New York Ranger Scott Gomez visited his old team, in their new building for the first time this season and was greeted.... well, not so warmly. Get used to it. You are going to be hearing that for the next 8 years.

Gomez responded well, scoring two assists, as did the Rangers who won their third game in a row defeating the New Jersey Devils 4-2. Their seventh victory in eight games, and after a sluggish start, have climbed back to within a point of the Atlantic Division leading Philadelphia Flyers.

The Rangers youngsters have been the biggest story so far this season. Rookie defenceman Marc Staal (brother of Eric and Jordan) scored his first NHL goal last night against the Devils. Staal has quickly rounded into form, and as he has matured, the Rangers coaching staff have rewarded him with more ice time. Staal's physical play has also been appearing lately, and although he does make an error from time to time, his confidence is growing. Nigel Dawes and Brandon Dubinsky have also thrived in the lineup. Dubinsky was awarded the golden spot of centering Jaromir Jagr's line, and has two goals since taking the position (worth a fantasy look) including one last night.

New Jersey Devils goalender Martin Brodeur was going for his 500th win for the second time this season last night, and was forced to remain at 499. I find it ironic that he didn't get number 500 last night, as 400 of those 499 wins obviously came at the Rangers expense.

Quick Shave:
I used to think Vincent Lecavalier was way overrated. I think I was drunk when I was thinking that, because this guy is special. Lecavalier defeated the Carolina Hurricanes by himself last night (just kidding... kind of) scoring a hat trick and adding to helpers to lift the Tampa Bay Lightning to victory 6-1. Impressive. Most Impressive. The Carolina Hurricanes who lost Erik Cole to another neck injury the other night still have a solid hold on the Southeast Division and are just 3 points behind 1st place Ottawa in the East.

Game of the Night:
Buffalo at Ottawa 7:30 PM

Anyone for a little Eastern Conference Championship rematch? Have these two teams gone in opposite directions since last they've played or what? Ottawa looks unstoppable, and the Sabres... unstartable? This could be the kind of game that snaps them out of the funk. Enjoy the games!

Your friend on ice,

Captain Bosh