In the first period of the Islanders Rangers game, Isles defenceman Wisniewski and the Rangers’ Avery had a verbal exchange and shoved each other in front of the Isles’ net. Immediately after the exchange the islanders Wisniewski motioned a ‘gesture’ (it wasn’t exactly tongue in cheek!)  towards Avery and has now been banned for 2 games by the league for it. Avery went on record after the game about it and to be honest what he said was true. Avery said:

“Can you imagine if I did that?” he said. “They sent me to rehab the last time I did something. It’s crazy.”

If you haven’t seen it, here it is. James Wisniewski you are a silly boy. Well done to the league for showing that it can actually act swiftly and decisively on matters such as this. Shame that every league official including Gary Bettman went out of their way to (initially) deny seeing anything.

Avery, unlike Wisniewski, showed good restraint oosing to cross the line, a line which he has toed to almost perfection this season so far. Avery has been everything the Rangers want (and need) and has resembled the ‘old Avery’ in the first two games this season. He’s been a nuisance, verbal and aggressive while showing the underappreciated offensive side of his game as well. Avery’s assist from behind the net to Derek Stepan in Buffalo showed that Avery truly does have offensive skill and that he can play any role he wants, when on his game. If Avery continues to play like he has thus far (and yes, it is early) then the Rangers have back their unique weapon and the makings of an excellent third line. ‘Old Avery’ has the Rangers that much closer to the playoffs…. assuming they tighten up the back end.

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