Whatever momentum the Carolina Hurricanes built up during its stretch of seven wins in eight games was left behind when the team flew to New York. Curtis McElhinney gave up a goal on a seemingly innocent slap shot by Tony DeAngelo a mere 76 seconds into the contest, which established an ominous tone.
Saku Maenalanen provided a glimmer of hope eight minutes later when he pounced on a turnover by the Rangers in front of the net and zipped a shot by Henrik Lundquist to even the score. But the Rangers scored twice within the next five minutes, including a power play goal after another avoidable penalty, and took a 3-1 lead after the opening period.