Killing It

By Mike Rifkin

The Rangers defeated the Hurricanes 3-2 in Overtime to take a 3-0 series lead in the series. One of the big reasons the Rangers are having success is their special teams, but in particular their Penalty Kill. 

The Rangers penalty kill was third in the NHL during the regular season at 84.48% only trailing the Kings and the Hurricanes. But this postseason the Rangers PK is 93.8%. The Rangers gave up two power play goals in game two of the first round against the Capitals. Outside of that the Rangers PK has been sensational including a 5-5 performance Thursday night and added a shorthanded goal from Chris Kreider. Carolina had the top ranked power play during the regular season, but the Rangers have held them in check. 

Yes, Igor Shesterkin has been sensational, but this is where I have to give Chris Drury some credit. The Rangers needed a third line center and they acquired Alex Wennberg from the Kraken. But what the acquisition of Wennberg has given the Rangers is three reliable sets of forwards to help kill penalties.