WASHINGTON — This was the start of the playoffs for Artemi Panarin.
After not scoring a single goal in the first round against the Devils last season, the Russian star wing led the Rangers to a Game 1 sweep of the Capitals, including the series-clinching goal for his team, 4-2. He scored 2 goals. Won Game 4 on Sunday night.
“It’s really important for us,” goalkeeper Igor Shesterkin said of his compatriot. “He always played great and played great in every series. Today he scored the winning goal. That means a lot to us.”
Panarin’s 123 points during the regular season and playoffs put him ahead of Vic Hadfield by a Ranger and second only to his 124 points in the 2005-06 season.
Panarin’s power-play goal at 3:21 of the third period on Sunday was his second series-clinching goal and one of only eight players in Series history to have multiple series-clinching points. He became a person.
Currently one point away from 50 career playoff points, Panarin is ahead of Martin St. Louis (47GP), Adam Oates (48GP), Steve Duchene (57GP), Joe Mullen (57GP) and Tim Kerr ( 58GP). He became the sixth undrafted player in the last 35 years to score 50 total playoff points in 60 games or fewer.
“I think it builds that confidence,” head coach Peter Laviolette said. “Guys are feeling the puck, moving the puck, getting results and that gives them confidence. That’s how they thrive. He had a great year as well. This past year. I think the work has established me and pushed me to a point where I can make the playoffs and continue to play like that.”
Rangers defenseman Ryan Lindgren and Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren become the 36th pair of brothers to face each other in the playoffs. They are also only the fourth pair, with one being the goalie and the other being the skater.
The Capitals made significant changes to their lineup for Game 4, reinserting previously injured defensemen Nick Jensen and Rasmus Sandin and trading Alex Ovechkin and Max Pacioretty.
