Each took part in his first game at New York since leaving the Rangers. Girardi signed a three-year contract with the Lightning on July 1 after the Rangers bought him out June 14, and McDonagh and Miller were traded to Tampa Bay on Feb. 26 for forward Vladislav Namestnikov and prospects.
"You never know until you go through it," said McDonagh, a 28-year-old who was Rangers captain for four seasons. "I never imagined myself having to go through something like this, but now that it is taking place, you remember everything that you gave for this organization and everything that this organization did for you and your family too."
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The two defensemen (Girardi, McDonagh) and forward Miller were in the starting lineup and were recognized in a pregame video tribute. Miller had a goal and an assist, and Girardi scored in the final minute.
"A month ago, I didn't expect to play this game," said Miller, a 25-year-old who has 16 points (nine goals, seven assists) in 15 games with the Lightning. "A lot of good friends there on the other side, so you try to keep it serious and professional during the game. ... There are a lot of emotions and thoughts coming into this game, but you just want to play your game, and luckily I got one to come to my stick in the front of the net."
McDonagh had 238 points (51 goals, 187 assists) in 516 games with the Rangers, who acquired him in a trade with the Montreal Canadiens on July 6, 2010.