Pretenders or contenders? The New York Rangers have tantalized us all season, dangling the prospects of a postseason appearance. Just when we think the playoffs are a mirage, they pull off an improbable win and the prospects become more real.
Take this week as an example. The Rangers returned from a 1-3 road trip, threatening to drop out of the playoff picture. With Colorado coming to town, the idea of the post road trip letdown along with the fact that the Avalanche are one of the better teams in the NHL spelled trouble.
In an inspired bit of roster maneuvering, the Rangers promoted Igor Shesterkin just in time for the Colorado game, creating a buzz at MSG we haven’t seen since opening night.