Remember When: Brad Richards & Marc Staal spark Rangers comeback, top Capitals In OT

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 7th, 2012 when Brad Richards and Marc Staal saved the day and kept the Rangers’ playoff momentum alive against the Washington Capitals.

In a gripping showdown rife with tension and urgency, the Rangers found themselves trailing 2-1 as the clock ticked down. Despite an early goal from Anton Stralman in the first period, they struggled to breach Capitals goaltender Braden Holtby’s defense for the remainder of the game.

Washington leveled the score with a goal from Brooks Laich in the second period and surged ahead with a power play goal by John Carlson early in the third period. With just 22 seconds remaining on the clock, a crucial double minor penalty on Washington’s Joel Ward for high-sticking Carl Hagelin provided the Rangers with a golden opportunity.

With Henrik Lundqvist pulled for an extra attacker, the Rangers enjoyed a two-man advantage, and in a heart-stopping moment, Brad Richards capitalized on a rebound from a Michael Del Zotto shot, firing the puck into the net with a mere 7.6 seconds left, salvaging a dramatic tie and sending the game into overtime.