Mika Zibanejad extended his point streak to seven games as the New York Rangers recorded a 3-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final.
First Frame
The first period was an eventful one. To get things started (three minutes in), the first penalty was committed by the Rangers. Ryan Reaves went to the box for a two minute slashing penalty. Nine seconds into the power play, Corey Perry got a deflection right out in front. This came after a Nikita Kucherov wrist shot from the right circle. As a result, the Lightning got the early lead in Game 2.
There were not many scoring opportunities for New York other than a breakaway chance by Artemi Panarin. Not long after, K’Andre Miller scored the equalizing goal to make it one apiece. Getting closer to the end of the period, Kaapo Kakko scored to give the Rangers a 2-1 lead. Kakko received a beautiful pass from Adam Fox, and tipped the puck in the net with ease.
Second Frame
Five minutes into the second period, Cal Foote went to the box for a roughing minor. It was another golden opportunity for the Rangers to grow their lead against the dangerous Lightning. The Rangers got a couple of shots on net but did not convert.
Simply, there were not a lot of chances for either team as the clock winded down to the end of the period. Kaapo Kakko’s goal was still the difference maker thus far with no goals scored in the second set.
Third Frame
Right out of the gate (two minutes in), Mika Zibanejad scored to extend New York’s lead to two goals. It was his ninth goal of the playoffs and his seventh straight game with a point.
Tampa Bay needed a spark and needed one fast. New York just looked too good both on the offensive and defensive end; New York had heavy forechecking, got the puck out of the defensive zone, and did not allow Tampa to cycle.
With less than five minutes remaining, Tampa Bay emptied the net to get the extra attacker. It worked as Nick Paul cut the deficit to one goal with a minute to go. To say the least, it was an insanely clutch goal from Paul to give the Lightning a chance at the end of Game 2. Unfortunately, time ran out as the New York Rangers take a 2-0 series lead heading back to Tampa Bay.
What’s Next?
The Lightning will head back home on Sunday for Game 3. At this point, every game is a must-win for the Bolts. Puck drop is at 3:00 PM.