New York Rangers Tickets

New York Rangers 2011 Playoffs Preview The New York Rangers just barely edged out the Carolina Hurricanes to secure the final spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. While that might seem like a ticket to an ugly showing and quick stay in the playoffs, the Rangers might have received the best draw possible.

New York will get to take on a Washington Capitals team that it took to the brink of elimination just a couple of seasons ago. The Rangers have had success against Washington this year as well, beating them twice.

New York certainly won't soon forget that playoff series from two years ago, one in which they held a 3-1 lead before blowing it in seven games. It also featured a one-game suspension for head coach John Tortorella because of an altercation he had with a fan.

The Rangers are more of a physical, slow pace hockey team, which is in stark contrast to the offensive explosiveness that the Capitals bring to the ice. New York will try to make the games ugly and low-scoring.

New York went 11-4-1 in their final 15 games to force their way into the postseason, so they will come into the playoffs with plenty of momentum and confidence. That makes them a dangerous team.

The Rangers aren't going to be a threat to reach the Stanley Cup Finals, but don't put it past them to pull off an upset or two. While I certainly wouldn't bet against the Capitals in the first round, I would be surprised if New York didn't push the series to at least six games.