Puck 'N Hockey

The ‘Jasons’ – Chimera and Arnott each beat New York Rangers’ goalie Henrik Lundquvist, and Michal Neuvirth stopped all 22 shots he faced as the Washington Capitals shut out the Rangers to take a 2-0 lead in their first-round Stanley Cup playoff series.

Ovi roar after Arnott's goal. (via Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America)

The Capitals–as they did in Game 1– controlled much of the play with solid defense, and executing much better on offense compared to Game 1. Even Rangers’ forward Sean Avery returning to the lineup with his antics–in an attempt to get under the skin of the Capitals’ forwards and defense– could not inspire the Rangers to match Washington’s firepower on offense. Every time the Rangers had chances to score, the Capitals were more than adequate to extinguish them.

Jason Arnott– acquired at the trade deadline for his playoff experience and leadership, has been the best player in the series thus far; and it’s evident that his presence has made the Capitals play smarter and with more passion. I think Capitals general manager George McPhee would be wise to give Arnott no less than a two-year contract, no matter what happens this postseason.

The Capitals can expect the best effort the Rangers have in Game 3, as the series shifts to New York in Madison Square Garden.