Capitals vs. Rangers Game 3 recap: Rangers survive blistering third period
New York and Washington went on an even-strength scoring fest in the third.
The action ramped up in the third period, and so did the goal production. Braden Holtby had no chance on this one-timer from Arron Asham, of all people.
At first, that looked like it would be the game winner. After all, Henrik Lundqvist would shut things down. Right?
Wrong. Seconds after making an impressive glove save, Lundqvist was duped by a knuckleball of a shot from Jack Hillen.
Look at that thing dip! The game was tied again, and the Caps and Rangers battled on. Rick Nash flubbed a wide-open shot attempt, but made up for it a few minutes later with a sweet set up for Derek Stepan.
It got a little dicey near the end, but the Rangers survived a lengthy Capitals 6-on-4 to earn the 4-3 win. The Capitals still lead the series, 2-1.
1. Will the Rangers’ special teams produce in Game 3?
They were better. New York stopped all three of the Caps’ power plays, yet only scored on one of six times with the man advantage. Six! The game really shouldn’t have been as close as it was down the stretch. The Rangers could do themselves a favor by capitalizing (no pun intended) more often on the power play.
2. Will New York score more than one goal?
Despite the power play woes, the Rangers scored four times on Monday. And it wasn't from who you'd expect. Brian Boyle, Derick Brassard and Asham scored the first three times for New York. The depth is great, but where is Brad Richards in all of this?
3. Will Washington’s penalty kill continue to stifle the Rangers?
Absolutely. As I touched on above, the Caps completely shut down the Rangers on five of six power plays. The Capitals are playing with fire, though. Eventually, the penalty parade will bite them as the law of averages sets in.
