Day: May 13, 2013

Henrik Lundqvist donned the armour, and stoned the Caps, leading the Rangers to a gutsy Sunday afternoon 1-0 shutout. Derick Brassard provided the only goal needed at 9.39 of the second period to ensure a seventh game tonight in Washington to determine a last man standing series.

Showing a lot of heart and ignoring numerous Washington cheap shots the Rangers remained focused and were full value for the win. The Rangers are in good shape going into game seven with the King expected to lead a total team defensive effort. A couple of bounces in Washington’s end and a new series awaits.

The Rangers go into tonight’s deciding Game 7 in D.C. with a 1-10 record in the last 11 games played in the Capitals’ home building.  That solitary victory was the triple OT game last year, which was finally ended by Marian Gaborik.  If the Blueshirts are to advance, they’re going to have to overcome that record, which includes going 0-3 in this series, albeit two of those games requiring OT.

Several Rangers will be playing in their first Game 7, including the foursome from Columbus: Rick Nash, John Moore, Derick Brassard and Derek Dorsett.  Steve Eminger will get his first taste of Game 7 due to the continued absence of Marc Staal from the line-up, while Mats Zuccarello will also play his first sudden death playoff deciding game in the NHL.