The New York Rangers beat the defending cup champs, the Chicago Blackhawks, at home with a 2-1 win. The Rangers ended on great terms before the Olympic break, and picked up exactly where they left off.
At 10:14, J.T. Miller and Benoit Pouliot assisted Brassard on his 12th goal of the season. Being Miller’s first game back, it was a significant move to get those points and prove his place in the NHL.
For some Ranger’s fans, it could potentially be the last time they see ‘Captain Cally’ or Girardi play at Madison Square Garden as a Ranger.
The first period ended 1-0, leaving the Blackhawks frustrated and some Rangers energized. Hagelin displayed confidence and exceptional skill including quick speed and hard skating. His time in Sochi proved to be a great learning experience.
The second period remained 1-0, contained some power plays but didn’t bring much action. The third period held all the action of the game.
With 8:23 left to play in the third period, Cam Talbot held up with 25 saves.
The Rangers and Blackhawks remained at 1-0 in the third period until Rick Nash displayed those gold medalist skills to make the game 2-0 at 15:53.
With hopes of very late scoring, the Blackhawks pulled the goalie, Corey Crawford with two minutes left.
Only 11.6 seconds remained in the game when Peter Regin ruined Talbot’s chance at a shutout, scoring for the Blackhawks, as reported in NY Daily News.
Talbot played a solid game with 31 saves for his 11th career win in 18 NHL games—all in one season's time, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The Ranger’s trudge ahead with their 2-1 win and will face the Flyers on the road on March 1st.