New York Rangers: No Reason to Worry After Loss to Blue Jackets

On Friday night, the Rangers fell to the Blue Jackets 4-2 in Columbus. The game did not look good from the Rangers perspective. However, the result does not mean fans should be worried.

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There has been a lot to like about the New York Rangers this season. You could start anywhere. They are first in the league in goals per game and seventh in the league in goals allowed. The team ranks in the top ten in the power play and penalty kill. They are the least penalized team in the league. Michael Grabner is second in the league in goals scored. The list goes on and on.

Last night was not one of their brighter displays. The Rangers were outplayed throughout the night. Hope was restored about halfway through the third period when Mika Zibanejad tied the game at two. Matt Calvert broke the tie just three minutes later with a shorthanded goal.

Matt Calvert had a very interesting night. After taking a slap shot to the face, Calvert needed to go to the locker room for over 30 stitches. He returned to the game in the third period to score what would be the game-winner. If Calvert were a Ranger, he would be a shoe-in for the broadway hat.

This game should not have any long-term impact for the Rangers. It was the final game of a four-game road trip that started out west. The team was likely exhausted from all the traveling; not to mention the three hard fought wins on the trip too.

Bouncing Back

The Rangers won’t have to wait long to try to get back to their winning ways. They host the Florida Panthers on Sunday and then start a home-and-home with the Penguins in Pittsburgh on Monday. The Rangers haven’t played either of these teams this season.

The Panthers have been playing alright as of late, despite a 6-1 trouncing in Toronto this past Thursday. They are 5-5 through their last ten.

The Penguins are as hot as anyone right now. They are 7-2-1 through their last ten. The Penguins have looked like a serious contender once again. The last time the Rangers played the Penguins it was Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. You can expect the Rangers to have a chip on their shoulder for this game.

King of the Metropolitan Division

Critics will want to assume the worst following the loss to Columbus. However, the facts would say otherwise. The Rangers have the best record in the Metropolitan Division and the second best record in the whole league. Fans don’t have anything to worry about yet. Last night was just one game. The Rangers have a lot to like about this group going forward. There is no reason to think they cant keep the good play going.