I missed most of this game. Heresy, I know, but it wasn't possible to see the first two periods. What I did see was the Rangers take a 2-0 deficit and tie the game in just about 90 seconds. That was depressing.
Fortunately, the Pens were able to regroup after the Rangers tied the game. Both teams traded chances, but none of them were especially good. Flower stopped a redirected shot by Grandpa Shanahan, and Lundqvist made a left pad save on Hossa.
Late in the third, Chris Drury got the stick up into the face of Ryan Malone and drew blood. That was an automatic four minute penalty that lasted for the last 1:20 of regulation and the first 2:40 of overtime. The Pens got some great chances during the power play, but couldn't beat Lundqvist.
Even though they didn't score, the power play changed the momentum and put the Pens back on the offensive and in control of the game. The winning rush was a botched play. Dupuis and Crosby both lost control of the puck. Girardi tried to kick it to clear the zone, but he kicked it straight to Hossa in the slot. Say good night, Rangers.
Even though it was only Game 5, there was a sense of urgency on the part of the Pens. They really didn't want to go back to MSG for Game 6. Great job to finish them off at home.
Next up: The Flyers in the Eastern Conference Championship. Could there be a more perfect opponent for the Pens?
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