The New York Rangers took a commanding 2-0 series lead against the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday night thanks to a 4-3 double overtime win.
Forward Vincent Trocheck won it with a power play goal, which was a fitting result given the way special teams has already swung the series in New York’s favor.
The Rangers power play has driven the bulk of its offense all season and that has continued into the playoffs. Not only have the Rangers scored two power play goals in each of the first two games of this series, increasing their total to nine power play goals in six playoff games, but they have also completely shut down Carolina’s power play unit which was No. 2 in the league during the regular season.
Through two games the two teams have basically been even during 5-on-5 and even strength play, but the Rangers are up 4-0 when it comes to special teams.
That has been one of the biggest differences in two one-goal games, and it puts all of the pressure on Carolina as the series shifts to Raleigh later this week.
The other big difference is the fact the Rangers have the far superior goalie in Igor Shesterkin.
Shesterkin was masterful on Tuesday night, stopping 54 of 57 shots and extending his streak of playoff games without allowing more than three goals to 29 consecutive games.
Aside from the overall number of saves, the quality of saves were off the charts while he made some massive stops in big moments, including one on a two-on-one shorthanded break for Carolina with just over a minute to play in regulation when the game was still tied. He has also played a central role in keeping the Hurricanes’ power play off the board.
Despite finishing the regular season with the NHL’s best record the Rangers do have some shortcomings during 5-on-5 play. It has not mattered yet in the playoffs as long as their power play and Shesterkin keep playing the way they are.
The Rangers not only have a 2-0 lead in the series, they are also 6-0 in the playoffs after sweeping the Washington Capitals in the first round.
