Vincent Trocheck's power-play goal in the second overtime secured a thrilling 4-3 victory for the New York Rangers over the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday night, giving the Rangers a 2-0 lead in their second-round playoff series.
Alexis Lafreniere shined with two goals, while Chris Kreider also contributed a power-play goal and Artemi Panarin added two assists for the Rangers. Goalie Igor Shesterkin was outstanding, making a season-high 54 saves to anchor the Rangers' win.
The Rangers extended their winning streak to six games in the postseason and eight games dating back to the regular season. This victory marked their first overtime playoff win since Game 7 of the first round in 2022 against Pittsburgh.
On the Hurricanes' side, Jake Guentzel scored twice, Dmitry Orlov added a goal, and Sebastian Aho tallied three assists. Frederik Andersen made 35 saves in a hard-fought effort for Carolina.
The series now shifts to Raleigh, North Carolina, for the next two games, with Game 3 scheduled for Thursday night.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams showcasing their offensive and defensive prowess. Shesterkin's heroics in goal for the Rangers and Andersen's strong performance for the Hurricanes kept the game tight throughout.
Kreider's game-tying goal in the third period, the Rangers' third power-play goal of the series, was a pivotal moment. Trocheck's game-winner in double overtime extended his goal-scoring streak to five games, clinching the victory for the Rangers.
Both teams had their chances in overtime, with Shesterkin and Andersen making crucial saves to keep their teams in the game. The Hurricanes' struggles on the power play, going 0 for 5, proved costly in the end.
With the series finely poised, both teams will look to make adjustments as they head into Game 3. The Rangers will aim to maintain their momentum, while the Hurricanes will be eager to bounce back and turn the series in their favor.
Stay tuned for more thrilling playoff action as the New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes battle it out for a spot in the next round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
