The New York Rangers faced off against the Florida Panthers in a thrilling match that ended with a score of 3-2. The game was filled with intense moments and showcased the skill and determination of both teams.
Throughout the game, both teams displayed impressive offensive strategies and strong defensive plays. The Rangers managed to secure an early lead, but the Panthers fought back with tenacity, keeping the score close until the final buzzer.
Less than a minute into the extra frame, Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov was hooked from behind on a breakaway by Rangers forward Blake Wheeler.
The referees arm went up, and the hockey world held its breathe waiting for the potential penalty shot. But the officials decided on a two-minute minor for hooking instead.
Everything worked out OK for the Panthers, as Sam Reinhart would score the game-winner on the ensuing power play, helping Florida tie the series at 2-2.
The Rangers believe they can play better and will probably need to in anticipation of the Panthers pushing back hard to try to tie the series.
“Looking at our game, yeah, there's levels of our game that we want to reach,” New York center Mika Zibanejad said. “We've played pretty good hockey, but maybe not to our best. But at the same time, we're playing against a pretty good team. We’re up 4-2 and obviously they come with their push, and they get a little bit of momentum. But I think that just shows the character that we have in our group and then obviously with [goalie Igor Shesterkin] giving us a chance to be able to win in overtime.”
The Rangers are 15-1 in their history when they take a 3-1 lead in a best-of-7 playoffs series with the only loss coming in the 2009 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Washington Capitals. The Panthers are 1-3 in their history when facing a 3-1 series deficit, with the victory coming against the Boston Bruins in the first round last season.
Florida Panther’s coach, Paul Maurice said, “I think it’s phenomenal hockey. If you’re up three-nothing, that’s easy for the coach to say. But it’s 2-2. It’s tight. Great saves at both ends. There’s incredible skill, incredible speed ... just two really good teams. You can tell they have good leadership. They’ve got great skill. And it’s 2-2. Both teams are going to play at least six games. And if you’re a fan of hockey, you’re going to get entertained.”
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