HITTING MACHINE - New York was credited with 30 hits in tonight's contest. The Rangers registered 30 or more hits in each of their 12 playoff games this year, and as of the conclusion of tonight's game, the Blueshirts lead the NHL in hits in the 2017 Playoffs (499).
Mika Zibanejad registered two points (one goal, one assist), recorded three shots on goal, and won seven of 13 faceoffs (53.8%). He tallied eight points (two goals, six assists) in the final eight playoff games, as well as nine points (two goals, seven assists) in the final 10 playoff contests. Zibanejad led the Rangers in assists (seven) and points (nine) in the playoffs this year, and he also established playoff career-highs in goals (two), assists, and points in 2017. He posted three multi-point games in the playoffs this year, including two in the Second Round against Ottawa.
Chris Kreider recorded a goal, tied for the game-high with four hits, and registered four shots on goal. Kreider has recorded 12 points (nine goals, three assists) in 20 career playoff games in which the Rangers have faced elimination. He tallied his 23rd career playoff goal with the Rangers in tonight's contest, passing Vic Hadfield, Anders Hedberg, and Don Maloney for sole possession of seventh place on the franchise's all-time playoff goals list.
Mats Zuccarello tallied an assist, recorded five shots on goal, and was credited with two takeaways. He registered six points (three goals, three assists) in the final seven games, and he also notched five points (three goals, two assists) in the last four home games.
Nick Holden recorded an assist and was credited with two hits. Holden posted a three-game point streak over the final three games (two goals, one assist).
Brendan Smith notched an assist and recorded two hits in 17:25 of ice time. He led the team in plus/minus rating in the 2017 Playoffs (plus-eight), and he also ranked second among team defensemen in assists (four).
