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Panthers-Rangers Preview

Nov 21, 2009 - 5:37 AM By KATE HEDLIN STATS Writer

Florida (8-9-2) at New York (11-9-1), 7:00 p.m. EDT

The New York Rangers started the season as one of the NHL's hottest teams, but an inconsistent offense has left them frustrated recently.

The Rangers look to avoid losing three straight at home for the first time in almost three years as they host the surging Florida Panthers on Saturday night.

After winning seven of its first eight games, New York (11-9-1) has slumped, especially at home, where its lost four of the last six. The Rangers have dropped three of their last four overall, including 4-2 to Washington on Tuesday at Madison Square Garden.

Although his teammates couldn't manage much production, Marian Gaborik continued his hot streak, scoring twice to increase his total to 15.

Gaborik opened the scoring 1:16 into the first period, after which the Rangers allowed two power-play goals. He then tied the score midway through the third, but Washington answered by scoring twice with less than five minutes to play.

"Of course it's frustrating," said Gaborik, who has four goals and four assists in his last five games. "We had a good start, but we took a couple of bad penalties and they scored, We have to try to be disciplined."

New York has given up five power-play goals in the last 17 opportunities after killing off 69 of the previous 79. The lack of offense that has been an even bigger problem, though. The Rangers have scored two or fewer goals in seven of their last nine games after averaging 3.8 in the first 12.

"I think the biggest problem ... is that the scoring hasn't been consistent," coach John Tortorella said. "We can't keep going one or two goals and expect to win some hockey games."

New York was tied for the second-fewest goals scored in the Eastern Conference in 2008-09 with 210.

The Rangers haven't lost three straight at home since Jan. 20-Feb. 5, 2007. While New York has struggled after a hot start, the Panthers (9-9-2) have picked up momentum after losing four of their first five.

Florida won for the fourth time in five games Friday, beating Detroit 2-1 in overtime. Stephen Weiss tied the score in the third period and Bryan McCabe scored 40 seconds into the extra session.

Scott Clemmensen made his fifth start and recorded 39 saves.

"We had to weather a little bit there in the first," Clemmensen said. "They're a great team. We had to battle so hard all night, and we really stuck with it."

While Clemmensen was outstanding, Tomas Vokoun will likely start in goal. He's 5-1-1 with a 1.67 goals-against average and three shutouts in his last seven starts. He's also won his last two starts against the Rangers, but has dropped his last two at MSG.

Florida took away points in all four meetings with the Rangers last season, recording three wins, including two in New York.