Rangers Live for Another Day

Even without the likes of Sean Avery (Box 18), Christian Backman (Box 23) or a 100% Chris Drury (Box 15), the Rangers were able to sneak a game through the dominant Pittsburgh Penguins, only to play again on the weekend in Pittsburgh.

The 3-0 win won't be enough to build the Rangers confidence to a point where they could overcome these long odds, but taking it one game at a time could work in their favour. Jaromir Jagr (Box 14) gave the MSG crowd what they wanted out of their high-paid superstar, a good hurrah, in what Jagr hinted could be his last game as a blueshirt. Well, it may be his last game at MSG as a blueshirt, but he sure ended that in style. Scoring a pair of goals, including the opener (and eventual winner) and an empty-netter in the third to seal the deal.

Jagr's three points were not the game-high, however. Henrik Lundqvist (Box 24) did earn the shutout in the game, which gave him four points on the night. Brandon Dubinsky (Box 19) also had a multi-point night, with a goal and an assist in the contest.

It doesn't look as though the Rangers will have Sean Avery (Box 18) back again in these playoffs thanks to the lacerated spleen. He still remains in the intensive care unit in hospital, so he is most likely done. Christian Backman (Box 23) was a scratch from the game last night, as he was replaced by Jason Strudwick (non-pool). The Rangers also had Blair Betts (non-pool) missing from the line-up, as his playoffs are done with facial fractures after taking a puck to the face in Game 3. Colton Orr (non-pool) took his spot.

The Penguins were also without a key member of their team last night. Maxime Talbot (Box 18) took a shot off the foot and ended up with a broken bone or two there. So, his status for the remainder of the playoffs looks doubtful, although, he could figure in if the third round takes a long time. Usually, a broken foot would keep a player out for about 3 weeks.