Rangers penguins game 6
By: Dinner
Rangers Penguins Game 6 Takeaways 5/14
The Rangers came out extremely flat in another win-or-go-home situation at PPG Paints Arena on Friday night, but the “No Quit” Rangers did what they have done all season and were able to storm back from a two-goal deficit for the second consecutive game and force a game 7. This game was absolutely electric and I can not wait for Game 7 on Sunday. Let’s get into the game.
The Rangers spent the majority of the first period trapped in their own zone. They were unable to clear the puck whatsoever, which often resulted in the Penguins regaining possession quickly. It was honestly so frustrating to watch and because of the lack of clearing the Penguins were able to score twice. Thankfully it looked like the boys came out flatfooted and were able to turn things around after being down 2-0.
The lack of Penalties this series has been shocking and because of that the Rangers power play has not been as effective as it has all season. But thankfully Mika Zibanejad struck five seconds into the Rangers’ first power play, winning a faceoff and then unloading a rocket of a one-timer from the top of the right circle on a feed from Strome to cut the lead to 2-1. The hot stick of Mika Zibanejad kept the scoring going as he was able to net another goal just a minute 16 seconds later tying it up at 2 a piece and the momentum was 100% controlled by the Rangers.
Igor has not been playing well on the road this postseason, something I did not expect at all out of the Vezina and Hart Trophy finalist. Those Pittsburgh fans arguably have a beach front estate in his head. But Igor was able to add another clip to the highlight reel as he launched a dot of a pass to Mika on a fast break that Kreider was able to tip in.
Shesterkin’s highlight reel assist gave the Rangers a stunning 3-2 lead and gave Igor the confidence on the road he’s been needing all series.
Lots of positives out of this game & I am excited for this series to head back to Madison Square Garden for Game 7. I hate to say that history is bound to repeat itself but lemme tell you what it’s starting to feel like 2014 again. Igor is going to need to be on his A game and all of the Rangers lines are going to need to come out hot and keep MSG bumping. Momentum is going to be a huge factor in this game. Game 7 is Sunday Night at 7:00pm. Let’s hope the Blue Shirts can get it done and play the winner of Boston v Carolina. Again hopefully this isn’t the last time I have to say this. Series prediction: Rangers in 7.
