The New York Rangers dropped a 4-2 decision to the Columbus Blue Jackets. For a box score, click here.
There are certain games that you just know are going to go a certain way. The last game of a long road trip usually sees the players just wanting to get home. And that’s exactly what the Rangers wanted to do tonight.
I want to give Columbus credit. I don’t want to be one of those people who say the opposition didn’t earn the win. But the Rangers minds were already in New York. The Blue Jackets took advantage when they had to but the visitors didn’t exactly deserve to win this game.
If you’re looking for a positive, the play of Brady Skjei was one. He was switched back to the left side and once again didn’t miss a beat. His pass on Zibanejad’s goal, which tied the game at the time, was a thing of beauty.
[protected-iframe id=”38928fbad54a14e28afb181ae0372507-114320562-36203241″ info=”https://www.nhl.com/video/embed/zibanejad-puts-home-a-one-timer/t-283076144/c-46488903?autostart=false” width=”540″ height=”360″]I think we can officially say his horrible training camp is behind him.
But everyone else? Miller and Fast had two beautiful passes for the primary assists on Columbus’ first and second goals, respectively. An errant pass by Pirri on the power play led to the game winner. But at least that one wasn’t directly to the stick of a Blue Jackets player in front of Lundqvist. Speaking of which, Raanta probably should’ve been the starter tonight.
How about some ridiculous stats? The first three goals of the game were all unassisted. Can’t imagine that happens too often. The third of those goals? Michael Grabner’s 11th of the season. That ties him for second in goals in the entire NHL. It was another even strength goal so he leads the NHL in that category.
Other than that, there really isn’t much else to say. The Rangers will get what they wanted as they head home tonight. This was still a successful road trip but would have liked to seen a little more from the boys against a division rival. Next up, some old friends come to town as the Rangers host Keith Yandle, Dylan McIlrath and the Florida Panthers on Sunday night.
(Photo by Jamie Sabau/NHLI via Getty Images)
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