Some Metropolitan Teams Threaten The Rangers' Playoff Hopes

A year ago we had no worries; the playoffs were in the bag and the Presidents' Trophy was in the offing.

This year? Headaches. High anxiety. Doubts. Sometimes grave doubts.

The Rangers "Black Autumn" of losses thrust them into the NHL's Neverland and it's a miracle that they've recovered.

But they're far from in; so let's check out the clubs that are threatening:

* COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS: These perennial losers now are for real. They've not only survived the twin Gaudreau tragedies but have used that grim news as motivation to succeed. Plus, they have fooled the experts who had doomed them to the cellar. Good chance they can make it!

* PHILADELPHIA FLYERS: John Tortorella's gung-ho style has succeeded on Broad Street in the second year of a rebuild. They have a potential Calder Trophy-winner in Matvei Michkov and Samuel Ersson has been an effective replacement in goal for Carter Hart. You simply cannot bet against Torts!

* NEW YORK ISLANDERS: Given up for dead a few weeks ago, the Isles lifted themselves into the mix with three straight wins. If they do beat Colorado tonight in Elmont, then look out. They have a good head for homestretch heroics.

* PITTSBURGH PENGUINS: Put it this way, Sidney Crosby's team looks dead – but, you never know.