Episode 3 in the NY Rangers 30th Anniversary Special series . We hear insights from goaltender Mike Richter and left wing Stéphane Matteau, join hosts Neil and Vic to analyze the 1994 Eastern Conference Final against the New Jersey Devils. They highlight pivotal moments such as Mark Messier's Game Six guarantee and Matteau's double-overtime goal in Game Seven.

This episode revisits the unforgettable moments that led to one of the greatest playoff series in NHL history. Relive the highs, the lows, and the sheer intensity of a series that has stood the test of time.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:08] Recap of the 1994 Championship Season
• [02:25] Special Guests: Mike Richter and Stéphane Matteau
• [03:21] The Historic Eastern Conference Final
• [04:23] Rivalry and Key Players
• [05:13] Regular Season Dominance
• [06:26] Trade Deadline Impact
• [07:23] Playoff Confidence and Challenges
• [09:10] Game One: A Tough Start
• [13:59] Mark Messier's Leadership in Game Two
• [19:59] Game Three: A Turning Point
• [31:57] Game Four and Five: Struggles and Controversies
• [40:53] The Rollercoaster of Emotions
• [41:40] Messier's Bold Guarantee
• [43:17] Turning the Tide: Key Moments
• [44:30] The Epic Third Period
• [46:07] The Tension of Overtime
• [48:33] The Game-Winning Goal
• [50:50] Reflections and Celebrations
• [01:14:22] The Legacy of the Series
• [01:20:12] Final Thoughts and Teasers

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Rangers' resilience was highlighted by Mark Messier's leadership, particularly his guarantee before game 6, which boosted the team's morale.
• The importance of team dynamics and the contributions of lesser-known players like Stéphane Matteau, who scored crucial goals.
• The 1994 Eastern Conference Final is considered one of the greatest playoff series in NHL history, not just for the games but for the lasting impact on the franchise and fans.
• Mike Richter's goaltending was pivotal, making key saves that kept the Rangers in critical games and allowed them to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook::https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

MeiGray is your source for Game-Worn jerseys. Head to MeiGray.com to get your collection started today. Get real, get it from MeiGray.

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NHL Wraparound guests can take 10 percent off any hockey jersey when they order at meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

BIO:

Stéphane Matteau is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played over 800 regular-season games in the National Hockey League. He was drafted in the second round, 25th overall, by the Calgary Flames in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft

Michael Thomas Richter is an American former professional ice hockey goaltender. He played his entire National Hockey League career,

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the upcoming Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers. Joined by Eddie Olczyk from TNT, the trio provides analysis, predictions, and insights on the series. They discuss topics such as the significance of touching the conference trophy, head coaching experiences, and previous playoff performances.

The episode also includes a fun segment with the podcast mascot AJ predicting the winner of the Stanley Cup, discussions on player injuries, and a special feature on the NHL's initiative to broadcast games in sign language.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:36] Stanley Cup Final Preview
• [01:33] Conference Trophy Controversy
• [04:11] Eddie Olczyk Joins the Discussion
• [06:32] Stanley Cup Final Analysis
• [16:55] Coaching and Team Dynamics
• [25:59] Predictions and Introduction to Mascot AJ
• [31:07] Human Side of the Story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The long-standing superstition about not touching the conference trophies was discussed, with Neil Smith criticizing it as "ridiculous" and emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements along the way. Historical data shows that teams who touched the trophy won the Stanley Cup two-thirds of the time since 1997.
• The disparity in coaching experience between Paul Maurice (Florida Panthers) and Chris Knobloch (Edmonton Oilers) was noted, with Maurice having significantly more NHL experience. However, Paul Coffey's impact as an assistant coach for Edmonton has been substantial in improving the team's defensive play.
• The importance of physical play and special teams was emphasized. Florida Panthers are expected to leverage their physicality to challenge the Edmonton Oilers, while the Oilers' success might hinge on their power play performance.
• The resilience of NHL players during the playoffs was discussed, with examples of players playing through significant injuries. The hosts stressed the need to appreciate the physical toll on players and how it impacts their performance.

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

MeiGray is your source for Game-Worn jerseys. Head to MeiGray.com to get your collection started today. Get real, get it from MeiGray.

https://www.MeiGray.com/

https://MeiGrayauctions.com/

NHL Wraparound guests can take 10 percent off any hockey jersey when they order at meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

Bio: Edward Walter Olczyk Jr. is an American former center in the National Hockey League for 16 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets, New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and Pittsburgh Penguins. He won the Stanley Cup with the Rangers in 1994.

Neil Smith, President and General Manager of the 1994 Stanley Cup Champion New York Rangers, along with ESPN NHL veteran Vic Morren are joined by Hall of Fame defenseman Kevin Lowe and two-way forward Steve Larmer, they recap the road to the Eastern Conference Final.

The discussion highlights key moments from the Rangers' series against the New York Islanders and Washington Capitals, emphasizing the players' experiences, the importance of special teams, and critical saves by goaltender Mike Richter.

The team reflects on the contributions of Esa Tikkanen and the strategic nuances employed by GM Neil Smith. Anticipation builds for the upcoming showdown against the New Jersey Devils—a series for the ages.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:36] Commemorating the 1994 New York Rangers
• [01:01] New York Islanders and Washington Capitals
• [01:10] Guest Introductions: Kevin Lowe and Steve Lahmer
• [02:31] Facing the New York Islanders: Rivalry and Challenges
• [07:00] Game Highlights and Key Moments
• [07:43] Mike Richter's Impact and Goalie Dynamics
• [14:37] Special Teams and Series Strategy
• [21:11] Leadership and Team Dynamics
• [24:26] Reflections on Building a Championship Team
• [30:49] The Importance of Sweeping the Islanders
• [33:31] Rangers vs. Capitals: A Historical Rivalry
• [40:30] The Impact of Esa Tikkanen
• [46:59] Overcoming the Capitals and Moving Forward
• [57:24] Setting the Stage for the Devils Series

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Rangers showcased their depth and resilience throughout the playoffs, with key contributions from both star players and role players. The team’s ability to adapt and support each other was crucial in their victories over the Islanders and Capitals.
• Goalie Mike Richter's outstanding performance was a significant factor in the Rangers' success. His ability to make crucial saves under pressure helped the team maintain momentum and confidence throughout the series.
• The Rangers' power play and penalty kill units were exceptionally effective. The team’s ability to capitalize on power play opportunities and shut down opponents’ power plays played a vital role in their series wins.
• The presence of experienced players like Mark Messier, Kevin Lowe, and Steve Larmer provided invaluable leadership. Their experience in high-pressure playoff situations helped guide the team through challenging moments and maintain composure.

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook::https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

MeiGray is your source for Game-Worn jerseys. Head to MeiGray.com to get your collection started today. Get real, get it from MeiGray.

https://www.MeiGray.com/

https://MeiGrayauctions.com/

NHL Wraparound guests can take 10 percent off any hockey jersey when they order at meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary...