Remember When: Marian Gaborik hat trick versus Boston

In the dynamic realm of hockey, the sport offers a plethora of highlights that linger in our memories. The New York Rangers, a team with a rich history, have contributed numerous moments that resonate with many fans. In this feature titled “Remember When,” we delve into some of these moments—some noteworthy, others less so.

In this particular installment of “Remember When,” we revisit the date of January 23rd, 2013 when Marian Gaborik got the Rangers their first win of the lockout-shortened season with a hat trick against the Boston Bruins.

Marian Gaborik showcased his offensive prowess, netting two goals just 2:13 apart in the opening period, and later completed his 14th NHL hat trick only 27 seconds into overtime. The Rangers secured their first victory of the season with a 4-3 triumph over the Boston Bruins.

Gaborik’s instant impact, alongside Rick Nash and center Brad Richards, played a pivotal role in the Rangers’ success. The game-winning moment saw Gaborik receiving the puck from Andrew Ference, outpacing defenders up the ice. While his initial shot was blocked by goalie Tuukka Rask, Gaborik skillfully batted the rebound out of the air, sealing the victory and triggering a cascade of hats onto the ice in celebration of his fifth hat trick with the Rangers.

The Bruins, after a slow start, gained control early in the second period and capitalized on a power play, with Brad Marchand notching his second goal of the season at 1:05. Despite Boston’s defensive efforts, the Rangers regained the lead when Taylor Pyatt scored on a rebound, just 46 seconds after the Bruins had tied the game.

While the Rangers initially dominated the first period, the Bruins fought back, and Milan Lucic leveled the score at 12:24 after the Rangers left him unmarked in front of the crease. Although the game seemed to turn, Pyatt’s quick response restored the Rangers’ lead.

New York had a potential two-goal lead nullified when Carl Hagelin’s goal was disallowed due to a roughing penalty called on Mike Rupp. The Rangers, in their third game of the season, delivered their best period, securing a hard-fought victory.