Brad Penner-Imagn Images [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/59ec5fe6-e863-443f-8360-6b949e2b025a.jpeg] Brad Penner-Imagn Images Now that the Trade Deadline dust has cleared, I can assure you That the Rangers will make the playoffs. Figure it out; and you don't need analytics either. * The Red Wings are in a tailspin. And won't recover. * Playing 'way over their heads all season, the Blue Jackets will fadel * The Canadiens have come on strong but lack experience and goaltending. * The Devils have lost Jack Hughes for the season and are in free fall. Ah, now tell me who The Maven left out. (Hint: the Blueshirts are there right now.) Of course, Ottawa's Senators are in the way because coach Travis Green – Transparency Note: my buddy – has the goods. Heading into today's four-pointer, the Sens and Rangers are tied at 67 points apiece but Ottawa has a game in hand. "On paper," says The Old Scout, "the Rangers are a better team but with a big IF. New York's best players have to be at the top of their game – starting with Shesterkin and finishing with Panarin." Otherwise, adds The Maven, the Rangers will be gonzo on the "Obandanzo." No less important is the manner in which Mrs. Laviolette's Favorite Coach arranges his lineup especially with the most recent acquisitions. "Lavvy also found a good one in Zac Jones on defense," adds The Old Scout, "but I'm not sure if Pete realizes it. The coach also has to figure out a power play that works; like in the good, old days." Dividing the goaltending should not be an issue. Igor Shesterkin figures to start today with Jonathan Quick tomorrow, when the Rangers host Columbus. The Old Scout: "Quicky is on top of his game; now Shesty has to help the rush to The Finish Line. The Blueshirts have suffered enough with Igor's erratic play this season." Not that beating Ottawa will be as easy as skating on the frozen Rideau Canal; far from it. Coachj Green has a crew that has refused to fold out of the playoff running with Tim Stutzle my fave Senator. The trick for Laviolette is to get his floaters back IN the games and that starts with Friend Zibanejad and his equally floating buddy Big Al Lafreniere. Time now for you, dear reader, to clip Mave's prediction on your fridge: RANGERS WILL MAKE THE PLAYOFFS! Deny that if you can! Or dare!!
