New York Rangers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins: 5 Bold Predictions for First-Round

– Sidney Crosby is Held in Check

Jan 18, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Dan Girardi (5) and goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) along with Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) react to a goal by Penguins left wing David Perron (not pictured) during the third period at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Rangers won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

It was another excellent season for Penguins’ star Sidney Crosby, as in 77 games he had 84 points. The 84 points for Crosby ranked him third in the NHL behind only Jamie Benn and John Tavares.

While Crosby averages a little over a point a game, the Rangers have had success at slowing down Crosby this season. In four games against the Rangers, Crosby only totaled one goal and one assist.

The Rangers have had a lot of success against the Penguins so far this season, and a lot of that is due to shutting down their star. In the first-round of the playoffs, the Rangers will key on Crosby, and continue to hold him in check like they did in the regular season.

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