The New York Rangers lead their second round series against the Carolina Hurricanes 3-0, but there is no doubt in head coach Rod Brind’Amour that if just one facet of their game could contribute more, the scenario would be completely different.
“We’re focusing here on how badly we’re playing, but I think we’re playing very well,” he said during his press briefing after Thursday’s 3-2 overtime loss. There are two stories playing out right now. There is one that we lose easily, but we do very well for the rest. It’s about seeing how we can do better on the first portion. That’s the difference. »
This “story” which is entirely to the Rangers’ advantage and to which Brind’Amour alludes, is the special units.
Once again on Thursday, the Hurricanes were shut out on the power play. They have now failed to score on 15 occasions in the first three games. It was even more painful during the third game since Chris Kreider tied the game in the second period shorthanded by redirecting a pass from Mika Zibanejad. This is the story of this series so far.
“Our special players have to find a way to be there in the right moments and that’s during our power plays. »
“It’s been three consecutive games that it’s the same story. I hate this situation for the players, because we are playing really well and if we put that aside the numerical advantage, the guys are doing everything I could have asked of them,” underlined Brind’Amour.
The Hurricanes also have a goalie at the top of his game in front of them. After 54 saves during the second game, Igor Shesterkin stopped 45 pucks to lead the Rangers to a victory in the Association final.
“He’s part of the elite. Our goalie was also good tonight, but when we had the chance to get to him, he was excellent,” admitted the Canes head coach.
The Hurricanes will now try to avoid elimination on Saturday in front of their fans with the presentation of Game 4.
