Step-up

Derek Stepan was almost as in-effective as you can be prior to Game 6's win in Ottawa. Stepan who is well noted to be one of the best passers on this New York Rangers Hockey Club was held pointless before he cashed in on a beautiful feed from Brad Richards to tie last nights game midway through the 2nd Period. More importantly did that goal give the Rangers the feeling of relief, that finally they have solved Senators netminder Craig Anderson, who has been brillant since his game one torching.

Only minutes laters, The Rangers Powerplay struck again, this time Stepan made a heck of a play along the boards, in which he took the hit to make a play. Stepan got the puck to pointman Michael Del Zotto, who then connected with Brad Richards and Richards whistled a slap shot inside the far post that beat Anderson. Stepan added his 2nd assist of the game as he set up rookie Chris Kreider for his first NHL Career goal. The goal served to be the game winner.

Stepan is a key component on this team. Many people talk about Gaborik and Richards, but Stepan makes a ton of plays that really get overlooked, especially in the box score. For the Rangers to get it done on Thursday night, Look for Stepan to take that next " step" in his career.