The New York Rangers are in Philadelphia for two key games in their drive for a playoff spot. The playoffs are just one of many storylines going into this game. For the Flyers, they will be seeking revenge for the 9-0 humiliation they endured just over a week ago.
Storyline #1 – Playoff implications
Going into this game, the Rangers are two points behind the fifth place Flyers and four points behind the fourth place Bruins. The Blueshirts have played the same number of games as the Flyers, but the Bruins have three games in hand.
It appears that the Islanders and Capitals are pulling away in the East so the Rangers have to focus their attention on catching either Boston or Pittsburgh. Of course, they will have to pass Philadelphia first. As far as the playoffs go, the Rangers must get points in every game.
Storyline #2 – Revenge
The 9-0 thrashing absorbed by the Flyers last week was their worst loss in years. Most observers noted that it was one of the most one-sided games seen in the NHL in recent memory. The Flyers were lifeless and their lack of compete was embarrassing. It was probably a good idea that the Blueshirts took their foot off the gas pedal in the third period as it already verged on humiliation.
How have the Flyers responded? They came back the next night to beat the Islander, 4-3. It wasn’t easy as they blew a three goal lead in the third period and it took an Oskar Lindblom goal with less than three minutes left to get the win.
They didn’t use the win as impetus for a streak. They lost the next two games to the Isles and then dropped a 4-3 decision to the Devils. They’ve won only four out of their last 13 games.
The Rangers to be careful. A slumping team is a dangerous team, especially when they have incentive to win.
Storyline #3 – Shesterkin is back
The Rangers are getting their number one netminder back after he missed 10 games with a groin injury. He was playing well, but not lights out when he was injured and they will need him to steal games if the Rangers are to have any playoff hopes.
How has Shesterkin done coming back from injuries? Last February he beat Chicago 6-3 after missing three games with an ankle injury. In March he gave up five goals to the Devils in his return after a car accident. When he returned from his groin injury during the Stanley Cup Qualifier, he allowed three goals in a 4-1 loss.
Storyline #4 – Will Strome/Panarin/Kakko continue to gel
As the Rangers line roulette wheel keeps turning and with Vitali Kravtsov looming as an option on right wing, a key question is whether that new second line will build on their performance in the win over Buffalo. The key is Kaapo Kakko. After going scoreless for 19 games, he netted two goals following his linemates’ instructions. After the game he said that they told him “go to the net and we’ll get you the puck.” That’s exactly what happened on the first Ranger goal.
If this line can gel, it will make the integration of Kravtsov into the lineup much easier, whenever that will happen.