The New York Rangers continued their impressive postseason run with a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the Carolina Hurricanes, taking a commanding 3-0 lead in the second-round series. The Rangers, who remain unbeaten in the NHL playoffs, showcased resilience and clutch play to secure their second straight overtime win.
The game-winning goal came just 1:43 into overtime when Artemi Panarin redirected a pass between his legs at the crease to beat Pyotr Kochetkov. This goal followed a late equalizer by the Hurricanes' Andrei Svechnikov with only 1:36 left in regulation, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Chris Kreider and Alexis LaFreniere also found the back of the net for the Rangers, while Jake Guentzel scored for the Hurricanes. Despite Carolina's efforts, the Rangers' strong penalty kill and special teams play proved to be the difference in the game.
Carolina, facing an uphill battle, has now lost eight consecutive playoff games by one-goal margins, with five of those losses coming in overtime. The Hurricanes will need to regroup quickly to avoid a series sweep by the Rangers.
Both teams made lineup adjustments, with the Rangers welcoming back forward Filip Chytil after a long injury layoff. The series has lived up to its billing as a clash between two top teams, with the Rangers demonstrating confidence and composure in critical moments.
As the series shifts to Game 4, the Rangers have an opportunity to close out the series and advance to the Eastern Conference Final. Carolina, on the other hand, must find a way to turn the tide and avoid elimination on home ice.
With the stakes high and tensions mounting, the stage is set for an intense battle as the Rangers look to complete the sweep and the Hurricanes fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.
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