During last night’s 4-2 loss against the Penguins, our beloved Blueshirts simply looked overwhelmed. The fact is, they can’t skate with the Pens, score with the Pens, or play defense with the Pens. Well, these are your 2009-2010 New York Rangers: inconsistent, lacking offense, and unable to compete against the elite. You know what, I’m fine with this. Sure, if they make the playoffs, they are one-and-done, but there are plenty of positives to look forward to.

This team has two superstars in Henrik Lundqvist and Marian Gaborik that will provide steady primary scoring and stellar netminding for years to come. The Rangers have a young defensive core in Marc Staal and Michael Del Zotto, with Dan Girardi and Matt Gilroy filling out the young blue line. They have a young core of forwards in Brandon Dubinsky, Ryan Callahan and Artem Anisimov, of which big things are expected of the latter. They have pest-extraordinaire Sean Avery, who quieted critics (including myself) with his selfless play and leadership that none thought possible.

The Rangers have scoring help on the way in Evgeny Grachev and Derek Stepan. Further down the road there are Ethan Werek and Chris Kreider. They have more defensive help coming from Bobby Sanguinetti. Further down the road, they have Ryan McDonagh, who will fill that gaping hole of physical, stay at home defenseman.

The present may be bleak, but the future is bright. Remember, the Rangers are rebuilding, and doing so in New York, without tanking a season, and without missing the playoffs. Appreciate this team for what it is, and expect great things in the near future.

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