These Guys Are Scary Good

I don't know exactly what it is but these guys are good. Really, really good. After the win over the Washington Capitals at home on Wednesday night, the New York Rangers managed to claw their way back to the top of the Metropolitan Division by a point over the New York Islanders. And they still have three games at hand on their rivals. The win made a few statements for the Rangers, but none bigger in my mind than the statement that this team could be primed for another deep playoff run.

The Rangers, at the time of this writing, have 91 points. That puts them tied with the Canadiens, Predators and Ducks for the most in the league. Because the Rangers have played fewer games than all three others, they own the NHL’s highest points percentage (.689) (WFAN). To put this into perspective as to just how good the Rangers have played, since the calender switched to 2015, the Rangers have lost just four times in regulation. No that isn't a typo, they have lost four games in regulation in a little over two months. THAT'S impressive. To make this more impressive, they have done it all without the services of star goalie Henrik Lundqvist, who has been out with injury since January 31st. Don't get me wrong, I even felt nervous for the Rangers when Hank went down, because lets face it he's the best goalie on the planet in my mind. I felt the Rangers might be in a little bit of trouble. So Hank goes down, enter Cam Talbot. Talbot has been playing outstanding hockey in replace of Lundqvist. He has been so good as of late that he's helped the Rangers earn points in 15 of 17 games. I'd say that's pretty impressive.

But wait there's more. Lets not forget that you also need to score goals in the NHL to be successful. Most know of the scoring exploits as of late of one Rick Nash, who currently ranks 2nd in the NHL in goals with 39 (as of this writing). There's more to it than just Rich Nash. They still have a productive Martin St. Louis, who is 3rd on the team in scoring. There also Derick Brassard, who 2nd in total scoring and leads the club in assists. You also have Chris Kreider playing a big role and rookie Kevin Hayes has stepped up and produced when needed.

They have been playing outstanding hockey, turning hotter than a wildfire over the past few weeks. They are heating up at the right time, leaving one to wonder is this really THE year for another parade down the Canyon of Heros.