The New York Rangers (46-20-7) extended their lead in the Eastern Conference, as the birthday celebration for Blueshirts captain Ryan Callahan was capped by a game-winning goal over the Detroit Red Wings (44-26-4) in NHL action on Wednesday night.
Callahan joined elite company, becoming the seventh player to score the game-winning goal on his birthday, the captain led the effort of the team with his heart and hustle, as the winger not only had huge blocked shots, but also had some thunderous hits during the course of the game
Also helping New York to the vital two points, was center Brad Richards (24), who had a beautiful coast-to-coast power play goal in the first period of play. Richards now has five goals and 12 points, which leads the Blueshirts in scoring.
Earning first star in the game was Rangers’ cager Henrik Lundqvist, who had one assist, while stopping 26 pucks in the game.
With the victory tonight, the Rangers now have three points on a suddenly surging Pittsburgh Penguins squad, who continue to try to dethrone the Blueshirts from their top spot in the Atlantic Division.
New York will conclude the seven-game homestand on Friday night against the Buffalo Sabres. The Rangers/Sabres game is set to air on the MSG-2 network, with face-off slated for 7:00 p.m.
Written on March 22, 2012