In Game 1 of the 2014 Stanley Cup Final, the Los Angeles Kings won over the New York Rangers with a final score of 3-2 at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
The New York Rangers were obviously fully recuperated and immediately led 2-0 against the Kings. The Kings were just fresh off defeating the Chicago Blackhawks in the past week. During the second period, the Kings rebounded and continued to be aggressive into the third period by outshooting their opponents 20-3. The Kings further had a power-play chance. The game had to go to overtime.
The Kings led 1-0 through Justin Williams. For the New York Rangers, Henrik Lundqvist saved 40 out of 43 shots while Jonathan Quick of the Los Angeles Kings saved 25 according to Bleacher Report. Lundqvist was superb at the net despite the relentless assaults of the Rangers in the latter periods. The Rangers were also excellent in closing their opponent's power plays. On the penalty kill, the Rangers were 4-for-4. Despite playing one man less, the Rangers ended the game with a very difficult 5-2 shots advantage.
In an article on SB Nation, Williams, a clutch specialist was the hero for Game 1 of the best-of-seven series. Williams broke away from a turnover by Dan Girardi of New York and was able to overcome Lundqvist to give the Kings the victory after the game went into overtime at 2-2. The goal was Williams' eighth for the postseason and his first in a playoff overtime.
It was a good call for the Kings to conserve their energy until the later parts. The Rangers did not seem to respond well to the growing strength of the Kings in the second and third periods, particularly in the last 25 minutes. Lundqvist was the only reason New York held up until overtime.
It was a good way for the Kings to start the series by winning the first match at home. Game 2 will also be played at Staples Center.
- Contribute to this Story:
- Send us a tip
- Send us a photo or video
- Suggest a correction
