Grade the Game: Oilers @ Rangers

That did just happen, right? Wow. Tom Renney really knows how to ignite his bunch at the Garden! Wait, yeah, forgot he’s not the coach of the team in blue. Grades!

Offense: A+

Do I really need to say anything here? No, but just for good measure it sure is nice having Gaborik back. Frolov thinks so too!

Defense: A-

Aside from a sloppy 28 seconds in the 2nd period when the Oilers briefly actually led in this game, I was pretty pleased with the defensive effort. Edmonton is clearly a very young and inexperienced team that makes a lot of mistakes. Rangers capitalized on their opportunities and didn’t allow the Oilers to stay in the game.

Goaltending: A

Marty has been coming up huge in Henrik’s absence. This is exactly why the Rangers needed to go out this offseason and get him. It’s a long season and things come up. You don’t want to just bank on Hank starting 78 games. Another hats off performance for Biron.

Special Teams: B

If there’s one thing to not be overly impressed with in this game it’s again the power play. I was pretty disappointed to see the Rangers not able to convert (0-2). Yeah, they had chances and they did end up scoring eight goals, so I know I’m being nit-picky here. With that said, the Oilers are LAST in the NHL on the kill. I would’ve felt a little better with a goal. Can’t win ‘em all.

Coaching: A+

A+ for Tom Renney. Class act and you could tell in the interviews how much he misses NY. I always liked him and didn’t think he should’ve been fired. Oh yeah, Torts did alright too!