With still one game to go, the NY Rangers 'celebrate' their 4th division win under GM Nick's guidance.
This one hits a little different, though. While GMN is not afraid to bring big changes in off seasons, last years first round exit saw Jack Eichel, Marco Kasper, and Valeri Nichushkin traded, major pieces of the teams DNA. In were Auston Matthews, Cutter Gauthier, and Oliver Kylington. Howden and L'Heureux have been great depth adds.
On top of the major player shakeup, the entire coaching staff was relieved last off season and in came what can only be described as perhaps the most NOT-player-friendly crew you could imagine, consisting of HC Mike Sullivan, and assistant coaches Scot Arniel, Mike Babcock, Bruce Cassidy, and Jay Woodcroft. Zdeno Chara as Physio coach was also a major improvement.
The team also, in general, has had its best defensive season and most total points, currently at 103, which eclipsed the 20/21 season's 100 points, though there remains 1 final game at home against Carolina - who is hungry for its own playoff spot.
"Ultimately - we will be judged by playoff success" captain MDC said, who recently came back from suspension to help the team end on a higher note than it had been during that time. "We're proud of this accomplishment, sure, but we want to get back to the Conference finals, and make that push to the Cup."
Auston Matthews stated "Hey, look, I wasn't part of the group until this year. I don't hold anything from the past on my shoulders. I won it all in 17/18 my first with the Flames, and I'll do whatever I can to bring that to this group."
Note - The Flames 17/18 cup win has some dispute based on a GM not-to-be-named's actions.
Sully and Babs just gave narrowed glares when asked to comment. Bruce Cassidy stated, "These guys will be ready." |