Rangers take a 3-0 series lead with 3-1 win over Capitals
By The Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — Vincent Trocheck had a power-play goal and a short-handed assist, Igor Shesterkin made 27 saves and the New York Rangers moved one win away from advancing by beating the Washington Capitals 3-1 in Game 3 Friday night, taking a 3-0 lead in their first-round series.
The Rangers scored goals at even-strength 5 on 5, up 5 on 4 and down 4 on 5 in a special teams showcase from the Presidents’ Trophy winners who finished atop the NHL regular season in part because of their potent power play. Trocheck set up Barclay Goodrow short-handed and scored on the power play, while Chris Kreider tipped the puck in for his franchise-best 42nd career playoff goal.
At the other end of the rink, Shesterkin looked like his 2022 Vezina Trophy-winning self, robbing Max Pacioretty alone in front with a right pad stop and turning away Alex Ovechkin, who remains without a point this postseason. Shesterkin was perfect after allowing John Carlson to score on a fluttering shot just over five minutes in.
CANUCKS 2, PREDATORS 1
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Casey DeSmith made 30 saves for his first postseason victory as Vancouver held on to beat Nashville for a 2-1 lead in their best-of-seven series to open the NHL playoffs.
This was DeSmith’s second straight start and third all-time in the playoffs with Thatcher Demko out since the series opener with an injury.
J.T. Miller had a power-play goal and an assist, and Brock Boeser’s power-play goal wound up the game-winner. Quinn Hughes had two assists as Vancouver took back home-ice advantage.
Game 4 is Sunday in Nashville.