The New York Rangers played their 20th overtime game of the season and lost for the 13th time. It was another hardworking, entertaining effort by the Blueshirts.
Face it, the New York Rangers would be a playoff team if they were in the Western Conference. Except for a two minute lapse in the first period, the Rangers were the better team, outhitting, outplaying and almost outshooting the Oilers. It was another excellent effort but for the fifth time in the last eight games they went to overtime and lost.
The excellence of two players won the game for the Oilers as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl combined for five points including the game winner. Three-on-three hockey is tailor made for McDavid and Draisaitl and they were unstoppable.
There were numerous highlights for the Rangers. Brendan Lemieux had the “Gordie Howie Hat Trick” as he scored, had an assist and second period fight with Jujhar Khaira.
Brett Howden broke a 35-game scoreless streak, tying the game early in the third period.
Alexandar Georgiev was simply outstanding, making numerous excellent saves. He had no chance on the three goals he gave up.
This game felt just like the game against New Jersey as the Rangers fell into an early two goal hole and came back over the last two periods.