One of the most knowledgeable Rangers enthusiasts I have come across operates a vacuum cleaner shop on Upper Broadway, and he sends some of the best information my way with remarkable insights.
Mark Linde begins with his observations about the Blueshirts:
“Yeah, it’s still early, but I can’t recall the last occasion when I witnessed a Rangers team play such thorough team hockey. The forwards are forechecking and hitting everyone in sight. They exhibit an aggressive and controlling style of play at center ice.
“Additionally, they are demonstrating excellent support and positional play in the defensive zone. Everyone is participating to achieve the collective goal, and it truly shows. Watching them has become a joy.”
Consider this perspective from an NHL scout, who possesses both objectivity and insight: “The Rangers incorporated crucial components – revamping half of their forward lineup, and thus far, it has proven effective. Many contributions have gone unnoticed, including Oliver Bjorkstrand, who serves as a prime example.
“The young talents are coming through, and the restructured blue line is featuring effective players like Durzi, Šmits, and Pettersson. So far, Garand has been solid in goal. The crux of the matter is that Chris Drury has had a quietly effective off-season.”
By a long shot, one of the genuinely wise individuals in hockey I’ve had the privilege to know is former Hockey News editor Tom Murray, who, more recently, served as an anchor-reporter for television news. Here are Tom’s reflections:
“To quote my childhood idol (Hall of Famer goalie) Glenn Hall just minutes after he assisted the Black Hawks in winning the 1961 Stanley Cup: ‘I’M ENTHUSED.’ I couldn’t articulate my feelings about the Rangers and my mindset any better.
“I’m absolutely enjoying Ollie B, Laffy with the hat trick, Gabe P looking exceptional, Mika soaring, J.T. reinvigorated, and I appreciate the familiar supporting cast from last year – Cuylle, Laba, Kartye, Jaro – plus. Fox is playing brilliantly and pairs excellently with Gavy. Durzi is a surprise, and let’s not overlook this Šmits kid?”
Vic Morren, co-host alongside Neil Smit on the fantastic podcast “NHL Wraparound,” highlights a very often overlooked aspect: “The shift toward faster and straight-line hockey may be the most significant change. I’m not saying the Blueshirts are better off without Breadman Panarin, but his style of weaving and slowing things down symbolized a lot of the team’s DNA during the past (unfortunate) season.”
The success may or may not carry on tonight in New Jersey, but so far, The Maven feels empowered to echo Glenn Hall and Tom Murray: “I’M ENTHUSED!”
