The New York Rangers were eliminated from the playoffs after Game Six, and more than one team pointed this out.
The Rangers had their 20th playoff game in 40 days. Some of the games took place during a very busy time for the Blueshirts.
USA Today reporter Vince Mercogliano interviewed Gerard Gallant following the game. He asked about the teams record and if playing in Florida had something to do with it.
Gallant responded “I’m glad you brought that up.” He went on to say, “When you go 7 [games twice] there’s not much break and guys don’t get a chance to heal much. It made it tough but we battled hard and did the best we could.”
In their four consecutive losses the Rangers struggled to score even-strength goals. They only scored one in their last three games. They couldn’t muster more than one goal each in those last three games.
Gallant replied to the question if fatigue was a factor for the lack of offense quickly and said, “definitely.”
“They made it tough on us and boxed us out really well,” Gallant continued. “Our forwards were trying to battle, but they were obviously fatigued. There’s no doubt in my mind.”
According to a Rangers leader, his coaches sentiments would get echoed one day.
“Injuries are never good, especially in hockey where they’re uniform and the game is so physical,” Jacob Trouba said. “With everyone feeling it on one side or the other, it was hard to play disciplined hockey. Injuries plagued many of these players and some were playing through them as well.”
Ryan Strome, who was injured in Game 3, did not play in Game 4. He tried to gut it out, but was visibly not 100% and didn’t play in the third period.
Barclay Goodrow came back early and still managed to play through pain.
Filip Chytil left Game 4 with an upper-body injury and is likely playing with an injury that affects his nose. Mika Zibanejad, who took several high sticks to the face suffered from a dirty hit and might have a concussion and facial injuries of his own.
There are still many things we don’t know yet.
