When a club like the Rangers finishes in the NHL's subterranean depths, it raises questions that must be answered before the autumn leaves start to fall. (Now don't be a wise guy and tell me that they're falling already.)

A successful answer to the questions below could mean the difference between a playoff berth or more misery. So let's give it a shot and see what happens.

QUESTION ONE: How will Matt Rempe react to another dismissal to Beautiful Downtown Connecticut? 

MAVEN: He'll sit in the corner and sulk for a minute, discover that he's getting a ton of dough for very little work and catch the next Amtrak to Connecticut. The Remper knows from experience that a call back to Penn Station is less than a month away.

QUESTION TWO: What hope is there for Mika Zibanejad to really and truly, I mean REALLY AND TRULY – reform?

MAVEN: If such a thing as peer pressure exists in the Rangers dressing room -- having a captain wouldn't hurt – then it's possible that Z will take defense seriously. Also, some lovey-dovey from new coach Mike Sullivan could help. (A little.)

QUESTION THREE: What did the general staff learn from watching the Panthers?

MAVEN: A blend of tough hockey and skill distilled by a brainy but funny coach and a clutch goalie wins Cups. (Are the Rangers tough enough? Depends on the third and fourth lines.)

QUESTION FOUR: Which teams will the Rangers beat out to make the playoffs? MAVEN: Buffalo, Columbus, Washington, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Detroit, Boston.

The Hockey Maven Picks His Five Favorite Rangers Anybody can like a star; it's the easiest thing in the world. 

QUESTION FIVE: Why will you like the new Rangers MSG Networks broadcast team?

Maven: Kenny Albert on play-by-play and Dave Maloney on "color" will bring a fresh vim, vigor and vitality to viewers. The pair will be invigorated by the move from radio to tv. Albert will bring his world class play-by-play while Maloney's combo of sandpaper candor and "fan feeling" will add a unique touch. Sam and Joe never will be forgotten but Kenny and Dave have the best act to follow!