TARRYTOWN, NY -- There were two prevailing emotions for the New York Rangers as they packed up their lockers for the summer on Tuesday: painful disappointment after losing in the Eastern Conference final to the Florida Panthers and unwavering confidence that this group will win a Stanley Cup together.
It was the second trip to the conference final in three seasons for the Rangers, with a seven-game first-round loss to New Jersey last season. Captain Jacob Trouba said the longer runs ending are more painful than an opening-round defeat.
"It hurts more.