The expansion has been sturdy rather than fragile, growing steadily since the June 2003 tax cut despite hurricanes, rate hikes, expensive energy and constant talk of a consumer slump.

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The slump has hung over his head like an anvil, forcing him to answer a constant stream of questions about why he hasn't put the puck in the net more frequently, compelling Rangers coach John Tortorella to shift him from one line to another to try to coax more scoring from him.

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