With the exception of the exhilarating last four minutes to Game 5, the most recent six periods have elicited one feeling from Ranger fans: frustration.
The Rangers team that seemed to be rolling through opponents throughout the regular season with ease seems to be gone.
The offense is struggling to generate scoring opportunities, the defense seems to be in a constant scramble and their special teams have been less than stellar.
Coach John Tortorella made no effort to hide his disgust with his team’s performance in Game 6.
Fans and the media are quick to attribute the team’s problems to the most convenient possible scapegoat. Everything from the line combinations to the officiating have been credited to the team’s difficulties.
However, one potential missing link is the absence of forward Brandon Dubinsky, who has missed the entire series with a lower-body injury.
Dubinsky’s injury seems to have gone unnoticed by many for some reason. Between the surge of rookie Chris Kreider and the thrilling overtime games this series, the one-time fan favorite seems to be largely forgotten.
...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Jeff Laniado
2012 NHL Playoffs: Why the New York Rangers Need Brandon Dubinsky Healthy to Win
May 11th, 2012 by Jeff Laniado Leave a reply »
Advertisement