Lundqvist Shines as Rangers Tie Series at 1

A lot can happen within a 72 hour span as the Penguins found out on Saturday afternoon against the New York Rangers.  After a game 1 victory by the Penguins 5-2, the Rangers flipped the script and won convincing in game 2, 4-2.  Some observations:

First and foremost, the Penguins had a horrendous second period, which is shocking because for most of the season the second period was their strongest.  The Penguins scored early in the second period as Phil Kessel scored a beautiful goal that was set up by both Trevor Daley and Nick Bonino.  That would be the only bright spot as the Rangers would end up scoring three goals in the period in roughly about four minutes of playing time.

Second, Zatkoff was not good in yesterdays game.  He saved 24/ 28 shots, and he never really looked comfortable in the net.  While he absorbed shots in game 1 and was in good position, that was not the case and he let a lot of juicy rebounds out there for the Rangers to capitalize the entire game.  However, one goal was not his fault as Derick Brassard torched past Oil Maatta with his speed and scored on a breakaway.

Last, it has always been clear of how to beat the Penguins whether it be in the regular season and in the playoffs.  You have to get them frustrated.  The key to any success opposing teams have on the Penguins is to take the lead and watch the Penguins take stupid penalties.  Throughout this game in the third you would see the Penguins cross check and even slash at the Rangers players legs late in the game.  The Penguins must get back to their game of utilizing their speed to neutralize the physicality of the Rangers.  Also, having Fleury back wouldn't hurt the Penguins either.

The Penguins look to regain their advantage in the series as the venue shifts to Madison Square Garden.  Face-off is set for 7:00 on Tuesday.

https://sports.yahoo.com/news/rangers-respond-top-penguins-4-2-even-series-221516522--nhl.html