[EmpireWF]

Here we go, what SHOULD have been a 2nd round match-up will now open up the playoffs. Rangers will be in a very tough spot against the Devils. Losing all those games to close the season is not the way to head into a series...especially against a team as fluid as Jersey.

Anyone willing to make predictions? I'm not

[Lefty Noob]

Although the season series between the two clubs is tied, New Jersey's won 3 of the last 4. That, I think, gives them an edge going in. But hey, I've been wrong before. Many, many times...

[EmpireWF]

I don't know how much the HFA will play in favor of the Devils. I mean, for the Nets, it never proved to be much help. However, it could be different.

Either way, I hope the series goes the distance.

[pete_b]

This could really be the finals. I mean how do the Rangers and the Devils play in the first round? Am I the only one having trouble making sense of this? Please help!

[ThePundit]

It's the Rangers own fault that they're playing the Devils. If they didn't lose those final 5 they could have had a more favorable matchup. I mean even with their injuries they shouldn't have lost to an Islander team at home whos dressing 8 rookies.

The one advantage the Rangers have in this series is the away games will almost be like home games. There will be 1/3-1/2 Ranger fans in the Meadowlands and at MSG they'll have 95% Ranger fans.

Otherwise, I can't see the Rangers beating the Devils. NJ is playing too well right now and have arguably a top 5 goalie in history.

P.S 6 Rangers missed practice today with a stomach flu but should be ready to go.

[Lefty Noob]

They'll be on the ice, and maybe they'll stop throwing up and the like, but after a stomach flu they'll in no way shape for form be 100% I'm guessing. They'll tire easier if nothing else, which puts NY at a disadvantage in Game 1. By the way, which six guys was it?

[ThePundit]

I know one of the guys who was sick was Jagr. However all 6 players practiced today.

[EmpireWF]

I hope Jagr can play after getting injured in Game 1. The Rangers play was pitiful, they've got to play better...they sure can't get any worse.