The Rangers have played well over the last two games, rebounding from what may have been rock bottom in San Jose. They beat two playoff-bound Atlantic teams, and are now headed to Montreal to face a Canadiens team that is free falling. There was a time in October/November when people were guessing if it would be the Rangers or the Canadiens that tanked in the standings after unsustainable starts. It wound up being Montreal, who should rename the team to the Montreal Carey Prices.
As for the Rangers, well they are managing their games better. Playing better possession hockey and better defense.