For a while there, it looked like the Tampa Bay Lightning might steal Game 1 from the New York Rangers. Instead, the Rangers squeaked by with a “greasy goal” to win 2-1.
Officials didn’t even need an extended review of the decisive tally, as Dominic Moore’s leg was clearly stationary as it knocked in the rebound. In an afternoon where many of the bounces went the way of the Lightning and Ben Bishop, the Rangers earned that last one and a 1-0 series lead.
(Actually, there was one noteworthy empty-net post hit by Derick Brassard, but it didn’t end up making a difference.)
New York has now been in 15 consecutive one-goal playoff games, beefing up a record they set in Game 7 against the Washington Capitals.
That was the Rangers 9th 2-1 game of this postseason, they've won 7 of them. Also their 15th straight 1-goal playoff gm. @NHLonNBCSports
— Liam McHugh (@liam_mchugh) May 16, 2015
The Rangers absolutely dominated the first 40 minutes of play. You can take your pick regarding which of the first two periods were most lopsided (probably the first?), but as you can see from this graphic, the differences between the two teams were pronounced:
The 3rd period is underway! #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/Kv0AZEOIcX
— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) May 16, 2015
This marks the first time Bishop has lost to the Rangers, yet it doesn’t end his run of strong play against New York, as he kept Tampa Bay in this game. Henrik Lundqvist was even better (a phrase that seems to be coming up quite often in these playoffs, actually).
The Bolts have a lot of work to do, as they didn’t get a lot done before the third period. One glaring adjustment may come down to benching Andrej Sustr, as his play was critiqued in many circles.
Feels like the Rangers' eyes light up every time they see Sustr come over the boards.
— Mike Halford (@MikeHalford604) May 16, 2015
Ultimately, the Presidents’ Trophy winners looked the part on Saturday, even if they only managed another one-goal win.
Rangers win their seventh playoff game this postseason with two goals or fewer. That ties NHL record (Devs 2000, 'Canes 2002, Ducks 2003).
— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) May 16, 2015