The third round began in earnest yesterday in the east. Surprisingly, it was a beatdown. Certainly not the result I expected.
Game 1: NY Rangers vs. Montreal.
Another surprising fact about this series? Montreal has home-ice. I should have known that since I've been following the NHL all season.
And yet, here we are.
The Rangers put up seven goals in an offensive explosion. The first four were scored on Carey Price, who was pulled for Peter Budaj. Another surprise? Budaj didn't fare much better than Price. In fact, considering that he only saved five of eight shots on goal, he may well have been worse.
Over the last couple of days, it has been made mention again how Price is an "elite" goaltender, or some such. The fact is that he continues to be overrated and a game like this reveals the truth quite harshly.
Hell, I barely even need to say anything. Four goals and pulled? That pretty much says it all.
Henrik Lundqvist, on the other hand, continues to be spectacular. Two goals given up and another 20 saves for what has to be the best remaining goaltender in the playoffs. Some may argue for Quick and his record in elimination games, especially in 2014. It's worthy either way, but I'll go with Lundqvist.
Ryan McDonagh was the star for the Rangers, putting up a goal and three assists. Martin St. Louis put up a goal, as did Rick Nash. It's important for all three to continue to play well.
One problem might be if Derick Brassard misses time. He left the game early and his status for Game 2 is yet to be determined. Considering how much he, Pouliot, and Zuccarello were owning the Pens in Games 5-7, it's probably important to the Rangers to keep that line intact if at all possible.
Obviously, the result of this one pleases me greatly. However, I don't expect this to be a cakewalk. I'm sure Montreal will come out stronger in the next game; they might have lost home-ice already, but they sure as hell don't want to go down 0-2, especially if the Rangers' offense is clicking.
Given that seven different guys scored for the Rangers, it seems likely that their offense is on track. But hey, who knows what could happen in Game 2, even?
NY Rangers lead 1-0. Game 2 is Monday.
Later today, the third round begins in Chicago. Another afternoon game.
No comments:
Post a Comment