Toronto Maple Leafs: 3 Keys to Beating the New York Rangers
By Paul Taylor
As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare to take on the New York Rangers, we look at three factors which could decide the outcome at the Air Canada Centre.
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The Toronto Maple Leafs finished their five-game road-trip much the same way they started it – by being thoroughly outplayed by an opponent. They never stood a chance against the Chicago Blackhawks, conceding the first seven goals on the way to a 7-2 defeat.
After going 1-4-0 away from home, they at least get to return to the more friendly confines of the Air Canada Centre for the next four games. However, don’t expect an easy ride, as they start off by facing a New York Rangers team currently sitting third in the Eastern Conference.
This will be the third and final encounter between the sides this season, with New York having already won the first two games. We look at three factors which will help determine if Toronto can gain some measure of revenge.
1) The Rangers travel-sickness
The Rangers have one of the very best home-ice advantages in the entire NHL. However, the same cannot be said on their travels.
Through 27 games, New York has gone 11-13-3 away from Madison Square Garden. This represents the worst record of all 16 teams currently in a playoff spot.
While the Rangers are still well-placed in the standings, this could be a cause for real concern, once the playoffs begin. Either way, the Leafs will look to exploit their opponents struggles on the road.
2) Take advantage of a weakened opponent
Professional athletes should theoretically be fit enough to deal with playing on consecutive nights. However, the mental and physical fatigue is still real, especially in a sport as demanding as hockey.
As such, it is up to the Leafs to take advantage of the fact the Rangers played on Wednesday night and then had to travel immediately afterwards. New York losing 5-3 to the Chicago Blackhawks, can’t hurt either.
The Rangers being less than full strength also extends to their roster. They are still without the injured Rick Nash, while Marc Staal is awaiting the birth of his second child.
3) Still adjusting to the post-Dion era
It’s one of the more obvious keys to say a team needs to concede less goals. However, the Leafs are struggling to cope without Dion Phaneuf.
Of course, moving Phaneuf was strategic, in terms of getting rid of a long-term contract and improving Toronto’s draft prospects. Regardless, since Toronto’s former captain was traded away, they have allowed 18 goals in just four games.
Furthermore, if the front office has plans to trade James Reimer, he needs to get back on track. Despite having the only win in the last four contests, he has given up 13 of the 18 goals, including all seven against the Blackhawks.
Next: Leafs will benefit long-term from the Dion Phaneuf trade
What do you expect from the Leafs against the Rangers? Let us know in the comments section below.