NHL odds: In the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League the only contenders that were taken seriously were the Boston Bruins and the Pittsburgh Penguins while the rest of the 6 playoff teams from the East were basically considered cannon fodder for the Bruins and Penguins. And when the New York Rangers went down 3 games to 1 against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs they had the look of a team that was dead and void of any energy to give even false hope for a comeback. But the Broadway Blueshirts rallied around the death of Martin St. Louis’ mother following their 3rd loss to the Penguins as they stormed back to win the next 3 games, inspired by the play of St. Louis, to win the series and then went on to defeat the upstart Montreal Canadiens to make the Stanley Cup Final. The Rangers were a +153 choice to win the 2014 Stanley Cup.
Coaching Change
The firing of John Tortorella and hiring Alain Vigneault in his place has proven to be a key for the Rangers success with the NHL odds. Vigneault has a far less abrasive personality, treats the players like adult men, and allow more offensive creativity.
King Henrik
Perhaps the biggest handicapping factor of all with the NHL odds when it comes to the Rangers is goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. Lundqvist is a world class goalie and respected leader that inspires his teammates with his commitment to winning and overcoming adversity.
Danger Dogs
The Rangers will not be a favorite in the Stanley Cup Final that opens on Wednesday night but have overcome adversity, have grown closer together, and have proven to have the ability and the heart of a champion.
