Ward scores buzzer-beater, Capitals steal Game 1 vs. Rangers

Game 1 of a second-round series between the New York Rangers and Washington Capitals appeared destined for overtime.

Joel Ward ensured that the game ended in regulation, however, scoring the game-winning goal with 1.3 seconds remaining in the third period to give the Capitals a massive road win to start the series. 

Here's what you need to know about a wild night in New York.

Star Performer: Alex Ovechkin proved himself worthy on the biggest of stages, scoring the first goal of the game on a wicked wrist shot past Henrik Lundqvist and assisting on the game winning goal with a dynamite pass out front that fooled everyone except Ward.

He also recorded a game-high six shots on net and a Corsi for percentage of 67.

Turning Point: The timing and significance of Ward's goal - his second of the playoffs - can't be overstated, making it the de facto turning point in Game 1.

The goal was created off a somewhat questionable hit by Nicklas Backstrom, who leveled Dan Boyle into the boards and knocked the puck loose to Ovechkin, who dished the pivotal assist.

(Courtesy: NHL.com)

Goalie Comparison: Shots in Game 1 were fairly even, with both Lundqvist and Braden Holtby putting in star performances. Ultimately, though, the home goalie came out on the losing end after being caught with the last-second tally.

Top Highlight: Ovechkin's goal was a thing of beauty, created seemingly out of nothing near the end of the first period. After entering the zone while challenged by defenseman Dan Boyle, he promptly fired a wicked wrist shot over Henrik Lundqvist's right shoulder into the back of the net.

(Courtesy: NHL.com)

Stat of the Night: Incredibly, Ward's winner wasn't the latest scored in a playoff game, with the mark being set six years earlier by Jussi Jokinen.

Series at a Glance:

Game 1: Capitals 2, Rangers 1
Game 2: Saturday, May 2, 12:30 p.m. ET
Game 3: Monday, May 4, 7:30 p.m. ET
Game 4: Wednesday, May 6, 7:30 p.m. ET
*Game 5: Friday, May 8, 7 p.m. ET
*Game 6: Sunday, May 10, TBD
*Game 7: Wednesday, May 13, TBD