The Rangers bounced back after that horrific game in Montreal last week and won both their games this weekend. Now that’s what I call moving on and putting that past behind them. As for the dreaded five goal lead, that game in Montreal was an anomoly. The Rangers didn’t have too much trouble preserving a five goal lead last night. In fact, they shut out Florida 5-0. Not such a great accomplishment, you say? Would you rather the Rangers had taken the Cats lightly and lost? I didn’t think so.  

As I walked into section 409 last night, I thought all the talk would be of the embarrassment in Montreal. I couldn’t have been more mistaken. Everyone I know had put the loss aside and was basking in the defeat of Buffalo the night before and the prospect of two more points on the books yesterday afternoon against the Panthers. The snide remarks and the boos and jeers I was expecting were kept to minimum. In fact, the Section observed the wishes of the Garden brass to desist with the “Homo Larry” chants. Truth be told, it was Larry’s very own Section 407 that initiated and continued the politically incorrect mantra.

As for the game itself, all the Rangers played well.  Marek Malik got a huge ovation for his play last night and it wasn’t tinged with the usual sarcasm. He will never be a fan favorite but he did take a big step away from the boobirds and  being the “whipping boy” with his goal and assist. Jagr, Gomez Dawes and Straka also had goals but they are supposed to score goals. If Jagr and Straka get hot now and start scoring regularly, it will make the stretch run less of a nail-biter. 

The only negative from last night game was the failure of the Rangers powerplay. The Rangers went 0 for 11 over the weekend with the man advantage. For the love of God, can’t the coaches resolve this problem. I hate to harp on this but it is nauseating to watch the ineffectiveness of the Rangers powerplay. Last night they couldn’t break into the offensive zone most times. And as usual, too much passing went on when they did manage to set up.

Lastly, I just have to say once again how much fun I had with my “crew” in 409. Bobby, Ron, Nick, Tim, Kevin, Lou and the whole left side were in rare form last night. Maybe it had to do with the Rangers scoring 5 goals and rolling over the Panthers. Maybe it was because the Garden was full and the mood happy. But game in and game out, win or lose, these guys are a fun group. I wouldn’t trade my seat in 409 for a one right behind the Rangers bench.