As the Blueshirts intensity training camp workouts, I have a stimulating question for "Ask The Maven" from Rangers multi-book author Sean McCaffrey of Lynbrook, Long Island. Take it away, Sean: SHOULD ANY RANGERS FAN, WHOSE ONLY MISSION IS TO SEE THE FRANCHISE WIN THE STANLEY CUP IN 2025, GET INTENSELY INTERESTED IN ANY GAMES UP TO THE TRADE DEADLINE? The Maven replies: YES, be interested in every possible contest. Here's why" 1. Every game – like every Broadway play – has its own plot line and final scene. As a result, each is a melodrama to appreciate on its own. It's fun; like a good musical comedy. Stan Fischler US Hall Of Fame MSG 2. Every game has a hero and, sometimes, a goat. It's what we, in the journalism business, call "a sidebar." It could be a hat trick or a penalty shot, or whatever, but it adds more to the drama. And, let's face it, 'drama' is part of the fun. 3. Every game counts for the pure and simple reason that in order to win The Stanley Cup a team first must make the playoffs. In the Rangers case it means that eight teams must be eliminated from playoff contention. That requires winning as many games as possible; which is why most games have meaning. 4. Every game features a particular artist – call them superstars, if you will – who is worth a show in himself. It often is goalie like Igor Shesterkin or a craftsman such as Breadman Panarin, or the Captain, Jacob Trouba, who has become a soap opera all by himself. 5. Every game features a rookie with a charm and style of his own. This upcoming season the one who'll be head and shoulders above the rest; physically and otherwise, is 6-foot-8 Matt Rempe. The Remper is a watch in himself every time he steps on the ice. 6. Every game has the possibility of a fight. And the indisputable fact is that every fight brings every fan to his and her feet – especially when the heavyweight is Rempe! Now you know why The Maven is intensely interested in every game! (In fact I can't wait for the start of the season and The Skating Giraffe's first fight!)
