Rangers overpower Penguins to take early series lead

Derick Brassard and Ryan McDonagh scored for the New York Rangers, who outshot the Pittsburgh Penguins 38-25 to earn a 2-1 victory Thursday in Game 1 of their opening-round series.

Star Performer: Brassard opened the scoring 28 seconds into the contest and was in front of the net for McDonagh's power-play goal, which was the eventual winner.

Turning Point: Pittsburgh forward Steve Downie took an ill-advised cross-checking penalty five minutes into the third period, dampening whatever momentum the Penguins generated after scoring in the second. Pittsburgh was called for five penalties in the game, while the Rangers were sent to the penalty box just once.

Goalie Comparison: Marc-Andre Fleury was the busier of the two netminders, but Henrik Lundqvist made some important saves to preserve New York's lead late in the contest.

Top Highlight: Brassard's goal was one second shy of tying the Rangers' franchise record for fastest goal to start a playoff game.

Stat of the night: Penguins superstars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin combined for zero points and three shots.

Series at a glance:

Game 1: Rangers 2, Penguins 1
Game 2: Saturday, April 18, 8 pm ET
Game 3: Monday, April 20, 7 pm ET
Game 4: Wednesday, April 22, 7 pm ET
Game 5*: Friday, April 24, TBA
Game 6*: Sunday, April 26, TBA
Game 7*: Tuesday, April 28, TBA

*If necessary