Stralman, Kreider uncertain for Game 4
Anton Stralman of the New York Rangers looks on after he lost his helmet in the first period against the Washington Capitals in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at Madison Square Garden. (April 30, 2012) Credit: Getty
The Rangers will be a battered bunch for what could be their last stand in Game 4 Thursday and they might need reinforcements.
Defenseman Anton Stralman, who was smashed into the glass by Milan Lucic midway through the second period Tuesday night, took a few more shifts, but never appeared in the third.
The loss was "huge", coach John Tortorella said. "He has played so well. It's a big blow to us as far as our matches and just our depth within our game."
Chris Kreider's status was unclear, as well.
The rookie forward, who had two strong shifts in the third, was struck in the face by a high stick at 5:05, lay on the ice in pain, and didn't return, either. The team had no immediate updates on either player.
Bruins go fourth
The Bruins' stars were kept off the board, but fourth-liners Daniel Paille had a goal and assist, Shawn Thornton had two assists and Greg Campbell one. "They were working hard," coach Claude Julien said. "They're on for both goals. We utilize them because they're good, not because we have to."
Gnashing his teeth
Five goals is all the Rangers have scored in the three games. Rick Nash, who has just one goal in 10 games, said the lack of offense was "a combination of the forecheck, special teams and not bearing down on our opportunities. The last game we had a bunch." Nash had three shots and six attempts blocked in 22:58.
Streak over
The Rangers had won nine in a row at MSG before the Bruins, who have won four straight in the postseason, broke the spell.
