Its been so crazy lately with the Pitt series, talking about the Habs and just getting back from vacation for me.
I just took a step back for a day or two and caught my breath a little. The Rangers are in the conference finals. It almost doesnt seem real right now. After tonight only 4 teams can win the Stanley Cup and the Rangers are one of them. 4 teams. Think about it and let it settle in for a second. Regardless of what we think of the management of this team, how certain players are performing (or not performing). They have the opportunity to take care of unfinished business in becoming the Eastern Conference Champions.
The Rangers have a chance to play for the Cup if they can take 4 of 7 from the Canadiens. Not the big bad Bruins, not the Penguins. The Habs. I respect that team, i really do - but if you look at the core of this Rangers team, Staal, McDonagh, Girardi, Henrik, Hagelin, Boyle - they've been building towards this for a while with all of the playoff games they've played in the last few years. You gotta think that counts for something. Then you throw in the vets who may not have another shot at this in Richards, St. Louis even Dom Moore, who are really seizing the moment - and I think experience wise, purely knowing the magnitude of the situation the Rangers have the advantage. Throw in the coach as well because he's been close. This is huge. Start off this series right and take advantage of the opportunity. Believe.
Proud of this team.