Post-Game Talk: #10 - 10/29/19 | lightning @ RANGERS

[usekakkorightquinn]

Marc Staal should never play another minute on this team over Lindgren. I said at the time he was sent down it was a disgrace. Quinn playing favorites. I'm amazed he finally got the stones to bench Staal. Gorton needs to send him to the minors or find some team stupid enough to take him with some salary retained.

 

[JHS]

Welcome back New York Rangers Hockey! That was great!

It’s almost like coach Quinn read these boards or something because he basically made every change I wanted. He moved Buch off the first unit and moved Panarin to the right side, the defense actually stood up and held the defensive blue line so much better, the forwards back checked much better and were much more aware of keeping that third forward higher in the offensive zone which limited the odd man rushes! Absolutely the kind of game this squad needs to play each and every night. I hope they don’t get over confident by this game. It’s a step but let’s put 3 or 4 together just like this!

 

[Ola]

From my POV, Buchnevich has really stepped up his game overall and especially away from the puck. The way he played last night, its definitely at a level where you can look at a younger kid and say 'look what PB is doing, that is how it should be done'. He was very focused and aware.

With Chytil's success, is Lias history? I actually thought that he played pretty well. Made some good passes and made sure that his unit stayed on top of things.

Fox' game is remarkable. So focused, so high % of delivery so to speak. He will spoil us and make kids look like crap that comes up after him... How hard can it be to be perfect? (honest answer, there can't be 10 Ds in the game who are so constructive with the puck as Fox is right now and make as few mistakes as he does, so its darn hard)

Biggest difference with Chytil is that he tonight hit the ice with the same "confidence" as he does in the AHL. Or confidence, its probably more a matter of how he perceives himself. In HFD he is a goto guy and play like it. Before in the NHL he has played with too much respect for his linemates, trying to serve them instead of taking charge. Could make a big difference over night.

I know that many call out Howden for not lifting his unit. I still wonder if he might not eventually be more effective as a utility guy on the wing rather than a center with a lot of responsibilities. But at the same time, with a younger player we should never forget that there is a different between "present" and potential "future" performance. Howden is still a kid that is a bit youthful in his appearance. We are working hard with these kids to make them develop their skill. Howden is getting a ton of experience taking a regular shift in the NHL with good line-mates.

I wouldn't jump the guy and declare that the investment we make in Howden won't start to pay off down the road.

Even if TDA maybe didn't have the best of nights, I still think his head is in the right place and that he is trying to do the right things.

I do hope that Skjei's NTC does not include expansion draft protection. Protect the right side and leave everyone on the left unprotected.

By some standards Trouba had a god awful night, CF at 35% and rel at minus 21%. But this is why coaches don't hand out ice-time based on a print-out of Corsi. I thought he was a positive factor for us no doubt.

 

[Inferno]

Why do you think it's the case? Contract? Politics?

I think it's because of how long he's been here...how loved he is as a person in this community.... How he's literally given an eye for this franchise... How good we've been the entire length of his career..

It's really hard to be so cold blooded with players like him.

 

[ohbaby]

They were better tonight than against Buffalo. Buffalo just felt better because we were winning by 3 goals for the majority of the game. Buffalo had way more scoring chances against us than Tampa did tonight. The coverage in the defensive zone tonight was far better, especially at 5V5. Tampa really didn't get much going sustained pressure wise at 5V5 except for that marathon shift in the 1st that lead to their goal.

You and Machinehead have short memories. We were all over Buffalo like a wet tee shirt. Forcing turnovers with aggressive in your face play. Which I might add directly lead to 4 or 5 goals that night. That was definitely our best effort so far this year. There's more to winning than just the amount of quality chances against. And twice Buffalo cut the lead to 2, before we responded back and took the wind out of their sails. Playing with a 2-3 goal lead will always have more scoring chances than a tight 1-1 game, but for anyone to think Buffalo had 23 quality chances that night, must be delusional in a fairly comfortable 6-2 win.

 

[The S5]

I think it's because of how long he's been here...how loved he is as a person in this community.... How he's literally given an eye for this franchise... How good we've been the entire length of his career..

It's really hard to be so cold blooded with players like him.

I have to think you are right. At least with G, they gave him an opportunity to play/win with another franchise. I don't think Staal will get the same opportunity. Maybe trade deadline for a playoff team that has injury problems.

 

[nyr2k2]

One thing I've always said about Lindgren is his ability to move the puck out of his zone is unappreciated. He's not fancy and not going to make amazing stretch passes, but he's very effective at making the simple plays to get the puck up and out, or making a quick little maneuver that allows him to push it to a forward (like he did on his assist). His game is defense, no doubt, but he is very dependable with the puck on his stick.

 

[mas0764]

Really enjoying watching Hajek's boost in confidence. You could tell tonight at both ends. Even if he was a bit ambitious on a few rushes that got him trapped. I just wonder if Lindgren is the real deal (I think he is at least a bottom pairing guy) what that leaves for Hajek down the line with guys like Rykov, Robertson, Miller and even Reunanen in the mix? I guess a good problem to have.

Rykov probably odd man out at this point, but that's not unique to him. I think we have at least 3 more relatively high quality NHL prospects left: Miller, Robertson, and Lundkvist, to say nothing of guys like Jones or Keane. Some guys are gonna have to be moved.

 

[egelband]

Staal being out probably helped on defense. Big ups to Lindgren for making everything of the opportunity.
But maybe just as importantly, Skjei didn't suck tonight.

Skjei, to me, was awful for the first half of the game. But he settled down and did some good things later on.

 

[Pawnee Rangers]

Won't happen. Young teams always look inconsistent, it's just how it is. The consistency will come as we continue to pump games into these kids.

Of course, but it’s good to see them get rewarded for playing a game like this.

 

[ohbaby]

From my POV, Buchnevich has really stepped up his game overall and especially away from the puck. The way he played last night, its definitely at a level where you can look at a younger kid and say 'look what PB is doing, that is how it should be done'. He was very focused and aware.

He had another strong effort tonight. His defensive awareness, his forecheck and his stick is off the charts lately. I said two games back, he should never play another minute in the bottom six ever again. It's time for management to show some faith, and stop with the petty demotions each and everytime he has an off game.

And Fox is so polished and poised, it is hard to believe he has only played 10 games in the NHL. He's already a star on this team.

 

[ThirdEye]

I hope ADA/Trouba are enjoying his time on the first PP unit because once Fox gets a chance there I think he takes it and runs with it

 

[ohbaby]

I hope ADA/Trouba are enjoying his time on the first PP unit because once Fox gets a chance there I think he takes it and runs with it

They are taking it slow with him. But he might force the issue soon enough. Right now only getting 16 minutes a game. And last night with Staal out, there was more minutes to be had. They gave it to Hajek. (almost 22 minutes). I think that says more about the confidence they have in Hajek, than any slight to Fox. After all he only has 10 games under his belt. Soon enough though, Fox will be up there with Trouba in ice time, make no mistake about it.

 

[The S5]

They are taking it slow with him. But he might force the issue soon enough. Right now only getting 16 minutes a game. And last night with Staal out, there was more minutes to be had. They gave it to Hajek. (almost 22 minutes). I think that says more about the confidence they have in Hajek, than any slight to Fox. After all he only has 10 games under his belt. Soon enough though, Fox will be the leader in ice time, make no mistake about it.

I knew Fox was an elite passer and poised with the puck, but he is really surprised with how good he has been defensively. I don't think he will ever be elite defensively, but with the rest of his game, he doesn't need to be.

 

[Gardner McKay]

I think it's because of how long he's been here...how loved he is as a person in this community.... How he's literally given an eye for this franchise... How good we've been the entire length of his career..

It's really hard to be so cold blooded with players like him.

Love this post. It recognizes that while Staal is absolutely terrible at this point in his career, he is still human. Scratching a guy who has given so much for the team isn't easy, despite it being the right move.



I just realized that Strome has 10 points. I also realized that Kakko is -12. I don't know which is more shocking.

 

[Fvital92]

I hope ADA/Trouba are enjoying his time on the first PP unit because once Fox gets a chance there I think he takes it and runs with it

I like ADA as much as anyone here, but his Future is toasted as a Ranger.

 

[ohbaby]

I knew Fox was an elite passer and poised with the puck, but he is really surprised with how good he has been defensively. I don't think he will ever be elite defensively, but with the rest of his game, he doesn't need to be.

I disagree slightly. He was fantastic last night defensively. Very noticeable. At least it looked that way when he broke up plays. Didn't see where he was on TB's scoring chances, but he did quite a few things in the D zone that drew raves from me. He is quite good D wise. Give him another month before his icetime increases and gains the coaches confidence.

 

[PalmCoastRanger]

From my POV, Buchnevich has really stepped up his game overall and especially away from the puck. The way he played last night, its definitely at a level where you can look at a younger kid and say 'look what PB is doing, that is how it should be done'. He was very focused and aware.

Definitely agree with this assessment. I especially like the fact he no longer automatically deferS to his better linemates. There was one sequence last night where he and Panarin were flying down the left side. Normally he would've forced a pass to Panarin, but last night he took the shot himself. If he keeps making smart decisions like that, he will eventually find more room for his excellent passes.

With Chytil's success, is Lias history? I actually thought that he played pretty well. Made some good passes and made sure that his unit stayed on top of things.

Andersson and Lemieux where among the few that had bite to their game last night. Rest of the team followed their lead, they were tough last night and no, Haley clotheslining Maroon back to the locker wasn't the only reason. This team will need players like Andersson and Lemieux come playoff time. Now will Lias stick at center...

Fox

' game is remarkable. So focused, so high % of delivery so to speak. He will spoil us and make kids look like crap that comes up after him...

YES!

 

[NYR Viper]

One thing I've always said about Lindgren is his ability to move the puck out of his zone is unappreciated. He's not fancy and not going to make amazing stretch passes, but he's very effective at making the simple plays to get the puck up and out, or making a quick little maneuver that allows him to push it to a forward (like he did on his assist). His game is defense, no doubt, but he is very dependable with the puck on his stick.

His skating and feel for the defensive side of the game is his calling card for sure. Even though he isn't a huge guy, his body position is normally very good.

 

[Deleted member 23124]

I disagree slightly. He was fantastic last night defensively. Very noticeable. At least it looked that way when he broke up plays. Didn't see where he was on TB's scoring chances, but he did quite a few things in the D zone that drew raves from me. He is quite good D wise. Give him another month before his icetime increases and gains the coaches confidence.

Fox has been steady since Traverse.....never tries to do more than he can....very cool with puck...makes smart decisions. He and Lindgren were very good together defensively.

 

[mandiblesofdoom]

He had another strong effort tonight. His defensive awareness, his forecheck and his stick is off the charts lately. I said two games back, he should never play another minute in the bottom six ever again. It's time for management to show some faith, and stop with the petty demotions each and everytime he has an off game.

Yeah. That attitude of management & the announcers towards Buch ("he has to learn" or whatever) is so unwarranted. Buch is fine. He's a good hockey player with skill who should always be in the top six.

And yay for no Staal. He's been bad for years. Hard to believe it took this long. Competent defensemen who can advance the puck make a huge difference.

 

[rangersfansince08]

-Kakko, Fox and Chytil scoring is great. Lindgren with his first point. His game isn't flashy but every fundamentally sound.

-Someone said Chytil looks like our 50 point 2C. I'd day he has more upside than that. Maybe he can be a 25-35 guy.

-Georgiev with a great game. With how Shestyerkin is tearing up the AHL I think we get better goaltending once Hank leaves. Can put the old line other teams use saying we'll suck once Hank leaves to rest.

-Kreider and Strome getting points adds to their trade value.

 

[Jaromir Jagr]

One thing I've always said about Lindgren is his ability to move the puck out of his zone is unappreciated. He's not fancy and not going to make amazing stretch passes, but he's very effective at making the simple plays to get the puck up and out, or making a quick little maneuver that allows him to push it to a forward (like he did on his assist). His game is defense, no doubt, but he is very dependable with the puck on his stick.

Kinda reminds me a bit of Sauer.

 

[Kovalev27]

Some thoughts on last night:

Chytil played everynight in Hartford with the exception of the first game, exactly like that. He was strong on the puck (his strength is significantly improved over last year) but he was focused on details and drove offense. He consistently was able to skate pucks out of our zone and back defenders up thru the neutral zone to gain entries. He continued last night to generate shots something he really was focused on in Hartford. Consistently shooting pucks.

To see him translate that to this level pretty seamlessly was great.

Kakko was finding it. Had the puck a lot more and was generating shots. That’s his game. Thrilled he got that goal. Matter of time for this kid to breakout matter of time.

I am floored Quinn benched Staal. But it’s happening around the sports world. You see manning you see seabrook in Chicago you see hank on our own team taking less games. Quinn has precedent to do this. Staals metrics are so bad that it’s hard to argue putting him in there.

to Lindgren. I admittedly last year and all summer was not a fan but if you saw my Hartford updates this kid was fantastic down there. So polished forget beating him or gaining the zone easily. His gaps are really strong. He’s a significant upgrade over Staal and that was his first game. He’ll settle in further.

on to the goalies. The thing about Georgiev and Shesterkin is how well and patiently they hold their edges. (Something i always struggled with personally). Perfect example was the stand up blocker save Georgiev made look so easily. Most goalies would drop sooner and that puck maybe gets over them or they have to make a great reaction save. Shesterkin frankly is even better at this than georgiev and that’s really hard to imagine. They are actually so similar in their technique with Shesterkin being the more explosive and athletic player. But what I really love is how calm their games are and Shesterkin’s is even calmer now than it was in Russia. Just ice in their veins. Frankly the opposite of hank who wears his emotion on his sleeve like patty roy.

I don’t know how they work this out next year but they cannot move Georgiev for Henrik to stay one more season. That would really hurt. Shesterkin frankly is nhl ready. He’s that good. He playing in the A the year is fine but next year no way. Nhl or he’ll go back to Russia and wait.

 

[Ola]

I like ADA as much as anyone here, but his Future is toasted as a Ranger.

I really hope that Gort's bite the bullet and lock him up long-term this summer. He is definitely worth 6-7m per. The longer we post-pone it, the more the price will go up. Fox, TDA and Trouba all contributes with different things. It could probably be done for half the cost last summer, but that is the cost of making bad reads when you evaluate what you have...