The New York Rangers were in a bit of a weird spot heading into Game 2 of the Conference Finals. Yes, they won Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Normally, that would put teams at a big advantage. However, the Lightning were historically good in the playoffs after a loss. Like, 18 – 0 good.
However, the Rangers weren't having it with the Lightning's monster record. Heading into Game 2, the team led an incredible effort to topple the defending champions and take a commanding 2-0 lead. That destroyed Tampa Bay's record-breaking streak, putting a damper into their title defense hopes. (via ESPN Stats and Info)
For the Lightning, the streak is over. Tampa Bay entered tonight having won their last 18 playoff games following a loss, the longest streak in NHL/NBA/MLB/NFL history.
They've now lost consecutive playoff games for the first time since getting swept by the Blue Jackets in 2019. pic.twitter.com/f8EnEfJ03f
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 4, 2022
For the Rangers, on the other hand, they are also enjoying a historic streak for themselves. The Game 2 win at home marked the longest home winning streak for the franchise since 1939 – 1941. This is an incredible achievement for one of the youngest teams in the league today.
The Rangers are looking to capitalize off of the momentum they gained from their last series. The Carolina Hurricanes gave them a run for their money in the previous round, taking the series to seven games. Despite the up-and-down nature of the series, NY came out as the victors at the end. Now, they're looking to end this series quickly and give themselves some much-needed rest.
On the other side of the Rangers-Lightning bracket, the Colorado Avalanche have also taken a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Edmonton Oilers. Can the leading team in the series hold on to their advantage? Or will we see a spirited comeback in the playoffs?
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