Wings snap Rangers win streak in OT

The Rangers were unable to make it five in a row last night, falling to the Red Wings 3-2 in overtime. We’ve lauded the Rangers for their ability to come from behind so far this season, but it was Detroit who came back in this one, tying the game with just over two minutes left in the game before winning it with just five seconds remaining.

In the grand scheme of things, these kinds of losses are good for the young Rangers. First, it teaches them that no lead is safe. Second, it teaches them how to lose late, which is experience every team needs as they mature. And third, the Wings gained a point on the Rangers, which is important for #LoseForHughes.

Full disclosure, I did not watch last night’s game. So I’m going to do the best that I can with the goal breakdown. However let it be known that without our friends Fitz/Shayna providing gifs, the NHL and the team drop the ball big time with highlights. These are the only three goals I could find on social media. It’s incredibly stupid that neither the team nor the league post all goals on social media. It’s mind boggling how much they can shoot themselves in the foot with marketing this sport. So dumb.

Rangers 1, Wings 0

A powerplay goal set up with some good passing, a great shot, and a solid screen in front. Fundamental powerplays at its best.

Wings 2, Rangers 2

Neal Pionk’s defensively play has been a topic of discussion for a while, and a play like this, where he allows Andreas Athanasiou to get the puck in stride doesn’t really help him. His gap control here is pretty bad, as he should know Athanasiou’s speed and he should be looking to cut off his lane to the middle, keeping him to the outside. He’s not going to be able to stop that pass across, but he should be able to keep him to the outside. He’s simply not watching the play develop, and drifting to the puck carrier.

Wings 3, Rangers 2

So this all begins with a turnover. The Rangers didn’t make the Wings go 200 feet while getting a change, and that’s why the Wings were able to turn it so quickly. Doesn’t help that Mika Zibanejad didn’t pick up Larkin cutting to the net either. That said, 3-on-3 hockey isn’t the best place to evaluate defensive play.

Sorry about the lack of a goal breakdown/review folks. The Rangers turn it over quickly, and are at it tonight in Columbus. I’m not looking forward to that one, as we get to see what an under $1 million Anthony Duclair is doing for Columbus. That one will sting.