Photo Credit: Frank Franklin II/Associated Press
It was not until game three that the New York Rangers had to play from behind. During games one and two, the team led the entire time. However, they still find themselves one game away from being swept in the Stanley Cup Final. The Kings have struggled early in games, but have gotten clutch performances by Justin Williams and others throughout the series. In game three, they showed they do not always need to play from behind to capture a win, defeating New York 3-0.
It is not to say that bad play has gotten the Rangers down three games in this series, but their inability to hold onto leads certainly has not helped. Goalie Henrik Lundqvist, who is normally able to block shots, has really struggled during the season. The Kings have scored at least three runs in every game this series. They have their work cut out for them as the Kings have proven they can win big games away from home. Los Angeles goalie Jonathan Quick says the team will not play like they are one win away from their goal. “I don’t think it would be any different if we were down 3-0,” Quick said. “We’re just trying to win a game in a couple days here. That’s the focus.”
The Kings look to be in the driver’s seat as they look to get that always important fourth win. For the Rangers, if they go home tonight, it will be a very disappointing end to a roller coaster season that included trading away their captain midseason.
