@RNYRF Staff Report
Eight days after losing defenseman Ryan McDonagh to a concussion after being punched by Philadelphia Flyers forward Wayne Simmonds, center Derek Stepan scored twice in the third period and goalie Henrik Lundqvist made 21 saves to help the Rangers to a 3-1 win against the Flyers at Madison Square Garden. Derick Brassard scored the Rangers opening goal helping New York to extend their point streak to six games 5-0-1.
McDonagh missed his 4th game with a concussion but has been participating in team practices.
The Rangers and flyers started the contest with the anticipated matchup of Rangers defenseman Dylan McIlrath taking on Flyers forward Wayne Simmonds :39 seconds into the opening period. McIlrath responded to Simmonds sucker punch of Captain Ryan McDonagh 8 days prior in Philadelphia taking on the Flyers enforcer and holding his own for a matter of respect and revenge. Simmonds was busted open during the encounter. 20 seconds later Rangers winger Tanner Glass dropped gloves with Flyers Center Ryan White continuing in setting the tone of the game.
"It was pretty clear. I wanted to send a message," McIlrath said. "I wanted to stick up for my teammate, our captain, our best player. I can respect [Simmonds] for squaring up with me and I'm just happy how it all worked out."
The Rangers extended their winning streak at home vs the Flyers to 5 years at Madison Square Garden, Philly not having won at the World's Most Famous Arena since a 4-2 win on February 20, 2011.
The Rangers return to action on Wednesday in an Original 6 matchup vs the Chicago Blackhawks at MSG.
TODAY IN NYR HISTORY February 15
1999: During the Rangers' first game in Nashville, Wayne Gretzky ties a franchise record with five assists in the team's 7-4 win over the Predators.
2000: Brian Leetch becomes the Rangers' all-time leading goal scorer among defensemen, passing Ron Greschner with his 180th goal.
NYR Alumni Birthdays 2/15
Bruce Bell D (1987-1988) Jaromir Jagr RW (2004-2007) Tony McKegney LW (1986-1987) Ronald Petrovicky RW (2002-2003) Chuck Scherza C (1943-1945)
In Remembrance on his Birthday NY Rangers Hall of Fame Announcer Jim Gordon (February 15, 1927 – February 16, 2003).
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