What It All Comes Down To: Game 7

Game 7 is the highlight of any playoff, it is the end, win or go home as they say. Thursday night marks a crucial game seven matchup between the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers were already down 3-2 in the series, but won Game 6 on Monday night in Ottawa, after trailing a goal for half the game. The return of Carl Hagelin to the lineup, and the solid play by rookie Chris Kreider made a difference for the blueshirts, who are looking to advance to the second round for the first time in four seasons. The Rangers will have to do it without arguably their best skater of the series, Brian Boyle, who is still suffering from a concussion caused by a hit to the head from Chris Neil on Saturday night. Captain Ryan Callahan is also a little banged up, as he is not skating today after taking a puck to his hand Monday. He stayed in the game, but there was some swelling, and I’m sure it is nothing to worry about as Callahan would not miss a game 7. Of course game 6 with some controversy, with a questionable goal call reviewed and judged good at the end. Postgame comments from Rangers goalie Henrik Lundvqist expressed outrage with the officials and the league for allowing it to happen. Yet, Hank wasn’t the only one who disagreed with the call, as almost every hockey commentator and analysts also said that it was a terrible call that was blatantly wrong. Today, Lundqvist was nominated for his fourth Vezina Trophy, for the NHL’s best goaltender. Lundqvist will have to be on his game Thursday night with a series on the line, but many will agree that he is the last person to question competitiveness. On the other hand, the Senators seemed to be completely frustrated on Monday night, evident by Captain Daniel Alfredsson breaking his stick over the bench in anger. Though the officiating was atrocious, it was equal for both teams; the Rangers just capitalized at the right time and came out on top. Look for the Rangers fans to be loud on Thursday night, and create an intimidating atmosphere for the Senators. Momentum is on the Rangers side, as well as confidence; if they continue to play strong defense and Henrik Lundqvist continues to excel between the pipes, I think the Rangers should pull game 7 out. Although, scoring has been their problem during the series, but Monday night might have been the touch to bring them out of their funk, and create a little confidence. Either way, should be an entertaining game, always exciting in the garden.