TORONTO – The New York Rangers decisively halted the Toronto Maple Leafs’ nine-game point streak with a 5-2 victory at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday. Mika Zibanejad’s two goals and Erik Gustafsson’s three assists were instrumental in the Rangers’ triumph.
The Rangers (22-7-1), who have won four of their past five games, displayed a strong resolve, particularly after their recent loss to the Maple Leafs. “We had it circled and we thought we owed them one,” defenseman Braden Schneider remarked, reflecting the team’s determination for redemption.
Igor Shesterkin’s 31 saves were crucial for New York, while Martin Jones’ similar save count for the Maple Leafs (16-7-6) couldn’t prevent the end of their impressive streak. Toronto captain John Tavares noted the unlucky breaks and the challenges they faced in penetrating Shesterkin’s defense.
Auston Matthews tied the game at 2-2 early in the third period with his NHL-leading 25th goal, continuing his exceptional form with nine goals in a five-game goal streak. However, New York coach Peter Laviolette’s call for more energy and pressing play saw the Rangers quickly regain control.
Schneider’s pivotal goal, driving down the right wing and shooting five-hole on Jones, put the Rangers ahead again. Artemi Panarin’s power-play goal, deflected off a Maple Leafs defenseman, and Zibanejad’s empty-netter sealed the win for New York.
Matthews praised the Rangers’ depth and goaltending, acknowledging the competitive challenge they pose. “They’re just a really deep team and they’ve got four lines that can all skate and make plays,” he said.
The game began with a stroke of luck for New York as Wheeler’s pass deflected off multiple players before finding the net. Matthews quickly responded for Toronto, but Lafrenière’s power-play goal, aided by a deflection off Rielly, gave the Rangers a lead they would not relinquish.
Lafrenière, relieved to score after a 13-game drought, credited his linemates Panarin and Vincent Trocheck for creating scoring opportunities.
Notable Notes:
- Panarin extended his point streak to five games (one goal, five assists).
- Zibanejad also continued his point streak, now at five games (five goals, three assists).
- William Nylander of the Maple Leafs extended his point streak to nine games (three goals, 11 assists).
This comprehensive victory for the Rangers not only ends the Maple Leafs’ impressive run but also showcases New York’s ability to bounce back and assert their strength against top-tier opposition.
