Rangers Top Panthers in OT, Lead East Finals 2-1

In a thrilling matchup, the New York Rangers clinched a vital 5-4 overtime victory against the Florida Panthers, gaining a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference finals. Alex Wennberg emerged as the hero, deflecting the puck past Sergei Bobrovsky 5:35 into overtime.

Ryan Lindgren initiated the winning play with a shot from the left point, which Wennberg redirected into the net. This marked the Rangers’ second consecutive overtime victory in the series, allowing them to reclaim home-ice advantage.

Igor Shesterkin showcased stellar goaltending with 33 saves, while Alexis Lafrenière and Barclay Goodrow contributed two goals each for the Rangers. Goodrow’s playoffs performance has been notable, tallying six goals after four in the regular season.

The Panthers, led by Sam Reinhart’s two power-play goals, fought back from a 4-2 deficit in the third period. However, their efforts fell short as they faced their first back-to-back losses in the playoffs. Sergei Bobrovsky made 18 saves for Florida.

New York’s resilience was evident as they weathered Florida’s late-game offensive onslaught. Over the last 8:10 of regulation, the Panthers unleashed 24 shot attempts, but Shesterkin stood firm, denying any scoring opportunities.

Despite a competitive start that saw the teams tied 2-2 after the first period, the Rangers maintained their composure. Lafrenière and Goodrow’s quick goals in the first period set the tone for New York’s eventual victory.

With the series now at 2-1 in favor of the Rangers, both teams gear up for Game 4, with the Panthers seeking to bounce back on home ice. The Rangers are just two wins away from their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 2014.