Rangers blow another lead but are saved by a new hero, Optimus Klein (NYR 4 v. PIT 3)

Kevin Klein and the Rangers celebrate after scoring in overtime to defeat the Penguins 4-3 12/8/14 (Photo: Jared Silber/Getty Images)

It was like a storyline pulled from a Michael Bay film. The Auto-Blueshirts were battling the Decepti-Pens, and were holding them off. Then in act of pure evil, took a part of one of the good guys’ ear and rallied to even the score.

Later in act of sheer bravery, Optimus Klein, stitched ear and all, would laser blast a shot past Star-Fleury to defeat the evil Decepti-Pens in the final act.

Sorry, that was over the top – I just couldn’t help myself.

RANGERS 4 v. PENGUINS 3

Pit at NYR 12.9.14 (ESPN)

Just like his favorite Transformer Optimus Prime, Kevin remained humble in the wake of his performance. “I was just trying to get it by. When it went in, I was pretty happy,” the wearer of the Broadway Hat told reporters after the game.

The head coach was amazed at the feat himself, noting that Klein was badly injured earlier. “He lost a piece of his ear and they sewed it back,” AV said. “Say what you want about hockey players, but they are tough S.O.B.’s.”

Henrik Lundqvist also said the Kevin Klein has the hardest shot on the team. “I think, by far,” said the game winning goalie. “He always gets it through, and it’s hard,” Lundqvist explained, “It’s not a great thing in practice, but I appreciate it in a game.”

Alain Vigneault, who could be seen laughing into his hands when Klein scored admitted, “I am getting a lot of heat because I’m not using him on the power play.” Further burying himself, AV highlighted that it’s “the second time he has come up real big for us in overtime.”

Still, it wasn’t all good times for the Rangers who blew another two goal lead in about a minute or less. This time it took 24 seconds for the opposition to vanquish the Rangers edge.

Somehow, the Blueshirts managed to hold off the surging Penguins just long enough for Optimus Klein to save the day.

Kevin Klein sports a few stitches and the Broadway Hat (MSG)

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Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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