The Pittsburgh Penguins (3-1) dominated against the New York Rangers (1-3) and came one step closer to capping off the sweet revenge the Pens have sought for the last two years. Matt Murray got the start tonight in net and outperformed himself. Pittsburgh was able to put up an early 2-0 lead thanks to Eric Fehr and a Patric Hornqvist power-play goal.
The 5-0 win by the Penguins puts Pittsburgh right in the driver seat of this series. The series will shift to Consol Energy Center, and with Murray playing so well, even if Marc-Andre Fleury is healthy, the young netminder may see more starts.
Henrik Lundqvist was pulled from tonight’s game after allowing four goals. His replacement, Antti Raanta, did not fare much better, allowing one goal on 14 shots. The Rangers had many chances to get rid of their goose egg on the scoreboard but were unable to capitalize.
Scary Good
Pittsburgh’s offense looked incredible this evening. In what was a pivotal game for New York, its defense was no match for a team that has great ability to skate. Not only were the Penguins ability to pass the puck great, their forecheck was incomparable to the Rangers.
With their best goaltender still out with a concussion, Murray has solidified the only uncertain position the Penguins had heading into the playoffs. His outstanding play brought Pittsburgh within striking distance of taking the series.
Evgeni Malkin had four points (2 G, 2 A) in tonight’s game and shattered any doubt that he was not ready to play. Sidney Crosby also tallied two points (2 A). The Rangers just about matched Pittsburgh in shots on goal with 31 shots versus the Penguins 32.
Bravo! Bravo!
Pittsburgh’s defense had yet another great game in fortifying in front of Murray. The Penguins also went three for five on the power-play, but just as importantly kept New York from scoring on any of their four power-plays.
The Rangers also gave the puck away 17 times. Pittsburgh’s forecheck was formidable against New York, which caused the Rangers to turn over the puck so much.
The Penguins, however, did endure yet another game filled with hits. New York finished the game with 29 hits and was sure to leave a few bruises on some of Pittsburgh’s players.
This win also marks the first time in Penguins history that a rookie recorded a shutout in the playoffs.
What’s Next
The potential series-clinching game will take place this Saturday at Consol Energy Center at a time to be determined.
Image Credit: Getty Images
