As they have done for large parts of their first full rebuilding year, the New York Rangers showed plenty of grit and determination in the season finale against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday night.
Although hardly ideal for the lottery standings, you can’t help but be impressed by the sheer character these Blueshirts have in abundance after overcoming a late goal to win it in overtime, thanks once again to Ryan Strome.
Perhaps the biggest epitome of the Rangers’ never-say-die attitude, though, has been Brendan Smith, who has enjoyed one hell of a resurgence in 2018-19.
After being frozen out for much of last season, the former Detroit Red Wings defenseman has benefitted from the fresh approach head coach David Quinn has brought to the table at Madison Square Garden.