New York Rangers: Top Tier Team or Lucky Streak?

The New York Rangers are on top of the NHL, boasting a record of 26-9-4, beating the next teams, Pittsburgh and Vancouver, by 3 points.

Everything seems to be clicking for them, Lundqvist is a top goaltender who can shut down teams, the back up Martin Biron is good enough to be a starter. Marian Gaborik seems to have re found his scoring touch (23 goals, 34 points). Newly acquired centre Brad Richards seems to thrive in the spotlight at MSG. Captain Ryan Callahan is doing nicely after being appointed the leader of the team. The only disappointment in my opinion, would be Brandon Dubinsky, but he is starting to heat up as well.

The coach, John Tortorella, has satirical post game comments (including one after the Winter Classic about the officiating which got him fined).

The Rangers weren't always like this. Barely squeaking in the playoffs last year as the eighth seed, they were dispatched by the Capitals in 5 games. During the offseason, they signed coveted free agent Brad Richards, physical winger Michael Rupp, resigned RFA captain Ryan Callahan. Yes, Ranger's GM Glen Sather seems to have readied his team for the playoffs during the 2011-2012 season with his major deals. Sure the team looks good on paper, but would the team perform and work together during the season?

A little bit over 1/3 through the NHL season, the Ranger's have quashed any doubts about that issue, but can they finish the season strong as the number 1 seed? We can't know that for sure but right now, the Rangers are the best team in the league.

Philadelphia Trade?

Matt Walker has been placed on waivers. I did some emailing and it seems to be a precursor for another move. Hearing Tom Gleason's name being out a lot. We'll wait and see, this is a strange move to say the least.

Official: Calgary Trade.

We told you about the Calgary trade last night, and a trade did happen, but i'm gonna be completely honest with you, we were expecting something much bigger. Nevertheless, this is the trade:

Tampa Bay Lightning acquire:
D Brendan Mikkelsson

Analysis:
Great Checker, Strong Puck Handler, Smooth Skater.
Will make a good 3rd defensive pair.

Calgary Flames acquire:
C Blair Jones

Analysis:
Knows how to improve his game, good shot, verge of making the team or near the top of the organization in ranking of prospects.
Will make a good second line on a weak team, to a third line on a bad team, but I see him as more of a second line player. Has the guts to make the riskier moves to score a goal.

Calgary Trade?

Lots of rumblings on twitter that the Calgary Flames are close to making a deal. Josh Rimer is saying that Jay Feaster is "beside himself" after tonight's 9-0 loss. Confirmed with sources and they have told me, it won't be a minor trade. Let's see what happens, it could be blockbuster, it could be nothing!

Ducks GM Bob Murray confirmed both Ryan Getzlaf and Bobby Ryan are both in play on trade talks. However, the only players considered "untouchables" are Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne.

Just a funny side note, Randy Cunneyworth by starting off with "Je suis tres content pour Lars." Just wanted to say to Cunneyworth, good job.

Rumors

New wave today:

• Internet Chatter on Alex Semin to Detroit
• Confirmed that Toronto has been scouting Blue Jacket's Derrick Brassard, but maybe Jeff Carter as well?
• Habs looking at Guy Boucher? - makes sense because of Boucher's background
• Ryan Malone had been approached with offers ,but has refused to waive his NTC. Only willing to trade with Pittsburgh. - Makes sense as well due to him being from there and having such a great tenure there.
• Leafs interested in a Josh Harding or Johnathan Bernier. I've heard that the Lightning are also intrested in the same two players. However, I had a chat with a source and he said Toronto might come up with a short term solution as well. Players such as Evgeni Nabokov, have been as targets.

John Madden signs with Florida

We have told you previously, but it is now official. John Madden has signed with the Florida Panthers. It is a one year contract. He will be wearing No.10 and we predict he will play on the third line.