New York Rangers: Five reasons why the Rangers can win the series

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March 26, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; New York Rangers center Derek Stepan (21) celebrates with right wing Mats Zuccarello (36), left wing Chris Kreider (20) and defenseman Brendan Smith (42) his goal scored against the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

5.) Key Forwards Have Found Their Touch

A major concern going into this series was the Rangers top scorers having gone ice cold through the first round series versus Montreal. Even then, the Rangers lone goal in Game 1 was from Ryan McDonagh. However, there’s reason to believe the dry spell may be over for a few Rangers after Game 2.

Derek Stepan and Chris Kreider both finally got the monkey off their backs with goals after both having rough times when creating offense in previous efforts. Mika Zibanejad has looked alive lately after a slow start to the postseason, now leading the Rangers in playoff points with six. Jesper Fast has been fantastic on the forecheck, and Rick Nash continues to pepper the goalie with shots with 30 in 8 games.

Now even with these efforts, the Rangers still badly need Kevin Hayes and J.T. Miller to find the gas pedal and get back to production. The best teams find ways to get contributions when their best scorers are cold, and with players like Stepan and Kreider breaking through, all may be okay.

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