Hfemo8jB37DV9y8Z0Qo5NxCjsNRgPgEy_UNqmGve4yQDC1KniP_MbgD5SVFWsByPj/s200/NewYorkRangersLogo.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659735573063211954" border="0" /></a>Let’s start off with the New York Rangers as they open the season in Europe against the Los Angeles Kings Friday afternoon our time 1:00. Not going to get too detailed about the roster and who’s in and who’s out. Most pundits have had their say (Usually wrong) and I for don’t want to speculate what the starting lineup will be when the puck drops against the Kings. I do know that I expect big things out of the Rangers this year as the core of this team is at a point where the maturation level should start to provide the results we have all been waiting for.<br /><br />The signing of Brad Richards once again proved that GM Glen Sather did his job by securing the number one free agent out there. The Rangers have needed a legitimate number one center to compliment Marion Gaborik and here’s to hoping things work out for Richards and the Rangers. I do have a concern like many others over the Marc Staal headache problems that have lingered since the hit he took from his brother last year. This is something to keep a close eye on and how it all unfolds only time will tell.<br /><br />Some ramblings, on the selection of Ryan Callahan as Captain of the New York Rangers. Was there really a doubt? This man exemplifies what a leader means. He gives his all, hits, blocks shots, contributes offensively, and lastly is a great communicator with his teammates and media. The last part is extremely important, believe me. As a former player I know. Just hoping Callahan can stay healthy is all Rangers fans could ask.<br /><br />Not sure what’s going on with Sean Avery, but I have been a huge supporter his for years now. Whether he passes waivers or not I feel it might be a mistake by the Rangers we’ll have to wait and see. I will say this though, Avery probably would have been better served playing back in 70s or the 80s. Things were not so politically correct and soft in life like they are now. What happened in the arena and ice surface back then stayed in the arena and ice surface. The things we said to each other back then… you have no idea.<br /><br />One last thing NHL teams might have to expand their rosters to the NFL number of 45 the way Brendan Shanahan is handing out the suspensions. It’s quite clear there’s a new sheriff in town, but I’m not sold on his plan and decisions just yet. This could lead to no hit Hockey faster than we expected.<br /><br />Well that’s about it for now, but yes I’m still doing color commentary on the radio with Quinnipiac Bobcats with my good friend Bill Schweizer as the play-by-play guru. I will also be doing some select Princeton Tigers men’s hockey games on television as well. I’m also looking forward to another great year with Paul Scaglione AKA Pauly Dee on the “Instigators Hockey Show” every Tuesday night. You can be sure of some off the off-the-wall opinions and fun with every show. Remember, don’t be afraid to have your opinion heard and respond on the blog. Should be a great year and let’s go Rangers. Till next, time Over and out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span>: <a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-17139842293097806932011-05-29T17:16:00.003-04:002011-05-29T17:20:45.969-04:00Stanley Cup Finals, Ron DuguayAlright, here we go! The Stanley Cup Finals are about to begin and it’s the Boston Bruins & Vancouver Canucks set to do battle. The Canucks disposed of the San Jose Sharks in 5 games. And really, in my humble opinion, they were clearly the better team as this series proved. With Luongo and the Sedins firing on all cylinders, is this the year that Vancouver finally puts it all together? The fans of the Canucks have never tasted the Cup and have waited patiently, but a failure here would surely fire up the faithful… and not in a good way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZiaVcFr4POaOCqjMTHn87iDNM1YU2ComS1sOGOozUVSeHoMTuFhYhRrXCme68q-3PolQBGJETXe-4-frSrpoOJo-xXRaQ8XxTR1z-56X4K_seFLM_wP-lN05Fy17e8ETeU4u0x6zOIt3I/s1600/canuckswin.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZiaVcFr4POaOCqjMTHn87iDNM1YU2ComS1sOGOozUVSeHoMTuFhYhRrXCme68q-3PolQBGJETXe-4-frSrpoOJo-xXRaQ8XxTR1z-56X4K_seFLM_wP-lN05Fy17e8ETeU4u0x6zOIt3I/s200/canuckswin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612250731616697202" border="0" /></a>As for the Bruins, they came off a very grueling seven game series against Tampa Bay- who really tested the Bruins heart. Tim Thomas came up big in goal, especially the final game pitching a 1-0 shutout and basically bailed the Bruins out from that “Choke” moniker. The Beantown boys are going to have look to the past and muster up the ghosts of Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, John Bucyk, Gerry Cheevers, Etc… If they want bring Lord Stanley home.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUJkFUyBTHwwMMPhl_86ekhDmxFH1pacw4GfuCQroeTKoealQO9QykVNchO-t8qfY6GLvrlmO87MS_dOZyTOHbRhJuqihoHY1BHZ3SI0NFbxGva0K99GmlFbkv5BObhNbfShashTK-hch/s1600/bruinswin.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUJkFUyBTHwwMMPhl_86ekhDmxFH1pacw4GfuCQroeTKoealQO9QykVNchO-t8qfY6GLvrlmO87MS_dOZyTOHbRhJuqihoHY1BHZ3SI0NFbxGva0K99GmlFbkv5BObhNbfShashTK-hch/s200/bruinswin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612250814883576146" border="0" /></a>With all that I’m going with… Drum roll please… Can you hear it? The Vancouver Canucks in 6. I know, I know. I was a Bruins fan growing up and all that, but I just feel the Canucks are a more balanced and steady team. That’s not to say the Bruins can’t win (You still have to play the games people)! I just see to many inconsistencies in the Bruins game. Some nights they are unbeatable and others, well, a beer league team would give them a tough time. That’s all I got once again my pick Canucks in 6!<br /><br />One other thing I’d like to comment on is the officiating so far in this years NHL playoffs. Do us all a favor… PLEASE stay out of it and let the players decide the winner of this years Stanley Cup. You and the NHL executives are not the show. You never have been and you never will be. Take a hint… look back at game 7 of the Boston/Tampa series. There were no penalties. Now, I don’t expect a penalty free game in the finals… however I do expect penalties that called are earned and not made up because of the silly NHL rules. The fans of this great game deserve better! More common sense and less embarrassing moments that has littered this years playoffs. Now wouldn’t that be nice?!<br /><br />Also a reminder to tune into the Instigators Hockey Show this Tuesday as Pauly D and I will have former Ranger and friend Ron Duguay on as guest. “Doogie” and I were teammates in my only year with the Blueshirts and this is a rare appearance so do not forget to tune in! Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-776521694959823672011-05-14T13:24:00.002-04:002011-05-14T13:30:15.262-04:00Boogaard Passes Away, Conference Finals<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUreI7pwUREow5xD9BkH0hJSpGRu-kwysYzQ7SW6G4noRnpPqcKTeT8FguXQgEJUSwn3-cEpwq2LcCp_YED492UkTQ_FmjTL5USs-EDk2nQnw7OWKThyphenhyphenbLFi5x2If1zqkxksCIM6_V0h5/s1600/boogeyman.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUreI7pwUREow5xD9BkH0hJSpGRu-kwysYzQ7SW6G4noRnpPqcKTeT8FguXQgEJUSwn3-cEpwq2LcCp_YED492UkTQ_FmjTL5USs-EDk2nQnw7OWKThyphenhyphenbLFi5x2If1zqkxksCIM6_V0h5/s200/boogeyman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606625402980714338" border="0" /></a>Well this is not exactly how I wanted to start my blog, but the tragic death of New York Ranger Derek Boogaard is something that needs to be talked about. I met and chatted with Derek at a Ranger golf outing before this past season started. We talked for about five minutes and discussed his coming to New York and what the team was going to look like. We also talked about his role on the team and what his expectations were. It was the usual hockey jargon that a present day player talking to a player from the past would be like. I found Derek to be a engaging individual, although a little bit on the shy side. But overall just a real nice person. His passing has struck the Ranger family hard. How and why this happened doesn’t matter at this time. What matters is that his life was cut way too short at a tender age of 28 and to me that’s brutally unfair. It’s a sad time for all. My heartfelt condolences goes out to his family, friends and his team mates.<br /><br />Here are my picks in the Eastern and Western conference finals.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Boston Bruins vs. Tampa Bay Lightning</span><br /><br />The Bruins slapped the Flyers around like they were nothing. Revenge and payback is what the Bruins got by sweeping the Flyers 4 straight, really embarrassing the Flyers. The Bruins look strong and have that something extra going on that will be tough to deal with no matter who is in their way. Tampa, on the other hand, has really defied most of the experts (Not me) in disposing the over-hyped Alex Ovechkin and his Washington Capitals. The Lightning have won 7 games in a row and have a confidence level that is sky high. This one is a tough call for me. I still have a soft spot for the Bruins as I grew up a big fan of theirs, but I’m going against my heart and taking the Lightning in an upset. Going the limit of 7 games.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vancouver Canucks vs. San Jose Sharks</span><br /><br />The Canucks had a tough go with my dark horse pick Nashville, but in the end the more talented team won. I think that was pretty clear to see. Vancouver has edged even closer to the high expectations that the hockey world has given them and are now one round away from battling for Lord Stanley‘s cup. San Jose, on the other hand, squandered a chance to rest up when they allowed the “Euro Wings” to climb back after a 3-0 deficit and take it to 7 games before the Sharks finally put an end to it. They probably could of used the rest heading into this match up with Vancouver. The Sharks are battle tested and are as close a team as they have ever been. I see this one as a tight, long series as well going 7 and my pick is the Canucks.<br /><br />So there you have it. Agree? Disagree? Let me know what you think and post your thoughts on here in the comments section. Over and Out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-40426165945078921542011-04-28T15:03:00.003-04:002011-04-28T15:07:07.974-04:00First Round Recap, Second Round PreviewWell, now that the New York Rangers were taken out in 5 games by the Washington Ovechkins in the 1st round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, it’s time to look back and see how all my 1st round playoff picks panned out!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYoKLDuYiKwyO9NRJ8ULe_4Nd5uEic3jlJOx6fgj4O5kfx2HA-TPd5rVAxyezNIbaezDdsoPND4d07vEaKHcdkOLXQBY6h3mnIiXefaPoiBYl56tdSoS85YhZnApVjVN2lJrz1fhxsdzV-/s1600/playofflosscaps.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 116px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYoKLDuYiKwyO9NRJ8ULe_4Nd5uEic3jlJOx6fgj4O5kfx2HA-TPd5rVAxyezNIbaezDdsoPND4d07vEaKHcdkOLXQBY6h3mnIiXefaPoiBYl56tdSoS85YhZnApVjVN2lJrz1fhxsdzV-/s200/playofflosscaps.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600712510596284754" border="0" /></a>I had 5 out of 8 correct with Vancouver, San Jose, in the West. With the wrong picks being Nashville (Although I consider that win for me) and Detroit (Sorry don’t care…Will never pick the Euro Wings). In the East, I had winners with Boston, Philadelphia, and Tampa Bay and lost with my beloved Rangers (Like Detroit, I will never take the Caps… ever)! So I wasn’t too bad with my picks, giving up a couple of easy ones with the teams mentioned above. I will take credit for the Nashville win though as I picked them on my radio show the “Instigators” as the dark horse of all teams in the playoffs and was extremely pissed when they had to play Anaheim because I felt the Ducks too could of caused some damage to the rest of the Western teams. Oh well! Any how, here we go with my picks for the next round of the playoffs.<br /><br />San Jose Sharks/Detroit Red Wings… I think you know how I feel about the #%$@ Euro Wings. Going with Joe Thornton and the Sharks. They took care of a pesky LA team, still not on anybody’s radar. I like them in 6.<br /><br />Vancouver Canucks/Nashville Predators. The Preds took down an excellent team in Anaheim with their tough in-your-face style of Hockey. Their team defense is as good as it gets. As for Vancouver, they could have had an easier time over Chicago but that choke label is still there for this team. Luongo and the Sedin twins will have the weight of the hockey world on them as well as the City of Vancouver. My pick the Predators in 7… their time has come.<br /><br />Wasington Capitals/Tampa Bay Lightning. Tampa shocked the Penguins after being down 3-1 to win it in 7 games. Plenty of star power in this series. The Caps disposed of the Rangers in 5 games, including 2 OT wins. I’m going with the Lightning in 7. I like their stars better and again I emphasize, much like the Red Wings, I will never pick the Capitals. Sorry, if you don’t like it… too bad!<br /><br />Philadelphia Flyers/Boston Bruins. Old time Hockey? Bloodbath? Maybe. Will it be like the 70s match ups between these two teams? Probably not, but I can dream, can’t I? Both teams had their troubles in the 1st round and had to go 7 games to win and move on. This should be a physical series and in the end I like Tim Thomas over anyone that the Flyers have in net. The Bruins take this one in 7.<br /><br />There you go. Agree? Disagree? Let me know what you think! Over and out.Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-10447701859684533812011-04-11T20:37:00.004-04:002011-04-11T20:52:03.395-04:00The Battle for Lord Stanley's Cup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSKA_GN3K4V9r7zK22z3cZIyLxe3aprYlrwNBXc4tGVYOXmEZJ-8HaLydVTkYlHtnfkQeKgPYKVh0UZyyVQ1q5OcqnD66s64g1-8evAvOyUjJWQD66RWfmxhbTZ-Fx3yBKzhbcK5dKTA9/s1600/mcddevs1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSKA_GN3K4V9r7zK22z3cZIyLxe3aprYlrwNBXc4tGVYOXmEZJ-8HaLydVTkYlHtnfkQeKgPYKVh0UZyyVQ1q5OcqnD66s64g1-8evAvOyUjJWQD66RWfmxhbTZ-Fx3yBKzhbcK5dKTA9/s200/mcddevs1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594491929401639762" border="0" /></a>The new season has arrived for the New York Rangers. That’s right folks, the Rangers are in the playoffs and will face the Washington Ovechkins… Sorry, I meant the Capitals. How they will do is still yet to be seen, but I got give them credit for fighting through injuries and the usual ups and downs of a season in the NHL. To those who feel that the Rangers did not deserve a spot in the playoffs… go take a long walk on a short pier! They played by the rules that the NHL set in order to make in the playoffs and they did! Lump it! With that being said here are my fearless straight up predictions for the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eastern Conference</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Predictions</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeKMa1VPlon-uxESvi32QQlE4X5nj-PbgzI9-_qZtvcvkeVr0KtIpFbKTzXHHFspYu2UsXHELPpAaUEFthyphenhyphenYTdW7SvdWgFsGM1AvJ1ZRqO4_unuuNEv9MmUy8iMcrDC2QepQShHqXSKn7/s1600/prustdevs2.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 144px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeKMa1VPlon-uxESvi32QQlE4X5nj-PbgzI9-_qZtvcvkeVr0KtIpFbKTzXHHFspYu2UsXHELPpAaUEFthyphenhyphenYTdW7SvdWgFsGM1AvJ1ZRqO4_unuuNEv9MmUy8iMcrDC2QepQShHqXSKn7/s200/prustdevs2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594492004455531154" border="0" /></a>Washington/New York... Sorry can’t go against the Blue Shirts. Lundqvist needs to shine a bright as ever and the team will follow his lead. Capitals have struggled this season with the Rangers. Hopefully the Rangers will continue to give Ovechkin and his cronies nightmares. Rangers in 7.<br /><br />Philadelphia/Buffalo… This a tough one to call. Flyers haven’t been that great down the stretch and goaltending is still a big question mark for me. On the other hand, you have Ryan Miller who needs to be big in this series for Buffalo or I’m afraid the Sabres are done. Throwing you a curve ball- Flyers in 6.<br /><br />Boston/Montreal… An original six match up. Got like that for old times sake. With all the hoopla surrounding Zdeno Chara’s hit on Max Paciorety this should be a dandy series. The Bruins at times this year have looked like world beaters and at other times the opposite. As for the Canadiens, I’m not sure if they can drum the magic they had last year. Bruins in 6.<br /><br />Pittsburgh/Tampa… Don’t know if Crosby is coming back, because if he was this would be easy. The Penguins played well without their superstar’s in the lineup. Tampa has befuddled me all season. Great at times and then not so great. Stamkos needs to find the scoring magic that has left him that last few months. I’ll go with the Lightning in 7.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Western Conference </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Predictions</span><br /><br />Vancouver/Chicago… Is this the finally the year for the Canucks? Can they finally slay the dragon that is the Blackhawks? Can the Sedin’s and Louongo rise to the occasion? This one is really simple for me. No Dustin Byfuglien, no physical presence, no headaches for Vancouver, no win for Chicago. Canucks in 5.<br /><br />San Jose/Los Angeles… Losing Anze Kopitar to injury really hurts the Kings chances here in my mind. The Sharks are a big physical team and have been quietly under the radar this season. Sharks in 6.<br /><br />Detroit/Phoenix… Did the Coyotes learn from their grueling loss to Detroit in last year’s playoffs? If so then they have a good chance of pulling an upset here. The Redwings much to my dismay are still well… the Redwings. Coyotes in 7.<br /><br />Anaheim/Nashville… This is probably the toughest series to figure out. I think both teams could ruin the party for others in the west. Unfortunately one has to lose. The Ducks have been playing solid hockey at their right time and Corey Perry is on fire. Barry Trotz has the Predators playing tough, stingy hockey and not giving up many goals. Can I pick a tie here? Ducks in 6.<br /><br />That’s it those are my picks, care to disagree please feel free to. I'd love to hear your comments. Also, Paul Stewart former NHL player & referee will be the guest on this week’s Instigators Radio Show. Here is the link, check out the show! Over and out!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d<br /></a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-82711529814673833482011-03-28T17:41:00.004-04:002011-03-28T17:44:26.714-04:00It's All About the DWednesday night the New York Rangers will be in Buffalo to take on the Sabres, in what really turns out to be the biggest game for both teams this year. The Rangers are currently tied with the Montreal Canadiens at 87 points. Buffalo has 85 points, followed by Carolina who has 80 points. Both of those teams have have one game in hand on the Rangers and Canadiens.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NeFHaBazqYwFhPc7HJrT7AExgdOKnf8n9gCVmZyV_FFaFnRUStaPaIPPirL295Men15FLObQsDyDX6x51i9_3vCZIH3pOAb4BLmiTOEMQwN9uYg8ka4_oTOhfxyjYm-dc3XGi062BdRd/s1600/prustgoal1.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 171px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NeFHaBazqYwFhPc7HJrT7AExgdOKnf8n9gCVmZyV_FFaFnRUStaPaIPPirL295Men15FLObQsDyDX6x51i9_3vCZIH3pOAb4BLmiTOEMQwN9uYg8ka4_oTOhfxyjYm-dc3XGi062BdRd/s200/prustgoal1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589249622469297378" border="0" /></a>The question most Ranger diehards have is how did the Rangers get to this point? With a 8-1-1 run in their last ten games (Timing was perfect for this run) and 41-30-5 overall record it’s the one thing that may have gone unnoticed and that my friends is the overall team defense that the Rangers have played this year. Starting, obviously, in the nets with the “King” Henrik Lundqvist- who has quietly maneuvered himself up the ladder in the numbers department of the top goalies in the league. The King leads the league with 11 shutouts and with a goals against of 2.24 that’s good for 5th best in the NHL. Lundqvist should get some serious attention when it comes to the Vezina Trophy voting.<br /><br />The other part of the overall defense of the Rangers are the defensemen themselves. Mark Staal, Dan Giradi, Ryan McDonagh, Michael Sauer, Steve Eminger, Brian McCabe, and Matt Gilroy have contributed greatly in the Rangers fortunes. These names on the D may not frighten many opponents when it comes down to the nasty, physical department (Someday?) but they have done the job blocking shots and playing smart hockey. I mean, really, check these numbers: the Rangers have scored 218 goals, 181 goals against (2nd in the East and 3rd overall in the NHL) with a goal differential of +37. The +37 ranks in the top 4 in the entire NHL! That folks is absolutely incredible! The numbers don’t lie in a league where scoring is almost extinct. You have to rely on solid team defense and the Rangers are getting that from goaltender on out. Impressive? I’d say so.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOtsekZYphyVbQzG-3P8jCJCeAhuLaKCLIm1FMaqibwmbscWiUywFrzgfp8Fi9m12nr9DV9RioQJvrpFGVtKSFw1zclns3QJu_NZZrzouSGDp067M5psqxiDeS9gcPtQHKjMCIQfOcxYc/s1600/henrikbruins2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 148px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOtsekZYphyVbQzG-3P8jCJCeAhuLaKCLIm1FMaqibwmbscWiUywFrzgfp8Fi9m12nr9DV9RioQJvrpFGVtKSFw1zclns3QJu_NZZrzouSGDp067M5psqxiDeS9gcPtQHKjMCIQfOcxYc/s200/henrikbruins2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589249689121645762" border="0" /></a>Okay now for some of Kotsy’s thoughts on a few topics that need to addressed… First off how about the comments coming out Detroit from Kris Draper and Nicklas Lidstrom concerning the cheap shots and hits the NHL has a problem with today. Both player’s have hinted that maybe the NHL should get rid of the instigator rule… Really? I’m all for that, but I also hold Redwings mostly responsible for why the game is what it is today. So to hear this from them, I’m not really sure it passes the laugh test.<br /><br />“The Hammer”, Dave Schultz has surfaced and came out with some strong opinions about the state of the game when it comes to the respect- or lack there of. It’s a good read check it out at the link below.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2011/03/26/17768281.html">http://www.torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2011/03/26/17768281.html</a><br /><br />Finally, I wonder if most hockey fans realize that the NHL might possibly be without a 50 goal scorer this season. Corey Perry currently leads with 44 goals and Steven Stamkos has been stuck on 43 for a while now. I thought the NHL improved it’s game with all the rules changes over the last few years to open up the game? At least, that’s what we were told… wasn’t it? Over and out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-64519606337549318642011-03-21T15:08:00.003-04:002011-03-21T15:15:24.407-04:00Rangers Rolling, Cooke Strikes AgainRangers fans you have to like what you see with Boys in Blue lately. After a lousy effort on the road against the Anaheim Ducks (A horrendous 5-2 loss) the Rangers have been on quite a roll winning 4 games in a row. Starting with the 3-2 shoot out win in San Jose over a strong Sharks team, 6-3 over the Islanders, 6-3 over the Canadiens (both at home) and finishing up with a tough hard-earned win in Pittsburgh, 5-2. Yes, you could say the Rangers are rolling and the timing couldn’t be better as the playoff race is winding down. Great goaltending by Henrik Lundqvist, solid play by all 3 defense pairings, and just super all around effort by the forwards has led to this nice run by the Rangers. With 2 home games coming up against Florida and Ottawa the Rangers can further distance themselves from the teams that are chasing them and solidify there spot in the chase for Lord Stanley’s Cup.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zKGb98QhPcfd4AjbtTzZjV6lkx5196oN75EMkviR0Y813daNZKt_P-DQgO5FdYFH7TNSv3Cp_-Rbw6pZER8-NmqLVMUDfxXk48Gr5NF5e-f912Jo4RVh4C-dwT_hyphenhyphenZIuVCTv7-en7GLK/s1600/callypens1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zKGb98QhPcfd4AjbtTzZjV6lkx5196oN75EMkviR0Y813daNZKt_P-DQgO5FdYFH7TNSv3Cp_-Rbw6pZER8-NmqLVMUDfxXk48Gr5NF5e-f912Jo4RVh4C-dwT_hyphenhyphenZIuVCTv7-en7GLK/s200/callypens1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586613751815537410" border="0" /></a>Couple of thoughts by the big man (That would be me LOL.) I was present for the Rangers win over the Montreal Canadiens, a team the has given the Rangers all sorts of problems over the past few seasons. The fight to start the game involving Brandon Prust (How good has he been for the Rangers) and Travis Moen was a perfect way to get the team and the fans going at MSG. I mean come on, one second into the game? Just perfect, in my opinion, and the Rangers used that to dominate the Habs to a tune of 5-1 at the end of the 1st period. When was the last time the Rangers had a lead like that over anyone in the 1st period?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi453KhZkPA0XIbVwOJwvduyXq4F3ttSThsLgXY4_nf-1604ZqpQwmqtW0lGi9Xha_L_DMZNMpsfdn0X6-DOwl0zawCxNoh87gg2S6ginveW56pRvvangerYyTuJkO2BIAw2jZgNql3nwd5/s1600/mcdpens2.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi453KhZkPA0XIbVwOJwvduyXq4F3ttSThsLgXY4_nf-1604ZqpQwmqtW0lGi9Xha_L_DMZNMpsfdn0X6-DOwl0zawCxNoh87gg2S6ginveW56pRvvangerYyTuJkO2BIAw2jZgNql3nwd5/s200/mcdpens2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586613881012562242" border="0" /></a>One other thing from the that game was the constant hammering of Henrik Lundqvist. Intentional or not- this has to stop. For some reason the NHL seems to do a poor job when it involves the Rangers, sorry that’s just how I see it. That being said the Ranger players must come to his aid and make it quite clear you touch our goalie- you pay the price. Every now and then it’s okay to take a message sending penalty in order to protect your biggest asset which is the King himself. I’m okay with that and I’m pretty sure coach Torts would be too.<br /><br />Now let’s talk about the Matt Cooke blatant elbow on Ryan McDonagh. To me this one was so obvious as Cooke cocked his elbow straight out a good 5 feet before the contact with McDonagh’s jaw. When Matt Cooke hit Marc Savard a few years back he followed through with the elbow and we all know the end result in the damage to Savard’s health and his career. This might sound like I’m a homer, but to me this one was much clearer on the replay than the Savard hit. Ryan McDonaugh was and is fortunate the damage was very limited. As for Cooke what his penalty will be… who knows? I will go on record and repeat what I’ve saying for years when will the NHL realize that all it’s rules and suspensions have done nothing to deter players from incidents like this. The more they tinker with these type of plays the worse it has gotten Anyone who thinks that the NHL can remedy this alone is sorely misguided.<br /><br />I’ll say it one more time 1st take the instigator rule out, make these players face the music immediately by letting the players police their own game. It will not eliminate all the cheap shots, but I will bet anything the numbers will decrease to a livable number. If the NHL feels it has to be the overseer then makes the fines substantial. A player like Cooke as well as others have made a small fortune and have plenty of money put away in the bank that 20 to 50 thousand (Can’t believe I’m saying this about these numbers, just crazy isn‘t it?) doesn’t hurt them like most would think. Make the fines 100 to 200 thousand and then watch if they will continue to play on the edge. I think not. Over and Out!<br /><br />Remember to check out the “Instigators Hockey Show” as my co-host Pauly D and I will be discussing the Rangers and the Cooke hit and much, much more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-2098339703240933712011-03-09T13:51:00.002-05:002011-03-09T13:56:22.038-05:00Rangers, Barry Beck, and More!The Rangers are in Anaheim tonight to take on the Ducks to begin an all important western road swing that will keep the Rangers above water in the race to the playoffs or drop below it. After 2 straight wins over Ottawa on the road and at home against the Flyers (What an ass kicking that was!) the Rangers must keep the momentum on their side. The time is now! Points are getting to be more precious for the Rangers than gold is on the open market. Players like Dubinsky, Callahan, Staal, and of course the “King” Henrik Lundqvist must lead the way. If Marian Gaborik is healthy (That’s still questionable?) and finds his scoring touch the better off the Rangers will be. All four lines need to do their jobs, The defense pairings must step their game up as well. Hard work and effort has been the key to the Rangers this season. Nothing less than that is acceptable. It’s playoff mode for the Rangers. They got a few gifts last night with Buffalo, New Jersey and Toronto losing. However, relying on others to do your job for you, is in my opinion, a certain way to miss the playoffs. It’s all in the players hands and there can be no excuses because excuses left the building a long time ago.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-cAvrXvF6oHpg_qz-F9jYuD2tVAYlvlolWZUWbW45p5NbpFIrpot9C-NzUNz1rlClSFQsi0g2m8K14_UVc9eZweIBmKMUo-e81_3DnnNolj54308UsbXB8S0m8aYG6g0GUJ2JoPTbkCb/s1600/barrybeck.jpeg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-cAvrXvF6oHpg_qz-F9jYuD2tVAYlvlolWZUWbW45p5NbpFIrpot9C-NzUNz1rlClSFQsi0g2m8K14_UVc9eZweIBmKMUo-e81_3DnnNolj54308UsbXB8S0m8aYG6g0GUJ2JoPTbkCb/s200/barrybeck.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582155853122962962" border="0" /></a>Tuesday night on the “Instigators Hockey Show” my co-host Pauly D and I had the great pleasure of having former Ranger Captain and Legend Barry Beck on as a special guest for a very informative chat. Barry was gracious enough to come on the show even though there was a 13 hour time difference (Bubba lives and works in Hong Kong) and stay on for over an hour to talk with us. If you are a Ranger fan you don’t want to miss out the chance at listening to what Barry’s up to these days and his time with the Rangers. We had plenty of laughs and great story telling. Trust Me! If you wish to listen to the show you can hit the link below.<br /><br />As for me I will be in Ithaca NY Friday night for a best of 3 to do the color for the Quinnipiac Bobcats as they head on the road to take on the Cornell Big Red in the 2nd round of the ECAC playoffs in men’s Division 1 Hockey. This should be a great match up and after all it is the playoffs so one never knows, do they? If your interested in listening to play by play man Bill Schweizer and I hit the link. Tune in it’s great hockey!<br /><br />Please feel free to make your comments known on the blog site and I will respond back to you. Don’t be afraid…Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span>: <a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-12864205056543897442011-03-03T17:21:00.003-05:002011-03-03T17:24:24.156-05:00No Place Like Home?Regardless of how tonight’s outcome with the New York Rangers/Minnesota Wild game ends up (Hopefully a win for the Rangers) . One thing is certain, the Rangers have treated MSG like it was a house of horrors this season. Home ice has not been to kind for the “Boys in Blue” over the last few seasons. Think back to last year’s one-game showdown with Philadelphia for the right to make the playoffs in the final game of the season. It shouldn’t have come down to that had the Rangers taken care of business at home. This year it’s much of the same with a record of 14-15-3 at the world’s most famous arena. I certainly don’t have the answers and it’s obvious no one else does either. One thing I do know is that playing in your own barn is supposed to be an advantage for the home team. Clearly this isn’t the case for the Rangers. Games are starting to have more meaning as teams chasing for a playoff spot are closing in. The New York Rangers must find a way to start winning their final games at home in order to secure a playoff spot. The time is now! and let’s all hope it starts tonight with a win over the Wild.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPUgP3RzFGDjDSuEeicM-LPT71oZb4C2YgisXXGDoO_9H1Fv4nLmzG6KQuq4wXpU8lvbhKighb5FqfnoqOcQ4Bn4It83ZcrlNJNuolbQuDjOnZUfOsxiqo-lY9fMprm_6dcug4RxTI-jc/s1600/mccabe.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 152px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPUgP3RzFGDjDSuEeicM-LPT71oZb4C2YgisXXGDoO_9H1Fv4nLmzG6KQuq4wXpU8lvbhKighb5FqfnoqOcQ4Bn4It83ZcrlNJNuolbQuDjOnZUfOsxiqo-lY9fMprm_6dcug4RxTI-jc/s200/mccabe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579982986025528578" border="0" /></a>Now that the trade deadline has come and gone. I personally liked the fact that Glen Sather didn’t do anything drastic and ruin the good this organization has done in a short period of time. It wasn’t long ago that the Rangers were pushed to limit salary cap wise… which was a huge problem. Adding huge potential contracts (Brad Richards) through the trade deadline would have put them back to square 1 with no room to maneuver and that is something you don’t want. This team has gotten younger and the core players have yet to reach their full potential. I feel that if you want to make moves or add to the roster you do it in the off-season where no one has a gun to your head. That’s the way I feel and I’m sticking by it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkndvMufsYO-h6ClDWTlLxRU3BeEN_99unYjPI1kFM6l5Z1egMi05dOOsGUI-ZQShgonHovJ3oNOk-pqIs1gbNAOW7UuDaRJgjgaEBm-dz16bgVV9rv9RQS41xMzLCn71-dRr4Irm7mAQ/s1600/christensen.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 127px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkndvMufsYO-h6ClDWTlLxRU3BeEN_99unYjPI1kFM6l5Z1egMi05dOOsGUI-ZQShgonHovJ3oNOk-pqIs1gbNAOW7UuDaRJgjgaEBm-dz16bgVV9rv9RQS41xMzLCn71-dRr4Irm7mAQ/s200/christensen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579983041367158802" border="0" /></a>It’s obvious that with out a healthy Marion Gaborik the Rangers are going to be challenged to find the dynamic offensive player for the stretch run. That being said, it’s up to the players on the roster to find a way to score- plain and simple. “How”, you say? To me it means someone has to play the hero role each and every night. Not just one or two players, it has to be done by committee. If the Rangers can do this it should be more than enough win and proceed to the playoffs. It wouldn’t hurt to spot Henrik Lundqvist a few goals would it? (Especially now that Biron’s injured).<br /><br />This Friday night I will be in Hamden CT for the 1st round of the ECAC playoffs where the Quinnipiac Bobcats and Brown Bears get under way in a best of 3 series. If you are in the area come by and check it out. If you want to listen to the game here’s the link below.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quinnipiac Bobcats Radio Link</span>: <a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a><br /><br />Also this past Tuesday My co-host Pauly Dee and I had the pleasure of chatting with a former Ranger/Whaler and a teammate of mine in Toronto Jeff Brubaker. “Bru” was a tough, team first type player and was very insightful and really gave the listeners a realistic look into what it took for him to play in the NHL. Also we had Lou Lafrado, who runs one of the best hockey websites in “Pro Hockey News”, on to talk about his site and Hockey in general. If you missed the show you can go back and listen to it in archive just hit the link. That’s it over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-10931145303571329122011-02-15T16:31:00.003-05:002011-02-15T16:41:33.416-05:00Rangers End Skid, Whalers Fest, and More!Hey Ranger fans… you can breath again after beating the Pittsburgh Penguins by a score of 5-3 and putting a halt to a season high 6-game losing streak. Those who were thinking about jumping off a cliff or off the bandwagon should relax. I know it’s only one win, but really folks knee-jerk reactions about the state of the team are just silly. Remember losing streaks happen in the NHL and how your team reacts to them shows what kind of personality they have. We will soon see how the Rangers deal with it. Are they out of the woods? Of course not, but they are still in a decent position to make the playoffs.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGti2JRAjiio6hBK7Ex5oAWz3SvJAIcsLDKGbkvxU1HLeT7G_XHV5nFKcfqcZ3dmGxxb-crWVJPYlH6i1u2tVTcR14dnGsRr9DxHjiMaCYJ36VqmpEu2UDgo6j-KNPWVAhvgpvfmci_t-9/s1600/21511_01.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGti2JRAjiio6hBK7Ex5oAWz3SvJAIcsLDKGbkvxU1HLeT7G_XHV5nFKcfqcZ3dmGxxb-crWVJPYlH6i1u2tVTcR14dnGsRr9DxHjiMaCYJ36VqmpEu2UDgo6j-KNPWVAhvgpvfmci_t-9/s200/21511_01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574034249811649282" border="0" /></a>The team is finally getting most of their roster back minus a couple players and what is needed is finding that chemistry that made the Rangers a tough team to play against for most of the year. With the time off between Penguins game and the Kings game coming up on Thursday at MSG, hopefully the coaches and players reacquainted themselves during the practice sessions. Having a familiar lineup is the key to any team’s success and the Rangers are no different. What I’d like to see is line combinations that stay together and the PP chosen few the same. With games dwindling, this team needs to find that cohesive togetherness that made them a hard team to play against.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkkq21nQRX7gOjWkhvEFAmzHOk42atr2vwVauhrHoKBKm4b8Ikm48dPMkrZSLoVGAxcuvM4IYJTPrsbXeVfKB8R3wonKlYY22BaKcJsys5mB9ehudEVCwtamu9tL0oe-PuhGYiHySAt1h/s1600/21511_02.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkkq21nQRX7gOjWkhvEFAmzHOk42atr2vwVauhrHoKBKm4b8Ikm48dPMkrZSLoVGAxcuvM4IYJTPrsbXeVfKB8R3wonKlYY22BaKcJsys5mB9ehudEVCwtamu9tL0oe-PuhGYiHySAt1h/s200/21511_02.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574034338085340690" border="0" /></a>On to other NHL news. I have a few thoughts about Mario Lemieux’s comments after the brawl with the Islanders last week. First off, I totally respect Mario for what he has done as a player in his HOF career. All of us who had the great fortune of playing in the NHL wished we could have had the ability and skill of a Mario Lemieux. No one can deny that. I do realize that some cheap shots were obviously taken by the Islanders and they were subsequently dealt with fines and suspensions. That being said, I believe that his timing was very suspect to say the least. Not one time in his tenure as an owner has Mario ever spoke out about any of the transgressions that any of his players that he has employed. If Super Mario feels that strongly about what happened in Long Island… then why doesn’t he take the lead and start by purging players on his team like Cooke, Goddard, Rupp, Engelland, Asham and see how that works out for him? Self-serving? Hypocritical? Certainly looks that way to me.<br /><br />As most of you know, I will be playing with the Hartford Whaler Alumni against the Boston Bruin Alumni this Saturday in the Whale Bowl at Rentschler Field the outdoors home of the UConn Huskies Football team. The game will take place before the CT Whale/Providence Bruins AHL game. I’m looking forward to seeing some of my former teammates and the die hard Whaler fans. Howard Baldwin and Howard (Bubba) Baldwin Jr. are the masterminds of the great event and have put in a ton of hard work and money to put this event on. It’s a showcase for the city of Harford and the state CT. So don’t be afraid to show up and let’s break the outdoor record for attendance for an AHL game. Check out the link!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Whalers Hockey Fest 2011 Link</span>: <a href="http://www.ctwhale.com/default.asp?ctwhale=134">http://www.ctwhale.com/default.asp?ctwhale=134</a><br /><br />Don’t forget to check out the “Instigators Radio Show”. Tuesday night 8:30 with my co-host Pauly D and I as we talk everything hockey. Just hit the link below. Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-74576648286370160262011-02-09T18:19:00.003-05:002011-02-09T18:22:59.318-05:00Crisis? What Crisis?Well Ranger fans the New York Rangers have hit a critical point in the season. After losing 5 in a row the Rangers find themselves treading water playoff-wise heading into a huge match up in Atlanta with the Thrashers Friday night. Carolina, Atlanta, Buffalo and even Florida are fast on the Ranger’s tails. Is it time to panic, as many of my Ranger friends have suggested? I think not. Is there reason for concern? Absolutely! The Rangers have played with effort and energy- there’s no denying that. What they haven’t been able to do during this losing streak is score goals. Plain and simple.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RuWyDqeqJ0tk3JR9X9EDleYsdw0axe7g2URru0XqdrncOlLBOT3mTclESD2wLRYPRd1bo0C9P5qjZ6-txmDdSXXDiUZkMOrD7ZiPcfZ28GEONXiSLeJCshR783hKU5Ff7AkPVtxOdZIy/s1600/rangersatwings1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 124px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RuWyDqeqJ0tk3JR9X9EDleYsdw0axe7g2URru0XqdrncOlLBOT3mTclESD2wLRYPRd1bo0C9P5qjZ6-txmDdSXXDiUZkMOrD7ZiPcfZ28GEONXiSLeJCshR783hKU5Ff7AkPVtxOdZIy/s200/rangersatwings1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571833797997401618" border="0" /></a>Let’s break it down a little bit here. 1st the Big guns have not, and I repeat have not, pulled their weight in producing offense that the team desperately needs. We can all look to Marian Gaborik as the lead man and his lack of production and the trickle down effect goes right down the line of the roster from there. Gaborik needs to pick up his game and lead the Rangers in scoring, that’s what he does and from there the rest will fall into place. Second, how about crashing the net and creating more traffic in front of the goaltender? More goals are scored from a few feet out than any other place on the ice. It may be down right ugly, but it sure is effective.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Wxvmmn1gZmqDfXdGBw0PTiDH0vIoQWkUewi_Z7VDNRhRSh0NabJAMymd8jIwKh_Qo3dH7Mz-jVasijD26EWSxozRcNezZkh5VJAb4h-h0T65353yMcJjF6hLKyLs5VwkDdIH5Wt0wQV4/s1600/rangersatwings2.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Wxvmmn1gZmqDfXdGBw0PTiDH0vIoQWkUewi_Z7VDNRhRSh0NabJAMymd8jIwKh_Qo3dH7Mz-jVasijD26EWSxozRcNezZkh5VJAb4h-h0T65353yMcJjF6hLKyLs5VwkDdIH5Wt0wQV4/s200/rangersatwings2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571833868522089506" border="0" /></a>Other thoughts I have at this point of the season. One thing that I’m sure of is you can’t point fingers at the goaltending with Henrik Lundqvist as the lead man and Martin Biron. They are, in my opinion, as good a tandem in the entire NHL. Has there been night’s where the “King” has looked less than stellar? For sure. Overall though, in my humble opinion, there is really no concern in this area. The defensemen on this team have done an admirable job all season and really surprised most us with their play. Once again no problem there. Now if you want to talk about the PP that’s another story… Yes you can point a huge finger in this area. I do know one thing about Power plays and that is you can’t SCORE if you don’t SHOOT the puck. I know I’m beating the dead horse here, but really stop with the “Euro I’m going to paint you a pretty picture perfect goal” attitude on the Power Play. PASS PASS PASS… No shots, just keep passing it. Drives me nuts! If you watch the successful PP’s in the league they shoot the puck every chance they get. Why is this? Well maybe it’s because most goals that are scored on the PP come from rebounds and deflections. Duh! The Ranger players have got to start shooting the puck and forget about painting a picture.<br /><br />This past Tuesday, Pauly D and I had the great pleasure of talking with Hartford Whaler legend Blaine Stoughton on our “Instigators Hockey Show”. “Stash” as he is commonly referred to, also played a short time with the New York Rangers. The show was filled with stories and laughter. It is a must listen You can go back and listen to the show by hitting the link below.<br /><br />One other thing I’d like to give Claude Julien head coach of the Boston Bruins a standing ovation for his comments about the players taking more responsibility for the head hits and hitting from behind. Finally someone with some kind of stature and importance in the NHL telling it like it is. Julien basically called the players out and I applaud him for that. You can read the whole article here: <a href="http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=352460">http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=352460</a><br /><br />Finally, I’m looking forward to the Rangers game on Friday night. This game will tell us plenty about the Rangers and where they are heading. Feel free to make your voice heard here on “Kotsy’s Korner” by adding your 2 cents. I dare ya! Over and Out!<br /><br />Instigators Hockey Show: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-3328110657826311812011-01-26T16:21:00.004-05:002011-01-26T16:33:06.011-05:00A Much Needed Rest<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRlhKi9RGSlCHisCPXbNVfN__YVJWA4G7ZAsodQT-UY-j1_PHYywVSAg0Zyv5QR6GNtgLZiY76ie9Kw_Jkg3Sq3C3gg4wTI-82YWkNPzAl612zFeAE5vt00os30MfwFFeZJTR365j_U5W/s1600/nyrflajan252011.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRlhKi9RGSlCHisCPXbNVfN__YVJWA4G7ZAsodQT-UY-j1_PHYywVSAg0Zyv5QR6GNtgLZiY76ie9Kw_Jkg3Sq3C3gg4wTI-82YWkNPzAl612zFeAE5vt00os30MfwFFeZJTR365j_U5W/s200/nyrflajan252011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566610189592764962" border="0" /></a>Well Rangers fans we are now at the All Star break. Some might say I took mine a few weeks ago with this blog, oh well that’s the way it goes! Anyway, the New York Rangers definitely needed this break with all the injuries this team has had this season. I’m not going to sit here and feel sorry for the “Boys in Blue” because in the NHL one never knows how things will go from year-to-year when it comes to injuries. Last year hardly any games lost due to injury, this year it’s the complete opposite. What is impressive is how this team has been able to ride out the storm, so to say, with key players missing (Callahan, Dubinsky, Prospal, Christensen, Boogaard, Girardi) from the lineup and just as impressive are the call ups from the CT Whale who have done a admirable job. The organization from top to bottom has held this team together. Now is the time for a little rest, get a few of the walking wounded back after the break and push onward toward the playoffs.<br /><br />Just a few quick hits… Who cannot be impressed with the play of Mats Zuccarello? I, for one, was skeptical about him but have to admit he’s been a pleasant surprise. He has the hockey smarts and his shootout goals have been nothing short of spectacular.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Z6NT-9NOInSKLi7suRGaEltQ0JxR7khdVjGTOo6NcBTM7Lo9wG0eH7zciu2D2_iXIMuP4pa-gduODzNnIyxFYY2NywgVWUHysh_2RvJ1qM3IMJg4Z14-0EayWX0B1DuAUGwoUlXQjntk/s1600/nyrflajan252011_2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Z6NT-9NOInSKLi7suRGaEltQ0JxR7khdVjGTOo6NcBTM7Lo9wG0eH7zciu2D2_iXIMuP4pa-gduODzNnIyxFYY2NywgVWUHysh_2RvJ1qM3IMJg4Z14-0EayWX0B1DuAUGwoUlXQjntk/s200/nyrflajan252011_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566610259901668402" border="0" /></a>I love the play of Ryan McDonagh. He’s looks very calm and cool when he’s on the ice. Very steady in the defensive zone. This was a great pickup by the Rangers.<br /><br />Henrik Lundqvist and Martin Biron have been superb, in my opinion, this season. When you get goaltending like they have provided for the Rangers it bodes well for the playoffs. The “King” has and will continue to carry the load, but you can’t underestimate Biron’s contribution to this team. He gives Lundqvist the much needed rest he deserves and in turn Lundqvist’s performance level has never been better.<br /><br />On the down side of things the power play needs to pick up it’s pants and get productive. Too much thinking and not enough shooting for my liking.<br />Stop looking for the picture perfect goal and SHOOT the puck!<br /><br />This past Tuesday my co-host Pauly D and I had the great pleasure of talking with Ranger legend Steve “Sarge” Vickers on our Blog Talk radio show “The Instigators”. It was just awesome to hear Steve talk about his time with the Rangers. We were joined by another great Ranger Ron Greschner and let me tell that the stories were hilarious and informative at the same time. You must go to the link and listen to this once in a lifetime show. You will not be disappointed.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d/2011/01/26/the-instigators-hockey-show">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d/2011/01/26/the-instigators-hockey-show</a><br /><br />I’m off St. Lawrence and Clarkson to do the color on the radio for the Quinnipiac Bobcats huge ECAC games this weekend. Just hit the link if you want to listen in. Over and Out.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-12857340495875221042011-01-06T16:41:00.003-05:002011-01-06T16:51:51.845-05:0041 Down, 41 to GoWith a stirring 2-1 OT win over the Carolina Hurricanes thanks to Mats Zucarrello Aason’s 1st NHL goal in front the of the home crowd at MSG last night the New York Rangers have hit the half way point of their schedule. 41 games in the Rangers have placed themselves nicely with a 23-15-3 record- that’s good for 49 points and 7th place in the Eastern Conference. Not bad…Not bad at all.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5DIpJaL6-YfEDC8ljFGsAG_p-3IME43pvGxLlkSlpJxXynFYHU_tLAAFMeuxghBalnOMnnjeUyF5IcXpRXAv1HucTkq-fJD4sGPoo6aw9dpw8iD_5KhZ1_rsGgtycdUeJ7I6xZVTlXVn/s1600/52c46d8abab3ade1917af10e1898a6b3-getty-103025494bb024_carolina_hur.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5DIpJaL6-YfEDC8ljFGsAG_p-3IME43pvGxLlkSlpJxXynFYHU_tLAAFMeuxghBalnOMnnjeUyF5IcXpRXAv1HucTkq-fJD4sGPoo6aw9dpw8iD_5KhZ1_rsGgtycdUeJ7I6xZVTlXVn/s200/52c46d8abab3ade1917af10e1898a6b3-getty-103025494bb024_carolina_hur.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559193007468540178" border="0" /></a>Let’s face it Ranger fans, you have to be more than pleased with the current state of Boys in Blue. No one in their wildest dreams could have or would have expected this kind of progress so quick and so fast. You have to start by giving the players most of the credit. They have done the job on a fairly consistent basis most of the season so far. This team is tough on the road (Lead the NHL with road 13 wins) and getting better at home. John Tortorella and his staff deserves some of the credit as well in getting the Rangers to play a hard nosed, bring it in your face style of Hockey. That folks is the identity of this team. Injuries have not held this team back. When one goes down someone has stepped in and done the job and that shows how much more the cupboard is full these days depth-wise. Although I certainly would like to see Ryan Callahan back as soon as possible. There’s 41 more games to go and where the Rangers need help obviously is in the scoring department. That’s a big question mark in my opinion. Sure would be nice to see one more proven goal scorer in the lineup along with Gaborik. Unfortunately it’s not that easy to find one. All the top teams have at least two major threats, some even more.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHEsjZ4uuFO5L4NQHL2GGDziKnJt9VtPKCTssAzXmY6aJmbBpdhcSHXydVbU-1RSNtWHmiWCUzaYZ0GCEjp9H2Ish9CBnFBMUzyIqP10rZiCBZADYzr3CoWMV0KiarvyyRIBvqa0eIgX8/s1600/46c984b1f308259d663d9ba263c035c7-getty-103025494bb021_carolina_hur.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 159px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHEsjZ4uuFO5L4NQHL2GGDziKnJt9VtPKCTssAzXmY6aJmbBpdhcSHXydVbU-1RSNtWHmiWCUzaYZ0GCEjp9H2Ish9CBnFBMUzyIqP10rZiCBZADYzr3CoWMV0KiarvyyRIBvqa0eIgX8/s200/46c984b1f308259d663d9ba263c035c7-getty-103025494bb021_carolina_hur.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559193071421708978" border="0" /></a>Now the Rangers head out on the road for a couple of tough games with Dallas and St. Louis. If they show up and work hard they should be okay.<br /><br />Okay, now I’d like to talk a little about the Michael Del Zotto demotion. First off let’s not get too crazy and in an uproar over this. MDZ is a big part of the picture for the New York Rangers. Obviously he’s had a tough go of it this year, no offensive production and defensively he’s struggled at times. This demotion or send down to the CT Whale should be a wake up call to MDZ that it’s not that easy to play in the National Hockey League or stay in it either. MDZ has loads of talent, but needs to work on his deficiencies and the key word is ‘work’! The coaching staff has let him know what he needs to do and hopefully he understands that it’s up to him to regain his form.<br /><br />World Jr’s are now over after a stunning comeback by the Russians over Canada. Canada led 3-0 heading into the 3rd period in the Gold medal game, When the Russians blitzed the Canadians with 5 straight goals to secure the gold. You have to give credit where it’s due. The Russians were the “Comeback kids” of this tourney (They did it 3 times) and congratulations is in order. As for Canada and the US it was a major disappointment in my opinion. Silver and Bronze respectively not exactly what both teams had in mind.<br /><br />Last thing on my mind. I think it’s time that the Winter Classic involves the New York Rangers. Don’t you think? Yankee Stadium would be a nice fit… I’m Just saying. Happy belated New Year everyone over and out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-83001864665308473012010-12-28T14:46:00.003-05:002010-12-28T15:03:37.113-05:00Rangers Rout IslandersThe New York Rangers took care of business last night with a total demolishing of the New York Islanders by a score of 7-2. I won’t get too detailed about it but after an early 2-1 lead by the visitors, the Rangers buckled down and fired 52 shots at a beleaguered Dwayne Roloson for a season high shot total.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrkZyVctjiOLpJn3t_LBqZSgv58mcq0htdcX1KtbS4WCOcd_CF258saYfDrCNYYrTFlq9zNnzsk149pB6djpgTnjLNLza8hJsmYEmm52l11Aw6ORoTLOkRjggHK7E0jKvl6hrM6ynfpJw/s1600/ap-43a73d1514de4213a7faebd33d34bf3c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 187px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrkZyVctjiOLpJn3t_LBqZSgv58mcq0htdcX1KtbS4WCOcd_CF258saYfDrCNYYrTFlq9zNnzsk149pB6djpgTnjLNLza8hJsmYEmm52l11Aw6ORoTLOkRjggHK7E0jKvl6hrM6ynfpJw/s200/ap-43a73d1514de4213a7faebd33d34bf3c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555825585180145410" border="0" /></a>My take from this game is it was nice to see Matt Gilroy assert himself and play with some confidence. Gilroy might have gotten a little lucky on both of his goals but as I always say, “They don’t draw pictures on a score sheet”. I’m hoping, like most Rangers fans, that Gilroy will finally “get it” and understand that he has to be consistent game in and game out.<br /><br />Now the Rangers will take on the New Jersey Devils and much like the Islanders the boys in blue must and I mean MUST be ready to play. It’s the beginning of a mini road trip for the Rangers (Devils, Lightning, Panthers) and these points are ever so important. The East this year is a tough conference to be in. Playoff spots will be hard to come by. While the Rangers are in a good spot presently, they can’t relax. In fact, there’s no time to relax… period!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIhcQptutz_Wg-XtTO43TSgIg8EVd8qZuUdcutaQsEUrlY7HeMQ-wg6w6a8Q_v75A8XmX0HvlYl3XyTPhJN4UOpHCp1vpJG7OpFqrqlpWLW_CXcHhf6jsoyL5dshxUuZHP7SEahs2cmef/s1600/ap-29333173f632460ea54ec9292a7645c3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIhcQptutz_Wg-XtTO43TSgIg8EVd8qZuUdcutaQsEUrlY7HeMQ-wg6w6a8Q_v75A8XmX0HvlYl3XyTPhJN4UOpHCp1vpJG7OpFqrqlpWLW_CXcHhf6jsoyL5dshxUuZHP7SEahs2cmef/s200/ap-29333173f632460ea54ec9292a7645c3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555825777810872354" border="0" /></a>Some other musings… I keep hearing that MDZ might be on the trading block? Well, in my opinion, if he is it better be a lopsided trade in favor of the Rangers. Otherwise, forget about it! MDZ is having a tough year and his production is obviously down. But really, he’s just 20 years old and he will bounce back- trust me!<br /><br />Another thought… just how far has the New York Islanders organization fallen? For that matter, you can throw in the New Jersey Devils this season too! If only the Flyers could join them and make it a tri-fecta. It would certainly make Rangers fans jump for joy! Just my thoughts.<br /><br />Speaking of Rangers fans. I want to thank all of you who follow Kotsy’s Korner and listen to the Instigators radio show. You guys are the best! I would also like to thank all of the Rangers fans and friends that I have made when I venture into the big city to catch a game. Whether at Café 31 or the Parlour Restaurant. You guys make it enjoyable for my wife Lisa and I. If I could, I would thank you all personally… but you know who you are and I thank you all, big time. Oh well, onto the New Year! Over and out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-9700235801914980642010-12-10T13:26:00.002-05:002010-12-10T14:14:09.285-05:00Kings of the RoadRoger Miller once had a hit single crooning out “king of the road”. Well folks, the New York Rangers at this moment are truly the kings of the road in the NHL. With last night’s (sometimes ugly and mistake prone) game, the boys in blue hung on and took a 5-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators. This win guaranteed that the Rangers now have the most wins on the road sporting a very impressive 11-4-0 record. You have got to like the resilience with this team. Last night when Ottawa would score the Rangers would answer back almost immediately. The game winner would come from rookie d-man Michael Sauer (Who’s coming along nicely, I might add) for his first ever NHL goal. The goal was set up by Chris Neil’s dumb penalty he took for running Ryan Callahan. Sean Avery and Brandon Prust did all the hard work as Sauer blasted a slap shot through the 5-hole on Brian Elliot to give the Rangers the late 4-3 lead. Brandon Dubinsky finished off the game with an empty netter. All in all, the Rangers will take the crucial 2 points as they head to Columbus for a match up on Saturday.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXh3veMMIPLyvp6SRJFGNDMpMrGJvLB2ly3bbsX-MAaOqIElICbyZX87T9vk8seSuV6pi6Xw6nTOyWZETsVb68N0ma3R15SXOuoQYRIiXyQ9pXjrT5Uhf2MVAZAaDiGPWuKv7SFW_m04tN/s1600/rozyfacehit.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 171px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXh3veMMIPLyvp6SRJFGNDMpMrGJvLB2ly3bbsX-MAaOqIElICbyZX87T9vk8seSuV6pi6Xw6nTOyWZETsVb68N0ma3R15SXOuoQYRIiXyQ9pXjrT5Uhf2MVAZAaDiGPWuKv7SFW_m04tN/s200/rozyfacehit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549133768529532434" border="0" /></a>Was this one pretty? Of course not. Ugly at times? For sure. Plenty of mistakes were made and it was nice to see Sauer set up and make up for his major blunder on Ottawa’s first goal. It’s a good sign when a player who’s trying to find his way can shrug off any adversity and play his game. My hat’s off to Sauer and getting that first goal is always something you dream about as a player- it’s something you will never forget!<br /><br />A couple of things that I took from this game. First, what on earth were the officials thinking when Matt Carkner punched Derek Boogaard first in the back of the head as he chased Boogaard down after a clean hit on an Ottawa player? Not only that, but Carkner then swung again as soon as Boogaard turned around. Is that not instigating? If it isn’t, then I don’t know what is. Carkner should have got 2 for roughing, 2 for instigating, 5 for fighting, 10 min misconduct and a gross misconduct. The gross misconduct for flicking blood at the Ranger bench. A totally classless act. We’ll have to see if the “Grinch” Colin Campbell will look into this or will he let it slide by like nothing happened.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu5gWbvtaFbs3x-Z1lV42IVQZm375x6-dt8jyAu-1KmWBexjhvOqyx5Y4kZ0vpVfFfaEnamfmhn3UFOqHIyQmkLnmll1bnYGJWQzFvuwXlbG-YHwIDmgpg0Fteic_YmCUTTfUEycloIxL/s1600/prustaveryspezza.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 138px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu5gWbvtaFbs3x-Z1lV42IVQZm375x6-dt8jyAu-1KmWBexjhvOqyx5Y4kZ0vpVfFfaEnamfmhn3UFOqHIyQmkLnmll1bnYGJWQzFvuwXlbG-YHwIDmgpg0Fteic_YmCUTTfUEycloIxL/s200/prustaveryspezza.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549133923201839538" border="0" /></a>Now, on to Chris Neil. First off, I know he’s a tough guy and all of that… but I watched him for a few years now when he plays the Rangers. How is it that he never caused crap when Colton Orr or Derek Boogaard were sitting on the bench? Then, all of the sudden, when they are conveniently not available through a fight or a healthy scratch- he plays tougher than he really is? Last night, once Boogaard was gone he ran everything in sight and when he ran Callahan he essentially lost the game for the Senators as the Rangers made him pay for it on the ensuing power play. Sorry, Chris. Bonehead move by you and the Ranger fans thank you and are very grateful.<br /><br />The Quinnipiac Bobcats beat Harvard by a score of 3-1 on the road. A big win for the Bobcats after struggling at home last weekend. Next up for them is Providence at Schneider Arena in Rhode Island.<br /><br />As for me, I will be in Hartford, Connecticut on Saturday signing autographs before the Whale/Manchester Monarchs play from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at the XL Center Atrium. Should be a fun time. Also, I will be in the city on Sunday to catch the Rangers and Capitals game at MSG. I will be at Café 31 and the Parlour restaurants before the game. That’s it for now, over and out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-26604490026257810762010-11-30T13:24:00.002-05:002010-11-30T13:39:57.603-05:00Rangers Lose to Pens<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36VXztWuAUadtpfudX19-YSithhG9CkVldsa9ZloBpiQF3ep8LTLhMg38lBCb1eXNSyFbPa1mr60-4bvXl3BrkeieSlaj_3qt0aRZIOF-XLHOTRsQ159L5r-dSEcmTa84lUnmg3-VX3Sd/s1600/henrik2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36VXztWuAUadtpfudX19-YSithhG9CkVldsa9ZloBpiQF3ep8LTLhMg38lBCb1eXNSyFbPa1mr60-4bvXl3BrkeieSlaj_3qt0aRZIOF-XLHOTRsQ159L5r-dSEcmTa84lUnmg3-VX3Sd/s200/henrik2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545413549651222738" border="0" /></a>I was in attendance last night for the Rangers and Penguins battle and I was very interested to see how this game would compare to the debacle in Pittsburgh. You know, the one where the Rangers had to overcome horrible officiating to grind out a 3-2 OT victory. This one didn’t quite have the shenanigans as the previous meeting (although I believe Sidney Crosby got away with 2 slewfoots, just saying).<br /><br />The Rangers lost this one by a score of 3-1. It all came down to one period of hockey and that was the 2nd period. The Penguins outplayed and outscored the Rangers by a 2-1 margin and it could have been more if not for Henrik Lundqvist. There were way too many odd man rushes given up by the Rangers. 2 on 1’s, 3 on 2’s, you name it. I think I counted at least five 2 on 1’s. It’s one thing to be aggressive, but it’s another to be smart about the situation. Pittsburgh took advantage of the Rangers aggressiveness and put the game away when Chris Conner made it a 3-0 game. Gaborik did answer with a goal late in the 2nd and the Rangers tried valiantly in the 3rd to rally but to no avail.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0YcGrIeg7dcezDB0C4Sf7DEKC7g0ytG_8OItRFq68-sFm1BQgcdp9wpRlOB5fd_Vz0sInMg0e98PQqUfIzbgeKYPv4S3S55cIg9i3m1Vbl9pZj0a236DyvQZv8CzO3-2VtlETYn56fVY/s1600/prustvsrupp.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0YcGrIeg7dcezDB0C4Sf7DEKC7g0ytG_8OItRFq68-sFm1BQgcdp9wpRlOB5fd_Vz0sInMg0e98PQqUfIzbgeKYPv4S3S55cIg9i3m1Vbl9pZj0a236DyvQZv8CzO3-2VtlETYn56fVY/s200/prustvsrupp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545413655333993282" border="0" /></a>The game did have a couple of spirited scraps. First, Brandon Prust and Mike Rupp. Prust was giving away many pounds and inches to a super heavy weight in Mike Rupp. I think Rupp was surprised at how tough Prust is as it was probably scored as a draw. The 2nd bout was Sean Avery trying to rile up the Garden and his troops immediately after the Penguins made it 3-0. His dancing partner was Tyler Kennedy (Tyler, please take off your helmet if you wear a shield) and I’ll give Avery the unanimous decision on that one.<br /><br />The Rangers are 4-3 in their last 7 games. Now it’s off to take on the struggling New York Islanders for a home and home series starting Thursday in Long Island (then back at MSG on Friday). Got to get ready for these two games. The Islanders may be down but they will be a perfect trap game (or games) for the Rangers. The Blueshirts will have to knuckle down and get back to outworking their opponent. If they, do they will be just fine!<br /><br />Lastly, to all of my loyal followers, what is it that the Rangers need to get deep into the playoffs this year:<br /><ul><li>A number one center?<br /></li><li>A proven scorer?<br /></li><li>A tough, stay-at-home D-man?<br /></li><li>Something else?</li></ul>Let me know what your thoughts are on this. Over and out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-78422396209178393202010-11-18T16:12:00.003-05:002010-11-18T16:19:08.552-05:00Random ThoughtsLast nights 3-2 loss to the Bruins has still proven, to me at least, that the Rangers need to be more dominant at home. I know I sound like a broken record but to be a serious contender this problem has to be fixed. 4-6-1 just isn't gonna cut it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgiZmEJxVT45rmXo2Uu5CLAjT3dhXXroWDhUfYBr9pjMxyl3KplSngHEfmo76Y2-IuWkmSsUZToMKnX5M9MYPxpcQpWYB23-QJLGjvzkOXRWkoUziDXjGuyrjoh-ybzgUmudPlfXExG96/s1600/lundy.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgiZmEJxVT45rmXo2Uu5CLAjT3dhXXroWDhUfYBr9pjMxyl3KplSngHEfmo76Y2-IuWkmSsUZToMKnX5M9MYPxpcQpWYB23-QJLGjvzkOXRWkoUziDXjGuyrjoh-ybzgUmudPlfXExG96/s200/lundy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541001526108728626" border="0" /></a>On the positive side- How about that unbelievable comeback in Pittsburgh? The Penguins had everything going their way- the referees, the NHL, and late goals. Basically the kitchen sink was thrown at the boys in blue. However, the Rangers persevered and stuck it in the you-know-what of the Pens, the NHL and the Refs! Good job!<br /><br />The Rangers go on the road for four of the next five games. These five games will be very important as to the state of the Rangers. Precious points in what is a very even division with lots of parity in the eastern conference!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxh1Pny-y3pHlE2bZwyLYlsrCMf_dz_QfC57Cl39u56evYrzd5Wa-BYZIdHq-L7x5QTtkSxVnvKYY2Hut31DMpaWBswXLhIfoWeiTD64v_D00LngqmDG2Ec-d3_RBQ5W2Ioq2PRo6-H0W/s1600/gaborikthomas.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 146px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxh1Pny-y3pHlE2bZwyLYlsrCMf_dz_QfC57Cl39u56evYrzd5Wa-BYZIdHq-L7x5QTtkSxVnvKYY2Hut31DMpaWBswXLhIfoWeiTD64v_D00LngqmDG2Ec-d3_RBQ5W2Ioq2PRo6-H0W/s200/gaborikthomas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541001606085547506" border="0" /></a>Can there be anyone but Ryan Callahan next in line for being the next captain of the New York Rangers? Callahan does it all: hits, contributes offensively, kills penalties, plays in key situations, and oh yeah- drops the mitts once in a while (witness the decision over Mike Comrie). He gets my vote for sure!<br /><br />On a very serious note- as most of you know I do a radio show every Tuesday with my co-host Pauly D. This past Tuesday we had on a very special guest in Kurt Walker (former Toronto Maple Leaf). Kurt was very forward about how the NHL Players Association, The NHL, and The NHL Players Alumni do absolutely nothing to help the former players in need of medical and monetary assistance. Trust me when I say as a former player, I know there are many others who are also in this situation. Kurt chronicled his career, what he thought his pension was and what it actually turned out to be. The numerous surgeries he has had to endure from injuries received during his playing days. It is time for the NHL, Players Association, and the Alumni to step up to the plate and take care of their own who sacrificed their bodies and health to help make this great game what it is today… Check out the pod cast of the show to hear more.<br /><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d/2010/11/17/the-instigators-hockey-show"><br />http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d/2010/11/17/the-instigators-hockey-show </a><br /><br />One last thing- What do you all think about Colin Campbell’s Email-gate? I’ll keep it simple: If Sean Avery can be disciplined for words towards another player- why can’t Campbell receive the same discipline? I’m just saying… Over and Out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-54452268135867683192010-11-02T16:56:00.003-04:002010-11-02T17:09:00.729-04:001-2 PunchNow that the Rangers have passed the ten game mark (11 to be exact), 1/8th of their season is behind them. With no Marion Gaborik, Vinny Prospal and Chris Drury the boys in blue have themselves a very nice 6-4-1 record for a total of 13 points. I, for one, feel that it is quite an accomplishment and well deserved. The team has pulled together and picked up the slack.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rJSGS_oRFGVqu6YlOyUHuvicrYatdOBXShA0cy3ds3f6emoxkx5mh-RyGBnJDggkFrXCa_qbMSwsaqG0vy_hgG7CViaocNHNKdQvj89n-O4_wy34bYjn8wDBP5DiOHgDowYGTHdXCSyf/s1600/dubi.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 129px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rJSGS_oRFGVqu6YlOyUHuvicrYatdOBXShA0cy3ds3f6emoxkx5mh-RyGBnJDggkFrXCa_qbMSwsaqG0vy_hgG7CViaocNHNKdQvj89n-O4_wy34bYjn8wDBP5DiOHgDowYGTHdXCSyf/s200/dubi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535059883116549826" border="0" /></a>There have been many pleasant surprises so far this season. Sean Avery’s play, Brian Boyle, Brandon Prust, Arty Anismov. I could go on and on, but really it comes down to two players: Ryan Callahan and Brandon Dubinsky. What can one say about these two? They have grown into bona fide team leaders who are currently leading the team in all offensive categories. Callahan leads the team in points (4G 9A 13Pts) and Dubinsky in Goals (7G 4A 11Pts). The effort these two are putting out every night is just what the Rangers brass and fans have been waiting for. It’s like it has finally clicked in their minds that they can be the men on the team that you can count on. The “I Can” attitude is there… and you can see it! The maturation process has taken its course with these two players and believe me, they will be better off in the long run.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMJiO3pxsX8-6J6XrSdTvx44KaLkAej-uEPxSeDEN1AgIiMiK2tCyPnAqi2x4JvoadEE3SyZ71_BYTcUwn27JShOlME2uDb-bpODYmFcFXpHPgYfZAlTZua0p0s3-AQFklVTruRznWh9z/s1600/dubigoal.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMJiO3pxsX8-6J6XrSdTvx44KaLkAej-uEPxSeDEN1AgIiMiK2tCyPnAqi2x4JvoadEE3SyZ71_BYTcUwn27JShOlME2uDb-bpODYmFcFXpHPgYfZAlTZua0p0s3-AQFklVTruRznWh9z/s200/dubigoal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535059947310573954" border="0" /></a>For me personally, I had a short and to the point talk with Brandon Dubinsky at a Ranger golf outing. I looked him straight in the eyes and said- “It’s time isn’t it?”. He looked at me and nodded his head and said- “yes it is”. We both knew what the point of the conversation was- that this was the season to shine… And so far so good. Just one more thing- the growth of Callahan and Dubinsky will rub off on others, and that folks can only be a positive. Next up- The Flyers… YUCK!<br /><br />Please check out the Instigators radio show. Pauly D and I talk about the state of The Rangers & Hockey every Tuesday at 8:30 on Blog Talk Radio. Over and Out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bobcats Link</span>: <a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-19240200121050006252010-10-25T17:07:00.003-04:002010-10-25T17:16:34.010-04:00No Gabby, No ProblemWhen Marian Gaborik went down with a shoulder injury in a home loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs I think the whole Ranger world took a deep breath and began to wonder- How on earth are the Rangers going to create offense and win the game? Personally, I thought this was a perfect time for this Ranger squad to show their makeup and mental ability to stand up and face adversity. With added pressure comes greater responsibility, and the boys in blue responded with flying colors!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZd_K-7JPW6Wc-s_WmrGyXkXLFyxmAyTr8pdlRrr0e1MskRvlno2VJC9e52w-nacxoe5Rw7aw1tTMXNCs6jodSLKC37CqChgKME7xB6MsntRpw__ARZWK-kc1f5ChUCIl5tPKVCEH_ppxV/s1600/callahangoalnjd.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZd_K-7JPW6Wc-s_WmrGyXkXLFyxmAyTr8pdlRrr0e1MskRvlno2VJC9e52w-nacxoe5Rw7aw1tTMXNCs6jodSLKC37CqChgKME7xB6MsntRpw__ARZWK-kc1f5ChUCIl5tPKVCEH_ppxV/s200/callahangoalnjd.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532094077996329474" border="0" /></a>After a terrible showing at home in a 3-1 loss to the Avalanche, the Rangers went on the road for two. First, in Toronto, with a 2-1 win in which I thought they were the dominant team. The score was not indicative of the play. Then it was off to Beantown for a 3-2 win (didn’t get to see this one). By all reports it was a well deserved win- at least that’s what my son Cody told me and I value his opinion greatly. The next test came at home last night against the hated New Jersey Devils (boy, have they got problems). The Rangers played two periods of dominant hockey and had to hold on in the end for a 3-1 win in which Lundqvist was solid. In these three games the Rangers have proved to themselves and the coaching staff that they can handle a major crisis (Gaborik’s injury). More importantly they have found a formula that works. It’s really quite simple, work hard and play to your limits. Nothing more, nothing less. I can’t stress enough that if you outwork the other team the results will tend to lean to your side. Playing smart and to your limits means- do what you are capable of. If you meet these standards, that’s all you can ask!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIBYOn0VGMAWFuNGb0XOlhbArpSBZJiXRnawmQd7JvhL987xc9VLHhHwWKE5lawkydWCGdW2a-RLwiG6aic_3TQpa7MatKJYrQXUKQx3-sG2jV_YNnxEdOv0JzYBqVcbFYVMNr1LuDwC3/s1600/maaaaaarty.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 148px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIBYOn0VGMAWFuNGb0XOlhbArpSBZJiXRnawmQd7JvhL987xc9VLHhHwWKE5lawkydWCGdW2a-RLwiG6aic_3TQpa7MatKJYrQXUKQx3-sG2jV_YNnxEdOv0JzYBqVcbFYVMNr1LuDwC3/s200/maaaaaarty.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532094224491533314" border="0" /></a>It also helps when you get great goaltending and the duo of Lundqvist and Biron have stepped up in a big way. Martin Biron shut down a tough Maple Leaf team in Toronto and the King did the same in Boston. Lundqvist’s performance in the third period last night as the Devil’s were trying to claw their way back was vintage Lundqvist. Listen folks, I’m not an idiot. Trying to replace Gaborik is absolutely out of the question. Gaborik is a star player who is a major threat every night he laces his skates, and the opponents know it! Are the Rangers better with him in the lineup? That goes without saying. But until he is healthy and ready to go the Rangers MUST stick to the formula that has them winning: Hard work! Hard work! Play within your limits! It’s really that simple.<br /><br />I just want to give a shout out to a player who I believe is a throwback player if I’ve ever seen one. Brandon Prust is first and foremost a great team player. He is tough and competes like no other. Prust gets cut over the eye in Boston (looked serious) and plays the next day! That’s old time hockey for you and I will speak for most Ranger fans that we are glad to have him in a Ranger uniform. Up next is Wednesday at MSG against the Atlanta Thrashers. Over and out!Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3968760202711798607.post-68726173299811059352010-10-11T17:56:00.004-04:002010-10-11T18:27:44.190-04:00Rangers Give Gift to IslesAfter a very nice road win to start the season in Buffalo (6-3 win), and a bit of a coming out party for Rangers rookie Derek Stepan (hat trick), the boys in blue headed to Long Island to take on the New York Islanders in the (affectionately dubbed) "Mausoleum".<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOzyYC3L1DB4uD6RgNxZa77ejbQW2W_IoiqLaPkwmOmtcNUAA801py5OYjGF5TXNI1xb2FWBE0weN3SINOQrY0jVkQLTz8rokBvF9xHlw237kbHcjTw61AoArkAB3Oec9iSxjDWiEFM5Y/s1600/prustfight.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOzyYC3L1DB4uD6RgNxZa77ejbQW2W_IoiqLaPkwmOmtcNUAA801py5OYjGF5TXNI1xb2FWBE0weN3SINOQrY0jVkQLTz8rokBvF9xHlw237kbHcjTw61AoArkAB3Oec9iSxjDWiEFM5Y/s200/prustfight.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526914167921000818" border="0" /></a>This game had it all. Pre-game festivities during warm ups with Avery and Konopka, a really long and great fight between Brandon Prust and Zenon Konopka, and great back and forth action. However, in the end, the Rangers came out on the short end of a 6-4 loss. At times the Rangers looked good (PP, forecheck) and at times just awful (MDZ's giveaway, late second period goal by the Islanders). That, folks, was the killer to me. The boys in blue should have started the 3rd period with a 3-2 lead. But because of sloppy and lazy play, it cost them the lead. Matt Moulson was able to fire home a rebound that, quite frankly, the Rangers all fell asleep on. This is unacceptable late in any period.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQA16zoKXNiMLKoDoCFMiuMyaRxNJil-NZlobNTiwUkgIJcr2M3UQcZW7rMxKxdg5vUBMtgZgpw9dVYDiDswRINyJRdZL1N6mLV7cydwtnwNTPtZ__46goLjxLWMgC_8E4f_KNAvKV443t/s1600/comeaulol.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQA16zoKXNiMLKoDoCFMiuMyaRxNJil-NZlobNTiwUkgIJcr2M3UQcZW7rMxKxdg5vUBMtgZgpw9dVYDiDswRINyJRdZL1N6mLV7cydwtnwNTPtZ__46goLjxLWMgC_8E4f_KNAvKV443t/s200/comeaulol.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526914288389148466" border="0" /></a>In the 3rd period, the Rangers battled hard to take the 4-3 lead on a nice shot and finish by Artem Anisimov. It looked like the win was in the books. When Ryan Callahan was called for a rather dubious tripping penalty, Marc Staal then got careless with his stick and received a high sticking penalty shortly there after. As a result, the Islanders were on the 2 man advantage for over a minute down by just a goal. That's when <span style="font-style: italic;">it</span> happened. P.A. Parenteau tied it up (...I think I've heard of him before) and then Blake Comeau got the game winner. The Islanders later added and empty netter to finish the Rangers off. It was a game in which the Rangers could've, should've won... but didn't. The Islanders got gifts handed to them and took full advantage of them to secure the win! Next up for the Rangers, my old team the Toronto Maple Leafs... that will not be easy!<br /><br />Just a little about the Quinnipiac Bobcats. The Bobcats split last weekend at the Q with the Ohio State Buckeyes. They won a goaltenders dual, 2-1 on Friday night. However, they dropped the next game 4-0 the very next night. Much like the Rangers, the Bobcats looked very good at times but very sloppy as well. It's early and this is a young team (no seniors at forward) and they will have to grow up as a team real fast as the college season is not an 82 game schedule. It should be fun!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bobcats Link</span>: <a href="http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml">http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x981.xml</a><br /><br />Remember to listen in Tuesday nights to the Instigators hockey show with myself and Pauly D. That's every Tuesday night at 8:30 PM EST. You never know what I'll have to say! Over and out!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instigators Link</span>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/pauly-d</a>Kotsy's Kornerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16450255858469964123noreply@blogger.com16