The New York Rangers carry a 2-1 lead into the third period of Game 5 against the Los Angeles Kings because of special teams and a special goalie.
They entered the middle frame down 1-0 after Justin Williams’ goal, yet the Rangers managed to hang in there. Chris Kreider’s power-play goal tied things up:
Henrik Lundqvist continues to play excellent hockey in elimination situations, as he stopped hard-charging attempts, especially Kyle Clifford’s drive here:
Brian Boyle’s had some big moments, too. Slava Voynov seemed to be all alone for a prime power-play chance, yet Boyle managed to block his shot. He then left the Staples Center crowd stunned by scoring a shorthanded goal in the waning moments of the second period:
The question is: can the Rangers manage more special moments and close Game 5 out? Chances are, the Kings are going to demand that of them.