Peter Laviolette's Job Saved By The Rise Of Fallen Heroes In Buffalo

Who says the Rangers were trying to get their coach fired by playing inferior hockey, as happens from time to time?

How dare anyone even think of such a nasty thing – except those who still believe it.

Certainly not, Adam Fox, who FINALLY got around to scoring his first goal in the 3-2 win over the sorrowful Sabres last night in Buffalo. It was nice of Swiper The Fox but it still won't get him the captaincy. Ever!

Certainly not, Mika Zibanejad whose personal Anti-Defamation Society can relax.

And most certainly not his Excellency, Emperor of The Crease, Igor Shesterkin who actually won a game for a change. (But not the Vezina.)

It's Hallelujah time on Seventh Avenue – for today at least. What matters is whether a win over a team that's now on an endless losing streak is worth anything more than two points and a three-dollar bill.

If the Dear Boy is up for it, Piggy Iggy should insist on starting tomorrow afternoon at The Garden against the Kings. Since Shesty doesn't win much against good teams – Buffalo is THE worst – L.A. will be a good test, assuming that Iggy gets playing permission from his coach.

I mean, can anyone remember when Igor-able even beat a club like Florida or Winnipeg?

Not for The Maven to dismiss two points against anyone, but it's also possible that those in mourning over the Goodrow-Trouba departures actually may find themselves watching a revitalized Rangers squad.

With still-not-fired Pistol Pete behind the bench! I can dream, can't I?