Rangers lose a dud versus New Jersey as “Moves Monday” approaches
JT Miller eyes puck in 3-0 loss to NJ. Great photo by Bruce Bennett of Getty Images
The Rangers dropped a 3-0 decision in an effort that can be easily classified as lackluster. When asked about the game, AV said, “It was like the last game of exhibition, that’s what it was like.”
Devils 3 – Rangers 0
Cam Talbot wasn’t very sharp (Photo: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Cam Talbot was inconsistent for most of the night stopping 21 of 24 shots. He was brilliant on some stops but the first goal by Tuomo Ruutu was a loss of concentration. It was deflected but Talbot reacted slowly and it tricked through with less than a minute to go in the first period.
Of course, had Mueller or Lindberg buried either one of their prime chances in the early going, the game could’ve looked different.
Jaromir Jagr who looked explosive last night (wait till December), snuck past a sleeping Matt Hunwick in front to tap in a rebound for a 2-0 lead. Earlier, Jagr embarrassed Steven Kampfer by stick handling him off his feet. It all but certain took him out of the mix for the 7th defense spot.
On the other hand, Mike Kostka had a particularly strong game. Playing both the penalty kill and power play, he showed his versatility. It will certainly come down to either Kostka or Hunwick on “Moves Monday”.
The final tally came off a point shot that highlighted Talbot’s inconsistent play. Dainius Zubrus deflected a Damon Severson shot in between the two circles that snuck through Talbot’s legs. Talbot certainly had plenty of time to react to the shot and looked a hair slow again. This could prove to be a harder season for the sensational rookie from last year.
The “Duke” of NY
Anthony Duclair in his final preseason game (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Last night, Anthony Duclair had his worst game of the preseason, going -2. With that said, it was also a game where he played with a rusty Matthew Lombardi at center. Vigneault commented on his play with, “is that just him or a reflection of how he and his linemates got together.”
Bottom line here is that Anthony Duclair has made this team. If he is sent down on Monday, I will be shocked. Vigneault spoke as if he made it last night, “I think if we want him to stay, we’re going to find a way to make it happen.”
What Vigneault is referencing is the Rangers at the 50 contract limit. The likely move of Derek Stepan to longterm IR will allow the Blueshirts to carry the extra forward they will need for the first 5-6 weeks of the season. A move to LTIR means Stepan can’t return until after 10 games.
Future In Hayes
Kevin Hayes was scratched last night due to a sore shoulder. No further information was released and it was classified as a “tweak”.
If the injury is significant enough that there is uncertainty by Thursday’s opener, Kevin Hayes will most assuredly start the season in Hartford.
Fulltilt Forecast: Roster Predictions
FullTilt – NYR Opening Night Roster Predictions (CapGeek.com)
Game Highlights
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