Quote from: kartanoman on May 08, 2024, 09:36:16 AMThe Avs came back to steal Game One in overtime over Dallas. I can't describe what a magnificent night of playoff hockey we were treated to last night.
Before going overboard on Carolina being so much "better" than the Rangers, are you talking shots on goal differential or time in zone differential? Ray Ferraro correctly pointed out that these two stats are a staple in the Canes' play throughout their season, and what we witnessed last night was consistent with that plus padded numbers due to the extra time. Carolina had some nice chances to win it but hot goalie beats hot shots, at least for now (NOTE: and hopefully for the long haul, as far as the Rangers are concerned). The defense really did about as good a job as possible in keeping the lanes clear in the overtime. But where I respectfully disagree Carolina is better is that the Rangers big three, i.e. Breadman, Z-man and Vinny T., are the difference makers they cannot account for. That proved the difference in the end last night when both teams let it all hang out in overtime.
Peace!
I do think last night Carolina was better. Though the teams are mostly pretty equal on paper. The Hurricanes played as though their lives were on the line last night and turned in maybe their best game of the playoffs only to have Igor shove it right back in their faces with a masterful performance.
They said that teams that go up 2-0 win 85% of the time so Carolina really played as though it was a do or die game for them even if they still have a great chance to go home and tie this thing back up at 2.
Rangers are now in position to where they have two games to get one. If they can split the next two games in Carolina I think they're moving on. I don't think the Hurricanes can beat Shesty 3 straight times when he's playing at this level. Hell they may not be able to beat him once.