Rangers 3, Devils 2 (shootout)

Though tomorrow’s papers will no doubt hail the much maligned Rangers goaltender Kevin Weekes, along with Jaromir Jagr (who created scoring chances all afternoon while extending his point streak to 12 games), spare a thought or two for Devils netminder Scott Clemmensen. Martin Broduer’s understudy was nothing short of spectacular Saturday afternoon ; though he allowed a game tying goal tap-in by B. Blair Betts midway through the 3rd period, Clemmensen could’ve easily given up another 4 or 5, such was the barrage.

It pains me to write this, especially when compared to MSG’s other big league club, the Rangers seem to be doing things the right way. After years of collecting expensive pieces that rarely fit (which should sound familiar to anyone who has observed Isiah Thomas in action), the Rangers have gotten younger and better at the same time. While work ethic alone isn’t gonna earn any silverware, the current incarnation of this club bears little resemblence to the directionless squad that has failed to make the playoffs the past 7 seasons.

This afternoon’s matinee was the first NHL game I’ve attended in nearly 2 years. And let me tell you, there’s no tap water on earth quite as hot as that from the MSG Men’s Room.