AP Photo/Mary Altaffer
Just one game after dismantling an Eastern Conference favorite Tampa Bay Lightning, the Rangers completely destroyed the St. Louis Blues by a score of 5-0. This was the second time this season the Rangers dominated the Blues, but this time around goaltending didn’t save St. Louis and steal one. The Rangers blew them away, putting up a five spot through two and chasing Jake Allen before the second ended.
The game wasn’t perfect, as the Rangers got a little sloppy in the latter half of the second period, but that’s where the Henrik Lundqvist factor kicks in. He made the stops he needed to as the Rangers traded chances, allowing the Rangers to build that lead.
On to the goals:
Rangers 1, Blues 0
The Rangers speed was on display with the play at 4-on-4, as Ryan McDoangh forced Alex Pietrangelo into a turnover at the blue line. He got the puck to Chris Kreider low, who fed Dan Girardi at the point. His shot was deflected by Vladimir Tarasenko and by Jake Allen.
Rangers 2, Blues 0
This is just brilliant passing. Watch and enjoy the powerplay goal.
Rangers 3, Blues 0
Rick Nash just banked this in off Allen on a seemingly innocuous play with the puck behind the net. Sometimes, luck is on your side. But most of the time, you create your own luck.
Rangers 4, Blues 0
Another powerplay goal with good puck movement. McDonagh to Mika ZIbanejad for the shot. Chris Kreider on the door step for the rebound, but feeds a great pass to Mats Zuccarello for the tap-in.ppg.
Rangers 5, Blues 0
Wow.
Scoring Chances (Even Strength)
Disclaimer: This chart is not adjusted for score. After the Rangers took their 5-0 lead, they sat back a little bit. Usually I’m not a fan of the shell, but up 5-0 I’m generally ok with it. Plus Hank still got his shutout. One thing worth noting is that despite the domination, the Rangers were trading chances with the Blues regularly. I may be nitpicking here, but ideally you want them to be limiting the chances.
Scoring Chance Locations (Even Strength)
As with above, the Rangers gave up more chances to the Blues than we’ve seen this season. Part of it is that this above shot location chart is not adjusted for score. So when the Rangers sat back, it showed. The other part is what was alluded to before, as the Rangers were a little sloppier this game.
Another game, another dominating performance against a playoff team. Up next is the equally hot Edmonton Oilers, who are off to a surprisingly hot start. Perhaps the Rangers will be their first test of contender or pretender.
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