The Rangers were happy to get their No.1 goalie back, but had no complaints with his replacement.  Mike Richter was ready to return from reconstructive left knee surgery Oct.22 against Tampa Bay after a commendable job from backup Kirk McLean while Richter finished his rehab. 
    McLean went 3-2 and was outstanding in the three victories.  He did allow eight goals in an 8-6 loss in Pittsburgh, but that was a night when the Rangers completely melted down and allowed Jaromir Jagr to set a career high with four goals.  McLean's teammates also let him down in a 4-3 loss to Anaheim.  In his three wins, McLean allowed one goal to Atlanta, one to Montreal, and two to Chicago, in a game that he faced 40 shots (20 of those in the third period).
    "Hang that one on him," said Ranger's coach Ron Low.  "That was Kirk's win.  He has done a great job for us."

-Rick Carpinello
(The Hockey News, Nov.3, 2000)