The New York Rangers and the Vegas Golden Knights were looking to continue their winning streaks. Tonight, the Golden Knights made a statement. Here is a recap of what happened.
First Period Domination
The Golden Knights dominated in the first period, out-shooting the Rangers 12-9. It was as if the Rangers didn’t bring any part of Wednesday night’s play with them, except the part of failing. The passing was non-existent because when the Rangers tried to pass the puck, it got cut off. There were a lot of turn-overs, which made it worse.
The only goal in the first period was by a former Ranger Brett Howden (3), assisted by William Carrier (4) and Keegan Kolesar (9).
Second Period Dominance
It was like a switch turned on and the Rangers were back to playing hockey. They were back to being a dominant team that fights, no matter what.
Only 17 seconds into the second period, Mika Zibanejad (7) scored, tying the game at one goal a piece. This goal was assisted by Chris Kreider (8) and K’Andre Miller (3). Hopefully, Zibanejad’s continued struggles will come to an end since he only has seven goals.
At 10:25, Kreider scored his 18th goal of the season, making it his 11th PPG. He leads the Rangers in goals and PPG.
What Happened to the Rangers?
Soon after the third period started, it was like the Rangers went in reverse. They played worse in the third than the first. Didn’t think that was possible, but it was.
Yeah it is true that the Rangers had more hits, 23-12 and that they had more blocks, 17-8. They also had eight total giveaways to the Golden Knights’ three.
It wasn’t looking good for the Rangers and this was evident in their play, or lack of. Well, it just so happens that the Golden Knights tied the game 2-2 from a goal by Dylan Coghlan (3), assisted by Nicolas Hague (10) and Howden (5) at 14:14 in the third. This goal led the game to overtime.
The Best Part of the Game
Once that puck dropped in OT, it was amazing. Both teams were going back and forth with chances. It was such an action-packed five minutes and it could’ve been anyone’s game.
In the five minutes of play, there were 11 shots on goal. Surprisingly, nobody scored. This brings everyone to a shootout.
Jonathan Marchessault was the only person who scored in the shootout with both goalies making saves. Ryan Strome was the Rangers’ last hope to keep their a win alive, but unfortunately, Strome’s shot was saved by Laurent Brossoit.
The Rangers gameplay was up and down throughout the game. Their second period was great and OT was amazing. The only other highlights had to do with adding on to Kreider’s total goals and PPGs. Also, Alexandar Georgiev made 28 saves. This was also Georgiev’s 100th NHL start for the Rangers.
The Rangers will be facing the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 7 p.m. ET. The game will be in Madison Square Garden for an original six matchup. Who will dominate in this game? Will the Rangers choke like they did today? There is only one way to find out. Just watch the game!
Featured Image Courtesy of knightsonice.com
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