Not really a fan of resting people 2 games before the playoffs, i mean what does that acutally do? nothing? just can make them out of sync for when playoffs start and we start slow, 2 days rest really not gonna make you feel "fresh" after playing 80 games, You know whats good rest? a 4-0 sweep. thats the rest you need half way through the playoffs getting couple extra days off, 2 days off then another 5 days to start playoffs. Just doesn't feel good. PLAY THEM
Well if you look at how the schedule shook out, Rangers had 2 games in hand on almost everyone until last week. Meaning over the final 2 weeks of the season they had to play 2 more games than everyone else. I don't see the issue in sitting a couple of guys out for one of those games. The risk outweighs the reward of playing them, especially with a desperate team like OTT on the schedule.
And what is rest? 3 players of 18 regulars didn't play. It isn't like 1/2 the team is sitting. Tomorrow I am sure they will rest 3 more players, but 15 regulars will play (Klein we know is really hurt). I don't think missing 3 players was the huge issue last night. I think the Rangers were flat as a pancake, and that makes sense. Nothing to play for versus everything to play for. Expected result. This isn't like when NFL teams rest their players and all the skill position guys sit from QB, to RB, to WR, to big D players. I hate that, and it comes back to bite those teams a lot in their first playoff game. Us resting 3 guys I don't think is the same.
How about Nash, Staal or Zuc didn't get hurt last night, that is the only thing that matter in the last 2 games I agree Ottawa is a good matchup but be careful with Hammond he is very hot I think 19-1-3 in his last 23 starts or something ridiculous. The great equalizer in playoff hockey is goaltending still I don't mind the matchup if it happens
REST....they played a lot of hockey this month and didn't take the foot off the petal. its not about just one game..its about 5 days to get mind straight to win those 16 GAMES! I am pumped for a nother long run, calming people down..reaching out to grab some of you from jumping... WE GOT THIS! APRIL 15th is almost here I cant wait to see what outside looks like again lol
Staal and Nash still out, Zucc back in. Staal declared out last night, Nash was gametime decision but didnt end up suiting up.
