Rangers Continue Climb In Eastern Conference

On this quiet Monday night in the NHL, the Rangers picked up two more points in the eastern conference standings. It was an excellent matchup, with the desperate Sabres trying to find their way into a playoff spot, and the Rangers hoping to solidify theirs.

The Rangers pulled out another victory tonight, and haven't finished a contest without gaining a point in thirteen games. What can be said about this recent hot streak?

We are finally beginning to see the potent Rangers offense that we all discussed eagerly over the summer, after Scott Gomez and Chris Drury were signed. Now it seems that these Rangers have found their place.

It is important to note the incredible amount of trust that the coaches have put in the young guns. Ryan Callahan has been contributing well by the way of forechecking and penalty killing. Nigel Dawes, who has become more comfortable since his most recent call up, has provided excellent goal scoring along with recent help in shootouts.

And what more can we say about Brandon Dubinsky, who has been the key to the real turnaround in this Ranger team.

Don't forget Marc Staal, who has been in the lineup since the beginning of the season, has continued to play solid defense and at times has shown his Leetch-like offensive skills, joining and leading the rush on many occasions.

I have no doubt in my mind that the Rangers will make it to the finals this year....

As for evaluating their chances of making it to the Stanley Cup Finals, who is really in the way?

The Rangers have it all: an excellent goaltender in Henrik Lundqvist, a rock solid defense that can carry the puck, and an offense that has finally molded into one of the best in the league.

I am interested in knowing who thinks the Rangers will not make the Finals, and why.

Please comment with your thoughts.