The Rangers have had a somewhat less than pristine start to the season. Here's a shocker - Princess Jaromira isn't playing all that well with his new linemates. They have not scored once on 15 power plays, and while they appear to be rather similar to the Caps as far as offensive stats go, four of their goals were scored in a 7 minute span against the Panthers when Tomas Vokun apparently forgot that he was a goaltender, not a fire hydrant. The Rangers are also without Sean Avery, though they won't be without a physical presence, especially if this guy sees any ice time tonight.
They've also been sloppy, taking 41 minutes in the penalty box to the Caps' 26 in these first 3 games. To their credit, their penalty kill hasn't been too shabby at 92.9%, 6th league-wide at present, and Henrik Lundqvist has been solid in net with a 2.02 GAA and a .935 SV%.
The Blueshirts are attempting to "Redskins" their way to victory, and are learning what we in Washington know far too well. All the talent in the world counts for jack squat if you don't have chemistry and a team that plays as a team, not a prima donna with a supporting cast. But make no mistake about it, the Rangers have a dangerous amount of talent - enough to make life for Kolzig and the blueliners difficult should they suddenly discover cohesiveness.
The Capitals need to prove tonight that their performance on Long Island was a fluke brought on by the weariness of playing three games in four nights. If their chemistry continues to click, and the Rangers' chemistry continues to falter, the Caps should be able to dominate play. It also helps that Olie loves the action at MSG.
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