Remember When: Ryan McDonagh OT winner versus Washington in 2015 playoffs

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 night of May 9th, 2015, when the Ryan McDonagh OT winner saved the series and the season against the Washington Capitals.

With less than 2 minutes remaining in a game that could have marked the end of their record-setting season, the New York Rangers pulled off a dramatic turnaround against Braden Holtby, keeping their Stanley Cup aspirations alive.

Chris Kreider leveled the score with just 1:41 left in regulation, and Ryan McDonagh secured the victory 9:37 into overtime, reviving the Rangers’ Presidents’ Trophy-winning campaign with a 2-1 triumph over the Washington Capitals in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinal on that Friday night.

Notably, the Rangers had an impeccable record, having won each of their last nine playoff games when facing elimination at Madison Square Garden, a streak dating back to Game 4 of the 2008 Eastern Conference semifinal against Pittsburgh at the time.

Despite Holtby’s impressive 41 saves for Washington and a goal from Curtis Glencross, the turning point came in overtime. Jesper Fast maintained possession in the Washington end, passing to Derek Stepan in the left circle. Instead of shooting, Stepan hesitated and found McDonagh arriving late down the middle. McDonagh’s shot soared into the net, triggering a second thunderous celebration at Madison Square Garden.

The Rangers, seemingly on the brink of elimination, were saved by Kreider’s clutch goal from the top of the left faceoff circle, assisted by Stepan. The shot, unseen by Holtby, prompted a jubilant celebration that reverberated throughout the Garden.

This crucial goal materialized just 1:41 away from the end of the Rangers’ season and occurred shortly after Lundqvist left his net for a sixth skater. Until Kreider’s goal, it appeared the Capitals were poised to secure a victory with Holtby’s potential second shutout of the series and another winning goal from one of Washington’s lesser-known players.