The New York Rangers extended their winning streak to four games and took a commanding 2-0 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Washington Capitals with a hard-fought 4-3 victory at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night.
Vincent Trocheck and Mika Zibanejad led the way for the Rangers, each contributing a goal and an assist. Jack Roslovic and K’Andre Miller also found the back of the net, while Erik Gustafsson and Alexis Lafreniere chipped in with two assists apiece. Igor Shesterkin made 22 saves to secure the win.
The Rangers, who are seeking their first Stanley Cup title in three decades, dominated the power play, converting two of their six opportunities. They also scored a crucial short-handed goal to extend their lead in the second period.
The Capitals, who had won four of their last five games to clinch the second wild card in the Eastern Conference, fought back valiantly but ultimately fell short. Tom Wilson had a goal and an assist, while Connor McMichael and Dylan Strome also scored. Charlie Lindgren stopped 23 shots in the loss.
The game was not without its moments of controversy. In the third period, a shoving match erupted after Artemi Panarin delivered a hard hit on T.J. Oshie. The play was reviewed for a major penalty, but none was called.
The Capitals had a chance to tie the game late in the third period, but Shesterkin stood tall and denied their attempts. The Rangers held on for the victory and will now head to Washington for Game 3 on Friday.
