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Showing results for tags 'hyperfocus on nyr goalies'.
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Over the years, the Rangers have been fortunate to have great goaltending. In my years as fan, Lundqvist, Richter, and Vanbiesbrouck top the list. Appreciation for the Rangers goalies reached a crescendo during peak Lundqvist years, where he was an important component in deep playoff runs. IMO, fan focus on Lundqvist's play overshadowed the contributions of the skaters during these runs. The closest equivalent I can think of is the Canadien fan fixation on Carey Price, given the long history of great Montreal goaltenders (Roy, Dryden, Plante, etc.). Montreal fans are perpetually in wait for the next savior in goal to bring a cup back to Montreal, last with Roy in 1993. https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/MTL/1993.html IMO, the largest problems for the Rangers are the play of our defensemen in our defensive zone, and the year-long tendency to give up too many quality offensive scoring chances and shots on goal. That should be management and coaches first concern. In the offseason, the next priority is forward lines. It would be great to add another quality offensive threat for the top two lines. Hyperfocus on Shesterkin/Lundqvist/Georgiev is taking away from attention to the fundamental flaws in this roster. Sure, goaltenders can 'steal' games by facing absurd shot totals and making highlight reel saves. A goalie can keep a team in a game when they are vastly outplayed by the opposition. But ultimately, we need upgraded play from our skaters - both defensemen and forwards - before the Rangers become a team capable of a deep playoff run.