GREENBURGH, N.Y. — A stalwart defense is a major reason the Rangers have won eight playoff series over the past four springs.
But facing the Tampa Bay Lightning, a team that relies on speed and finesse, in the Eastern Conference finals may prove daunting. The defensemen may have to contribute more at both ends of the ice for the Rangers to reach the Stanley Cup finals for a second straight year.
For Keith Yandle, who was acquired from Arizona on March 1, the playoffs have been a struggle at times, both offensively and defensively.