Game Recap
The New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators faced off in an Eastern Conference battle on March 8, 2025, with both teams looking to strengthen their playoff positioning. In a game full of momentum shifts, the Rangers secured a 4-2 victory, powered by Artemi Panarin’s multi-point night and a stellar performance from Igor Shesterkin.
The first period was all Rangers, as Chris Kreider opened the scoring with a breakaway goal just five minutes in. Shortly after, Panarin doubled the lead with a one-timer from the slot, giving the Rangers a 2-0 advantage heading into intermission.
Ottawa responded in the second period, cutting the lead to 2-1 after Tim Stützle capitalized on a power-play opportunity. The Senators continued to apply pressure, but Shesterkin made a series of key saves to maintain New York’s lead.
In the third period, the Rangers put the game away, with Vincent Trocheck scoring on a rebound to extend the lead to 3-1. Despite a late goal from Brady Tkachuk, an empty-netter by Mika Zibanejad sealed the 4-2 win for New York.
Key Performances
New York Rangers:
- Artemi Panarin: 1 goal, 1 assist, 4 shots on goal.
- Chris Kreider: 1 goal, 1 assist.
- Igor Shesterkin: 32 saves, .941 save percentage.
Ottawa Senators:
- Tim Stützle: 1 goal, 1 assist.
- Brady Tkachuk: 1 goal, 5 hits.
- Anton Forsberg: 28 saves, .903 save percentage.
Statistical Highlights
- Shots on Goal:
- Rangers: 33
- Senators: 34
- Power Play Efficiency:
- Rangers: 1/3
- Senators: 1/4
- Faceoff Wins:
- Rangers: 53%
- Senators: 47%
Takeaways
- Shesterkin’s elite goaltending made the difference, keeping the Rangers ahead during Ottawa’s second-period surge.
- New York’s special teams performed well, with a crucial power-play goal by Panarin.
- Ottawa fought hard but struggled to finish chances, ultimately falling short in the third period.
Call-to-Action (CTA):
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