Lundqvist Starting Tonight for New York Rangers

The other day it looked like the Rangers would find a night off for Henrik Lundqvist at some point this weekend, but after a 5-0 shutout against the Tampa Bay Lightning, "the King" will start against the Panthers again tonight. It will be his 13th straight start and 21st game started out of 22.

Here is Larry Brooks with the details :

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Asked if he had considered using Auld following last night’s 5-0 shutout of the Lightning in Tampa in which Lundqvist made 30 saves after being staked to an early 4-0 lead, Tortorella replied, “Why would I?”

With four games remaining following tonight’s match, it appears as if Tortorella will attempt to run the table with the King. If Lundqvist does start every game the rest of the way, he will finish will 72 starts, matching his career high from 2007-08.

Auld, who was acquired on re-entry waivers from Dallas during the Olympic recess, has started one game for the Blueshirts, a 2-0 defeat in Washington on March 6.

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Thoughts : It’s hard to disagree with this decision. As likely as it is that Lundqvist needs a night off, he’s clearly the backbone of this team and giving him a night off at this point might be akin to not going full bore after a playoff spot. Alexander Auld is a decent goalie, but the difference between he and the King could cost the Rangers precious points.

Lundqvist can rest during the offseason. What are your thoughts?

Related Stories

• April 1, 2010—Lundqvist Might Actually Get a Night Off (0)
• April 3, 2010—How They’re Getting it Done (0)
• March 30, 2010—Quick Bits: Lundqvist, Locke, Lines, and Standings (0)
• March 28, 2010—Highlights from Last Night’s 3-2 OT Loss at Toronto (0)