New York Hockey: The Rangers' Playoff Outlook

As one of the hottest teams in the NHL with a 8-0-2 record in their last 10 games, what kind of things lurk around the corner for the New York Rangers? 

As the Rangers are only able to hold the number six spot in the eastern conference many think that they can make it pretty far into the playoffs.

Able to generate some great offense with lots of young stars and veteran players the team has some great potential.  Behind the offense sits an intimidating and ready to play defense with their top notch goalie, Henrik Lundqvist. 

The Rangers are looking to continue their streak on Friday as they face off against the Florida Panthers who hold the number 12 spot in the Eastern Conference.  NY is looking at easy win to gain some points.  But around the corner lurks the New Jersey Devils as they hold the number two spot in the Eastern Conference.

The Devils have yet to beat the Rangers on their ice or at the Garden.  The Rangers will play in future games with not only the Devils but the Penguins who hold fourth place in the Eastern Conference with five points ahead of the Rangers.

When the Rangers face the Devils they'll be in for some surprises.  Starting goalie Martin Brodeur has been pretty hot his past couple of games with his intimidating defense standing in front of him.  Personally I think the Rangers defense can hold off the intense offense.  And this goes the same for the Penguins.

Henrik Lunqvist has really been key to the Rangers this season.  With a 2.30 GAA and a .910 Sv percentage Lunqvist has been on his toes with some key penalty killing saves.  We saw last year some great playing against the Atlanta Thrashers as the Rangers were able to sweep the series.  Lundqvist likes the pressure and can sure handle it.  He generates off of it and will undoubtedly play well for his team in the playoffs.

Speaking of the playoffs.  The Rangers in sixth are still in the race.  They need to keep on their game if they wish to get far.  It will not be an easy journey but I believe the Rangers are ready.

They are up against some great teams and definitely stack up well against them.  Devils, Senators, Penguins and Canadiens are some teams New York should look out for.  Each of these teams generates some ridiculous offense. 

The Senators, who have not been playing to their potential, are definitely looking to defend their Eastern Conference title.  With their top offensive line and their rough playing defense we should see some great playing from this team.

The Penguins are another story.  They have the offense, but where is the defense.  Their still looking for a goalie they can really depend on.  I don't think they'll get far into the playoffs.  

Are the Rangers looking at the Stanley Cup this year?  Many say yes and many say no.  Being a blueshirts fan I'd obviously like to see it.  From their current playing they sure can. 

One thing they need to concentrate on is their power play.  Penalty killing couldn't be any better but what about the PP.  They are able to score even strength goals pretty easily but what about those power play goals.  If the Rangers want to win in the playoffs that's something they sure need to work on.