The New York Rangers are on the cusp of advancing to the second round of the playoffs after a dominant 3-1 victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 3 of their first-round series. The Rangers now hold a commanding 3-0 lead and can clinch the series with a win in Game 4 on Sunday night.
Vincent Trocheck played a pivotal role in the Rangers’ victory, scoring a power-play goal and assisting on a short-handed tally. Igor Shesterkin was equally impressive in net, making 27 saves and continuing his stellar postseason performance.
The Rangers showcased their special teams prowess, scoring goals at even strength, on the power play, and while short-handed. Trocheck set up Barclay Goodrow for a short-handed goal and later scored on the power play, while Chris Kreider tipped in a puck for his franchise-best 42nd career playoff goal.
At the other end of the ice, Shesterkin was a brick wall, denying Max Pacioretty and Alex Ovechkin, who remains without a point in the series. Shesterkin’s performance was particularly impressive after allowing an early goal to John Carlson.
The Rangers’ ability to control the game and limit the Capitals’ chances was a major factor in their victory. They only trailed for 34 seconds in the game, with Kreider tying it up shortly after Carlson’s goal. Goodrow’s goal put them ahead just two minutes later, and they maintained the lead throughout the rest of the game.
The Rangers’ success in this series has been built on their ability to capitalize on special teams opportunities. Nearly a third of the game was played on special teams, which favored the Rangers’ potent power play and penalty kill.
The Capitals, on the other hand, have struggled to keep up with the Rangers’ pace and execution. Injuries have also played a role, with Washington missing two of their top four defensemen in Nick Jensen and Rasmus Sandin. Trevor van Riemsdyk also left the game in the first period after a high hit by Rangers rookie Matt Rempe.
