Rangers' Loss to Devils could Prove Helpful in Playoffs

So another regular season has come to an end for the Rangers.

Finishing the season fifth place in the Eastern conference with 97 points, I can't complain too much about the Rangers’ performance.

Sadly, the Rangers lost their final chance at home-ice advantage in the first round with today's 3-2 loss to the Devils in Newark. But, the Rangers are no strangers to being the visiting team in the playoffs since they haven't had home ice since 1996.

Even though the Rangers defeated the Devils in seven of their eight meetings in the regular season, they are still a force not to be underestimated with the likes of Zach Parise, Patrick Elias and the well-established and respected Martin Brodeur.

Today's loss to them is a good thing if you think about it.

The Rangers now know the Devils can and will beat them if given the opportunity. Had the Rangers beaten the Devils in every game this season, a loss to them in the playoffs would've been a big blow to their confidence and would've affected their game play severely.

Looking at the playoffs, the Rangers have just as much of a chance as anyone else.

The Rangers need to establish more hitting in their game play if they are to go head on with teams such as Montreal, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Each of those teams has hard-hitting players such as Mike Komisarek (Montreal), Derian Hatcher (Philadelphia), and Jarkko Ruutu (Pittsburgh).

Jagr needs to stay hot in the playoffs in order for the Rangers to be successful. Alongside him, Shanahan, Gomez, Drury, Straka, and Lundqvist must step up to the plate and establish their leadership like never before.

New York is going into the playoffs strong and is ready to make its run for the cup. The Rangers must not put their heads down when a roadblock comes in their way. Only through perseverance can the team be successful. If everyone works together the Rangers, can make this year’s cup run a one to remember.