Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
The Maven has a "Gentleman's Bet" (No Dough) with my favorite Rangers writer Sean McCaffrey.
In his BlueCollar Blueshirts columns, Sean reiterates that the Rangers will not make the Promised Ice, known as the Playoffs.
Plus, he has all the right reasons, starting with Lafrenière, and ending with Shesterkin.
I don't have the right reasons; just a hunch that tells me somehow – repeat, SOMEHOW – The Blueshirts will get in and then, who knows what?
The reasons why this is possible follow:
1. It's inevitable that Breadman Panarin will bust out of his slump.
2. Now that Mika Zibanejad has re-found his game – and confidence – that's an unexpected bonus,
3. Figure on Jonathan Quick to win his next game, whenever that is.
4. J.T. Miller will be decisive today and so will be re-promoted Brett Berard.
5. Will Cuylee is rapidly moving into a leadership – and scoring – role.
I refuse to discuss both Shesterkin and Lafreniere until they give me reason by playing up to their salaries.