"What better way for owner James Dolan to see if the Rangers are "pretty close" to a Stanley Cup than to see them play those who have been closest to it.

Playing in Boston this afternoon, the Rangers face the Bruins for the first of four meetings this season, in a matchup of the Eastern Conference's top two teams.

Rangers coach John Tortorella said he does not consider the game to be a measuring stick to determine where the Rangers (29-12-4, 62 points) rank among the league's elite, but he did admit playing the Bruins (30-13-1, 61 points) has a unique appeal.

"They are the Stanley Cup winners," Tortorella said following yesterday's practice. "That's the team that should be talked about as the Stanley Cup winner. Sure, it's an extra motivation. I'd be lying to say if it wasn't."

Center Brad Richards, who was held out of yesterday's practice with a stiff neck, but expects to play today, said the Rangers are eager for the opportunity to play the team that has what they aspire for."