Rangers Find Offense, Snap Losing Streak in Winnipeg
The Rangers captured a much needed two points and a healthy boost of confidence Friday night in Winnipeg, defeating the Jets 4-2 on the strength of three Carl Hagelin goals and a superb outing from goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. Â The win snapped a two-game road losing streak.
With the victory, Lundqvist tied former Rangers goalie Mike Richter for the franchise record with 301 wins.
The Rangers found themselves in an early 2-1 deficit in the first, until Lundqvist settled down and locked down the Jets for the remainder of the game. Â He stopped 30 of 32 Winnipeg shots to pick up his 25th victory of the season.
Hagelin, who had scored only twice previously since January 26th, provided the offensive spark the Rangers would need, notching his first career hat trick in the process. Â Chris Kreider was credited with the other Ranger goal and Kevin Klein finished the contest with two assists.
With the win, the Rangers were able to overtake idle Columbus in the Metropolitan Division standings, moving back into second place with 76 pts overall. Â Columbus, however, still has two games in hand.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Rangers will travel home to prepare for a contest with Western Conference powerhouse San Jose on Sunday. Â The Sharks are 9-1-1 in their last 11 games and will look to continue that streak Sunday at Madison Square Garden. Â Henrik Lundqvist is expected to get the start for the Blueshirts who expect to solidify their playoff positioning.
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