Pregame: Rangers In Need of Fresh Start Against Islanders

The New York Rangers did not get the start to the 2011-12 season that they wanted when facing the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks over in Europe last weekend, but a week later now, that is all behind them. The trip was a great experience for all of the players, but the bottom line is that it was too lengthy for their liking. By the time the first two games of the regular season were upon them, the team's collective focus was not where it needed to be. Tonight's tilt against the rival New York Islanders, which is their first game in North America this season, should be looked at as an opportunity for a fresh start.  The 0-0-2 record from last week will not be erased from the standings, but in the minds of the players, it should be. It happened, it's over with and there is no turning back the clock. The focus should now be on the task at hand, which includes the Islanders tonight followed by a trip out to western Canada right after. It is time to make up for what was...