That’s a smile we saw all too infrequently during defenseman Bryan McCabe‘s relatively short time with the Florida Panthers, but on those occasions where he’d let one slip, it was obviously genuine. He wasn’t given much to work with by the club from the start of his captaincy in early October of 2009, and we can only assume the warrior spirit exhibited after sustaining a broken jaw in January – and playing out the remainder of the game – translated effectively to his troops in “the room”. Can’t argue with management’s decision to deal the guy, warrior or not; an expiring, hefty contract combined with Dale Tallon’s desire for younger assets likely had Caber’s fate sealed many months ago.
With a 2-point game last week and a +3 effort the week prior, it’s been a solid first ten appearances for the New York Rangers‘ newest high-dollar acquisition: 1 goal, 4 assists, 2 pim. In that time the Rags have gone 6-4; 6-1 over their past seven.
What does it mean? Knowing the Rangers are winners of four straight should lend a strong playoff feel to this evening’s match. Further, the Blueshirts are a mere three points ahead of eigth-place Buffalo (who face the Canadiens) so expect a sterling effort from the home team.
In our favor: DadoMania! Can he top his two-goal performance from Saturday? And what should be expected of Jack Skille, himself returning from a prolonged stint on the IR?
Also…Steve Goldstein is reporting via Twitter that center Stephen Weiss will not play due to a leg injury, Shawn Matthias is a game-time decision, and Tyler Plante will cover backup duties for Tomas Vokoun.
Live Game Thread at 6:30.