A big second period for the New York Rangers gave them a two goal cushion heading into the final twenty minutes. The Rangers evened the game at one on a power play eight minutes into the second period on Monday night. In the final 15 seconds of the power play, Ryan Callahan chipped a quick shot in on a play that was set up beautifully by Marian Gaborik in transition. Gaborik showed off some nifty puck-handling around Chris Kunitz and went right down the middle and through the Pittsburgh defense to find Callahan skating towards the opposite post.
The Rangers then took the 2-1 lead on a John Mitchell rocket from the middle of the ice. The shot was set up on a nice play and pass by Carl Hagelin. The Rangers winger took the puck into the zone, brought Deryk Engelland with him and dropped it back to Mitchell for the shot. It was Mitchell's first goal as a Ranger, and an impressive play by Hagelin in just his third game. He has three points in his three games this season.
A minute and a half later, Brad Richards would give the Rangers a two goal lead on a quick wrister from center over the left shoulder of Marc-Andre Fleury. Ruslan Fedotenko won a battle along the wall and hit Richards streaking down the middle of the ice for an open shot. Marian Gaborik added the Rangers' second power play goal of the period, crashing towards the crease and jamming it home after MIchael Del Zotto put the puck on Fleury, leading to a rebound on the back post.
The Penguins would get one back, however, when Evgeni Malkin scored his ninth goal on the season with just seven seconds remaining in the period. Malkin's line continues to light it up, with the assist coming from James Neal. The goal was a crucial to get the Pens back in it heading into the final period.
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