Rangers Snap Losing Streak with 5-3 Victory Over Canucks

NEW YORK — The New York Rangers halted a three-game losing streak by defeating the Vancouver Canucks 5-3 on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden. With this win, the Rangers improved their position in the race for a wild-card playoff berth.

Rangers forward Jonny Brodzinski scored two goals, including a pivotal strike late in the third period, and netminder Igor Shesterkin made 36 saves to secure the victory.

Brodzinski’s second goal came at 15:47 of the final frame, giving New York a lead just 37 seconds after the Canucks had tied the game. The Rangers were quick to capitalize on their scoring chances, with Brodzinski rifling his ninth goal of the season past Canucks goaltender Kevin Lankinen.

“It felt great to contribute to the team tonight,” said Brodzinski. “We’ve been in a tough stretch, but we knew we had to come out strong on home ice.”

In addition to Brodzinski, K’Andre Miller and Adam Fox also scored for the Rangers. Fox’s goal marked his first point in the NHL, assisted by Mika Zibanejad. The Canucks responded with goals from Drew O’Connor and Joshua, who opened the scoring in the first period.

The Rangers fell behind initially as Vancouver took an early lead at 11:51 of the first period when Joshua jammed a loose puck past Shesterkin. The Canucks outshot New York 11-1 in the first period, prompting boos from the home crowd.

The second period saw the Canucks maintaining their advantage with a 13-5 edge in shots, but Fox managed to tie the game 1-1 at 11:03. The Rangers took the lead early in the third period when Brodzinski scored his first goal at 1:39.

“We have to find a way to build on this win,” Miller stated. “Every point matters, especially this late in the season.”

The key moment of the night included a special pre-game ceremony honoring Hall of Fame broadcaster Sam Rosen, who is retiring after four decades. Rosen was celebrated on the ice alongside his wife and former partners, eliciting emotional responses from the crowd.

Shesterkin earned his first home victory since March 3 and improved the Rangers’ record to 3-5-2 over their last ten games. The team is currently vying for a wild-card playoff spot.

“It’s always good to have the crowd behind you,” said Shesterkin. “We need to keep this momentum going.”

Up next, the Rangers will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday, while the Canucks will visit the New Jersey Devils on Monday.