Why do I envision A.V. going down with the boat, standing next to the drain hole with the plug in his hands when this series is over. I guess because he’s done it all year. He’s talking about making changes for the second game in Pittsburg Saturday, and thats exactly what it will be is talk. Who will he sit? Hayes? Giradi? Moore? No chance! The only one with a degree of possibility is Hayes, because AV’s done it before. Even though he’s a good candidate, based on his no hit, no battle style of play, he likely won’t sit. Why on earth would coach put in Oscar Lindberg and his energetic, competitive, physical style of play?
Moore? Please, he’s had a pass all year, except for the earlier game or two he sat, so the Rangers could evaluate and then ultimately make the wrong decision, on keeping Jarret Stoll or Moore. If the Rangers move on that mistake will be more and more apparent. Moore has a reputation of stepping it up in the playoffs, that stepup was not seen in game one. In fact he was standing holding a anchor for AV’s sinking boat, most of wednesday night, while Tanner Glass and Viktor Stalberg did their best without him. Pretty much a continuation of his season long effort. I’ve never liked players with that reputation, your supposed to bring it every night, not when you feel like it.
Girardi? I hate to say it about a guy who was the feel good undrafted free agent, who literally came out of nowhere, to be a staple on the Rangers blueline. A warrior who has bled blue many times, but time marches on. Girardi’s game has been deteriorating for the last couple of years, including this seasons glaringly apparent dive. Glaringly apparent to all but the one who continues to make excuses and put his name on the lineup card. It took 70 plus games to get him off top pair, when most thought he shouldn’t be in the lineup. Fans understand a coaches loyalty to players, but the obligation to the team to play the strongest lineup, overides every thing.
The Rangers need a spark, put in Lindberg for Hayes, and McIlrath for Giradi Saturday. If Moore doesn’t up his performance Saturday, Hrvik HAS played well in his earler callups. If Moore sits AV should have all the confdence needed to put Lindberg at center on the fourth line. If faceoffs are a issue Staal can fill in. You have to do something Coach because this boat is not going to right itself.
PIT
CAR
WSH
CBJ
PHI