The success in this series, and the rest of the playoffs, hinges on the ability of our top forwards to produce. Stepan, Nash and (to a lesser extent) St. Louis have not proven that they could score at a consistent rate this season.
The other components of this team have been firing on all cylinders for the past few weeks, which is really the most you could ask for at this point.
I'm usually pessimistic about the Rangers, as they have never given me a reason to take a leap of faith and indulge in optimism. However, I believe this is the best team we have had since the the '06 lockout. They have an elite defense, goaltending and scoring depth which simply outmatches all of the previously constructed teams. They actually dictate the play for most of the game, and rely on puck control rather than their goaltender to maintain a lead. As much as people ***** about their physicality, their mental fortitude is fantastic. They are typically resilient after giving up a goal and are not easily rattled by the after-the-whistle antics other teams attempt to start.
Now, like I said, I am not going to get my hopes up, as this team always finds a way to crush them when I do so. But, if this team's top forwards begin to produce, I strongly believe they are a cup contender. A team like the Flyers, who have a sub-par defense and goaltender, are a great first round opponent. Beating them may not require all of the forwards to be in top form. The defense and Lundqvist will most certainly have to be, though. If we play our cards right, this could serve as a couple of games for the forwards to get their bearings for future round(s).
