The New York Rangers may have controlled play early in the first period of Game 1, but as things progressed, the Washington Capitals certainly settled in. Aided by a power play at the 12:16 mark of the period, via a Marc Staal interference penalty, the Caps were able to put together a lengthy stretch of control.
Rangers Vs. Capitals, Game 1 Score: Washington Plays Sound Defensive Hockey In First
They were able to get shots on Henrik Lundqvist -- who was good as always -- and they generated several quality scoring chances as well. New York grabbed a bit of momentum back late, at least in terms of offensive pressure, when Alex Ovechkin went to the box on a tripping minor. But Washington did a phenomenal job on the power play, and New York squandered the opportunity to regain control.
The Caps did a great job of limiting the number of quality Rangers chances when New York held the puck in their end. Braden Holtby didn't have to be great thanks to six Caps' blocked shots and a defense that didn't allow the Rangers to get solid looks at the net. Washington needs to stay out of the box a bit, but they're in good shape after one period thanks to the same solid defensive strategy that helped them get by the Bruins in Round 1.
We have full Game 1 coverage in our StoryStream. For more on the Rangers, check in with Blueshirt Banter, and for more on the Capitals, check in with Japers’ Rink.
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