BOSTON — In an intense battle at TD Garden, Vincent Trocheck emerged as the New York Rangers’ hero, scoring twice including the game-winning goal in overtime for a thrilling 2-1 victory against the Boston Bruins on Saturday. The Rangers showcased resilience and tactical prowess, rallying from a goal down to snatch the win.
Trocheck, who was pivotal throughout the game, tied the score in the third period with a power-play goal, collecting Mika Zibanejad’s pass and firing a wrist shot past Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman. His decisive moment came in overtime, where he expertly converted a one-timer from Artemi Panarin to clinch the victory.
The Rangers’ power play, which had been unsuccessful earlier in the game, finally broke through with Trocheck’s equalizer. “We were getting good looks and continuing to stay with it and do those same things, and then just have to bear down on our chances,” Trocheck said, reflecting on the team’s persistence.
Goalie Igor Shesterkin was solid between the pipes, making 21 saves for New York (21-7-1), which has been on a winning run, including a dominant 5-1 victory over Anaheim the previous day. Rangers coach Peter Laviolette praised the team’s relentless offensive effort and was pleased with securing the hard-fought two points.
For Boston (19-5-5), Trent Frederic opened the scoring early in the second period, but despite Swayman’s impressive 32 saves, the Bruins couldn’t hold on to their lead. Coach Jim Montgomery commended the team’s desperation and unity in face of the game’s challenges.
The match took a contentious turn when Bruins forward David Pastrnak received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for boarding Rangers defenseman Ryan Lindgren, who managed to finish the game despite the hit.
New York ramped up the pressure in the third period, outshooting Boston 14-7 and demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. Rangers captain Jacob Trouba likened the game’s intensity to a playoff atmosphere, highlighting its significance in bringing the team together.
NOTES:
- The Rangers’ comeback victory tied them with the Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks for the most third-period comeback wins this season (six).
- Trocheck’s performance, which included winning 72.2 percent of his face-offs, marked his fourth multipoint game in the past eight.
- Panarin led with a game-high 10 shots on goal, while Trouba contributed with six blocked shots in over 19 minutes of ice time.
- Pastrnak’s ejection was a first in his NHL career, spanning 621 games. He remains the Bruins’ leading scorer this season with 41 points.
The Rangers will look to build on this momentum, while the Bruins will aim to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
