Another Game 7

Believe.

To be honest, I felt pretty confident going into the first round's Game 7 against Ottawa. I don't have that same feeling going into Saturday night. Maybe that has something to do with the Rangers fighting off elimination on the road in Game 6, whereas the Rangers completely failed on a chance to close the Caps out in the Verizon Center.

But in a series where goals have been hard to come by, the first ten minutes of this game are huge. I firmly believe if the Rangers grab a lead, they're going to win. Anything is possible, but between the roar of the MSG faithful, the Rangers suffocating defensive system, and the Ted Lindsay/Vezina/Hart Trophy nominated goaltender, that first goal can be huge if the Rangers score it.

And that's why I'm glad Chris Kreider is back on the second line with Derek Stepan and Ryan Callahan. Ever since the kid had a shaky game, he's been buried on the fourth line. His strength is his speed and offense right now, certainly not his defense, which will develop over time. So if he's only going to play a few minutes, then why not put in him in a position to succeed? And that's playing with offensive minded players.

The special teams, well, except for the end of Game 5, have been a total disgrace. I'm amazed that each team has scored 4 power play goals. It certainly doesn't feel that way.

And if they do win this game, the rested New Jersey Devils are waiting, licking their chops after disposing of the Flyers in just five games. If they have the nerve to lose in the Easter Conference Finals to that franchise, I don't think I could handle it. I would almost rather lose Saturday than lose that series to Brodeur and hear their blow-hard fans crow.

So Matt Pecora and I are going to watch this thing at the Snuggery. Gonna be a huge night. Let's Go Rangers. Believe.