Metropolitan Division Preview: Rearmed Washington Capitals Aim for Rangers

May 4, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals goalie Braden Holtby (70) makes a save on New York Rangers right wing Kevin Hayes (13) in the third period in game three of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 1-0, and lead the series 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

In the regular season series last year, the Rangers won three out of four contests with the Capitals.

Rick Nash shined in the first game of the series, beating Braden Holtby three times for a hat trick. Ovechkin had scored on the man advantage, yet the Rangers ended out on top 4-2.

In the next match, Cam Talbot earned the first star of the game, stopping 29 shots for a .966 save percentage. Ovechkin had scored another power play goal here, but it wasn’t enough as the Rangers won 3-1.

Washington’s Captain then took vengeance in the next game, scoring two goals – one on the power play of course. Jason Chimera proved to be equally problematic with two consecutive goals of his own in the third period, lending to the Capital’s 5-2 win.

In their last match of the series, Kevin Hayes stole the spotlight with one goal and one assist in a 4-2 victory over Washington. But it was not without Ovechkin scoring yet another power play goal. Surprise surprise.

Then there was the postseason.

Next: 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs