Rangers Kick Off Their Playoffs With A 4-1 Layup Over Punchless Caps

Jared Silber. Getty Images.

I told you guys last week. The Caps stink. STINK.

They did nothing this afternoon to refute that. Wasn't a split second of this contest where the Rangers looked like they were in any trouble. Even the lone Caps goal was a puck thrown off a skate in front & they couldn't generate a single third period shot let alone a high-danger chance until well over halfway through. Four powerplays didn't matter. They've just got absolutely nothing offensively to lead anyone to believe they'll make this a series let alone win 4 of the next 6.

The Rangers 4th line was the story today. Panarin ended up with the GWG to quell any doubt his regular season domination wouldn't translate to the postseason - but it was none other than Matt fucking Rempe hammering home the opening tally to put his Blueshirts ahead to stay. And after the Breadman lit the lamp just 33 seconds later, it was Jimmy Vesey's turn to bury one and give his squad all the cushion they'd need. Chris Kreider finished off the scoring on a third period breakaway off a Zibanejad dish to make sure their line was included in the fun.

It wasn't "domination" but it didn't have to be. No reason to force the issue and risk opening things up for an odd-man the other way or another bad bounce. They were smart with the puck. Aggressive against the slower Caps in the d-zone. The penalty kill was tremendous. The chances eventually came and the Rangers took advantage. When Washington got frustrated, the Blueshirts didn't back down but absolutely kept their cool. They were faster, stronger, smarter and outright better. That shouldn't surprise anyone though. Game 1 went exactly as expected.

Only thing I ask going forward is that the Capitals play like a legitimate NHL team for at least a game or two. Can't have the Blueshirts going into Round 2 having forgotten what it's like to play at the professional level.

VIVA LA BLUESHIRTS!!!!