from Larry Brooks of the New York Post,

While the Rangers coach yesterday merely repeated a variation of the “It’s About the Rangers” mantra, tonight’s Blueshirts-Islanders confrontation at the Coliseum represents a delicious treat for the fans of both franchises and a boost to the 40-year Battle of New York that has tilted dramatically toward Manhattan the past seven seasons.

Playoff spots are on the line for both clubs with two weeks remaining in the season. The Islanders, who have gone 8-1-1 in their last 10 games, hold a two-point lead over the Rangers, who are 4-1-1 in their last six. The Blueshirts, tied in points with ninth-place Winnipeg, have eight games remaining while the Islanders have seven to play and the Jets have six.

read on