There's no question that Derek Stepan avoided the dreaded sophomore slump in his second pro season with the Rangers. At age 21 -- he turns 22 next week -- the Minnesota native surpassed his 2010-11 totals for both assists and points and finished fourth on the team in scoring as one of only four Blueshirts to break the 50-point mark. One thing that makes Stepan so popular with fans is his raw emotion in big moments, as well as the fact that he clearly loves the game and enjoys everything about his life in the NHL. Check out 21 photos from the 2011-12 season that capture this passion for the game, fun-loving spirit, and on-ice intensity.
