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Mark Messier was the last New York Rangers captain to raise the Stanley Cup back in 1994–a memory for Rangers fans that is quickly approaching the 20-year mark.



But this year, the Rangers will break the cycle and return as Stanley Cup champions again for the fifth time in NHL history.



I've been criticized by some for jumping to early conclusions with my recent article where I explored the very real possibility that this could be the Rangers' year.



"Too soon," many Rangers fans said.



Well, the Rangers have not played a first half that was this impressive since the NHL lockout of 2004-2005.



Make that since 1994.



While I understand every NHL season is a marathon and not a sprint, the Rangers have demonstrated with great consistency that they can be winners both on home ice and on the road.



The Rangers have fought some of the best teams in the NHL this season and walked away victorious: Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, Vancouver Canucks, San Jose Sharks and the list goes on.



With all-star offensive players, a nearly unstoppable defense and a goaltending duo that nearly every NHL team should be jealous of, the Rangers will win the Stanley Cup in 2012.



One final note: Although the Rangers powerplay is in desperate need of repair, the Boston Bruins finished last season 20th in the league with a 16.2 percent powerplay conversion rate and still managed to win the Stanley Cup.