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Rangers pick up crucial points in divisional battle vs. Islanders

Rick Nash, Derick Brassard, Mats Zuccarello

Rick Nash, Derick Brassard, Mats Zuccarello

AP

Rick Nash scored the game winner at 2:50 of the third period as the New York Rangers edged the New York Islanders 2-1 in their final regular season meeting at Nassau Coliseum.

With the win, the Rangers (41-17-7) move to within one point of the Islanders (43-21-4) for top spot in the Metropolitan Division. The Rangers have four games in hand.

After losing the first three games in the season series, the Rangers won the final two to finish 2-3-0 against the Islanders this season.

Anders Lee scored his 23rd of the season to give the Islanders a 1-0 lead at 9:35 of the first period. With the goal, Lee extended his point streak to six games (three goals, three assists).

Kevin Hayes replied for the Rangers in the second with his 13th of the season.

Cam Talbot made 28 saves as the Rangers improved to 11-1-3 in their last 15 games and 12-2-3 since Henrik Lundqvist was sidelined by a vascular injury.

The win improved the Rangers to 54-63-8-2 in regular season play at Nassau Coliseum.

Kyle Okposo returned after missing 22 games due to a detached retina. He finished with three shots on goal in 18:33 of ice time.

Jaroslav Halak made 20 saves in the loss.